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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Lafayette to Birmingham?
The direct drive from Lafayette to Birmingham is 454 mi (730 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 56 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Lafayette to Birmingham, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Gulfport, as well as top places to visit like Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site and Whitney Plantation, or the ever-popular Oak Alley Plantation.
The top cities between Lafayette and Birmingham are New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Gulfport. New Orleans is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Lafayette and 5 hours from Birmingham.
Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is situated on the Mississippi River. It boasts antebellum attractions such as Old Louisiana State Capitol, which resembles a castle and currently functions as a museum. Magnolia Mound Plantation features a French Creole house that showcases pre-Civil War history. Additionally, LSU Rural Life Museum contains refurbished structures from the 18th to 19th centuries that depict life during those times.
3% as popular as New Orleans
2 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Birmingham
Located in Louisiana and situated on the Mississippi River, New Orleans is a city renowned for its lively nightlife, rich musical heritage and distinctive cuisine influenced by a blend of French, African and American cultures. Dubbed as the "Big Easy," this vibrant destination also boasts an annual carnival called Mardi Gras that features colorful parades and street celebrations full of revelry.
Most popular city on this route
15 minutes off the main route, 31% of way to Birmingham
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Gulfport, situated in Mississippi, is the second most populous city following the capital city of Jackson. It shares the county seat of Harrison County with Biloxi and serves as one of two principal cities within the Gulfport-Biloxi Metropolitan Statistical Area.
1% as popular as New Orleans
30 minutes off the main route, 38% of way to Birmingham
Best stops along Lafayette to Birmingham drive
The top stops along the way from Lafayette to Birmingham (with short detours) are The National WWII Museum, French Quarter, and Jackson Square. Other popular stops include Oak Alley Plantation, Canal + Baronne (In), and Cajun Pride Swamp Tours.
Oak Alley Plantation is an attraction in which visitors can learn about the history of sugarcane cultivation and local history. The property is adorned with beautiful oak trees, some over 300 years old, creating a stunning tunnel leading to the home. The guided tours provide insights into both the glamorous and horrific aspects of plantation life, including stories and displays about both wealthy families who owned the plantation and enslaved individuals.
Stunning view of the oak lined boardwalk. We did the tour of the big house and highly recommend it. Anthony was our guide and was full of interesting facts. He did a great job telling all about the house; his original accent really added to the experience. As good as the tour was, the highlight is walking the grounds. Everywhere you go is a great area for a photo shoot. We all really enjoyed the experience. The grounds are beautifully maintained. 5 stars
Daniel Amato — Google review
The tour guide was very knowledgeable. She explained the history and the different families that have owned the property through the years.
Not sure why but you can't take pictures inside the main house. I really would have liked to so I could have different pictures than the website.
Other than the main house the rest is self guided and you can take pictures.
There are signs throughout to explain what you are looking at.
Joe Stilchen — Google review
This was a nice, well kept plantation. The people who worked there were for the most part polite. I’ll say as much as you could expect for it being 100 degrees outside. It had all the stops, food, shirts, drinks, and treats you could want. Nice clean bathrooms. The salve quarters are replicas but filled with plenty of historical facts and items from the era. The grounds and big house were beautiful. The oak alley is a sight. I’m only giving 4 stars because the guide wouldn’t let anyone take photos in the house.
john may — Google review
As you would expect, this is a beautiful place constructed by some of our countries best and most under appreciated craftsmen American chattel slaves. It is a challenging fact to accept what happened here and how American prosperity is not shared equally. The nonprofit foundation has done a great job maintaining and telling the story. It would he been nice to hear from or see Black tour guides. One thing I did notice was our tour guide Jackie spoke about the family that built the home and the enslaved that waited on them almost equally. Again this is a difficult story to tell and we all share insights based on our own experiences so I was grateful for the facts and details shared. I also spoke with Stephen in the slave quarters area and will impressed with his use of technology in his presentation. He had photos and referred me to a specific area of the website to find any details possible about specific persons enslaved. I will come back when the new building is complete. Lastly, the number one thing that made oak alley stand out was the cocktails! I had a mint julep. It was delicious. What a thoughtful, tasty, and refreshing way to navigate a challenging yet rewarding historical experience.
MJ Worldwide — Google review
My only regret at this place was not booking an earlier tour so that my family and I could enjoy the beauty of this place a little more. This is definitely one of the most beautiful plantations I’ve visited. The entire area is very well maintained and preserved. I love being able to tour the house and enjoy the views from atop of the wrap around walkway. The oak trees were so beautiful and stunning to me. I’m not from the South, so seeing these massive Oak trees was absolutely breathtaking. They offer drinks right before the house tour and we ended up getting a spiked lemonade which was delicious! The tour guide was very informative and like I said, the only regret was not booking an earlier tour to give us enough time to really take this place in.
It is about an hour away from New Orleans so if you’re planning on seeing this while there, you’ll have to rent a car or pay for a tour bus to take you.
Laura S — Google review
Loved the tour of the old house and the history of the area. The slave quarters where a nice depiction of what life was like when it was built of the hite owners with the backs of those slaves. Was not happy you could not take pictures of the inside of the house but I am used it now after Europe. Well worth the admission fee and the ground were truly the diamond of the tour!!
Mary Catherine Brady — Google review
Delightful! We loved it! We got there for the earliest tour in the morning and it was just perfect because we had the time to enjoy the beautiful 200 years old oaks and the alley before it got crowdier. We loved the house, it was so well preserved! The tour guide was very nice and she answered to all our questions. Maybe the tour was a little bit too fast (we would have liked to have more time to read about the history of the place, about the artifacts, but while we were doing that the tour guide was already talking in another room so we had to rush). Also, you can’t take pictures on the inside which we would have loved to, but at least we could take pictures on the balcony and it’s definitely a view worth taking pictures of! It was very nice to visit also the slave houses and learn more about the history and evolution of the plantation, it made the whole visit more grounded in the reality. It’s an hour from New Orleans, but if you have the chance, absolutely go and visit it, it’s worth it!
Ruth Cornea — Google review
Being from Baton Rouge, you sometimes forget to be a tourist in your hometown. Oak Alley is beautiful. The tour guide, Amy, was knowledgeable and courteous. I bought a mixed drink after to enjoy while walking around. My friends were concerned it would be too strong for me to drive but it was not. Not really sure they added alcohol really. But it made for a nice time drinking a cool beverage & enjoying the grounds.
Amy Gross — Google review
Such rich history and an amazing view. It’s just too bad it comes with such a horrid past. I did very much enjoy wandering the property and learning about its past. I found it was a great starting point to get interested in visiting and exploring more of the plantations.
Keven Skiles — Google review
My visit to Oak Alley Plantation was a journey back in time to the antebellum South. The majestic oak-lined alley leading to the plantation house was a breathtaking sight. The guided tour provided fascinating insights into the history of the plantation and the lives of those who once lived here. The beautifully preserved grounds and the iconic Greek-revival mansion were a photographer's dream. It's a place that beautifully encapsulates both the grandeur and the somber aspects of Southern history. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a glimpse into the past.
BadAss Chick — Google review
We booked a guided tour through the house. The guide is related to some big sugarcane-farmers, so she had some interesting insiders from the present.
The history of this whole place is so dramatic but very interesting too.
Even if you're not interested in history and only a Red Dead Redemption Fan, the views from the balcony through the Oak Alley and the surrounding gardens are stunning. I guess it was 30$ per person, but it is so worth!
Simon — Google review
Oak Alley Plantation is an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring the deep South. Stepping onto its grounds feels like stepping back in time to 1899, with its stunning oak-lined avenue and impeccably preserved Big House. The guided tour was both informative and engaging, providing valuable insights into the complexities of plantation life. The beauty of the architecture and surrounding gardens is simply breathtaking. The staff were not friendly, but it enhanced the overall experience. A visit to Oak Alley is an unforgettable journey through history and natural beauty. Highly recommended!
Elliot Breeze — Google review
I recommend getting the big house tour. It’s a different experience to hear the explanation and story from the docent. There were only 4 rooms we visited and can’t take pictures inside. There’s also a display with video about sugarcane industry in a different building.
The lady in the ticket booth was so kind to move our tour up since we came so early after our swamp tour. If you’re hungry, there’s a cafe near the huts. The food is edible but not special.
Dian Nusantari — Google review
It is an amazing plantation, rich in cultural history, incredible architecture, and an intriguing life story behind it! The land around the main home is breathtaking!! The huge trees, and fields as far as you can see. Staff here are so genuinely friendly and helpful. We went in the little store and there are such an interesting variety of gifts, or souvenirs. I enjoyed every moment of this tour!! They also have a bar outside that offers you authentic drinks from the time period this was a working plantation. Mint julep was one!! It's a lot of fun!!
Elizabeth Frazier — Google review
It’s an hour away from the city but worth the money and experience. We toured the Big house which was beautiful inside and filled with lots of heart touching stories most of which are sad. Our tour guide was awesome, couldn’t remember her name though. The Oak trees are itself a beauty. If you need a break from the busy city life then this is the place to go.
Varsha Chipala — Google review
We enjoyed this tour a lot and got lots of great pictures, even though Hurricane Ida removed some foliage from the famous oak trees. It's a nice plantation and the original fan over the table was interesting to learn about. After the tour, we shared a mint julep which was very tasty. We had the original one with bourbon but they also have a non-alcoholic option. The grounds were nice to talk around and they had some educational exhibits in the slave quarters area. The shop has some good merchandise and in looking at the postcards, you can see what Oak Alley used to look like before the hurricane. Overall, it's a nice visit and a great way to spend a few hours.
Jayme Kirchner — Google review
I was so taken aback by my experience on this tour. I took this tour as part of a cultural journey for myself, and wanting to pay homage to my ancestors. I easily forgot that not everyone on the tour was there for the same purpose. I was quickly reminded though by the blatant disregard for the grounds that were being walked. The slave quarters are at the very beginning of the path to the “Big House”, and I watched as nearly every single person walked right past without even glancing in the direction of the slave quarters. What was worse for me was the offering of bed and breakfast cabins. I don’t personally understand, but of course I’m looking through a particular lens on my journey.
On the other hand, the grounds are absolutely picturesque. I certainly understand why it is such a popular place.The main house is a sight to see from any angle on the outside. I ultimately chose not to enter the main house, but I’m sure it was gorgeous. There is a hugely rich and popular history attached to this plantation, and it is interesting to hear. Many a Hollywood film and various music videos, have used this property. I’d recommend a little due diligence before taking this tour. It’s one of the big tours offered, and you should try to get the most from it.
Hope Ogunbamiyo — Google review
Oak Alley is magnificent. I only gave it 4 stars because there is no 'tour' of the grounds, only the house, and no pictures are allowed to be taken inside, which was disappointing. You can walk the grounds on your own. Much of the atmosphere unfortunately is very sanitized and commercial now. The grounds barely remind you of the past. Sugar cauldrons are used as landscaping decoration, and it took me a bit to realize what they were. There are a few cabins left. One cannot get an idea of what plantation life was like. The gardens are only an imagining of what gardens of the eras might be. Of course the oak trees lining the entryways are very grand. The plantation is very well taken care of, but the house and grounds look modern now, and like someone could just be living there today. We went with Cajun Encounters tours and paid one price for the tours of two plantations and transportation, so I'm not sure what a single ticket costs.
Stephanie Harris — Google review
Oak Alley Plantation in New Orleans is an absolute masterpiece. Stepping onto this historic estate is like stepping into a storybook. The iconic oak-lined alley leading to the stunning Greek-revival mansion is a sight to behold.
The guided tours are informative and provide a deep understanding of the plantation's history, including the complex story of slavery in the antebellum South. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience even more enriching.
The plantation's well-preserved grounds and gardens are a feast for the eyes. You can feel the weight of history as you explore the various outbuildings and exhibits, including the poignant Slavery Exhibit, which offers a humbling perspective.
