There are some truly great day places in and near New Orleans that are perfect for a free afternoon. There are beaches all around that will bring joy, and there are some beautiful towns, sights, and sounds that’ll make you feel like you’ve discovered something completely special (and really, you have). So, grab some folks you love and explore these amazing day trips near New Orleans. They are certain to provide some awesome memories for you and yours. Here are seven of the best day trips in New Orleans to do ASAP:

1) St. Francisville
Saint Francisville, St Francisville, LA 70775, USA
Town of St. Francisville/Facebook
This town north of New Orleans is so adorable you'll want to stay here for a week! There is an amazing combination of historic plantation homes and gorgeous gardens that are certain to bring a smile to your face. Stay at a bed and breakfast and soak in all of the sights and sounds of this sweet town.
2) Ship Island
Ship Island Excursions/Facebook
If you're looking for a way to get to the shore in a hurry, check out the boat to Ship Island in Biloxi, Mississippi. If you wake up early enough, you can catch the earliest boat and have all day on this gorgeous island in the Gulf of Mexico.
3) Avery Island
Avery Island, LA, USA
Avery Island Visitor Center/Facebook
The birthplace of Tabasco sauce makes for a lovely day trip, where you can explore the local factory for the sauce as well as check out the acres of Jungle Gardens, where there are some truly unique plants as well as a beautiful sculpture of a Buddha from the 1920s.
4) Dauphin Island
Dauphin Island, AL, USA
Dauphin Island Public Beach & Pier/Facebook
Another gorgeous Gulf Island, this one off the coast of Alabama. Dauphin Island is an amazing place to spend the day with loved ones. One of the most developed of the barrier islands, there's truly something for everything at this beautiful spot!
5) Ponchatoula
Ponchatoula, LA, USA
NoddingDog/Google Local
There are some amazing towns around New Orleans, but Ponchatoula is really special. The annual strawberry festival is a big attraction, but there are many other awesome places to eat and shop in this darling town.
6) Crosby Arboretum
The Crosby Arboretum, 370 Ridge Rd, Picayune, MS 39466, USA
Crosby Arboretum
This gorgeous park east of New Orleans includes a really beautiful trail as well as the Pinecote Pavilion, a unique structure that is an amazing photo taking opportunity.
7) Grand Isle
Grand Isle, LA, USA
Sheila Tribe/Facebook
Keep going down Louisiana Highway 1 and you'll reach Grand Isle, one of the best beaches in Louisiana and an absolutely beautiful place for bird watching.

If you’ve never explored any of these places, then you’re in luck. These are some of the most beautiful day trips near New Orleans to check out, and we’re sure you’re going to fall in love with them. Let us know if you’ve ever been to these places before – we love to hear about your experiences!

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips in New Orleans

Tori Jane | April 25, 2022

What are some unique things to do around New Orleans?  

New Orleans is a delightful place that’s truly unique in and of itself. As a result, there are plenty of things to do around here that you simply cannot do anywhere else; NOLA is a diamond in the rough when it comes to unique destinations. Some of our favorite unique things to do around New Orleans include a stroll through the old French Quarter – simply because it’s a New Orleans classic, and plus, it’s always nice to visit while Mardi Gras ISN’T going on. Check out the fascinating Historic Voodoo Museum, which was founded in 1972 and teaches guests about the REAL voodoo history of New Orleans. Then, head to the Music Box Village and check out the houses you can play before seeking out the legendary Singing Oak, an art installation by artist Jim Hart featuring tons of wind chimes – some of which are up to 14 feet in length.  

Where are the best getaway spots in New Orleans?  

If you ask us (which apparently you have), New Orleans is a delightful getaway spot all by itself. Lots of folks consider it to be a pretty romantic little city thanks to its old-school architecture and truly signature vibe. We do have a few favorite places to stay in New Orleans, especially when hoping for a quiet (or even romantic) getaway. One of those places is the old Canal Street Inn, which is within a stunning mansion built in 1912 and surrounded by gardens galore. Admire the building’s original architecture and enjoy a quiet experience, as the inn only has ten rooms. The Magnolia Mansion is another wonderful getaway spot in New Orleans; it’s a fabulous boutique hotel and bed and breakfast with nine rooms, all of which are delightful. There are all kinds of add-ons and additional options to choose from, too, so choose carefully and enjoy! Finally, we have to mention the Lanaux Mansion, too. It’s an 1879 Victorian Mansion nestled right inside the French Quarter, with lots of furniture belonging to the original owner! If you’re considering something a little longer than just a day trip to New Orleans, do consider these uniquely NOLA stays.  

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