Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, the Great River Road winds past 300-year-old oaks, historic homes and small towns where Louisiana's history feels close enough to touch.
At a Glance
Known For: historic homes, Creole and Cajun fare and easy access to Baton Rouge
Top Places to Explore: Gonzales, Darrow, Sorrento, Vacherie and downtown Baton Rouge
Top Things to Do: touring Oak Alley Plantation, dining at Houmas House and Gardens, learning Creole history at Laura Plantation and biking the scenic byway along the Mississippi River
Major Events: The Alligator Festival in Luling, Mardi Gras, the Louisiana Marathon and Louisiana State University Football Games
Things to Do in the Great River Road Area
The Great River Road area links the towns of Gonzales, Darrow, Sorrento and Vacherie on a winding path that leads to Louisiana's capital. History takes center stage at the region's historic homes, including Oak Alley Plantation, known for its quarter-mile canopy of 300-year-old oaks, and Houmas House Estate and Gardens, home to The Great River Road Museum. Nearby, Laura Plantation chronicles four generations of one Creole family, and Evergreen Plantation preserves 37 historic buildings. When the sun sets, head into downtown Baton Rouge for its thriving Arts and Entertainment District, or catch a concert at Shaw Center for the Arts.
Places to Stay in the Great River Road Area
Spend the night among the oaks at Oak Alley Plantation Restaurant & Inn, where private cottages sit on the grounds of the historic home, just a short drive from New Orleans. Vacherie is also home to a handful of charming bed-and-breakfasts for travelers who want to linger a little longer along the river.
What to Eat in the Great River Road Area
The art of cooking was perfected in this region, and today restaurants serve mouthwatering dishes that represent Creole and Cajun flavors. Dine at Latil's Landing Restaurant or head to Oak Alley to enjoy Southern comfort food beneath the oaks. Don’t miss delicious seafood from Nobile's Restaurant & Bar or Frenier Landing Restaurant & Oyster Bar on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain.
Great River Road Area Events & Festivals
In fall, head to Luling for the Alligator Festival or downtown Baton Rouge for the weekly Live After 5 concert series, a free outdoor showcase of local music. Summer brings riverfront festivities to the region, including Fourth of July fireworks over the water.
Plan Your Visit
It's easy to navigate the Great River Road area since it sits between two major airports. If you're flying in, rent a car or book a rideshare from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport or Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in the Great River Road area?
Some of the best things to do in the Great River Road area include touring historic homes like Oak Alley, Houmas House and Laura Plantation, dining on Creole and Cajun cuisine at local restaurants and exploring downtown Baton Rouge's Arts and Entertainment District.
What is the Great River Road area known for?
The Great River Road area is best known for its collection of historic homes and the winding scenic byway that traces the history of the region.
What is the best time of year to visit the Great River Road area?
Spring and fall offer the mildest weather for outdoor activities, while summer brings festivals and riverfront celebrations.
What is the weather like in the Great River Road area?
Like the rest of South Louisiana, the region sees hot, humid summers and mild winters, with occasional afternoon storms in warmer months.
Where can I get more travel information about the Great River Road area?
For official travel information, explore Visit Baton Rouge or find statewide trip ideas, itineraries and regional guides on Explore Louisiana, Louisiana's official tourism website.