Secret Trails in Texas and Louisiana: Enchanting Cities and Bayou Adventures

The state capital of Texas, Austin is known for its delicious barbecue, endless outdoor adventures and – most notably – for having one of the USA’s most iconic live music scenes. With so much to do in and around the city, you’ll want to start your day early. Grab a cup of coffee and a few pictures in front of the iconic I Love You So Much mural at the South Congress location of Jo’s Coffee. You could easily fill an entire day strolling along Austin’s buzzing avenues, admiring the city’s impressive street art while live music echoes from nearly every patio and open door. Rent a bike and ride by the historic Littlefield Fountain on the University of Texas campus and the Texas Cowboy Monument for a few pictures and a picnic in the shadow of the capitol building. After an essential afternoon barbecue stop at Lamberts or Terry Black’s Barbecue, head over the Congress Avenue Bridge and rent a stand-up paddleboard. Barton Springs Pool – a massive swimming pool fed by three natural springs and maintaining a year-round temperature of 20 degrees Celsius – is a full-on scene on nice days, making it a great place to chat up friendly locals and meet fellow tourists. When the sun sets, it’s time to freshen up and make your way to The White Horse, an authentic Texas honky-tonk, for live music and a Frito pie from the BOMB Tacos food truck. Stay out late, but not too late – your next stop is going to be an exciting one.

Wake up bright and early for a breezy 265-kilometer drive east to bustling Houston, Texas. A quintessential American city, and one of the most populous in the country, Houston offers a bit of everything for everyone. Before taking in the sights and sounds of the city, be sure to make room for Houston’s less expected natural wonders. Take a tour of the idyllic Buffalo Bayou or head underground to check out the captivating Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a former underground reservoir that now plays frequent host to exhibits from international artists. From there, the sky's the limit – museums, art galleries and an electric cart tour with Joyride Houston are all possibilities. Regardless of where your adventure takes you, you’ll want to make a pit stop at POST Market along the way. The renowned food hall hosts renowned chefs and restaurants from around the world, making it the perfect afternoon retreat before heading off to your next adventure. Space Center Houston is a can’t-miss stop. Discover the fascinating history of the USA’s space program by way of exhibits, tours and even catered breakfasts where you can meet a NASA astronaut. Houston is a cosmopolitan city with endless dining and nightlife options, so the rest of the night can take you in any exciting direction you imagine.

After a blissful sleep in the city, it’s time to grab a cup of coffee and head 230 kilometers east to the quaint and historic town of Lake Charles, Louisiana. This charming Louisiana destination is home to some of the state’s finest Victorian architecture dating back to the late 1800s. Scoop up a cold brew and a slice of quiche at The Bekery before your mule-drawn carriage tour of the Charpentier Historic District. A Neptuna Melt at Luna Bar and Grill is excellent fuel for your next adventure, a guided boat tour with Grosse Savanne Eco-Tours. Lake Charles is home to more than 400 species of birds in addition to alligators, bobcats and countless other animals throughout its marshes and waterways – all of which, if you’re lucky, you might spy during your nature tour. Lake Charles has plenty to offer beyond its spectacular natural sights and sounds; the region is also home to gaming resorts, fine dining options and world-class accommodations. All of this makes for a beautiful and memorable experience in southwest Louisiana.

The great city of New Orleans, Louisiana, almost speaks for itself when it comes to its many draws. A melting pot of culture, art, history, music and outstanding food and drinks make The Big Easy a must-visit destination on your road trip. As you wander the city streets and back alleys of the French Quarter, you’ll feel that the city holds not only a sense of fun and passion, but also one of mystery and intrigue. Situated next to Jackson Square, Café Du Monde is an iconic hub for excellent coffee and melt-in-your-mouth beignets. Once you’ve indulged and are ready to get moving, take a stroll around the French Quarter, stopping for pictures – and maybe a balcony drink or two – along Royal and Bourbon streets. Next, head 34 floors above the city streets to Vue Orleans and step out on the observation deck to enjoy the views and learn about the city’s history through exhibits as colorful as New Orleans itself. Enjoy some shrimp étouffée at one of the city’s many outstanding restaurants. As a curtain call, finish your evening at The Spotted Cat Music Club for a nightcap and some live jazz before catching your flight home out of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.