The Oak Alley Restaurant is a great place to savor delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine while taking in the breathtaking view of the alley of oaks. It's an experience that combines history, beauty, and culinary delight.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of the South's past, Oak Alley Plantation is a must-visit. It's a place that leaves you in awe of its beauty and contemplative about its historical significance. A true five-star destination.
Sean Doss — Google review
Take a walk around the ground before the main house tour. You get to see where the slave quarter was ( not the original but it has been rebuilt using historical photos). Our guide Mrs Anne was fantastic with the history of oak alley. Reading about the place before visiting will also help to understand how and why it is how it is today.
Michael Abiodun — Google review
A historic place. The main house is not very big compared to some of the huge mansions you can see in other places. They really maintained it well with so much tourism going on. The tours are both educational and insightful. The oak trees are really something else, especially when you just walk out of that door on the second floor. Some of them are more than 300 (or even 500?) years old I believe.
Zhiming Li — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience!! The oaks were gorgeous and the grounds were very well-maintained. Jackie did our big house tour and did a great job. She was very knowledgeable about the family and house. Overall, I highly, highly recommend visiting Oak Alley Plantation if you’re in the New Orleans area.
Jaimie Just — Google review
A picturesque plantation about an hour from downtown New Orleans. Only guided tour portion is big house where you are not allow to take pictures inside (~30 minutes). There are gardens, slave quarter section, restaurants, spirit house, parking, and gift shop on site. There are adequate signage throughout estate for self-guided tour. Worth a visit to get a glimpse of the past.
Nat T. — Google review
Very disappointing tour. The plantation itself seemed more focused on the opulence of "big house" & French slave owners than how slavery and its abolition changed the course of America. Slavery was presented more as an afterthought. They didn’t even call the slave owners what they were… they instead repeatedly named them “Planters.” Well, I’m pretty sure those slave owners never “planted” a day in their entitled lives. Frankly, it’s modern-day “white-washing” of what this plantation really was. Sad that in 2024, many in the south & the world still deny the atrocities of slavery everywhere it existed & still exists on the planet. We did appreciate the tour guides. The atmosphere around us was full of selfies & jokes, not on the solemnity of the atrocities which occurred there. The slave quarters' remains were not preserved. These are replicas, as they are stated as such in the placards outside.
Bekka Prewitt — Google review
Beautiful Plantation Museum with plenty of displays and information. Nice guided tour inside the house, but photos were not allowed to share.
We had advance tickets with a tour company. Did notice people who just arrived not being able to go in or having a long wait because it was sold out
Dave Stern — Google review
Beautiful and well maintained with the oaks as the stars of the visit. We enjoyed the house tour, but just walking along the oaks was the best. We stopped and people watched for a while in the cool afternoon air. So majestic and scenic!
The Laura Plantation is a significant historic site that showcases Louisiana's rich Creole heritage. Visitors can take guided tours of the property, which includes the main house, grounds, and a slave cabin. The plantation is among several others in the area worth exploring such as Oak Alley Plantation, Houmas House Plantation, Nottoway Plantation and Whitney Plantation.
A must visit. This was by far the highlight of our visit to New Orleans and exceeded all expectations that we had. Visited other plantations but this stands out memorably. Did the tour of the plantation which was led by an amazing guide who brought so much perspective from all sides including the Creole and French aspects which are understated and usually not mentioned. It is a powerful experience that brings to life an era often hard to imagine and place in perspective for our current times. If visiting New Orleans or Louisiana, Laura plantation is a vital stop.
Omar Saleem — Google review
I really love the generation concept that is portrayed in all of their brochures. The property is spectacular, the gifts shope is exactly what I was looking for. There was a great mix of historical and local items for sale. Now for the reason I did not like the Laura. We were told we could take pictures but were "raced" through so quickly there was no opportunity. Pat our guide was extremely well versed in her subject however she seemed bitter about having to show "outsiders" her plantation. She spoke so quickly and stated she would accept questions yet when I asked questions she treated me as if I was stupid. One question was with regards to the dormer window. "People didn't live up there, it's for ventilation." Yes absolutely correct but answered in a way that told me not to ask any more questions. We were not allowed to walk around the property and I understand. But... the entire experience with Pat made me feel as if tourists are not wanted.
Katy Bischoff — Google review
If you want a snapshot into Louisiana history, this is a great place! The plantation’s story follows primarily one family. The ways their family have shaped the area was very interesting to me.
The gift shop is well stocked with decorative items, jewelry, and lots of food items. And our guide, Auguste, did a great job for having such a large group.
But on that note, we were grouped with 20+ people total—far too many for the small rooms. They were short staffed (on a Monday). That was the only downside. Overall I enjoyed the tour!
Hannah Terry — Google review
Beautiful authentic history. Fantastic guided educational tour. Well worth the time and money. We were very lucky to have Olivia as our tour guide. Olivia did an amazing job giving us an educated and factual look into the Creole way of life for all involved in the plantation life. Hope you get lucky enough to get Olivia on your tour.
Amanda Shanahan — Google review
This was such a great and amazing experience, that I truly truly recommend if visiting the New Orleans area. I highly recommend tour guide Lindie. She was super informative and deep vast knowledge of the plantation and just Louisiana slavery made the experience much more enjoyable. I learned things that I never knew and I thought I covered all the bases when it came to that topic. So if you're every in New Orleans, take the 40-50 minutes drive out to Laura Plantation ask for Lindie and have a great informative experience.
Ron H — Google review
Very informative tour guide, he took us around the house, grounds, and slave quarters. Gift shop had helpful and kind staff! Highly recommend.
Melany Smith — Google review
This was a great visit. We learned a lot. If you go to Oak Valley first be prepared for a different experience but not in a bad way. Both are informative and educational. Both give you a guy’s picture of life back then. Both don’t shy away from slavery or the horrible conditions that enslaved people lived in. The difference is in the story of the space owners who lived there and just how different they were. It’s well worth visiting by all means.
Jason Shultz — Google review
This was by far the most informative and engaging tour, I took the most out of this. I can't remember the tour guides name, (young man, from the area, blue eyes) but he was so informative. He talked about life there for everyone, really took note of the groups understanding of history and context during this period of time. He was great with conversation and open dialog. Answered lots of questions and provided accurate information. Would recommend visiting here to everyone.
Amanda Bourgeois — Google review
This was very educational and eye opening. The tour guide was super knowledgeable and I enjoyed all the information and the fact that they’ve tried to keep it all original down to the paint colors that were common to the creole culture.
Angie — Google review
The Laura Plantation itself is wonderful. They allow you to take pictures inside. There is a lot of history preserved there, and the tour guide tells you all of it, it seemed. They approach tours now from the people that lived and worked there point of view, and focus very little - and I mean VERY little, on the place (buildings, grounds) themselves. We stood for a long time in a few different spots, and my feet and legs were tired from standing listening to the tour guide. Yes, she is very knowedgeable, but after telling you generation after generation, and the trauma, and abuse, and literally nothing 'good' about it all, you're left wanting to just get out of there. You can't remember all that geneology in one lesson, and although it's a great history lesson, I would much rather have read it, or at least been given a guide to follow along. I probably wouldn't take another tour there if I go back to New Orleans. I certainly enjoy history, but this is too much standing with no place to sit, and one does get tired. Laura seemed dusty, especially the floors and like it could use a good cleaning.
Stephanie Harris — Google review
This plantation is fantastic. We had a really good guide tour. She went beyond explaining the plantation story which makes it more enjoyable.
Jovianne Mtbl — Google review
When exploring history, context is everything. I had the opportunity to tour the Laura plantation yesterday. Invited by an associate, I must confess I was hesitant. I had an unsatisfactory experience at one well established plantation that didn’t address the history of enslavement and one revolutionary experience at Whitney that solely focuses on enslavement. To me, I had struck out once and witnessed life changing history at the other. I am uncomfortable with the concept of tourism to any plantation that does not encourage anti racism. I reluctantly agreed to go.
Boy, am I glad I did.
It challenged me to explore the complex and often forced community of this particular site. It never glamorized or made the owners of the big house heroic or to be emulated but spoke with direct honesty of their view points and transgressions. It spoke of a woven narrative that explained the integration of the household side by side was not equality.
Due to the matriarchy of this Creole (not American) household there is a narrative offered here with direct sources that gives incredible detail and many specific enslaved individuals. The French records offer insight that often the American records can’t.
The willingness of this organization to hold themselves accountable to this narrative since 1994 means they are version 20 of the tour. Every time they uncover new information about a complexity they return to the drawing board and thoughtfully create a narrative that includes the brilliant craftsmanship of skilled labor and the absolute cruelty of capitalism around enslavement.
I’d like to mention that our tour guide Joseph was an absolute gem of a guide. Even though he primarily guides in French his descriptions in English were crafted with dignity and he wasn’t afraid to challenge pre established concepts. I have rarely seen such skill bridging any history much less one that requires such dexterity.
I now believe that if someone was interested in de-colonization and anti racism the Laura is essential. I think a day trip that would alter your concept of history forever would be Laura, a picnic at Laura after decompressing and then Whitney.
It’s essential to understand that if you visit New Orleans nearly every boutique hotel, every store, every historic house, every public park has a history directly linked to enslavement. At Laura they understand that responsibility.
If you are strong enough to look this history in the eye, you might see yourself reflected. But beyond that reflection is a path forward. But first we must do the work. The work is being done at Laura. And now it’s up to me to do better.
The Whitney Plantation is a historical museum in Louisiana that is dedicated to preserving the history of slavery. Unlike other plantation tours, Whitney Plantation does not focus on the mansion and its previous owners but instead educates visitors about the lives of slaves who worked on the plantation. The restored buildings and guided tours provide an insight into this dark chapter of American history. Proceeds from ticket sales are directed towards supporting descendants of slaves.
Amazing Experience. The only plantation tour focused on the slaves. This tour is a great look into the life of slaves here in Louisiana. The tour is self guided with an audio program you listen along you as you walk through the property. I highly recommend this tour if you want to really learn what it was like to be a slave and learn about their histories.
Clinton McDonald — Google review
The only plantation tour that tells the slave's story. it actually gives honor and record of the salves how purchased to be on this plantation. they have records of the ones that died also. This is a must see. you will learn a lot about sugar plantations and get to see the land they slaves had to work. you will have an audio tour which makes it even easier. you will get a great untold history lesson also.
Mr. Branham — Google review
One of a kind museum and tribute to the memory of early American Plantation Life. Great architecture, history and sculpture gardens. Many original structures from nearby plantations have made their way to Whitney. Grounds are shady and cool with an interior gift shop for sweet tea and break from the heat. Must see for the history buffs and people who choose not to erase our nation's past however unfortunate. RIP to the 100's of thousands of formerly chained souls, may ye be free.
Riain Rising — Google review
Most depressing thing I've done in a very long time. I'm emotional and cried through the entire experience. Sad realization to what African Americans experienced in slavery. I'm broken. I will say it's a humbling experience. Makes me realize how fortunate I am and regardless of my struggles, I am free. My children are free. Having said that I needed to experience the south. For the richness in heritage and blast to the past. I loved the experience. The Whitney Plantation helps you understand from beginning to end what the plantations were about and how slavery changed the face of America.
Mayra Garcia — Google review
WELL worth the visit. Recommend the audio tour. Takes about 2 hours to complete. Plus the small museum, looking at about a 2.5-3 hour visit. Best for adults and kids in middle school and above. Any younger and they’ll be bored pretty quickly. Leaves you with a healthy respect for what happened here, not angry or ashamed. Very, very well done tour. Highly recommended.
Andrew R — Google review
Tour is self guided using either an app or an audio recording they provide. This is my first plantation I’ve ever been to and I enjoyed the educational aspect of it. The tour is informative and told and shows/explains the issues of the past and slavery, primarily why I chose this plantation as my first since I was interested in the plantation’s slave past rather than just the owners, i heard other plantations do focuses on that.
