Louisiana Travel Tips

Louisiana makes for a unique vacation destination, where it’s just as easy to revel in Southern charm in historic small towns as it is to get immersed in the cosmopolitan excitement of New Orleans. When you’re ready to explore the Bayou State, consider these tips and suggestions to help you get the most out of your trip.

Airport Information

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the largest airport in Louisiana, offering the most options for international arrivals and departures. A number of regional airports throughout the state provide possible connections, from Baton Rouge Ryan Airport (BTR) and Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) in the south-central region of the state to Monroe Regional Airport (MLU) and Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) up north.

Weather and Climate

Louisiana’s subtropical climate means you can expect hot summers and mild winters. Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen if you plan to explore outdoors. Be prepared for sudden showers year-round, but especially during the summer months; it’s a good idea to pack a poncho or raincoat, even if there’s no rain in the forecast.

Seasonal Events

Spring, summer, winter and fall aren’t the only seasons you’ll want to account for while planning your visit: Louisiana’s distinct festivals and seasonal happenings make any time of year exciting. Visit in spring and early summer to indulge in crawfish season, when many restaurants add these tasty crustaceans to their menus and neighborhoods gather for community crawfish boils. Fall brings football season, and you don’t even need to be a die-hard sports fan to enjoy tailgating, the Southern practice of hosting outdoor parties with food and games to celebrate your favorite team. Mardi Gras takes place in late winter each year, but you can attend parades and eat king cakes decked out in green, purple and gold decorations from the New Year right up until Fat Tuesday.

Welcome Centers

Once you’ve arrived, stop into any of Louisiana’s Welcome Centers to pick up maps and travel brochures and chat up friendly local guides. Most welcome centers in the state are located along major interstates:

• State Capitol Welcome Center in Baton Rouge
• Vinton Welcome Center on Interstate 10 East
• Atchafalaya Welcome Center on Interstate 10
• Slidell Welcome Center on Interstate 10 West
• Pearl River Welcome Center on Interstate 59
• Kentwood Welcome Center on Interstate 55
• Mound Welcome Center on Interstate 20 West
• Greenwood Welcome Center on Interstate 20 East

Louisiana Tax-Free Shopping

Planning to shop ‘til you drop? The Louisiana Tax Free Shopping program allows international visitors to receive refunds for tax costs paid on purchases from select retailers. Refund centers can be found throughout New Orleans at Canal Place Shopping Center, Riverwalk Outlets and the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.