Traveling Around Louisiana
Gulf Brew
Lafayette has a festival for everything – from beer to boudin, shrimp to sugarcane, gumbo to gratons – there is always something happening. Experience the vibrant culture Lafayette has to offer at these upcoming festivals.
Kickstarting October’s festivities is the Latin Music Festival to be held on October 7th. Presented by Asociación Latino-Acadiana, the festival’s goal is to promote multiculturalism and heritage preservation. Not too far to follow, from October 13th to the 15th, immerse yourself in the world of Cajun and Creole traditions at Festivals Acadiens et Creole. Three days of music, food, dancing, and crafts will provide an unparalleled experience!
Savor the flavors at the Boudin Cook-Off and Bacon Festival October 21st. For over a decade, boudin has drawn hundreds to Downtown Lafayette for a celebration and competition all centered around this local delicacy. If you’re still hungry, mark your calendar for the Blackpot Festival and Cook-Off October 27-28. This two-day event honors Cajun culture and cuisine with a blend of music, dancing, food, camping, and jamming. For more details on these festivals visit lafayettetravel.com/fall.
13th Gate
Widely known as being one of the top haunted houses in the country, The 13th Gate nestles in Baton Rouge and stands as the epitome of terror. Navigate through thirteen chilling realms, where your darkest nightmares materialize into a spine-tingling reality.
Renowned for its ultra-realism, The 13th Gate pushes the boundaries of horror and actuality having guests in screams and shivers. Not for the faint-hearted, the attraction’s meticulous craftsmanship, designs, sets, and effects rival not only other haunted houses but even Hollywood blockbusters.
From eerie pirate ships to live snakes, it blends to make an unforgettable experience. The ever-evolving 40,000 square foot haunt surprises even the bravest souls, ensuring anticipation around ever corner. To find out more about the frightening spot and receive a nerve-wracking terror, visit 13thgate.com.
Once a part of No Man’s Land, Beauregard Parish was a region with no king or country, home to outlaws, bandits, pirates, and brave pioneers. The settlers were larger than life, and so are the stories! The region’s use as an official buffer between Louisiana and Spanish Texas lasted roughly from 1806 until the 1819 Adams-Onis Treaty. Slow to be settled, and marked by a pivotal moment in history, the Neutral Strip region exhibits a culture colored by several pockets of diverse folk groups—like Native Americans, remnants of early Spanish colonies, Scotch Irish pioneers, African Americans, and others—who fiercely hold onto their traditions and notions of identity. Tour one of the last remaining remnants of No Man’s Land the Gothic Jail. The jail was built to set up law and order in this once lawless territory. October brings about a new form of entertainment at the jail with the Gothic Jail Haunted Attraction. Where ghost and mortals compete to make you scream in this truly unique haunted house. Go to beauregardtourism.com to get a list of tour times and events.
When you visit Shreveport-Bossier in northwest Louisiana, you’ll find a place with enough flavor, style and soul for two cities. They are just 15 minutes from the Louisiana-Texas border and only three hours east of Dallas. So, they’re a little bit “Cajun” and a little bit “Cowboy.”
If you’re craving authentic Louisiana Creole cuisine, we’ve got you, Boo. Gumbo. Crawfish Etouffee. Stuffed Shrimp. It’s all here. And if your mouth isn’t watering enough, feed your inner Cowboy (or Cowgirl) tasty, smoky ribs, brisket, and steak! Casinos, live music venues, craft breweries, axe-throwing, and glassblowing are just some of the must-see things to do. For those of you who want to breathe in clean, fresh air should travel the 126-mile Boom or Bust Byway, or tackle a tree-lined trail through one of our gorgeous parks. Bring your boat to enjoy one of our beautiful lakes. You could even “glamp” in a Conestoga Wagon or Teepee.
Plan your getaway to Shreveport-Bossier, today, on visitshreveportbossier.org. They can’t wait to see you.
As one of the last great family-owned and operated hotels in New Orleans, Hotel Monteleone is committed to guest satisfaction and comfort. With its rich history and continued innovations, it remains a sparkling jewel in the heart of the French Quarter ushering in a new era of luxury.
Iberville Tower
Hotel Monteleone invites guests to create lasting memories within the newly renovated Iberville Tower. After a 2-year, multi-million dollar renovation, the tower now features 160 completely-renovated rooms, 48 brand-new luxury suites, and the elegant and stunning Iberville Ballroom.
The tower offers a self-contained escape within the hotel, providing guests with a seamless transition between the ground-level energy of Criollo restaurant and the Carousel Bar, luxurious rooms and event spaces, Spa Aria, and the famed rooftop pool and bar. The modern amenities in the rooms, including twice-daily housekeeping service, dedicated concierge, and a welcome amenity exclusive to the Iberville Tower, ensure the most relaxing and memorable stay. To book and experience Iberville Tower and all that Hotel Monteleone has to offer, visit hotelmonteleone.com.