Brandon Garcia — Google review
An Enlightening tour of one of the best plantations offered. There was so much history shared that my party and I were in awe. If you go to New Orleans you owe it too yourself and your loved ones to take this tour.
If you are of African descent, you definitely need to see this historical place on a tour that is given from the slaves perspective. I highly recommend it and commend those who make this possible and are preserving as well as protecting this priceless property.
Jesse R. Brown — Google review
This historic site tells the how much slaves built so much of this land. The Whitney Plantation gave a more realistic view of the daily life of enslaved people in comparison to other plantations we have visited. We recently visited a famous plantation in Savannah, GA….but it only dedicated a small plaque to the slaves and the family still resided at the residence holding events and weddings. The Whitney Plantation handled this so much better. My children learned so much on their visit and know they are their ancestors dreams.
T&T Powell — Google review
Amazing tour. Very educational. Amber was an amazing tour guide. I learned so much. Would highly recommend Whitney Plantation as a must do while visiting Louisiana.
Monica Hugley — Google review
Such a moving and emotional experience.
The Whitney Plantation truly tells things as they were and shines light on how enslaved people lived and were treated. While it is not easy to hear and see, we must not ever forget or whitewash our past so that we learn from it and do better.
The grounds are well-kept, the staff are kind and very knowledgeable, and the subject matter and history is clearly shared here.
This is the only plantation tour that people should be making and I was so thankful to learn that they do not allow weddings or other such events to occur here because this is no place of celebration. Very well done.
Sydney — Google review
Seriously the best plantation tour you can go on. Tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and well versed in the local area. They go deeply into complexities of what slave life was like and how they were traded/forced to work. I would recommend this tour to everyone who really wants to understand what the slaves went through.
John DiGiovanni — Google review
What amazing detail went into ensuring the history has been preserved. I recommend you download their app and have ear buds for this self guided listening tour. If you do not don't worry, they have listening devices to borrow.
Also, bring snacks for yourself. It's a 60 minute drive from New Orleans plus 2 hours on the actual tour. You'll get hungry.
C McMillian — Google review
I just visited the Whitney Plantation and I have to say, it was an incredibly emotional and contemplative experience. The dedication to preserving and sharing the history of slavery is evident in every aspect of the site. Walking through the grounds, seeing the restored buildings, and hearing the stories of the enslaved individuals left a lasting impact on me. The commitment to giving names and voices to those who were once silenced is truly commendable. If you're near New Orleans, a visit to this site is a must for all Americans.
Christine Alcalay — Google review
humbling, haunting tragic and interesting. very mindful curation and museum experience. their intentions are pure and realistic with the times. excellent guide (recommended the guided tour vs self guided tour). the stories we read have been in my mind every day since. no glorification, only truth and reality being shown and told.
McIntosh Gallery — Google review
I took my kids on Martin Luther King Day to show them the perils of not so long ago. It gave weight to what everyone before us fought for and why the fight continues. The tour, though on your own, was actually better than I thought. With the headphones and remote synched with each stop along the trail, it helped humanize the plantation. It brought up emotions, for sure, as I listened to the stories of those who had been interviewed. It was a lot to take in but an undeniable time for those who lived it everyday. I'm not sure how I would have survived. Our ancestors are amazing! Thanks to those who work to preserve Whitney Plantation. I plan to make this tour again.
Brendia Ercolini — Google review
A heavy and remarkably humbling experience. This self-guided tour (using headphones with prerecorded commentary) walked us through the entirety of the plantation, structure by structure, and allowed us to go at our own pace - which I found to be very important as parts did become quite emotional.
We got to empathize and appreciate some of the history, stories, and encounters of enslaved people. Also got to admire their skills and achievements.
Would highly recommend for anyone visiting Louisiana.
Jamie Oakland — Google review
I booked this plantation over Oak Alley and Laura Plantation because of its focus on slavery. As someone who studied African American literature, I'm familiar with slave narratives and stories so I was bracing myself for a very emotional experience based on the reviews. I actually left feeling underwhelmed and unfazed.
To start, our guide was very knowledgeable and respectable. She was eager to answer any questions our group asked, and did a great job explaining all the sites, exhibitions, and the process of harvesting sugar cane with respect to the slaves. The memorials they built to the side are very interesting and reading the quotes of slaves gave more insight into their day-to-day lives. It was also pretty surreal to walk inside the cabins, jail, kitchen, the house and be able to touch those walls.
There are two reasons I'm giving this tour four stars. The first reason is because of their lack of customer service. I made the mistake of booking a guided tour before reading that Ubers/Lyfts don't operate in that area. I sent an email a week before asking if they can assist me with coordinating transportation and never got a response. I called them when they were open and no one picked up and I never got a call back. This is unacceptable for a museum that's very isolated from the city. Thankfully, I coordinated a private ride with a previous Uber driver.
The second reason I'm giving it four stars is because of the organization's choice to clear out all the furniture from the main house to not perpetuate showcasing the wealth of the plantation owners. I understand they made that decision out of respect to the slaves, but I still would've liked to see how the house looked during its time, even if the furniture was borrowed from other plantations or museums. I believe history should be presented in its entirety, and walking through the empty house was very anti-climactic and actually detracted from the experience as it was the finale of the tour.
Overall, I was underwhelmed, but I respect the effort the organization is making to prioritize the slaves who lived there. I still recommend everyone do this tour because it’s very informative and explains the sobering, important, and dismal history of our nation and humanity in general. However, I think one would get a well-rounded experience if you paired a visit to Whitney with Laura and/or Oak Alley, despite being known to whitewash their exhibits.
Alex Orta — Google review
This site is phenomenal! It’s very informal! We did the self guided tour with the headsets where we could hear first hand account stories from former slaves. The site is beautiful and has been preserved really well! It’s one thing to hear about the transatlantic slave trade, but it’s another thing to be on the same land the slaves built, worked and lived on.
Amanda Hall — Google review
This tour is very emotional. It discloses everything, warts and all. The building's the art, the statues, and graphics, so well put together. There are various guides situated throughout, for any questions. One guide at the church, a lady named Cheryle, was a wealth oh information. It's really worth the visit.
Michael-lyn Monks — Google review
I brought my children, and my cousins here back in June 2023. I came here the year before in April of 2022 with my sister and 2 friends. Then, they weren't doing live tours for regular folk that wasnt with a special group, so we had to listen to the tour on headphones. We also couldnt visit the church or go inside the slave shack or upstairs inside the big house due to the hurricane making things unstable at that time.
We rode the bus from New Orleans from one of those tour companies from off the street. They were great too, because they gave us the history of NOLA, and the area we were traveling to visit the plantation. They even told us about the other plantations along the way.
However, this particular time in June of this year, we drove our car, bought tickets at the door, and were able to get the live tour, and visit all the places we werent able to go into the first time.
OMG! It was amazing! The first time was great as well. But I loved being able to ask questions n get clarity from the tour guide. It was beautiful learning more about my ancestors, and offering my children n cousins the opportunity to experience this place. Even the founder was on the land at the time of our visit, so we got to meet n talk to him.
He's not black, but he did an amazing job honoring the people kidnapped n enslaved here.
I recommend this place to anyone who plans to visit a plantation. Skip them other ones, they don't water down the truth at this one.
**I tried to share photos that didn't have anybody or many people in them.
Tee McC — Google review
It was a very moving experience to visit this place. I could almost feel the terror and horrors that were perpetrated here by the slave-owners. The self-guided tour was excellent, the staff was very nice, and the entire grounds are very well kept. Visiting the main house, and then the slaves' quarters, was especially jarring and painful. Contemplation in the Antioch church after touring the grounds is a must-do. Before touring the grounds, definitely walk through the exhibit in the main building. It gives vital info that is necessary to create context and understanding. A visit here is definitely recommended for all Americans. Never forget the horrors that occurred here not long ago. Vestiges of such oppression, hate, and subjugation remain to this day. Stay aware of them and treat ALL people with respect and love.
10S Lover — Google review
The museum is will kept. Great attention was taking to the historic storytelling of the ancestors. The audio tour is done well, easy to follow, but the information was not compromised. Thank you.
Fullbloom Lily — Google review
Very interesting stories and statues. Loved the buildings and period furniture. Location wise it is out in the middle of no where,which is kind of nice. No hustle and bustle. Was very busy for a weekday but we got in and did our own tour which was nice.
Sunshine Killingsworth — Google review
Incredible experience! Our tour guide, James Kelly, was a walking talking wealth of information; dates, authors, facts and more. Cannot recommend this type enough+
Cheryl Lundgren — Google review
A truly fascinating place to visit. An absolute must if in the area; so important to ensure that what happened at places such as this are never forgotten.
The audio tour is really worth doing, it provides so much information at a really good pace. The information provided through the audio tour and exhibits really do stick with you.
Matthew Wakefield — Google review
Most humbling and educational experience of my life. My husband and I left in shock. Thank you Whitney for such an important tour and explanation of our history. I didn’t leave angry, just full of empathy, compassion and hope.
Mary Rodriguez — Google review
The Whitney plantation is amazing! Such a powerful museum (?) of history that teaches about how slavery, the south, and New Orleans all came together in every way…how we got there and how the indelible imprint continues to shape our world today despite the passage of time.
This place is beautiful and challenging. The buildings, land, and artifacts are lovingly preserved and very accessible. The stories and information are touching, stunning, shocking, and humbling. You could spend a half to full day here there is so much to experience and learn.
This is an excellent place to visit to learn about the tragedy and travesty of the pain, suffering, strength, cruelty, and hope of this era of American history
Aj Sue — Google review
This was my inspiration to visit new orleans. They've done a tasteful and meaningful job of telling the story from the perspective of the enslaved. I would love to learn more about the inspiration for the museum and the process for gathering the information. I did the self guided audio tour. The sculptures of children were moving. I thought the lanyards with stories on them was a powerful touch.
John Andru — Google review
The young sister with the long locks and glasses. I felt bad I couldn't leave her a tip because we did not travel with cash on us. she was absolutely amazing though. Hearing young people be so knowledgeable about their heritage gives me hope for our future. I hope she see this knowing we appreciate her teachings.
BigPit306 — Google review
I really hate to say that I’m a little disappointed but I am. Just be aware that if you’re the first group of the day, they do not let you in to use the bathroom or checkin until 9:30 on the dot - even though about 2 dozen people were waiting - and they started the tour within 5 min of the doors being open so it was a rush to use the bathroom and checkin - so no need to be 15 minutes early as the confirmation email says. The front desk staff was pretty rude about it and actually laughed at me 😂 Our tour didn’t take us to even half of the spots on the property and it was up to us to explore at our leisure at the end of the tour (although our guide was great!) I’d say save the few extra $ and do the self guided tour.
Historic plantation home with exhibits, interactive demonstrations & tours from costumed guides.
Excellent tour! Very informative! The tour guide was pleasant and she was knowledgeable about the house and grounds.
You can come early and walk around the grounds on a self-guided tour of the slave quarters and the school.
There's also a gift shop and public restrooms which were clean.
Would definitely do the tour again!
Robin — Google review
Wow, just got back from this incredible place and I'm still buzzing about it! First off, the information on display is absolutely mind-blowing, and the way they've set it up? Super interactive. It's not just your typical walk-and-look kind of museum. You get to really dive into the exhibits, which makes learning about everything so much more fun. And let me tell you about Beverly – she's the real deal. Her way of guiding us through the history was so engaging, it felt like stepping back in time. She had stories, facts, you name it, all delivered with this energy that just draws you in.
The highlight for me? Their entire section dedicated to the slave revolt. This isn't just a footnote in their history presentation; it's a full-blown, deeply respectful tribute. They've listed out all the names of the slaves that were involved, which hits hard and makes it all so real. It’s a powerful reminder of the intense history that unfolded right where you're standing. The way they've handled the topic of slavery is commendable – no glossing over or downplaying here. They present it as the significant, impactful part of history it is. If you're thinking about visiting, just do it. It's not only an eye-opener but an experience that's worth every penny and more. 🌟👍
Alexander Christensen — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking property. Alan was our tour guide for the guided tour and he did a wonderful job, you can tell he really loves what he does. Knowledgeable and personable. He also told us where we could go in the area for lunch and a few other things to do. Gift shop has some nice items as well. This place is a gem.
