Known historically as a deep-rooted French colony in centuries past, Louisiana now became a unique and charming state in terms of culture as compared to the typical “American State”. Nowadays, its culture can be traced back to the time when the first French colonists arrived. Up to this day, its historic past deeply influenced the present culture, resulting in a blend of Creole and Cajun cultures. This translates to exquisite festivals, magnificent architecture, historical landmarks, nature parks, and a significant number of nature escape destinations. As such, it opened opportunities for romantic people to plan their next itinerary here at Louisiana. After all, it’s the birthplace of jazz and none can resist the romantic sensation once the beat starts rolling. Keep reading to get insights on how to spice up your date with the romantic things to do in Louisiana, the USA.
1. Go on a mesmerizing tour of Oak Alley Plantation (from USD 82.0)
Commemorate the Antebellum South history of New Orleans by participating in this Oak Alley Plantation tour on Viator. The half-day affair will take you back to the old times with the estate’s intricate architecture, rich sugar cane fields, and tailored gardens. Your guide will narrate the plantation’s history as you walk through the tree-lined esplanade. Learn about the colorful, and often bittersweet, past of the Southern United States, and book this tour of Oak Alley Plantation for your upcoming date night!
Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
2. Bop to a night jazz cruise (from USD 55.0)
A remarkable way to cap off a romantic outing in Louisiana is through one of its greatest points of pride - music. Liven up your date by joining this evening jazz cruise aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen boat in New Orleans. Not only will you witness head-bopping jazz performances by Sullivan Dabney Jr. and the Muzik Jazz Band, but you and your loved one may also enjoy a scrumptious Creole-style meal and a classic New Orleans cocktail on the promenade deck after. Experience New Orleans like never before and jam to some awesome tunes as you cruise down the Mississippi River.
New Orleans: Evening Jazz Boat Cruise with Optional Dinner
Duration: 2.0 hour
3. Treat yourselves to a luxurious sightseeing flight (from USD 197.0)
Some would agree that simple, loving gestures are what make being in or entering a relationship all worth it. There are also those who’d move mountains to express their love for one another. If you wish to splurge a little bit for your New Orleans date night, this VIP sightseeing flight could be what you’re looking for. To accompany this momentous occasion, you may choose between champagne and chocolates or wine and cheese. The flight takes about 45 minutes, and you’ll get to enjoy the iconic French Quarter from above!
New Orleans VIP Flight with Champagne/Chocolate or Wine/Cheese
Duration: 30 to 45 minutes
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4. Seek adventure at South Toledo Bend State Park
Located along Toledo Bend Reservoir, South Toledo Bend State Park is a great destination for adventurous couples out there. It is one of the two state parks in Louisiana and has quickly become one of the most frequented attractions in the state since its public opening in 2004. Various outdoor activities like camping, birdwatching, cycling, and hiking are the most popular activities in the area, along with wildlife watching. Go on a low-key Louisiana trip with your loved one and explore the lush South Toledo Bend State Park.
South Toledo Bend State Park
Address: 120 Bald Eagle, Anacoco, LA 71403, United States
Website: South Toledo Bend State Park
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 6am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 6am - 10pm
5. Enjoy the scenery at Rip Van Winkle Gardens
Harboring a deep appreciation for old houses and gardens? Set your upcoming date in New Iberia and explore the majestic Rip Van Winkle Gardens. Also known as Joseph Jefferson House, the house was named after Joseph Jefferson, who was an American silent film and stage actor who portrayed Rip Van Winkle in films. You may schedule a tour of the home itself or even book a stay within the premises. Experiencing this piece of history will be one of your best memories!
Rip Van Winkle Gardens
Address: 5505 Rip Van Winkle Rd, New Iberia, LA 70560, United States
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
6. Visit Shreveport and see art and historical exhibits
Visiting the romantic setting of R.W. Norton Art Gallery might be one of the best things to do in Louisiana for couples. From the art and historical stuff featured in its exhibits, to the lush botanical gardens that invigorate the mood, your visit here will be a day to remember. During which, you’ll see splendid art and other historical items local to the place, in particular, iconic American and European art, rare books, and historical artefacts dating back to the 1800’s. You can then explore the gardens outside the museum, or perhaps take a memorable photo to capture the scenic landscape of the museum.
R.W. Norton Art Gallery
Address: 4747 Creswell Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106, USA
Website: R.W. Norton Art Gallery
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
7. Experience the alluring beauty of rose flowers
As the saying goes: the way to a woman’s heart is consistently sending her beautiful rose flowers. While this may be true to some extent, how about taking a trip to the largest park dedicated to rose flowers — 20,000 rose flowers to be exact? This mind-blowing number will make your visit to these gardens truly romantic. Stroll around this 118 acre (47.8 hectare) park that also features other varieties of flowers, plants, and trees. The seemingly countless colors manifested by the different types of flowers, and the lush, moving green leaves swaying with the wind will truly make your visit here a memorable nature escape.
American Rose Center
Address: 8877 Jefferson Paige Rd, Shreveport, LA 71119, USA
Website: American Rose Center
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sun: 5:30am - 10pm
Price: Free entry
8. Go back in time at Louisiana's Old State Capitol
Marvel at the rich history behind Louisiana’s Old State Capitol constructed during the 1850’s. This castle-style, medieval-fortress-looking building is a sight to behold due to its iconic design and historical background. Now serving as a museum dedicated to Louisiana political party, this Louisiana attraction for couples truly is a past relic living in the present. It features a decorative marble-style facade and intricate wood paneling, complete with luxurious and modern touches. As such, there are only few places in Louisiana to rival the romantic adventure inside the historic building. More so, if you are both history buffs. Take a tour inside, and learn about the rich history of Louisiana’s Old State Capitol.