Helis Foundation Cora Nimtz Log Cabin
Louisiana Contemporary presented by The Helis Foundation, on view now through February 18, 2024, at Ogden Museum of Southern Art, brings to the fore the work of artists living in Louisiana and highlights the dynamism of contemporary art practice throughout the state while providing the space for the exposition of living artists’ work and engaging a contemporary audience that recognizes the vibrant visual arts culture of Louisiana and the role of New Orleans as a rising, international art center.
This year’s statewide, juried exhibition features 45 works by 31 Louisiana artists from 790 submissions whose works were selected by guest juror Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander, Robert M. and Ruth L. Halperin Associate Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University. Since its launch in 2012, Louisiana Contemporary has presented 876 works by 569 artists. For more on the exhibition go to thehelisfoundation.org.
Kickapoo Twist Vineyard Winery
Discover the charm of West Baton Rouge Parish as you follow the meandering path of the breezy Mississippi River. Situated just minutes away from the state capital, an hour from the vibrant New Orleans, and forty-five minutes from Lafayette and Cajun country, this destination offers a perfect day trip or an inviting stay in one of their affordable and family-friendly accommodations conveniently located near I-10.
Taking place on Saturday, September 9th, the Annual Smokin’ Oldies Barbeque Cook-Off at the West Baton Rouge Tourist Information & Conference Center will feature a thrilling 3-meat (chicken, ribs, and brisket) category competition. All are welcome, and you can even volunteer to be a BBQ tasting judge!
For more fun, make sure to stick around on Sunday, September 10th, when the Oldies But Goodies Fest kicks off at 11:00 am till 5:00 pm. Enjoy some live music, an Antique Car show, and mouthwatering food! For more information visit westbatonrouge.net.
Experience the best of DeSoto Parish on October 7th doing the thrilling 50 Mile Trail of Treasure! Starting at 7 a.m., this exciting journey allows you to explore the charm and wonders of the parish. Whether you begin in Stonewall, Louisiana or Joaquin, Texas you are guaranteed an unforgettable adventure of a voyage!
The picturesque route of Highway 171 and 84 take you through scenic landscapes and vibrant communities. Along the way, numerous tents, stores, and restaurants dot the trail, offering a lovely array of treasures to be discovered.
From Stonewall to Mansfield, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious regional cuisine, and find unique keepsakes from the talented local vendors. Along with the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals, explore the hidden gems of Grand Cane, Stanley, Logansport, and Keatchie. Mark your calendar, and visit discoverdesoto.com for more information on this event and more like this one!
Founded in 1714 and known for being Louisiana’s oldest city, Natchitoches’ rich history set the stage for the cultural cities hereafter. It’s older than New Orleans. Famous for being home of the movies, Steel Magnolias, the Horse Soldiers, and Man in the Moon, Natchitoches bestows the adored filming sites of these classic pictures. Visit the Cane River National Heritage Area that includes Melrose on the Cane with the art of Clementine Hunter and the Cane River Creole National Historical Park at Oakland and Magnolia Plantations. Upcoming fall events include the Meat Pie Festival, Natchitoches Car Show, Tappedtober, Melrose Fall Festival, Creole Festival, and the 97th annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival Season. To plan your next trip, visit Natchitoches.com.
Celebrating the craft of beer at the best time of the year, Acadiana Center for the Arts presents Gulf Brew on October 21st, a downtown Lafayette beer-centric street festival! With over 200 different types of beer, hand-selected craft vendors by Louisiana Crafts Guild, and two stages of astounding entertainment, Gulf Brew 2023 promises to be the ultimate experience for all beer lovers.
Indulge yourself in the refreshing AC of the VIP Lounge, AKA the AcA building, where VIP ticket holders can savor a premier view of the main stage on Vermillion Street, complimentary delectable food and drinks, and the finest restroom facilities in the area!
Acadiana Center for the Arts offers various captivating events, like the upcoming performance by Michael Winslow on October 5th. The multi-talented actor, comedian, and beatboxer known as “The Man of 10,000 Sound Effects” is known for his ability to make realistic sounds using only his voice! Check out these events and more like them at acadianacenterforthearts.org.
Red River Revel
If you love the great outdoors, sprinkled with fine art, fabulous dining, and fun times, central Louisiana is the perfect getaway! In the Heart of Louisiana, Alexandria-Pineville, you are just two hours from Shreveport and Baton Rouge, with big city amenities, minus the traffic! Along the banks of the Red River with multiple lakes, enjoy beautiful views, great fishing, and the Kisatchie National Forest as your backyard! You’ll find the captivating Alexandria Museum of Art and plenty of family-friendly attractions in this adventurous area. Dining is a delicious adventure all its own with fresh seafood, new takes on age-old Cajun recipes, international fare, a bustling food truck scene, and even gas stations famous for to-go options! Enjoy as many various types of foods as your palate can take. Explore Alexandria-Pineville, and find your heart in the Heart of Louisiana. Book your adventure today at alexandriapinevillela.com!
