
Travel Spotlights: Southeast Region
Pristine beaches and lush mountains meet comforting cuisine and legendary hospitality in the Southeast, where oak trees line winding back roads and music fills the air.
Louisiana
One of the most quirky, culturally diverse, fun-loving and breathtakingly beautiful states in the USA, Louisiana has a unique and memorable experience in store for all types of travelers. Throughout the state’s vast and hauntingly striking outdoor spaces, view wildlife like birds and alligators from the comfort of your kayak as you paddle through bayous and wetlands. Move to the rhythm of jazz, blues and zydeco music in a Lafayette dance hall or at one of the many Mardi Gras festivals that take place in all corners of Louisiana. Learn about the state’s complex, unique and often embattled history at historical sites like Oakland Plantation in Natchitoches Parish and The National WWII Museum in New Orleans. From backyard shrimp boils to world-class culinary experiences, Creole, Cajun and French influences can be found on almost every Louisiana menu. Don’t miss classic locations like Bourbon Street and Jackson Square, but be sure to venture beyond the most popular tourism hubs to discover true gems. Visit museums and institutions covering every topic under the sun. There’s something for everyone in this charming southern state.
More about Louisiana

Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Enjoy the view from the 27th-floor observation deck of the Louisiana State Capitol – the tallest capitol building in the USA. Louisiana’s Old State Capitol also features spectacular architecture and is even said to house a ghost. Learn more
Photo: Jordan Hefler

Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge is home to the inspiring and family-friendly USS KIDD Veterans Museum, a World War II Fletcher-class destroyer turned floating museum. Step back in time at the LSU Rural Life Museum, acting as a time capsule that explores the lives of Louisiana’s rural people. Learn more
Photo: Jordan Hefler
More about Louisiana

Lafayette, Louisiana
Explore Lafayette’s hauntingly beautiful swamps, rivers and bayous teeming with wildlife and cypress trees. It’s the perfect backdrop for spotting some of the region’s over 240 bird species and experiencing an epic guided adventure. Learn more
Photo: LafayetteTravel.com

Lafayette, Louisiana
This lively city is a music-lover’s dream. Regardless of when you visit, there’s bound to be a celebration in progress. The area hosts Creole music festivals, nightly live music and, of course, can’t-miss Mardi Gras celebrations. Learn more
Photo: Megan Bergeron