Brittany Anders — Google review
This was a fantastic plantation tour! Definitely the best we have been to thus far. Mary did a great job as our guide telling us about the history and pointing out significant elements and artifacts along the way. Highly recommend!!
Wendy Michelle Davis — Google review
The Destrehan Plantation tour was amazing. Our tour guide, Ms. Beverly, was so personable and knowledgeable about all the information about the plantation. She made the tour worthwhile. The home itself is a magnificent structure. The property is beautiful, but it was used as a prison for 200 slaves in its distant past. I believe everyone should visit this place. It holds a significant and priceless place of value to the history of the south and our nation.
Curtis McGhee Jr. — Google review
Who wouldn't want to be a slave after this tour?
The tour guide made it sound perfectly delightful...work at this beautiful home (designed by a free black man) until quitting time at 3pm, then go to your second job--or work at home, you do get free room and board after all--where you can save your earnings and buy your freedom!
I read the other reviews with one particular complaint about the avoidance of the word "slave," and subsequently the issue being corrected. I found it insulting the use of the word "enslaved." It's like saying the taboo word "slave" will make tourists run screaming from the property.
The tour is entirely about the house (the structure) and the families who occupied it. Not it being on a plantation, and not one word about the slave revolt.
If you're into architecture, take this your.
If you want to learn more about the history of slavery and the revolt, skip this tour. It'll make you feel marginalized again.
One star for tour guide wearing the costume in the Nola heat.
Kimberley W — Google review
We attended a private party on the pavilion by the horse barn. It is covered with tables and overhead fans with bathrooms close. It's a great place to have a party.
We did not tour the house but the grounds were beautiful with lots of outbuildings. It would be a wonderful home to visit if you are looking for a plantation home to visit.
Debbie Quinn — Google review
I didn't take many photos hear as I had to sit out the self-guided portion. However, the tour of the home was awesome. The guide was super detailed although a little just straight fact based. Kind of like they are just used to telling the same thing over and over and it's a little bit on auto-pilot now.
The grounds are beautiful and the gift shop/entrance and exit really is a vibe all it's own. Very whistle stoppish. Recommended for a slow paced relaxing and educational experience.
Joseph Fields-Weldon — Google review
We really enjoyed our trip to Destrehan Plantation today. Our tour guide Beverly is full of wonderful information that ties in so many aspects of the history of this home, the area and our country. She brought history to life for me with her masterful story telling. I have never enjoyed a tour as much as I did this one. And I have been all around the country. Thank you so much Beverly. We also had the pleasure of learning about the slave revolt of 1811 from amother gentleman. I'm so sorry I've forgotten his name. If you are anywhere in the area do not miss stopping by for a tour. It is well worth the money.
Michelle Mattson — Google review
We really enjoyed walking under the big live oak trees and touring the buildings. If you pack a picnic lunch, this would be the perfect place to enjoy eating. Great place to take children. They can run and play and burn off some of their energy.
Connie Hall — Google review
We went on a ridiculously hot day in July. Our guide, Emma, was exceptionally knowledgeable and gracious. She provided an aspect of history not taught in schools, including geopolitical issues and melting pot customs that contributed to this unique area! The issue of enslaved people was respectfully addressed and they have made efforts to acknowledge those individuals.
It was easy to get around and fascinating to explore all the buildings.
Bonus for the Jefferson document! What a surprise!
marj1st — Google review
Very nice tour throughout this beautiful plantation. Clint, our guide, did a wonderful job. He really knew all the facts.
Well manicured grounds. Huge beautiful oak trees everywhere. $26 for adults, $24 for seniors.
Keith Palazzo — Google review
This was a very informative plantation tour. Our docent was amazing. She's was very knowledgeable about the history of the plantation and it's previous owners. She also remembered the news reports about the house being vandalized before it was available for tours.
Rose Scholefield — Google review
Decided to stop here for a spring break excursion and can say it was definitely gorgeously engaging and truly does captivate the essence of how slavery and the history has shaped Louisiana. Jim; our guide was so witty and a great joy to chat with!! He made the whole experience so educational along with truly telling the story of the history within Destrehan. Definitely recommend this as a stop for the family. It was also really awesome seeing the interpretation of the 1811 slave revolt within their own exhibit on site and some interesting native pieces. It makes my heart soar seeing native american representation.
Madison Bynum (Madi) — Google review
I was pretty apprehensive about visiting, but the historians made it an experience I’m happy to share with others. I love how the enslaved’s stories were just as important. The Freedman’s Bureau documentation and revolt history were amazing. I feel better about my family’s history here
leslie a — Google review
The plantation is lovely. We went on Saturday 4/3 and took the 1pm tour. The staff were nice and welcoming. Our guide Allen (I think) was knowledgeable and informative. He gave a lot of information but was short, precise and interactive. I appreciated that. We asked questions and he knew the answers. We visited some out buildings but sadly couldn’t explore the whole plantation because it started raining cats and dogs. We went into another exhibit about slave revolt and there was Ms. Julie who was the guide there or facilitator. She seemed very passionate about the subject and very knowledgeable. Having said that she started talking like a boring professor and looked at us like unruly students. We were literally sitting/standing there looking at her afraid of getting in trouble. We had another engagement but her train would not come to a station that we could get off at! She was going hour by hour of the slave revolt. We quite literally had to make an escape. She turned to the last of our group and said with disdain “ you have to leave?” Yes ma’am thinking I’ll get in trouble for leaving the classroom!!? My goodness! I took a star off because of that. While I appreciate the knowledge, I appreciate keeping it short, interesting and precise even more. Also if we are not interesting in knowing that many details, we should not be made to feel guilty. Allen told us shortly about the slave revolt and it was wonderful. That was the main tour and we enjoyed that thoroughly. The forced lecture - not so much!
This plantation is closest to French quarter at about it 30 min and the price is acceptable. I would highly recommend it but steer clear of Ms. Julie unless you have an hour or two extra to spare !
Ameena Sethi — Google review
Great tour guide gave loads of information. We were able to walk around on our own after the tour. Very nice grounds.
Debra Story — Google review
Jim was a fantastic and exceptional tour guide! Very knowledgeable and shared many meaningful stories with us throughout the tour. Connected well with the group and was a great educator. 10/10 would recommend and go again.
Lexi Witherspoon — Google review
Great information, very interactive, and Beverly was very engaging. Worth every penny to see this place! They had an entire museum dedicated to the slave revolt, including a list of all the names of slaves that were there. Slavery played a prominent role in this home, and it was discussed well, not glossed over, or made to look like it was not a big deal.
Private swamp refuge offering narrated boat tours with alligators & other wildlife sightings.
Incredible tour through and through.
Starting with the pick-up in New Orleans, our bus driver, Byron, did an incredible job entertaining and educating us the entire ride, pointing out local landmarks.
Then throughout the boat portion, our tour guide, Bishop, provided humorous stories, interesting facts, and fed the alligators twice (so both sides of the boat could enjoy the feeding frenzy).
He passed around an alligator head, osteoderms of turtles, and even let us hold a live 2.5 year baby alligator.
This was my first swamp tour in Louisiana, and I enjoyed the entire journey through and through. Would highly recommend!
James Wang — Google review
Such a wonderful experience for the whole family! Our captain, Tom, was so fun and full of wisdom. He cheerfully shared his wealth of knowledge and answered everyone’s questions, no matter how silly. We saw plenty of gators, raccoons, birds, & turtles. No wild hogs this time but the captain said they were seen the day before our tour. Their gift shop was full of unique items not seen in other area gift shops and the staff are all very warm & friendly. Plenty of space for large groups and small groups alike, lots of shaded areas with picnic tables and seating (with industrial size fan to help keep everyone cool), clean facilities and grounds, and they’re working on constructing a new, much larger building that when done, will make this place even more spectacular. We had a great time and highly recommend doing your tours here!
Deadly Mynxx83 — Google review
Took a trip to New Orleans to do something different and weather was really bad downtown, but clear outside of town, last minute found Cajun pride swamp tours online gave them a call and they said if we could make it there in time we’d have a ride to get on…. It takes a little longer to get to them on Highway 10 then the map shows but all in all it’s super easy to find and make it to their parking lot. Everyone there was super nice and it was fun to get out on the boat relax for a little bit and watch them talk about the gators. Weather was a bit cooler so some of the bigger gators were not out but we still had fun running around the swamp and seeing some of the midsize gators come to the boat to get fed. It did sprinkle a little while we were out there but the boat has a top on it which is probably great in the full sun and it kept the rain off. Fun trip and guide was really good with everyone. Fun to hold the baby gator. They are rebuilding their facilities that were destroyed during a hurricane so they use a temporary building for the gift shop and check in areas but the land is owned by them so you’re not competing with other boats out there on the property. Would recommend as a fun stop.
Chad Thomas — Google review
Staff was very nice and accommodating. Capt Dustin was extremely nice as well. This is well worth the $$ spent. Tour is roughly 1.5 hours and features alligators, wild pigs, raccoons, soft shelled turtles and more. This is pretty touristy and commercialized. I deducted 1 star, like others have stated, they feed the animals marshmallows and such, so they don’t act like totally wild animals, instead of being spooked by the boats and humans, they chase the boat. I get it, they have to have the draw to get people excited about coming, no hate from me on it, but I would have rather seen the tour with the animals acting like they normally would. (Doubt we would have seen the wild pigs though). Great job guys and I would recommend to others.
Kevin McKinney — Google review
From the beginning to the end of this adventure, everything was perfect. Very entertaining, and we had the opportunity to touch/carry a baby gator! Pretty cool!
I would recommend to bring a mosquito spray, pants and long sleeve. Just because there is so many mosquitoes.
Ryo Shigemitsu — Google review
Informative and something different to do. It was a cloudy cool day so beware that gators this time of year, end of Nov, are not out moving much or at all. We were lucky in that we saw 4 on the noon excursion. Guide was great and down with the reality of not seeing much.
Kevin Stewart — Google review
I gave them five stars even though we didn't see many alligators. I was there as part of a tour group. We had gone to Mardi Gras parades the day before and it's still cool outside this time of year and the alligators are just starting to come out of hibernation. So, of course that is not something the tour company can control. But it was a beautiful sunny day which made the boat ride pleasant. Tom was our guide and he was humorous and knowledgeable.
Marla Salyer — Google review
This tour was fun and informative! The driver and the tour guide both did a great job of keeping up the energy of the group and keeping us entertained during the drive to the plantation. The swamp tour was full of wildlife and I'm talking up close and personal! Alligators, wild pigs, raccoons and turtles all within a few yards. We were even able to hold a baby gator! The best way to spend a day in New Orleans!!!
Glenn Cornelisse — Google review
It's been a few years, actually, but better late than never I suppose.
Went on the tour with my wife and a close friend. We had a boat to ourselves, but the guide gave us an enthusiastic ride nonetheless. A fantastic way to spend an afternoon - entertaining and educational. Very highly recommended!
Greg Zillgitt — Google review
A great time. The captain was so informative and made sure everyone saw plenty of gators before we went back in. All the people that worked there were very friendly. Kids really enjoyed it too and got to hold a baby gator on the boat. Price was reasonable for the length of the boat ride. Will definitely come back if we are in the area.
Emily Lynch — Google review
This was one of the best Swamp Tours I've been on lots of gators and what I really wanted to see were the wild boars and I got to see them. Our entire group loved it. I definitely recommend. BTW They also offer $30 RT Transportation. That was a tour in itself.
