As we push through the mid-summer months in South Louisiana missing our cooler December weather, you may be looking for ideas for easy day trips from Lafayette with the kids. Just as with the Christmas break, they are eating us out of house and home and we hear “I’m bored” more times than we can count. Thankfully, there is no shortage of things to do in Louisiana with kids. Lafayette Mom has your easy guides to ideas for fun in the sun, indoors and beyond! Louisiana is FULL of amazing things to do that you probably never think about. Most of these South Louisiana day trip suggestions are inexpensive or even free. Pack a lunch, snacks, a few books for the ride and load up the car for an easy day trip!
South Louisiana Day Trips
1. Avery Island
Consider taking a trip to the Tabasco Factory. It is less than a thirty minute drive from Lafayette and has so many things to do. It’s a fun tour with hands on interaction for the children and stop at the country store for free tastings! Jungle Gardens is also located on the island and is a perfect spot to do some local bird watching, spot an alligator or have lunch!
2. Louisiana State Aviation Museum
Tucked away in Patterson is the official State Aviation and Cypress Sawmill Industry museums. They house two very important collections documenting our state’s rich history. This newly renovated exhibit is filled with state-of-the-art displays.
If you have boys this is a must do! Located on the grounds of the new State Capitol, the Old Arsenal was built in 1838 on what was then a federal military post. It’s considered one of the most historic spots in Baton Rouge and it’s free to visit.
Love heading to New Orleans with kids to wander around? The city has so many quirky and fun museums. Older kids will love the Voodoo Museum. While it may sound creepy, it’s full of offbeat exhibits and artifacts explaining how voodoo came to New Orleans.
5. The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA
Another great New Orleans spot to take the kids that routinely gets overlooked is the Sculpture Garden near City Park. You can easily spend an hour or two wandering the gardens and looking at all the art. Make it extra fun by having your kids pose with the sculptures for impromptu pictures.
6. Sunflower and Blueberry Picking in Mississippi
Visit Coast Ridge Farms to pick some of the most beautiful sunflowers to brighten up any home. You’ll want to purchase your tickets prior to you visit. Make sure to bring your garden shears and a bucket to bring home your beauties.
Check out Pearl River Berry Farm to get your fill of their delicious blueberries. As with the sunflowers, we suggest you call to make an appointment for your visit. Load up your bucket and bring home to make all the goodies your hear desires, unless you gobble them up before!
For an easy $3 entry fee you can visit this state park that’s only 30 minutes from Mandeville. Take a walk on the trails, enjoy a picnic and take a dip on the beach. If the beach isn’t you scene they do have a splash pad. Don’t forget your rod and reel. Their pier is a great location to enjoy some fishing.
A day in nature is always good for the soul. Tickfaw State Park, located about 40 minutes from Baton Rouge, is a great place to hike and have a picnic lunch. Another inexpensive entry fee of only $3 will give you access to the trails, the playground, the splash pad and even their Nature Center. The Nature Center will get you an up close to snakes and alligator skulls.
9. Tunica Hills
Looking for something completely out of the ordinary? Visit Mississippi’s Clark Creek and witness waterfalls along the trails. You can complete the hike at your own pace, which is great for families who want to enjoy the waterfalls a little longer. Make sure to pack towels, extra clothes and shoes.
