Louisiana vacation rentals

History and culture near Louisiana vacation home rentals

Louisiana's layers of history – a melting pot of African, French and American traditions – has resulted in some fascinating Creole and Cajun cultures. The grassy prairies of the north slowly blur into swampland and bayou before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. When you stay in a Louisiana vacation rental, you'll hear jazz emanating from the casual bars, get involved in raucously colorful festivals and gorge on unique Creole cuisine, like jambalaya and seafood gumbo. Its most famous city, New Orleans, has been through some difficult times but even that's failed to quash the spirits of its residents.

Historic sites near Louisiana vacation rentals

Louisiana has numerous historic sites to enjoy on a trip. Vacation homes are available near places like the National WWII Museum, a multi-building museum with interactive submarine exhibits, planes, and a theater showcasing World War II history, and the Cabildo, a state museum and landmark with local New Orleans artifacts and exhibits. You'll also like Houmas House and Gardens, a Greek revival mansion and plantation with gardens and restaurants.

Attractions near vacation rentals in Louisiana

Nothing is quite as iconic in the state as New Orleans's French Quarter, or Vieux Carre, the oldest part of the city. Built in the 18th-century, a wander past the ornate balconies and colorful homes of Bourbon Street will transport you to a vision of old Europe. An afternoon stroll through the district is never wasted time. If you stay in a Louisiana vacation rental during February, you can't help but be swept away by the colorful Mardi Gras festival. For more historical architecture, be sure to swing by Natchitoches, the oldest town in the state.

Activities near Louisiana vacation homes

If you can drag yourself away from the historical cities and Creole cuisine, the state isn't short of outdoor activities. If you're staying in a Louisiana vacation rental towards the south, there's no better way to explore the marshes and wetlands than onboard one of the many swamp tours. If you're more of a solo traveler, you could paddle down the meandering waterways on rented kayaks, or lace up your boots to hike along their banks. Alternatively, kick back on one of the sandy beaches along the shoreline, or grab your clubs and head off to one of the courses for a sunny round.

Best time to travel to Louisiana vacation homes

If you're a first-timer to New Orleans, try to visit between February and May when the climate is at its most comfortable and the festivities are underway. Be sure to nab your Louisiana vacation rental early, it's peak season in the city. Outside these dates, the most comfortable time to travel to The Pelican State is between December and January, though you'll want to avoid the price hike over Christmas and New Year. If you don't mind sky-high temperatures, humidity and the odd thunderstorm, you can score rock-bottom deals on vacation rentals in summer.

A treasure trove of wildlife in Louisiana

The waterways and marshlands provide habitats for countless species of birds and reptiles. If you hop on a wildlife safari, you won't be disappointed with the sight of pelicans, great blue herons and gopher tortoises. Recently removed from the endangered species list, Louisiana black bears have started to thrive again and it's not uncommon to spot one. Blue crabs often scamper around the river beds and are a main staple on the table when cooked. When you stay in a Louisiana vacation rental, listen out for the hoot of a great horned owl.

Transportation options to and around Louisiana

Fly into Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR), the closest airport, located 5.8 mi (9.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could also fly into Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), which is 54.1 mi (87 km) away.

If you're traveling by train, Hammond Station, New Iberia Station and Schriever Station are the main stations that serve the city. You can see more of Louisiana by jumping on the metro at Cemeteries Tram Stop, South Carrollton at Saint Charles Stop or South Carrollton at Maple Stop.

Sample regional cuisine in Louisiana

Louisiana cuisine blends French, Spanish, West African, Amerindian, Haitian, and German influences for a distinctive culinary culture. Many signature dishes come from Louisiana, such as gumbo, bisque, shrimp remoulade, jambalaya, rice and gravy, red beans, dirty rice, and creole cream cheese, all of which can be found in restaurants and eateries near your vacation rental.