Michael Daniels — Google review
Captain Tom took us on an incredible tour of the swamps of Louisiana!! You get way up close and personal with all the wildlife including alligators. wild boars, raccoons, and birdlife. Captain Tom has spent 40 years chasing the dream, and he shares his experiences in an exciting way. it is way fun for the whole family!!!
Scott Jones — Google review
I would highly recommend doing the Swamp Tour with Cajun Encounters when in New Orleans. My girlfriends and I had a fun time and our swamp tour guide, Captain Pat was such a delight. Very informative and also fun, wouldn't have picked anyone else. We got to see a lot of wildlife such as many different alligators, birds, raccoons & wild boars. I think our time at the swamp was well used up very well & it was entertaining the whole entire time, super friendly staff as well at the gift shop and in general. 10/10.!
Jeannie Chong — Google review
What an awesome experience. Our tour guide was easy-going, informative, funny, and a blast to hang out with. His banter during the tour was a bigger highlight than the gators. If you’re in New Orleans, spend a day with these people. You won’t regret it.
Glen Hallock — Google review
We had a great time! The captain was a great guide and was very knowledgeable. He had some great stories to! We saw lots of gators and other wildlife. It was a beautiful ride! At the end of the ride we got to hold a baby gator. Would definitely recommend! Plus this tour is a lot cheaper than the tours in New Orleans.
Kinzetta Harris — Google review
Amazing tour. The captain was informative and funny. They have a zip line and transportation to take you to the swamp and back to your hotel. We also held a baby alligator which was the highlight of the tour. Definitely worth it. 👌. Would recommend the morning tour. And shout out to our amazing bus driver. He was funny and informative as well.
Forgot to add they have swamp camp for kids too. That was interesting.
oranzhevyyptitsa alou — Google review
We enjoyed our Cajun Pride Swamp Tour very much! The guide was affable and filled the tour with humor. We saw about 25 alligators and learned there are no crocodiles in the US. We also saw raccoons and wild hogs.
We came during the heatwave but fortunately it rained just before our tour so it was cooler than the rest of the day. This is a great way to get a taste of the swamp while visiting New Orleans or Baton Rouge.
Benswing Rich (Ben Rich - Electric Biker) — Google review
Amazing experience in August! We visited Whitney Plantation in the morning and the we had swamp tour in the afternoon, they're very near. Our captain easy very funny and kind. A real exiting way to experience the Louisiana Bayou and see alligators and racoon.
Claudia Schiattone — Google review
Taking a trip with Capt Tom is a great experience. He’s knowledgeable about the eco system and can explain it very well. Since it’s gotten cold the big gators are not very mobile so that was a bummer but He’s got a tank and has 3-4 baby alligators so he brings them along and you get to hold the. A very cool experience! We saw lots of wild Pigs and even 3 piglets less than a month old. Lots of Raccoons you get to see how they all jockey for the feed he throws out. He explained the difference in how you make money with selling hides which requires a license. They bought the swamp land and manage it themselves. Mention AAA get a few dollars off. I had done the plantation tour many years ago skipping it this time.
T. R. — Google review
This swamp tour focuses on the history of the area (like they all usually do) and they tell the story of the town of Frenier that was wiped off the map. There was a lot to look at. Racoons and alligators were the main attraction, but wild hogs did make an appearance which was delightful. This place seems to get a lot of tours, and busses come out brimming with people, so there must be some deal going on there.
Andrea F — Google review
Absolutely captivating swamp tour in the bayou of New Orleans! The thrill of encountering wild animals in their natural habitat was unmatched. Knowledgeable guides provided fascinating insights, making it an educational adventure. From alligators to raccoons, the diverse wildlife sightings were a photographer's dream. A must-do experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic taste of Louisiana's untamed beauty.
Hev — Google review
Dived into the heart of Louisiana with Cajun Pride Swamp Tours and let me tell you, it was a wild ride minus the seatbelts! This isn’t your grandma’s boat trip unless she’s into gators, tales taller than the trees, and Captain Brandon’s legendary swamp wisdom. The man’s a swamp whisperer, cracking jokes while casually pointing out critters that’d make a grown man squeal. Comfortable boat? Check. Nature’s untamed beauty on full display? Double check. Learning something new without realizing it because you're too busy being entertained? Triple check.
If you're itching for adventure or just want to see if alligators are real, book a tour and ask for Captain Brandon. It's half education, half entertainment, and all unforgettable. Cajun Pride Swamp Tours isn’t just a 5-star experience—it’s a “why isn’t this everywhere?” kind of good.
Robert W — Google review
Really close to the Highway. Super easy to get to. The parking lot is big enough for a tractor trailer and several tour buses. We called ahead and were told to pay over the phone. When we got there, a pair of really nice ladies greeted us in the gift shop and gave us our colored tickets, which they stated corresponded with colored flag on the boat we would be riding. There were alligators in the water near the shore before the tour even left. They chopped up some chicken and we loaded onto the boats and took off. There was some nice shade that covered the waiting area. Now, we went on just the right day....Cloudy and 70 degrees. They stated that there are no alligators to be seen during the winter hibernation months....December, January and February. The water is too cold and they go into hibernation mode where their heart beats only once every 4 minutes. Conversly, if you go when it is too hot, you may not see alot of alligators because they dig deep into the cool mud in the dhade.l amd do not always come out.The alligators are trained to come around the boats because they get corn, marshmallows, and chicken. There are a ton on bird feeders that attract a ton of birds although I did not see any rare or exotic birds. The boat is covered and has gasoline outboard motors that are very quiet. Now, when you get on the boat, make sure you sit on the outer seat at the front (the side opposite the driver where the entry ramp is) Sitting in the front gives you the best vantage point to view all of the wildlife at the landings. The tour was about 1.5 hours long and the excitement began to wear off on some of the riders. There were about 40 people on the boat with us. We were the 2:15 tour on a Saturday. (busy) The driver was personable and knowledgeable and gave some intersection facts. Definitely recommend!
Joshua Steele — Google review
I felt my “cityness” melt as Captain Tom regaled us with stories of each gator we met. Pigs. Raccoons. Turtles. It was amazing scenery, but Tom really helped me shift away from my preciousness and embrace the raw joy of the bayou. It was the best, I hope I get to come back some day.
Wow! I am blown away at the experience my family received. This place was magical to someone who lives in the northern part of the country. The hospitality we received was second to none. Mike and Frankie were some of the nicest people we have ever met. She was knowledgeable and comfortable with all the animals. They were happy to answer questions about the show and the animals. I could spend all day being able to get that close to animals I have never seen before. Thank you for the amazing experience. We will be back for sure!
Anthony Balma — Google review
They are the nicest most down to earth people. We enjoyed the pictures and the tour. Also their children are so respectful and the sweetest!
Christina Stewart — Google review
Our family came just after a large group of 100+ just finished their visit, so the owner took us on our own personal tour. He was very knowledgeable & answered all of our questions. He explained that some of the enclosures were undergoing expansion & rearranging to better accommodate all their animals. We especially loved our up close visit being able to hold & pet all the super friendly animals. My daughter wanted to spend the rest of the day there. We never felt rushed & truly had a great time. We also liked that this is a family owned business that has every member of Kliebert family helping care for the animals.😊
Amy Mueller — Google review
Had a great time, loved watching kids in the group interacting with the animals. TMike was extremely knowledgeable and really cares about the animals. Each animal's care, personality, and temperament is considered during handling and before allowing guests to handle the animals.
Terri Stowell — Google review
Our guide was amazing! Felt like we were walking through our friends back yard. Got an amazing deal on groupon but would have been worth the price they ask as well. Would definitely recommend to a friend!
JJ Budd — Google review
A must stop and do!!! Very personable establishment. The family and staff are accommodating and knowledgeable. We enjoyed the tour around the different animals and reptiles. The alligator turtle was a treat. The alligators of all sizes were very cool! Feeding the animals was fun!:). We bought a sulcata turtle and have named him Sheldon. Thank you Kliebert & Son's Gator tours for the fun time and new family member. Kind regards
Joli Stevens — Google review
My husband and I had a wonderful time on the tour here. Our tour guide, Katy, was absolutely amazing and very knowledgeable. It made our traveling through Louisiana experience one to remember and we would definitely recommend this place to any family.
Faye Valentine — Google review
We took the kids today and it was fun for all of us! Our kids are 16, 8, and 6 and all of us learned something we didn’t know! Kate and Robert were the absolute best tour guides. They were so nice. Even when my youngest was asking a ton of random questions they were patient and you can tell they love what they do! We will definitely be back and recommend going if you’re in the area!
ashlyn cockerham — Google review
Loved holding the pet alligator, Minnie. Everyone was very friendly and eager to answer questions about the Swamp People show. Our tour group was a little large and that made it more difficult to hear our guide.
Kathy Robinson — Google review
This is our families WE HAVE TO GO !!! spot on our yearly trip. Last year was our first time and we fell in LOVE ❤️❤️❤️ Was so awesome to come back to the same people and animals. Just a great experience. Can't wait till next year when they are in their new spot.
Dillon Pieffer — Google review
Katie was absolutely amazing with giving the tour and answering any questions we had. We got there mid-tour so joined the tour she was currently giving and then walked around on our own afterwards. I purchased a stuffed animal and then turns out my son put it back so I called her and we stopped back by to retrieve it.
Also, props for this place also being kid-friendly. My 4 year old son had an absolute BLAST!
Randi Harris — Google review
I love this place!! Thanks to everyone who made this place exist! Special thanks to Dustin - he made my time there soooo interesting and informative!! If you’ll have a chance being here - don’t miss it🐢🐊🖤
Niko S — Google review
Awesome tour. The guide Daniel was so friendly and worked well with the kids. My husband kissed an alligator and a little girl held 6 snakes at once! Definitely got some memories!
Sarah Noland — Google review
What an amazing experience! The owner took his time showing us all the animals and we were able to spend time getting pictures and feeding the various critters. What a great time! Highly suggest you make this a stop.
McKynzie Pell — Google review
4.6
(904)
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4.5
(189)
40511 W E Interstate 55 Service Rd, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, USA
The Garden District is a charming area characterized by oak-lined streets and an assortment of homes ranging from small cottages to grand mansions along St. Charles Avenue, which serves as the Mardi Gras parade route. The district features Lafayette Cemetery, renowned for its elaborate 19th-century tombs. Magazine Street offers a mix of boutiques, antique shops, fine dining restaurants, cafes and bars that cater to locals and tourists alike.
The National WWII Museum tells the story of World War II from the perspective of America and her Allies. It is located in New Orleans, Louisiana because the Higgins boats were invented and manufactured here. The museum includes extensive exhibits on both the European and Pacific theaters of the war, as well as a special section on D-Day.
One of the most incredible museums that I have experienced and I've been to most in DC, NYC and Philly. This one is much more interactive and tells amazing stories.
The staff were kind and extremely helpful. The layout made the museum the most accessible ♿ from any that I experienced. The cost of the tickets were fair and you'll spend enough time to make it worth it.
We enjoyed all of the exhibits but especially enjoyed the planes and old vehicles. Our son who is <2 years old was engaged most of the time which made it easy to manage him while enjoying.
I highly recommend this to anyone even if you are not a history expert!
Robert J Rodgers — Google review
What an incredible experience. Always wanted to go but a friend who just went highly recommended it. We went as a family of four and got to meet an actual world or to Gunner. Being able to talk to him and listen to the stories was worth the visit by itself. One of the most interactive museums I've ever been to including the 4D theater. I highly recommend that if you are on the fence and interested in the history you must go! Be prepared to spend a minimal of 2 to 3 hours to experience everything at the museum.
JJ Tarno — Google review
Well done museum. There are a lot of great exhibits. The Boeing room was a definite highlight. They have several WWII era military planes hanging in the room with observation walkways at a couple levels, including above the planes, to allow you to see the planes from different perspectives. It was really cool. The museum is housed in multiple buildings. If you want to see everything, you will need to plan on being there for an entire day, or two.
