There’s nothing like a long, picturesque drive in the country to help you relax and clear your mind. Louisiana is home to a variety of stunning landscapes that offer the ideal backdrop to your next ride, plus seemingly endless cultural and historic destinations that are fascinating. Check out three of our favorite Louisiana scenic drives that you don’t want to miss.
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Bayou Teche Scenic Byway
Head off the beaten path into Teche Country. This 125-mile route from Lafayette to Morgan City is wild and remote, with plenty of lush vegetation, including giant, moss-draped oaks and citrus groves. This scenic route meanders alongside the brown-watered Bayou Teche stream as it twists and turns its way through semi-tropical southern Louisiana.
A journey into the geographical heart of Acadiana, catch a glimpse of over 100 notable estates, many on the National Register of Historic Properties. The Greek Revival mansions scattered along the byway are a result of sugarcane production, once the area’s most profitable crop. Stop your travels in one of the small villages along the way for an authentic bayou experience.
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Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway
This famous byway runs along Louisiana Highway 191, down the length of the Toledo Bend Reservoir. Travel 76 miles surrounded by the state’s majestic pine trees and impressive hardwood forests. Visit numerous sights and attractions along this route that offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, including marinas, beaches, state parks, and luxury golf courses. Famed historical sites offer tantalizing information, such as Logansport Park. Explore its displays and learn all about the area’s history of steamboats.
Study the nature exhibits at the South Toledo Bend State Park and take the bald eagle nest hike, then check out the observation towers at the Toledo Bend Reservoir Dam. Have a bite to eat at Wildwood Grill or plan to stay the weekend at the Cypress Bend Resort. These adventures and more are all accessible along the Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway.
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Boom or Bust Byway in North Louisiana
This lovely drive earned its name thanks to the resilient people of Northwest Louisiana. As you drive along the byway, you’ll discover evidence of the economic booms and busts that made this area famous.
The Boom or Bust Byway traverses back roads lined with shady forests, colorful wildflowers, peaceful bayous, and productive plantations. Stop in Oil City at the Louisiana State Oil and Gas Museum. This free attraction tells the story of the area’s early oil industry boom. If you’re traveling the byway in December, don’t miss the breathtaking “Christmas on Caddo Fireworks Festival” at the beautiful 40-acre Earl G. Williamson Park. This recreational area offers picnic facilities, swimming, playgrounds, volleyball, and tennis courts.
Each of Louisiana’s many scenic byways tells a unique tale as it meanders across the state. Drive along any of these highways and experience its history, discover its natural beauty, and explore its quaint and quirky towns. Don’t forget to stop at every roadside attraction and experience everything the area’s rich cultural heritage has to offer.
Image via Shreveport-Bossier: Louisiana’s Other Side | Licensed under CC BY 2.0
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