Louisiana is a state with a rich history dating back to the early days of French colonization. Louisiana has many historical sites worth visiting, whether you’re a history buff or just looking for something different to do on your next road trip. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of Louisiana’s most fascinating historical sites that you’ll want to add to your itinerary.
Before You Hit the Road
Before any road trip, long or short, you should perform a full system check on your car. Schedule a tune-up, tire pressure check, fluid and filter swap, and new windshield wipers, and don’t forget to check the brakes before you embark for maximum safety on your adventure. This will prevent breakdowns while you’re away from home.
Additionally, it would help if you re-evaluated your auto insurance. Frequent coverage reviews will ensure you have the cheapest car insurance in Louisiana. Plus, with most policies, you can add roadside assistance for a small fee and rest your worries by the wayside, knowing you’ve got someone to cover your back if you find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
A State of Historical Value Unlike Any Other
Louisiana is an integral part of the history of our country, as it was one of the first areas to be colonized by the French. The state has many historical sites worth visiting, making it the perfect destination for a road trip. Additionally, you’ll find that much of our history as a country took place, in part, in the underground and hidden areas of Louisiana, making your education and adventuring into these places even more intriguing.
La Louisiane State Capitol Building
The La Louisiane State Capitol Building is the oldest state capitol building in the United States. The building was completed in 1849 and has been used as the state capitol ever since, except during the American Civil War when Union troops occupied it. The building is open for tours Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Old State House
The Old State House is another historic building worth visiting in Louisiana. The building served as the state capitol from 1812 until a fire destroyed it in 1822. It was rebuilt and served as the
state capitol again from 1830 until it was finally replaced by the current state capitol building in 1849. The Old State House now houses a museum and is open for tours Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Pere Antoine’s Alley
Pere Antoine’s Alley is a narrow alleyway located in New Orleans’ French Quarter that is said to be haunted by the ghost of Pere Antoine, a former priest who died in 1829. The alleyway is open to visitors 24 hours a day and is worth checking out if you’re interested in exploring New Orleans’ spooky side.
The Tabasco Factory Tour
If you’re a spicy food fan, check out the Tabasco Factory Tour in Avery Island. This factory tour is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and offers visitors the chance to explore this world-famous hot sauce’s history and production process. The signature green and red spice bottles have become such a mainstay on tables all over the country that it’s no big mystery as to its influence over American cooking and flavors.
Oak Alley Plantation
Located in Vacherie, Louisiana, Oak Alley Plantation is a historic estate built in 1837. Its most notable feature is the alley of 82 oak trees that line the quarter-mile-long street leading up to the plantation house. The property includes 28 historic buildings and is open daily tours from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Whether you’re a history buff or an architecture lover, Oak Alley Plantation is a must-see for any road trip through Louisiana.
The Myrtles Plantation
The Myrtles Plantation is a plantation located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, that is said to be haunted by the ghosts of several formerly enslaved people. The plantation is open for tours Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. If you’re interested in exploring some of Louisiana’s spookier sites, The Myrtle Plantation is a must-see. The Myrtle Plantation is known for being one of the most haunted sites in America, as it is said to be the home of over a dozen ghosts.
Myth and Storytelling in Louisiana Culture
One of the most honored traditions in most cultures is storytelling. With such a broad and diverse population, from enslaved people to settlers and politicians, Louisiana holds a culture that matches nowhere else on earth.
Myth often sets us up to believe in the witches, vampires, and werewolves of the state, said to be wandering about the cemeteries and resting places of the early settlers. This path of folklore spread far and wide through media representations with literature, such as Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice and the Originals, a CW offshoot of the Vampire Diaries. The mystery and myth of the occult rumors surrounding much of Louisiana are a significant draw for many road-trippers.
History and Mystery
There are many interesting historical sites to visit in Louisiana, whether you’re interested in learning about the state’s rich history or just looking for something spooky to do on your next road trip. These are just a few must-see historical sites in Louisiana that should be added to your itinerary.
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