Curtis Olsen — Google review
Really, really great museum!!! The price of admission is steep, but it is definitely worth it!!! If you are a history buff and want to see everything, then plan on the two days. Also, the 4D theater is definitely worth the $7. I am excited to finish my tour and hopefully come back some day!!! Wonderful museum!!!
Andrew George — Google review
Oh my goodness!! This was the best museum I have experienced in a while, and I mean EXPERIENCED! This is definitely a day to remember, block out the entire day and experience this exhibit. You will thank me later! I will be back because I didn't block a chunk. They do offer a come back to finish ticket for $12 within 7 days of your original ticket. I had to do that but I still don't think I saw everything. This place is massive and chock full of memorabilia and information. I can not stress enough TAKE YOUR TIME and enjoy!
Tabatha Michele Grimes (TMGazelle) — Google review
I don't know where to even start!! This museum exceeds all expectations!! If you have a veteran in your family or are one yourself it is a must see place!! Every aspect is well done! Follow a story of a soldier. Start by boarding a train... the Pacific theater was amazing, the airplanes on display are amazing, D-day was amazing... the list is endless! You will easily spend 3 hours here so be prepared!!
Evan Houghton — Google review
I had a wonderful time and I cannot wait to go back. The museum was clean and very well thought being able to go around and actually understand what the war was all about. They also separated what happened in the Pacific and in Europe, which was very surprising to me with the way they did it. It was a very special place and my children really enjoyed themselves. If you are in New Orleans, this is a great museum to go to.
JayL — Google review
Super incredible experience. It was well done, lots of interesting facts about details I have never thought of. You could get a card (looks like a gift card) about a soldier and follow his journey throughout the entire building. Something everyone should do if possible. I highly recommend it. My 11 year old was very interested the whole time.
Tami Smith — Google review
A great experience for family and friends. Various information boards with displays about different aspects of World War 2. They have two floors of various displays and information to help you truly understand World War 2 from the beginning to the end. There is also a 4D theater that speaks about World War 2 and makes you feel the impulse of being there. I highly suggest that you visit and enjoy it. This is great for family and friends. A genuine experience for anyone of all ages. ENJOY!
Get Up Radio Media — Google review
Amazing museum. Make sure you give yourself tons of time to take it all in. I spent about 4.5 hours and easily could have spent a couple more (if not the entire day). Really enjoyed the movie clips integrated into the exhibits and the atmosphere the museum creates moving from room to room. Museum staff take your picture as you enter, this is for photos that you can choose to purchase later with different backgrounds (like planes, ambulances, Rosie the riveter and the museum itself). If this might be a souvenir you'd like to purchase, thinking about a dynamic pose for the shot they take will likely look better than the type of photo you'd take for getting an ID. Also, I counted 3 gift shops including an entirely stand alone shop next to the museum so if you are looking for the perfect momento, make sure you take time to look through all 3. The museum is absolutely worth as much time as you can give it.
Mary Langan — Google review
If you only do one thing in New Orleans, visit the WW2 museum. It is FANTASTIC. The exhibits are thoughtful, and the layout of the museum is easy to navigate and follows good narratives. Highly recommend grabbing a "Dog Tag" and watching the oral histories.
Also, it's a huge museum, and if you want to see everything in-depth, you'll need about 6 hours, but it's well worth it. I already know I'm going to come back someday, and hopefully soon.
Nia Schenk — Google review
I walk by and saw the building, return the next day with enough time to spare, arrived 11am. Make sure you have about 4 hrs to visit and before it closes. I learn a lot about the minorities that serve in the Army during WWII, Their collection of items is rich and valuable. The navigation can be complicated within the building but the museum volunteers are eager to help. Cost is affordable. Never forget history, cause it may return. Highly recommended.
Marilu Carvallo — Google review
Very thorough. Lots to read and view. Biggest critique is that it doesn't flow naturally. Hard to tell when to go from one exhibit to the next in sequence. And was hard to tell when the exhibit ended and where the exit was. Other than that, this is a top-notch museum with excellent exhibits. Lots to do. Could easily spend 5 hours here but a minimum of 2 is suggested.
Kenneth Baker — Google review
Amazing day long visit; so many things to see in a number of buildings. Video presentations help bring to life those that were rescued as well as those that fought and were there to liberate those in concentration camps. Great place and I definitely will go back.
LJ Gorton — Google review
The National WWII museum is very good and loaded with a lot of information and a lot of collections of artifacts from World war II.
Please take tickets in advance. It eases your entry procedure. The train ride is so cool. Don't try to understand it, just feel it. Take a map of the museum. Halls 2 and 3 are the heart of the museum. They consume most of your time. 4 to 7 are skim through.
The timings mentioned on the Google Maps are correct. It took us 3 hours to get a good tour. If you are really interested in learning more about WWII, please dedicate one complete day for this museum tour.
I didn't go to the theatres, cz we didn't have time to cover them. But at a $11 additional cost, you can get two shows.
Parking is really economical on Magazine Street for this museum.
Sathwik Ram — Google review
What an amazing place! You'll need multiple days if you want even a remote chance of seeing even most of it. I could have easily spent 5 days here.
If you're a WWII aficionado, this is a must visit!
Prices are reasonable, it's clean & tidy and there are on site food places, that are pretty good!
We stayed at a hotel that was within walking distance, and I think this is the best way to do it.
Make sure you visit this when you're in the area.
Dan — Google review
The National WWII Museum is an incredible and immersive experience from start to finish. The museum has curated an amazing collection of artifacts and interpretive materials, then presented them in a coherent format suitable for nearly any visitors.
We especially loved the Boeing Gallery with full size aircraft and vehicles on display. So glad to have finally gotten to visit this wonderful facility.
Jack Sweeney — Google review
Amazing and important place. The greatest generation and the greatest war are well represented here. So much to see that spending 6 to 8 hours is reasonable, so if able, make multiple trips. Recommend getting the dog tag of a true life participant so you can follow their journey. Clever info stations are available throughout. This place gives a fitting tribute to all of the people who helped and sacrificed, each in their own ways. Plenty of artifacts and Building 5 has a great collection of aircraft. Highest recommendation.
Brian Mercer — Google review
This museum is a must-do, and make sure to plan a large chunk (if not the whole day) of your time! Every time I visit this museum it has grown, and the exhibits are beautiful, immersive, interactive and humbling. We ate at the restaurant, which was great (the sweet tea was perfection). They also have a soda shop which is super cute, and wonderful gift shops. Definitely visit and take your time! I don't want to *spoil* much with my photos, but I'll add a couple and an obligatory food shot from lunch!
Brianna (Bri_and_LD on Twitch) — Google review
Favorite WWII museum yet! I thoroughly enjoyed reading everything I could and the experiences are so immersive it’s very captivating. The dog tag part was confusing for us and they didn’t work the way we thought they were supposed to so we kind of just forgot about them. The staff were all incredibly helpful and involved. At one point I lost my tag and we had to double back to get a new one but they were quick to help! I’d absolutely return to continue reading. The catwalk to view the planes and the D-Day exhibit was a huge favorite!
Xaerie Namnori — Google review
I can't believe how much there is to do here. You will easily spend the majority of your day here. Plan for several hours. There are 4 major buildings to go through, and each will take well over an hour to see. You probably could spend multiple days here if you are interested in the history. Very interactive and one of the highest quality museums I've been to.
Nicholas Redding — Google review
I had no interest in coming here as history is my least favorite subject, but I was tagging along with my friend.
I think the price is reasonable for how much you're getting.
There was still plenty of interesting stuff to see and it was set up in a way that the information was easily attainable in many forms.
There were a number of exhibits, but the entire museum is very well done. Lots to learn and be interested in, even for those who don't want to take the deep dive.
Cassidy Dalton — Google review
Don't miss out on this! It is an incredible experience. We were amazed. I hope to come back again someday. We came on a Saturday morning. We didn't buy advance tickets but got right in. Only a few people ahead of us in the ticket line. Pace yourself so you have enough time for all the buildings. We spent too much time in building 1 and then had to rush thru other areas that I wish I had more time for. The movie was definitely worth the extra expense but does take an hour so plan for that.
Kelly Sonntag — Google review
This is definitely my personal favorite museum (I've never been to la Louvre though). You can spend all day here and still not be able to see/read everything. I've been twice, and I'll definitely be going again!
Cooper Deupree — Google review
One of the best museums I have visited, one of the main reasons I visited New Orleans, and well worth the price of admission.
It is huge, so either be prepared to spend the whole day there or have to come back the next day (they offer discounted tickets if you want to visit a second day, which I haven’t seen at many museums).
I did not have the chance to try their food but it looked good and the prices were reasonable for a museum, and they had multiple spots to eat on their campus.
A true must see for history lovers, or well everyone.
Jacob Floyd — Google review
Amazing and detailed experience covering all aspects of World War II. I spent 4 hours going through all the content here and it could easily take much more time if you really want to read and see it all. There are lots of unique exhibits, displays, individual stories, movies, and media to cover the history. I paid $35 for a standard ticket and walked to the museum from the French Quarter.
Devin Hobby — Google review
What an experience! The WWII Museum is an incredibly huge six building campus with so much to see, you could easily spend the entire day here if you're a huge history buff. Honestly, you could spend multiple days here if you really took in everything! There are so many static exhibits, as well as interactive experiences.
We went with the plan to only spend two hours at the museum and we had to skip so many exhibits and experiences. I highly recommend sitting in the small booths throughout the complex which allow you to listen to people's first hand accounts of their experiences. Hearing these soldier's speak about Omaha Beach was especially incredible!
Pro Tip: If you don't plan on paying for any of the interactive exhibits, there's still one you can do for free on the bottom floor of the Boeing Aircraft exhibit. It's an interactive submarine simulator which tells the incredible story of the SS Tang which sunk 33 enemy ships in only five missions. Totally worth checking out!
Mr3dPHD — Google review
The best museum experience ever! Plan on two full days. This place is so well done. Highly recommended attending both movies. The focus is on the people who fought the battles and lived through the horrors. The short video detailing the discovery of and liberation from the concentration camps was so good I watched it twice over my two days.
Kevin Lynn — Google review
- [ ] This is one of the largest museums I’ve visited that were focused on one main purpose. The museum is so large that you can probably spend an entire day going through it and really diving into the history and artifacts. My husband is very into military history and this was definitely one for the books. I can say that as Veterans ourselves, this museum truly honors all of the people whom served in WWII and help in telling their stories and teaching younger generations the true history behind all of it. The displays and layout are so incredible! They really take you back into the past and help you visualize what everyone involved went through and experienced.
Laura S — Google review
Extremely amazing museum. Very clean with plenty of volunteers to answer questions or show you where to go. There is a mix of short clip movies and photos along with real paperwork in areas to show how they were during the war. There is a gift shop and a small pub style restaurant. A lot of walking so wear your good shoes. Restrooms in each area and floors. If you’re unable to walk, they offer free wheelchairs. Very informative. A must see.
Christina Hernandez — Google review
This museum is fantastic. Honestly it is huge. If you are a WWII buff like me, it will take you a day and a half to 2 days to go through it thoroughly, reading everything and watching most of the video testimonials. It is great for an overview. Certain battles like D-Day and the Guadalcanal campaign are covered in greater detail. I wish that they had more vehicles and planes but overall still pretty good.
