9 Must-Visit Historical Sites and Landmarks in Louisiana (2024)

The State of Louisiana is gifted with a rich history. During Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign (the early 1800s), this territory was purchased from the French. Today while you walk through looking for the past of the State of Louisiana, a lot of French, Spanish and Native American influence comes to light. Step by step, when time unfolds, one comes across truly amazing sites that framed present-day Louisiana. The Cajun State has persevered everything beautifully from the state capitol to plantations, open-air spaces, and extensive museums.

Today through this articulated itinerary, we will unfold several pages of Louisiana’s past. And not only the century-old history, but the Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign too is impressible. For knowing it closely, take the seat and get along for a wordy ride with us.

9 Must-Visit Historical Sites and Landmarks In Louisiana

Going through all that is preached about Louisiana’s historical sites will help you build your own itinerary.

1. Old State Capitol, Baton Rouge

While you are on a trip to learn about Louisiana’s history, begin with the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge. It is a historic government building and a public museum from the mid of 19th century (1929n to 1932). This castle-style statehouse is not just a historic spot but also ideal for architectural buffs visiting Baton Rouge. While you will tour inside, you will see how beautifully one have thought even years ago. Everything here is admirable, from the beautiful gothic style-stained glass windows to the majestic spiral staircase and the dome. Admissions here are free, and depending upon your interest; you can stay here from half an hour to 2 hours.

2. Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site, Plaquemine

The Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site is a marvellous example of hydraulic engineering design. When built-in 1895, it was the highest freshwater lift in the world.

However, over a century later, today, it serves as an engineering and historical museum. Drive south of Baton Rouge, and you will find the site somewhere between the capital and New Orleans. Even though today it is decommissioned, any enthusiast will love observing how it would have served back in time. Inside the lock, there’s also a small museum exhibiting passionate stories about the marvel.

3. Gallier Hall, New Orleans

Gallier Hall is one of the excellent examples of Greek Revival architecture in New Orleans. This historic building is located on St. Charles Avenue and still continues in civic use. The building originally dates back to the year 1845, but it was recently in 2018 when the State restored it. Today guests can observe the personal touches from innovative household features and opulent decorations and get a glimpse of the past. Here you can learn about the residents and how New Orleans was back in the past. They offer a guided tour from Thursday through Sunday. The best part about tours here are the guides who bring past o life simply by their narration.

4. USS KIDD Veterans Museum

USS KIDD Veterans Museum is a historic landmark your must-visit when in Louisiana. USS Kidd (DD-661) is one of the ships of the United States Navy honouring Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd. Today, it is a floating museum exhibiting history, ship models & memorials. The ship you step on today has been from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean and Carrabien during its service years. Currently, for 40 long years, it has been welcoming guests to observe a permanent collection of Louisiana veterans’ artefacts, travelling exhibits and more. USS Kidd (DD-661) is a true gem and is the only complete remaining of its kind from WWII.

5. Marksville Prehistoric Indigenous Peoples Site

Marksville Prehistoric Indigenous Peoples Site is an open-air space one must consider visiting in Louisiana. It is spread over 42 acres exhibiting the Marksville culture and archaeology. Today the site is listed as a National Historic landmark featuring numerous earthworks. These earthworks are known as the work of prehistoric indigenous peoples of south-eastern North America. Guests can today take private tours and learn more about this priceless belonging. Though the site is all open, consider opting for a winter day, or Louisiana sun can nearly roast you.

6. Shreveport Municipal Memorial Auditorium

The Shreveport Municipal Memorial Auditorium is a 1920th venue and a historical landmark worth visiting in Louisiana. It became famous after hosting the Louisiana Hayride radio program back in the time. The Auditorium also introduced several artists to fame and thus played an important role in the State. A century later, they host several concerts, theatrical performances, comedy acts, & family shows. While the seats may feel a little confined, everything here is still well maintained. However, any time you come here, make sure you reach early to find a parking space.

7. Edward Douglass White House, Thibodaux

The Edward Douglass White House is a hidden gem in Louisiana and is underrated for whatever it offers. This state historic site was once home to Edward Douglass White Senior, the 10th governor of the State. Once your tour inside the house, it takes you through historical stories. There’s so much to learn about, from the Bayou Lafourche area to sugar cane plantations, White families, Acadian settlers, tracing the history of the indigenous Chitimacha and slaves. On the exterior, you can explore the Edward Douglass White plantation, one of the biggest in Louisiana. With interesting stories and a knowledgeable guide, this secretive sight makes for a great exploration.

8. St. Charles Streetcar Line

When you are out exploring history and historical in Louisiana, you cannot miss riding the St. Charles Streetcar Line. For only $1.25, one can ride the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. This streetcar has been operating continuously since 1835, and riding it is quite popular in New Orleans. The ride covers seven miles in New Orleans, starting from Charles Street Avenue. It is also a great way to see the city; however, be ready to wait in long queues during vacation months. And from any other mode of transportation, this streetcar is comparatively inexpensive.

9. Vermilionville Historic Village

Another site straight out of history, the Vermilionville Historical Village, is a popular landmark in Louisiana. It is basically an open-air museum representing how Acadians and Creoles live in the 18th and 19th centuries. The sight today preserves the culture and natural resources of Africans, Acadians, Native Americans, and Creoles. Exploring this little gem is no less than adventure. While walking around, you will come across flora, fauna, ponds, original houses and other structures. Other than that, the costumed artisans and musicians exhibiting daily life exhibiting will make your day.