Louisiana's Old State Capitol
Address: 100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, USA
Website: Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 9am - 3pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 3 USD
9. Check out the magnificent sculptures at Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features a world-class and contemporary sculpture and exhibits. The exhibit lies outdoors and set upon lavish botanical gardens, coupled with trees, flowers, and plants, making it an ideal place to walk around, get fresh air, and admire the serene nature escape. The magnificent sculptures on display will surely pique your interest. Walk around the glorious acres amid all the priceless sculptures and marvel at the sights at hand — truly a sight to behold. This sculpture garden is one of the latest cultural destinations of New Orleans which offers a brand new perspective for visitors and couples who loves arts.
Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Address: 1 Collins Diboll Cir, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
Website: Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
10. Come face-to-face with animals at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Seeing wild animals up close can be an experience of a lifetime for animal lovers out there, what more if you’re together with your significant other? About 800 animals from around the world call BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo their home. The zoo is home to giraffes, rhinos, alligators, tigers, and many more. It also features a koi pond, aviary, otter pond, and an aquarium. Have a fantastic time wandering through the zoo and be amazed by the animals.
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo
Address: 3601 Thomas Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70807, USA
Website: BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
11. Catch a live show
Shreveport Municipal Auditorium is one of Shreveport’s most treasured buildings. Mainly because it’s one of the finest Art Deco buildings out there. It was initially constructed as a memorial to the soldiers of the First World War. This lavish building, which has been renovated a number of times is now a venue for famous concerts, theatrical performances, comedy acts, and family shows. Stars like Elvis Presley and Hank Williams have performed here. Reserve your seat now together with your date and watch a number of mesmerizing performances.
Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
Address: 705 Grand Ave, Shreveport, LA 71101, USA
Website: Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
12. Indulge in some unique rum tasting experience
A name renowned in the state of Louisiana, Old New Orleans Rum Distillery is a name that has traveled far and wide through the years, and is the oldest rum distillery in the US. It’s one of New Orleans’ most famous names, where it’s frequented by loyal patrons and an increasing number of newcomers for a much-needed rum and cocktail tasting. This old and rustic distillery has taken root there many years ago, and since then, has established a name for itself. Experience a unique rum and cocktail tasting by touring around the distillery, and try exquisite samples of rum. Old New Orleans Rum Distillery might be the after-sunset go-to destination for you two.
Old New Orleans Rum Distillery
Address: 2815 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70122, USA
Website: Old New Orleans Rum Distillery
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm
Price: 10 USD
13. Have a relaxing and romantic walk at New Orleans' most famous landmark
Known as one of the most recognizable landmarks of New Orleans, Jackson Square is a historic landmark situated at the heart of the French Quarter. This spacious park caters to over two million visitors of local and foreign origins, mainly because it’s the best open space in the French Quarter. Moreover, the square is the venue of various programs in the city, such as city events and celebrations, weddings, photography sessions, and many more. It is also surrounded by old, historic buildings, including the famed St. Louis Cathedral. This scenic spot is perfect for a nice afternoon walk and sightseeing. Experience the local culture of the French Quarter together with your bae at this historic landmark.
Jackson Square
Address: 701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Website: Jackson Square
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
14. Have a crazy night at Frenchmen Street
It’s that time of the day in Frenchmen Street when locals start prepping their stores, shops, and everything in anticipation of the horde of visitors and tourists that will flock this tiny strip of road. Such is the weekly routine of local folks at Frenchmen Street. The weekly sights and sounds of another round of color-inspired, music, and blissful night is fast approaching, where it attracts tons of visitors with a specific goal in mind: A crazy night to tell stories on Monday. In a nutshell, Frenchmen Street is the strip of road in New Orleans that is home to the best live music and nightlife the city has to offer, making it a haven for alcohol-happy tourists and party people. Consider yourself and your date entertained with all the street parties, live music, bars, clubs and diners that Frenchmen Street has in store for you.
Frenchmen Street
Address: New Orleans, LA, USA
Website: Frenchmen Street
Price: Free entry
15. Be one with nature at Lake Martin
If both of you are fond of nature and animals, consider having a romantic getaway at Lake Martin. This lake is home to a significant number of fauna, in particular, nesting birds and native plants. It is also the place of the largest nesting colonies for many species of water birds. Consider your getaway to be a bird-full of fun. If that’s not enough, the lake is also home to a substantial number of alligators, which can be seen just along the edges of the lake. Other animals such as snakes, turtles, frogs, and lizards can also be found in the lake. Plan your next romantic getaway here at Lake Martin, and experience the beauty of nature and animals Louisiana has to offer.
Lake Martin
Address: Parish Governing Authority District 6, LA 70517, USA
Price: Free entry
The perfect romantic getaway at Louisiana
The exciting things to do and romantic places to stay in Louisiana are aplenty. Taking your sweetheart to a fancy restaurant, or watching a movie together is considered nowadays to be the norm of dating, which is perhaps quite an outdated view. If you wish to strike as someone who has everything planned out, or a man with romance up your sleeve, consider taking her to non-cliche destinations such as those mentioned above. Experience the romantic side of Louisiana and create an unforgettable moment for both of you.
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