JJ Bechtel — Google review
The National WWII Museum has done a great job creating their exhibits. Each one transports you to a specific place and time. They did a great job capturing the essence of time through the use of furniture, art, music, effects, videos and displays. It truly is a remarkable setup. At times it felt like we were entering a different world. The dog tag experience was appreciated because it allowed us to follow a veteran's war experience as we moved from exhibit to exhibit. We followed a Native American soldier and an African American soldier. It gave a life significance. It is a large museum with multiple buildings but with accessible pathways. My wife and I navigated all areas without a problem. We missed the 4D experience and were refunded for it, but do try it as it was directed by Tom Hanks. It's only $11 with admission. The museum volunteers and employees were super helpful. They are essential to making your navigation of the museum successful. The best part of our experience was the private 2-hour curator tour. It is offered once a month to a limited group of 10 people. It is $250 pp but it is worth the price, especially because you get close and personal with the collection. We bought all our tickets in advance. The curator's knowledge is extensive. He's mindful of his audience in adapting the tour. Chase is an exceptional curator. He balanced technical facts about the private collections with sociopolitical and psychological information to help his audience make sense of the culture, climate, pressures and requirements of the time. His view was multifaceted and not ethnocentric to the American experience. We appreciated this museum's effort to shed light on all issues.
Giorgio Jovani di Salvatore — Google review
This is a very big WWII museum that has two buildings each with three floors. Many different exhibits in chronological order that depict the war in many details. Lots of documentaries shown in the exhibits along with other displays. Very intriguing to spend at least half a day or an entire day to even glance through.
We have heard that the Beyond Boundaries show is great but we didn't pay a visit. One thing is that kids need to be old enough to fully understand the concepts of war, weapons, and heavy topics like death. Educative experience overall!
Dongjing He — Google review
Wear your walking shoes, this place is huge. Plan on being there for about six hours. With over 250,000 pieces, be ready for an emotional and
educational day.
The movie is an hour long, in case you want to buy a two-day pass.
I love that they have sensory Saturday at the end of the month!
J Lynn — Google review
Fantastic museum. Very interesting and interactive exhibits. We spent 5 hours there, and didn't get through half of it. If you are really interested in WWII, you may want to consider a two day ticket. Be prepared to do a lot of walking. Don't miss the 4D movie experience Beyond All Boundaries.
The French Quarter is a historic district located in the heart of New Orleans, renowned for its lively nightlife and colorful buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies. Bourbon Street, a popular attraction among visitors, is home to jazz clubs, Cajun eateries and bars serving strong cocktails. In addition to Bourbon Street, there are quieter streets that lead to Jackson Square and the French Market where street performers entertain crowds while local vendors sell gourmet food and crafts.
4.5
(22844)
New Orleans, LA, USA
I'll never travel to Birmingham without this trip planner again
The Cathedral of Saint Louis King of France is a prominent and historic landmark on Jackson Square in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Constructed in 1789, it has been extensively rebuilt and renovated over the years and today houses an active congregation. The church is also a great place to people watch, as it contains several historical landmarks like The Cabildo, The Presbytere, and Preservation Hall.
The St. Louis Cathedral located on Jackson Square is a great location for a of you who want to visit a local landmark. We visited during their construction and remodeling which was a little annoying to not know as most of the roof and the ceiling work covered in scaffolding which took away from the full ambience. Another thing it really was interesting is the arch catcher is absolutely gorgeous but then there’s certain spots where you can dip your credit card in to pay for donations and things that just took away from the experience a bit. They do have rosaries you can buy which were very beautiful and I wish I would’ve gotten one. The frescos on the ceiling are currently partially visible but for the most part not really.
Jeana Schreiber — Google review
I love this Cathedral. On the north side, outside, the shadow of the Jesus statue is formidable. Inside is immaculate. It is open to all. Come. Sit down a moment and take in all of the splendor. It is breath taking even for someone like me who despises religion, but the religious do create magnificent places for them to feel pious.
Andrea F — Google review
This gorgeous Catholic Church was originally built in 1718. After massive fires across New Orleans destroyed the church, it was rebuilt under Spanish rule in 1789 with the classic Spanish style triple peak. This is the oldest continually run cathedral in the United States.
Along the ceiling of the inside of the chapel is an amazing massive mural which alone makes the church worth visiting.
Mr3dPHD — Google review
Four stars for group of people and/ single performance to show their talents in front of St. Louis Cathedral and between, Jackson square, beside Louisiana State museum. They're really great and amazing!! Paintings made by native New Orleaners are perfect and they're talented to their gifts. It's just the church itself is closed during our visit. Hoping to have an opportunity to sit inside and to listen a homily in a whole mass.
Loy Jacob — Google review
My husband and I were in New Orleans during the holy week. I have always wanted to visit the Cathedral. It has always been synonymous with the city. I love the open door policy. You may come in and take pictures. It is breathtaking!!! I was fortunate enough to attend Easter services. There is a lovely gift store where you can purchase rosaries, crosses and other religious items.
Ambienbrain — Google review
A very beautiful catholic church with open doors for anyone. Ornate paintings on the wall and ceiling and very fine stained glass work in the windows. Father onsite to take your confession with many opportunities to buy candles and donate to the upkeep of the church.
The K Green Show — Google review
Beautiful church in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. Nice mass, beautiful and vivid paintings inside. Outside, you may get "entertained" by the detractors of the Catholic church. Also, you'll see tables with voodoo dolls and cards. Interesting contrast. Scaffolding is up inside March+ 2022.
Mark McHugh — Google review
A beautiful building and a peaceful, prayerful atmosphere inside. It’s free to go in and look around. There is a lot to see inside, with art, stained glass, sculpture, memorials. It would be good if there was a bit more information around to read and get to know the history a bit better, but I understand that this is primarily a place of worship more than a place for interested tourists. If you want to go in to pray and light a candle, it is a lovely atmosphere to do that as well.
Matthew Haigh (Mortalmatt) — Google review
I’m glad we were able to stop in and take in the significance and history of this cathedral. We got to go inside during the day and it was also great seeing it at night.
Matt Lawson — Google review
This is a beautiful functioning catholic cathedral. It has a gorgeous mural on the ceiling with impressive painted/ stained glass along the sides. Please maintain reverence as you visit.
The history is about as old as any church you'll find in the Americas.
jophus Xakc — Google review
In town for the week and was glad I was able to attend Mass at 9am on Sunday. This Cathedral is huge, beautiful and historical. Beautiful landscapes outside facing the Mississippi River. Enjoyed Mass here today, felt like one of the churches I grew up in New York (Blessed Sacrament). Definitely recommend stopping by even if it’s not for Mass. I believe the church is over 200 years.
Tania Culpepper — Google review
I have mixed feelings on this one and a challenge for you.
Likes: this church is very cool looking and is extremely photogenic. I didn't go inside in fear I may burst into flame, and I don't know if it's actually open to the public.
Entertainment factor: it's literally surrounded by an army of crackheads and the final boss bum (possible general) will threaten you if you take "his" coins out of the nearby fountain. If you go in the late morning, you might be ok. He should be down for his crack nap around 930ish.
My challenge to you: take a local tour that doesn't start, intermission, or stop at this location.
Overall: I gave it a 5 because of the entertainment factor alone. There are some great restaurants around it, and you're gunna see it anyway. Don't use the benches if you are a tourist, those are reserved for the homeless.
Mike Menchaca — Google review
St. Louis is the oldest cathedral in North America and is worth seeing for that reason alone. It’s a beautiful old church in a picturesque area of New Orleans and won’t cost you anything to stop in to at least take a peek. Peaceful in the morning before the Jackson Square area gets busy.
EJB 3 — Google review
We took a day trip from harrahs Biloxi. It was 1and a half hour drive. Jackson Square is still beautiful! I hadn't been in twenty years.alot has changed. Not as many artists performing as there used to be. The cathedral was my focus on this trip. Very informative plaques about the church. Beautiful painted ceilings! Artifacts galore. Just a beautiful church! I was going to get community coffee and benieys at cafe du mond. But it's full of tourists now. The line was around the block. We used to just walk up and get em in the old days. All in all nice going back to one of my old hangouts.
cg l — Google review
If you have a chance to go inside, you should. The St. Louis Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the United States alongside the Royal Presidio Chapel in Monterey, California. It is beautiful inside and out.
Ann Baity — Google review
I popped into St. Louis Cathedral gorgeous church for the second time this past Sunday. The priest and the readings were so moving, they left me totally lost for words! And let's not forget about that awesome family prayer - it was simply incredible!
Erwin Rivera — Google review
Beautiful representation of faith and architecture. Free access. Spent about 30 minutes here. Was a good way to introduce our kids into a different way of approaching faith. Many saints stopping by to pray. Faith, Hope and Charity’s depiction on the sanctuary is absolutely beautiful.
Quinton Hamp — Google review
We visited New Orleans on one of the coldest days ever, and it worked out in our favor. The cathedral was practically empty when we visited, so we were able to walk around and truly absorb the beauty within.
Yvonne Luke — Google review
The oldest continuously operating church in North America. It’s spectacular beautiful. Services were wonderful when we visited. 5 pm mass on Saturday evening wasn’t crowded. Oh, and the pipe organ is beautiful too.
Michael Ramsey — Google review
4.8
(4045)
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4.5
(8417)
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Jackson Square is a beautiful public space in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter that's popular with tourists and locals alike. It features historic buildings including the Louisiana State Museums of the Cabildo and Presbytere, as well as St. Louis Cathedral. The square is home to shops, restaurants, cafes and more, and is where local artists have been displaying their work on iron fences for more than 50 years.
Very nice & clean area! So much beauty in just the scenery & landscaping. Definitely a beautiful spot for touristy type photos. The atmosphere is upbeat and friendly! If you're in the area, DEFINITELY walk through, it will leave you feeling refreshed & renewed!
Taylor Thames — Google review
Beautiful. It is worth to take time to find parking and come to visit it. The only draw back are the homeless and beggars. They will harass you and once you engage, they got you. In many cases people engage to distract you while others will pick pocket you. Caveat: go up the steps across from Jackson Square and take amazing pictures from both the Square as well as the canal behind you. Sometimes the cruise ships are coming through.
Chris Skaliks — Google review
This was a great walk! Enjoyed the tour through the area in the past week. The information about this area was very fascinating. It was also my first time seeing and touching the Mississippi River!
Timothy Weitzel Jr — Google review
Great touristic attraction where you can see the famous statue of Gen. Andrew Jackson and admire a great view of the Louisiana State Museum. You can have a little walk around the square or relax on one of the benches under the shady trees. You can also see/buy the work of some local artists or have some fortune tellers tell you if your gonna have some unexpected quests for dinner. lol It is a "must see" place when you visit New Orleans.
mircea stoica — Google review
This has probably been my favorite place in New Orleans. The shops and boutiques surrounding the square are enjoyable with helpful, welcoming staff. Street performers were awesome! Impressive artists had their work on display and for sale, bought a few pieces. I highly recommend bringing cash cause you will want to tip the performers and buy some art. Love the culture of the area!
Alexis Laub — Google review
Bustling, lively square full of color and music. Love the views, the street performers and art at this historic French Quarter destination.
There is a public parking lot just across Decatur Street, by the river, if you are driving here.
Lisa E. (Cardigan Queen) — Google review
This is the best area to park for downtown. You are central to Bourbon Street, French Market, and can access the bus or horse draw tours from here as well. This is a lovely place to experience music, food, and just enjoy the sites. The cathedral is right there and has air conditioning.
Karen Reynolds — Google review
Great place to spend the evening , love the fresh arts and several arts galleries across the footpaths. Loads of authentic NOLA foods around this area with plenty of local pubs and jazz…
kiran piduru — Google review
While we went at a time where it was not crowded, the atmosphere was still lively. It was rather cold so there were not the vendors I expected but that is okay as it gave us a chance to catch a carriage on Decatur for a great tour. The area was clean beautiful and such a wonderful view of St. Louis Cathedral. Can't wait to visit again.
Briana Rose Lucero Artist — Google review
Try to make your way to Jackson Square during church hours so that you have a chance to see inside the beautiful building. It isn't very bug, but it boast beautiful details. The park is also a great place to catch local artist and performers showcasing their talent.
Alonso Rios — Google review
We had an amazing walk through Jackson Square on a Sunday morning. They have local artwork around the outer fence for purchase. Definitely recommend as a fun local spot to check out!
