Did you know Louisiana once had a resort island? Over a century ago, Last Island was a popular destination to vacation to. Let's find out a little more about this interesting chapter in Louisiana's past.
Last Island, or Isle Derniere, was the last barrier island along the Louisiana coast. In the 1800s, it was known for its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and gulf breezes.
It was the perfect oasis to escape the heat and the mosquitoes that would plague Louisiana in the summer.
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Located South of Cocodrie, between the Terrebonne Bay and the Caillou Bay, it was originally one long island about twenty five miles long and one mile wide.
There was even a ferry that would make two trips daily to the island to drop passengers off for a day of fun in the sun.
Last Island grew in popularity and by the 1850s accommodations included the John Muggah's Ocean House Hotel, Captain Dave Muggah's Billiard House, a dining hall, a bar, and several gambling establishments... everything you need for the perfect vacation!
There was even a little settlement called the Last Island Village where 100 beach homes were built to house those who could afford a summer beach house.
In 1856 a major hurricane devastated the island. Approximately 200 people died in the storm, and the island was left void of vegetation.
The resort was never rebuilt, and sadly years of erosion and storms have taken their toll on the island, changing the landscape forever.
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After the hurricane and many more tropical storms to follow, Isle Derniere was split into five smaller islands: Trinity, Whiskey, Raccoon, East, and Wine (aka Vine island).
Whiskey, Wine, and Raccoon islands are part of the Terrebone Barrier Islands Refuge. What was once an island oasis is now a haven for pelicans and other seabirds.
Did you know the history behind these islands? Let us know in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The state of Louisiana is an absolutely fascinating place to visit. Aside from the historic and fabulous New Orleans where Louis Armstrong was born, the state is home to some of the country's most diverse cultural heritage. The Cajun and Creole food, the music, the natural scenery, and the architecture are characteristics that Louisiana is known for, but to experience these things in person is truly a marvelous experience that'll leave you with a new appreciation for the Pelican State. Without further ado, here are 12 of the best hotels in Louisiana.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Louisiana
Louisiana is undoubtedly one of the most interesting places in the United States for many reasons. If unique is what you are looking for, you'll certainly find it here! There are plenty of haunted hotels and charming Bed and Breakfasts throughout the state, but these two hotels stand out for their style and location.
Amenities: Fitness Center, Spa, Pool, Restaurant, Bar, Pet Friendly
Rating 4.6
Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans is an iconic experience in the French Quarter near the Mississippi River. Aside from its perfect location near the French Quarter and Canal Street, guests will enjoy the immaculate theming throughout the property. Guest rooms include modern amenities such as minifridges, coffeemakers, and amazing city views. There's an amazing on-site restaurant, as well as the famous revolving carousel bar that guests can enjoy while listening to live music. This is one of the most unique hotels you can check into in New Orleans, as well as one of the best! And it’s not too far to access the city’s streetcars and visit well-known sights, such as St. Charles Street or the Garden District.
Amenities: Fitness Center, Pool, Restaurant, Pet Friendly, Complimentary Parking, Spa
Rating 4
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If your travels through Lousiana take you to Lafayette, The Carriage House Hotel is a unique experience that is more relaxed. Part of the City Club at River Ranch Resort, the hotel surrounds a lovely courtyard and fountain that guests can enjoy. Guest rooms are actually one-bedroom suites, and the hotel has a lot to experience while you stay- there's a tennis court, gym, full-service spa, and places to sit and relax or work. This hotel feels more like an apartment community with an elegant flare- definitely not the typical hotel experience, but still a great place for a nice getaway.
Best Hotel Pools in Louisiana
Louisiana gets very hot in the summer, so it's a good idea to pack your swimsuit before you visit! These two resorts offer some of the coolest pool areas of any hotel in the state.
3. The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, Lake Charles
Address: 2550 Golden Nugget Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Price $287/nightly
Amenities: Fitness Center, Pool, Restaurant, Pet Friendly, Hot Tub, Spa, Golf Course
Rating 4.3
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Harrah’s Casino in New Orleans isn’t the only place to gamble in Louisiana- there are several casinos, and some of them have amazing pools! This opulent hotel and casino sits right along the Contraband Bayou and has one of the best hotel pools in the state of Louisiana. The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino - Lake Charles offers so much for guests to experience: aside from the amazing pool area, there's a full-service spa, golf course, marina, and casino. All guest rooms include typical amenities, but there are upgrades available if you're looking for more space or a water view. The pool area includes a lazy river, cabanas, and a bar service- everything you need for a fun day of swimming.
Amenities: Fitness Center, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, Bar, Restaurant, Night Club
Rating 4.1
Located in Marksville, Paragon Casino & Resort is a massive property that offers a lot to do for guests of all ages. There are over 2,000 slot machines in the casino, as well as a nightclub, eateries, a movie theater, an arcade, and more. All rooms include typical amenities and whirlpool tubs, while some provide a balcony for guests to enjoy. The hotel offers two pools- one inside and one outside. The indoor pool is a favorite among hotel guests because you can enjoy it any time of year!
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Best Luxury Hotels in Louisiana
Louisiana has some incredible luxury hotels to check in to. You may be thinking of The Ritz-Carlton, the Roosevelt New Orleans, or the Four Seasons, but there are others that are especially great! Most of these experiences are in New Orleans, but there are other upscale resorts throughout the state that are worth checking out. Here is one in New Orleans and one in Baton Rouge!
Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Restaurant, Jazz Club, Bar, Boutique, Airport Shuttle, Pet Friendly
Rating 4.4
In the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans is a lively luxury experience that you'll never forget. With direct access to Bourbon Street and Royal Street, the hotel grounds are very beautiful- guests can enjoy cajun food and a jazz club with live music while taking in the lovely design of the property. The guest rooms are all very elegant, with some having bathrobes, whirlpool tubs, upgraded showers, and balconies that directly overlook Bourbon Street or lead to the pool. Near the pool, guests can enjoy a rooftop bar! You can take in the sights of the French Quarter while enjoying room service from the downstairs bistro. This hotel is perfect if you're looking for a luxury New Orleans hotel experience that's right in the middle of all the action.
Amenities: Fitness Center, Free Wifi, Restaurant, Bar
Rating 4.6
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Located in Baton Rouge, this Louisiana hotel is a stylish property that showcases an Art Deco and Greek Revival aesthetic. Guest rooms are all upscale with modern amenities, such as a minibar and free wifi, with some offering river views and pull-out sofas. While the Watermark Baton Rouge is within walking distance of some very nice restaurants, there is an elegant restaurant inside where guests can enjoy some fine dining. In addition to a fitness center, there are also bicycle rentals available if you'd like to explore the area by bike! This is a great hotel for anyone who needs to be in Baton Rouge’s central business district as well.
Best Boutique Hotels in Louisiana
With so many historical buildings in Louisiana, many of the hotels in the state can be considered boutique hotels! Many of these small accommodations have very interesting backstories- stay at either one of these hotels, and you'll see!
Amenities: Pet Friendly, Restaurant, Bar, Gift Shop
Rating 4.4
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This charming hotel in the Garden District of New Orleans is one of the most trendy hotels in New Orleans. Hotel Saint Vincent is a newer hotel that’s also near the Warehouse District, but the building dates back to 1861. You'll be able to enjoy the industrial-style building and the bright and modern aesthetic throughout. There's a lovely outdoor pool, two bars, a cocktail lounge, a gift shop, and an Italian bistro on site. Each of the spacious rooms has been decorated with incredible attention to detail, and the balconies in the building are picture-perfect for sitting and enjoying the vibes. Be sure to ask the concierge for information on what to do in this special part of New Orleans!
Address:506 St. Phillip Street Thibodaux, LA 70301
Price $160/nightly
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wifif, Walking Distance To Shops And Restaurants
Rating 4.5
The historic Dansereau House is a wonderful boutique getaway in the lush region of Southern Louisiana. Located in downtown Thibodaux, the building was built in 1847- you'll appreciate all of the old-world charm that comes with modern luxury at this hotel. Guest rooms are cozy and maintain a vintage aesthetic, but you can expect a comfortable stay with updated amenities. The surrounding area is the perfect place to explore adorable shops and eateries, while the hotel itself is known for being a unique experience for special occasions.
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Best Resorts in Lousiana
There are some truly amazing hotels in Louisiana- whether you're visiting New Orleans or somewhere more rural. These four resorts are some of the best-rated hotels in all of the states for their location, design, value, and more.
Address:5720 Commerce St, St Francisville, LA 70775
Price $419/nightly
Amenities: Restaurant, Free Breakfast, Pool
Rating 4.7
Located in the historic district of St. Francisville, this boutique hotel is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. In recent years, the hotel underwent major renovations, and it's now a luxury experience that guests of all ages can enjoy! Featuring lovely American and French decor, the hotel offers a full-service restaurant, bar, and pool. Near historic sights and lush forests, guests can choose from 10 comfortable suites when they stay at this charming Inn.
Amenities: Restaurant, Free Wifi, French Quarter Location
Rating 4.76
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Another gorgeous New Orleans property, Soniat House is a well-loved hotel that consistently earns high ratings. This small Inn is well-loved for its history, style, and prime location in a residential area of the French Quarter. Three townhomes that were originally turned into a hotel by the Soniat family in 1830 are still well-loved for their impeccable decor and lush gardens. The hotel is planning to reopen this year- see their website for more details.
Address: 7000 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810-1619
Price 144/Nightly
Amenities: Room Service, Pool, Bar, Lounge
Rating 4.5
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This sleek hotel in Baton Rouge is well-loved for its close proximity to the Mall of Louisianna and LSU. Guest rooms provide iPod docks along with other typical modern amenities, but guests can upgrade to a suite for more room. There is an upscale pool area and a chic restaurant on site as well as a wine bar- for a gorgeous environment and comfortable rooms, this hotel is one of the best places you can check in to when visiting Baton Rouge.
This beautiful hotel in Covington is perfect for any occasion and consistently earns high ratings from guests. All guest rooms feature modern amenities and style, such as exposed brick walls and detailed theming. Suites include more space, as well as wood floors and marble bathrooms. The hotel includes a bar, a farm-to-table restaurant, as well as an elegant lounge. Guests can enjoy the Southern Hotel's close proximity to Bogue Falaya Wayside Park, but the hotel itself can easily be made a destination.
Have you experienced any of these wonderful hotels in Louisana? Whether you've never been to this southern state or you're a local, you'll definitely learn something new and make special memories at any of these destinations. Chances are you'll spend some time in New Orleans if you're coming to Louisiana- check out this awesome list of things to do when you're in town!
