Laplace, Louisiana: 10 Easy Day Trips Nearby
10 Easy Road Trips from Laplace, Louisiana for a Fun Day Out
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| Trade the everyday for bayou drives, grand historic homes, and family-friendly adventure near Laplace, from plantation tours to wildlife outings and scenic water views. |
If you’re in Laplace, Louisiana and feeling the urge to get out for a bit, you’re in a great spot for a quick escape. This part of south Louisiana makes it easy to plan short road trips, relaxed day trips, and even a simple nearby getaway without spending all day in the car.
The best part? You do not have to go far to find swamp views, small-town charm, historic homes, local food, and family-friendly fun. Whether you want a quiet drive, a tasty meal, or a weekend trip idea, there are plenty of things to do near Laplace in the surrounding parishes.
To keep this list true to a real out-of-town adventure, every stop below is outside Laplace and outside St. John the Baptist Parish. So if you’re ready to roll the windows down and hit the road, here are 10 great ideas.
1. Tour Destrehan Plantation in St. Charles Parish
Just a short drive from Laplace, Destrehan Plantation is one of the most well-known historic sites in the area. It gives you a close look at Louisiana history through the home, grounds, and exhibits.
If you enjoy places that make the past feel real, this is a strong pick for a day trip from Laplace. Walking the property feels a little like stepping into another time, but without needing a long drive or a big plan.
- Why go: Historic home, guided tours, beautiful grounds
- Best for: Couples, history fans, curious travelers
- Drive time: About 20 to 30 minutes
2. Spend Time at the Wetland Watchers Park in St. Charles Parish
Need something easy and scenic? Wetland Watchers Park in St. Charles Parish is a simple but enjoyable stop. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs, look out over the water, and slow the pace down for a while.
Sometimes the best road trip is not about doing a million things. Sometimes it’s just about getting out, seeing something different, and taking a breath. This spot fits that mood perfectly.
- Why go: Quiet views, nature, easy stop for all ages
- Best for: Families, solo travelers, quick nearby getaway
- Drive time: Roughly 30 minutes
3. Visit the San Francisco Plantation in St. James Parish
San Francisco Plantation stands out right away thanks to its bright colors and detailed design. It’s one of those places that catches your eye before you even step inside.
For travelers looking for unique things to do near Laplace, this is an easy choice. The home has a very different feel from many other historic sites, which helps make the trip memorable. If old homes usually blur together for you, this one probably won’t.
- Why go: Distinct architecture, guided tours, local history
- Best for: History lovers, photographers, couples
- Drive time: About 35 to 45 minutes
4. Walk the Grounds at Laura Plantation in Ascension Parish
If you’re in the mood for a meaningful and well-known Louisiana attraction, Laura Plantation is worth the drive. The site shares Creole history in a way that feels personal and thoughtful.
I always think places like this work best when you go in with time to listen and look around. It’s not a rushed stop. It’s more like opening a book and letting the story unfold one chapter at a time.
- Why go: Strong storytelling, historic setting, beautiful property
- Best for: Adults, culture travelers, educational day trips
- Drive time: About 40 to 50 minutes
5. Explore the Evergreen Plantation Area in Ascension Parish
Another rewarding stop for a short road trip from Laplace, LA is the Evergreen Plantation area. It’s known for its striking grounds and ties to Louisiana’s past.
This kind of outing is great if you want a drive that feels close but still different from your everyday routine. You know that feeling when a change of scenery resets your whole mood? This is that kind of trip.
- Why go: Historic atmosphere, scenic setting, iconic Louisiana look
- Best for: Weekend trip explorers, photographers, architecture fans
- Drive time: Around 45 minutes
6. Have a Big Family Day at the Audubon Zoo in Jefferson Parish
When you want a classic crowd-pleaser, Audubon Zoo in Jefferson Parish is a fantastic pick. It’s one of the most famous attractions in the greater New Orleans area, and it makes a great day trip near Laplace.
If you have kids with you, this one is almost too easy. And even adults can have fun here. A good zoo day has a little bit of everything: walking, snacking, animal watching, and those random moments where everyone suddenly gets excited about the same thing.
- Why go: Animals, family fun, well-known attraction
- Best for: Families, groups, visitors with kids
- Drive time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
7. Shop and Stroll at Lakeside Shopping Center in Jefferson Parish
Not every nearby getaway needs to be all nature or all history. Sometimes you just want shopping, food, and an easy afternoon indoors, especially on a hot or rainy day. That’s where Lakeside Shopping Center comes in.
This is a nice option when you want a low-stress outing. Grab lunch, browse a few stores, and enjoy a different pace for the day. Simple? Yes. But simple can be really nice.
- Why go: Shopping, dining, weather-friendly fun
- Best for: Friends, couples, casual weekend trip ideas
- Drive time: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour
8. Ride Over to Fontainebleau State Park in St. Tammany Parish
If you’re craving more space and fresh air, head to Fontainebleau State Park. This is one of the best nature-focused road trips from Laplace, Louisiana if you want water views, open trails, and picnic spots.
It’s the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you want. Walk a trail, sit by the lake, or bring lunch and make an afternoon of it. On a nice day, it’s hard to beat.
- Why go: Trails, lake views, peaceful outdoor setting
- Best for: Nature lovers, families, couples
- Drive time: Around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
9. See the Alligators at Global Wildlife Center in Tangipahoa Parish
For an animal experience that feels a little different, try Global Wildlife Center. This popular attraction gives visitors a close-up look at a wide range of animals in a large outdoor setting.
If your usual routine has felt dull lately, this is the kind of day trip that wakes things up. It feels a bit like trading your normal afternoon for a mini adventure.
- Why go: Animal encounters, open space, family-friendly fun
- Best for: Kids, animal lovers, first-time visitors to the region
- Drive time: About 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes
10. Take a Scenic Bayou Drive to Laurel Valley Village in Lafourche Parish
If you want a quieter and more offbeat weekend trip idea, head toward Laurel Valley Village in Lafourche Parish. This historic area is known for its old buildings and classic bayou atmosphere.
This outing feels less polished and more lived-in, which is part of the charm. It’s a good choice for travelers who like places with character. Ever take a drive where the road itself feels like part of the attraction? This is one of those.
- Why go: Bayou scenery, local character, historic setting
- Best for: Scenic drivers, photographers, travelers wanting something different
- Drive time: About 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Laplace, Louisiana
Before you head out, here are a few simple tips to make your trip smoother:
- Start early if you want to beat the heat.
- Bring water and snacks, especially for outdoor stops.
- Check attraction hours before leaving.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours and parks.
- Keep a light jacket in the car since indoor spots can feel chilly.
One thing I’ve learned from Louisiana drives is that even short trips can feel special when you don’t rush them. A quick stop for coffee, a scenic detour, or a roadside photo can turn a regular outing into a memory.
Final Thoughts on Nearby Getaways from Laplace
Laplace, LA is a great home base for exploring south Louisiana. From historic plantations and state parks to animal attractions and shopping, there’s no shortage of things to do near Laplace when you want to leave town for the day.
Whether you’re planning a quick road trip, a family day trip, or a laid-back weekend trip, these nearby spots offer a nice mix of fun and variety. So, which one will you try first?
If this list helped you plan your next outing, feel free to share it with friends and drop a comment with your favorite day trips from Laplace, Louisiana. I’d love to hear where you go next.
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