Need a getaway from southeast Louisiana but don’t want to go too far these days? These great vacations within driving distance don’t involve flying or cross-country driving – so pack up and hit the road to explore new sights for the summer vacation you deserve. Below are some spots within a four-hour drive of southeast Louisiana that offer your family an reasonably priced vacation that you won’t soon forget.
Located on the Sabine River between Texas and Louisiana, the Toledo Bend Reservoir is the largest man made body of water in Texas. It is also the largest in the South. There are over 1,200 miles of shoreline offering limitless opportunities for outdoor entertainment. There are both private and public facilities available for swimming, boating, picnicking, fishing, camping, hunting, hiking, biking and sightseeing.
Avery Island is the home of TABASCO® Sauce, the famous hot sauce sold around the world. The McIlhenny family has made the sauce on Avery Island, Louisiana for more than five generations. The island and factory was built on a salt dome. It is a beautiful world of wonder where the red peppers grow, the factory churns away, and wildlife inhabits the nearby Jungle Gardens.
The island’s top attractions include the visitor center and the sauce factory, but there is much more to do on the island – “Dine at 1868!” at the home of TABASCO® Sauce, build your own bloody mary drink, and try all of the TABASCO® Family of Flavors®. You can also take a guided bird tour or a self-guided tour through Jungle Gardens.
Biloxi is one of the oldest communities in the country, having first been settled in 1699. Nestled on the shores of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, Biloxi has remained a favorite vacation destination for generations. Biloxi’s sandy beaches and serene waters are perfect for water skiing or deep-sea fishing.
While a day at the beach is guaranteed to be fun, there are lots of other great experiences like a riverboat tour of the Biloxi Lighthouse, entertainment and shows at a casino, and a host of museums that your family will love. On your way in, be sure to check out the Biloxi Visitors Center, north of the Biloxi Lighthouse and west of Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, on U.S. 90.
Located another 90 minutes past Biloxi lies another vibrant town that rests on the Gulf Coast of Alabama. Fairhope is known for its lovely parks and sweeping panoramic views of Mobile Bay. You’ll want to make it a point to visit all of the cafes, art galleries, gift shops and seafood restaurants in Fairhope and the surrounding area. This is a great destination to just kick back and relax. The locale offers golf, shopping, fishing, and exceptional seafood – to name a few. There truly is something for everyone there. We recommend strapping your bike onto your vehicle when you check this place out. You’ll want to check out all of the biking trails with amazing views of the coastline and historic neighborhoods of Fairhope.
Across Mobile Bay from Fairhope is Mobile, Alabama. Whether you’re coming through as a tourist, visiting family, or there for a brief stay for business, you’ll find plenty of ways to occupy your free time. Mobile is one the oldest cities on the Gulf Coast and offers visitors exciting, entertaining and educational experiences year-round. There are loads of things to do when you visit – be it art, Mardi Gras, southern history, good food spots and a surprisingly active nightlife.
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