Jon Ross — Google review
So fun to walk around and be entertained, buy art, MEET the artists, get your palm read, or just relax. Definitely a tourist MUST. Great way to spend some time and get a feel for how much New Orleans loves its art. What talent in the square! So many pieces I would love to own if I had a few extra thousand to spend.
Corinna Maggi — Google review
Beautiful, well kept, bit of history. Great gardens. The fencing was great and the trees.....just fantastic.
There's a bit of history for sure and it's a relaxing spot to step away from the "tourist" traffic.
J* S* — Google review
The historic Jackson Square Park is an absolute gem in NOLA! Nestled along the Mississippi River, it offers a breathtaking view of the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and the Andrew Jackson Equestrian Statue. This place oozes history, having graced the screens of numerous movies and dramas. The park's charm is amplified by its iron fences, walkways, and cozy benches.
It is an artistic haven with vibrant open-air events and shows hosted in front of the park. During my visit, I was captivated by talented musicians serenading the crowd. A must-visit spot to soak in NOLA's essence!
Tasnim Ara Islam — Google review
Beautiful landmark. I would advise that there are a lot of homeless, panhandle, and hustlers in this area. However, they seemed to be harmless and not bothering much if you just keep your eyes ahead and don't interact with them. This is not IN the park, but you will have to go through the area where they are in order to get in. It would be a perfect place to take wedding photos.
Megan Bartholomew — Google review
Great area to visit. Cathedral in the background, surrounded by older buildings and artists of all kinds. We spent about an hour walking around and decided to support a local artist by buying a painting. Definitely worth visiting if you are in NO.
Deb Clif — Google review
Surrounded by historic buildings and homes this place is a great place to relax. Nested between the famous bourbon st and the French market this place offers a great escape from the sensory overload that is New Orleans.
This is a great place to relax and take some amazing photos. We sat on the grass and just enjoyed the beautiful weather before heading to the French market for lunch!
Surrounded by local vendors, musicians and artists this place truly captures the essence and beauty of New Orleans
Angela Rosa — Google review
Fun experience while on weekend trip to NOLA. As a history and music buff I was just amazed at all going on and could spent all day soaking in the essence of the environment. The vendors had many trinkets available for purchase, but no pushy by any means. Very easy access to many other locations, but in my opinion it is a must stop.
Chad Cryer — Google review
A place of art, and mixed beliefs - but a beautiful place to visit.
An added bonus if you're an 'Originals' fan. The end bench is from the final scenes of Elijah and Klaus - there is a little memorial attached to the back of the seat (photo added)
Sue Spence — Google review
Love coming to the park or walking through the square. There’s usually live music or some entertainment and it’s an easy place to find a drink and just enjoy being outdoors. Expect lots of tourists and foot traffic and you can eat at the restaurants right around the square but I’d recommend going a little further into the French quarter. Also, take the time to go inside the cathedral, and take all the pictures you can!
Michael Moore — Google review
Will be back to purchase some amazing art work I saw. Great lively afternoon spot. Had a great time for lunch on my birthday!
Darsha Osioh — Google review
Lovely area of a park with a sculpture and a fountain surrounded by some beautiful structures forming a square. There are plenty of shades and searing for resting. Spots for performance and gathering as needed. In the center of French Quartar as an addition of beauty to the neighborhood.
The street Frenchmen St in the Marigny is well-known for its wide variety of live music venues, many of which are located along the charming Creole cottages that line the street. The Maison d.b.a., Blue Nile, Spotted Cat, and Snug Harbor are some of the most popular clubs here, while there are also bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and stores scattered throughout the area.
The True and real night of New Orleans.
Come to this area with your wife and family.
bruno maluf — Google review
Did not love this street at all. Very trashy crowd and felt low class, I actually preferred walking through Bourbon believe it or not.
Safety was also a concern here with common petty scammers approaching me.
Y B — Google review
Very fun and cool place to hang out. Artist market was great with lots of beautiful and unique things
Music was great in the bars but not as much jazz as I expected, more like jazzy covers but we heard excellent jazz on the street by buskers
Beth Seibert — Google review
Awesome street. Full of life and energy without the childish vibes of Bourbon street. Here you’ll find more mature people with artistic vibes and incredible jazz bars. Super highly recommended!
Andreas ?Aris? Aristidou — Google review
Better vibe than Bourbon street.
Yady G — Google review
Nice street, with good locals for live music and entertainment.
Car Edu Sta — Google review
this is the best place to hear live music.
Mr. Branham — Google review
Amazing and colorful street art.
I suggest to head this street early morning if you wanna take nice pictures before it's crowded.
All bars and restaurants fully booked in the evening, we had no chance to experience the food or a show.
Cam Bx — Google review
Lots of live music on this street. The art galleries and shops were pleasant.
Angus Bennion — Google review
Frenchman Street is always a VIBE from colorful street art, tasty food/cocktails to endless live music from almost every club & bar after dark. Music and Art fills the air up and down this street. You definitely can't go wrong spending time in this artsy, funky & upbeat area.
Bayou Vixen — Google review
Frenchman Street is a colorful street with art, endless live music from almost every club & bar after dark. Music and Art fills the air up and down this street. We love it
D A — Google review
More mellow vibe than bourbon st, but still fueled by good music, alcohol, food and a fun time. Less peddlers and pushers, jazz clubs Vs pure party bars. Better for the older (non black-out drunk intentions )crowd for sure. But you could also do that there too.
Landon Labrador — Google review
Jacky Blaire Music was a lot of fun. Street and club musicians can’t go wrong. Good music and food at the French market hit the spot.
p o — Google review
Suuuuuper cool place. Bourbon street is wild, this place was super artistic and laid back. There was so many things to see and look at here. Very cool atmosphere. This picture was a block over front Frenchman, the nightlife was amazing.
Tanner Fehring — Google review
Cool bars and clubs for real people and off the Bourbon Street crazy but just enough weird and crazy to be New Orleans. Royal Street Inn is a nice old people bar with PBR and High Life, the champagne of beers.
Kevin Markman — Google review
Much better than Bourbon street older crowd with great Jazz venues I would highly recommend the spotted cat
Kenneth Geraci — Google review
Def make it a point to visit Frenchmen St while in New Orleans. If you’re looking for a more mature crowd without the college crowd this is the place to go. Music is life and it’s def here and the place to be.
1Stop Travels Inc. — Google review
Frenchmen Street was originally named for a group of New Orleans residents that remained loyal to France after the Spanish came to power. Subsequently they were executed in the vicinity. Today the streets is dominated by live music clubs, restaurants and a few hotels. Frenchman street is also near the beginning of the Faubourg Marigny.
Louis and Elaine — Google review
Super fun street with many options for live jazz bands, good drinks, and a late night art crawl
Ayon Ibrahim — Google review
Loved walking down Frenchman street. The people and the energy was amazing. The city and the food are a match made in heaven. This is a great place to have a vacation with friends and or family. If you have the courage or don't mind going alone still... go... lol
Royal St is a renowned street in New Orleans that features numerous high-end antique shops, art galleries, and fancy boutiques. The area's charm and elegance is accentuated by the potted ferns that hang from the cast-iron balconies. To get a glimpse of the street's soulful past, visitors can stroll or cycle down Royal Street while engaging with friendly locals lounging on their porches.
Lake Pontchartrain is an estuary and one of the largest inland saltwater bodies in the United States. It is ringed with parks and provides habitat for numerous species of animals and plants. The lake is famous for its long, straight bridge over water, which connects it to the Gulf of Mexico.
Really cool place to visit especially during the summer because of the breeze
Anton Makov — Google review
Lake Pontchartrain is supposedly the longest bridge in the US. It’s only a 30 minute drive across, but it’s just a bridge.
It’s worth coming if you’re in the area, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here.
Courtney P — Google review
Lake Pontchartrain is simply breathtaking, a fantastic prodigy of nature. Very calming and awesome journeying over the lake.
Sena Oriku — Google review
Huge the bridge is a marvel! Fantastic crossed it as a child. Now a 61 year old lot has changed. Easy drive!
Kimberly Fox — Google review
I absolutely LOVE Lake Pontchartrain!!!! It really is something special. It looks just like I’m at the ocean! It is one of the most beautiful places in NOLA. I usually grab some gator bites and a burger from one of the restaurants on Lakeshore, and sit for hours…just being. It is a great place for fishing, running, walking, jet skiing, boating, reading, gathering…ANYTHING!! Most tourists miss out on this place when they are in New Orleans…that’s probably a good thing. It’s a really cool place. I had never seen an estuary this large…WOW!! A cool bit of information I learned about Lake Pontchartrain: any life in the Gulf of Mexico can be potentially be found in the water, and it is only about 14 feet at its deepest. Go hang out, you will love it!!!!
Hope Ogunbamiyo — Google review
Beautiful lake.
Jason Thomas — Google review
I enjoyed the drive across the bridge I think everyone should experience it at least once 🥰
Carmelita Ethridge — Google review
We drove over this amazing lake going to New Orleans and it was BREATHTAKING!! I’ve never seen a lake this big. It reminded me of driving over international waters going to the beach!!
Lisa Cole — Google review
Geographically speaking, Abita and Chafunkta are “across the pond”, making travel to these breweries from NOLA either prohibitively uber expensive or requiring a rental car – maybe a bus if those exist. We did zero research on the bus thing. I’m sure you’re thinking, it’s just a pond or a lake and there’s a road right through it! That is Lake Pontchartrain.
Lake Pontchartrain is a large, brackish estuary located in southeastern Louisiana. It is not a true lake, but rather a tidal basin that is connected to the Gulf of Mexico. Lake Pontchartrain is also one of the largest wetlands in the United States!
The bridge you see on Google maps is the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Which is one of the longest bridges in the world at 24 miles long! Quite the feat of engineering in our humble opinion. Driving 24 miles, in what can only be described as open water, is just as daunting as driving the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Also if you have to pee, well, you’re SOL on that front because with the exception of emergency pull overs, there is no where to stop.
Beer Venturers — Google review
Beautiful, but scary at the same time. It is spectacularly gorgeous, so much water for miles, but had to visit. My pretty lady and I stopped and took some awesome pictures. The Lord can make such beautiful things with his hands yo...
NY — Google review
Beautiful waters!! We found a secluded beach area where we stopped and barbecued and swam a bit in the water. It was gorgeous weather and perfect to be on the water in the boat! 😎
Jenn Kerwin — Google review
Pushed my step-brother in, now I'm level 99 and 1/2
Funex Oculus — Google review
Gigantic lake...so wide, you cant see the other side from the shore! Lots of shelters surrounding it for gatherings and picnics, plus a nice walking walk and nice paved roads for bike riding with several restaurants nearby on the Metairie side.
The neatest thing was taking a car across the causeway, especially when its slightly foggy, it's like driving thru a cloud. Just make sure you're not on an empty tank! Worth a detour!
Bo_Decahedron — Google review
Had to share these sunset pictures of Lake PONTCHARTRAIN, crossing the twin spans. So much beauty right in our back yards in Southern Louisiana.
Jamie Ziglar — Google review
Always love being on the water in my boat. Lots of open water and hide away beaches. After a long day at the shop, being on the boat after work is just what I need.
Justin Kerwin — Google review
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Louisiana, USA
I'll never travel to Birmingham without this trip planner again
Giraffe, zebras, camels & other free-roaming wildlife on a preserve that offers safari tours.
Tori was an amazing guide! We had so much fun seeing and feeding those precious animals. It was so amazing to see them in open space rather than the typical zoo experience. I definitely recommend the private tour!! So worth the additional cost!!
Lisa Hardwick — Google review
Super cool experience.
Giraffes are my favorite animal on earth, and I’ve fed them a few times, but never quite as up close as this. I’ve never been able to pet them before. It was surreal.
My family had fun. There was a diverse mix of animals on the tour, and while some were hidden or resting, the animal we got to see up close were amazing.
Our tour guides were knowledgeable and kind. One person lost their hat, and they stopped to help him retrieve it.
For less than $150, 6 of us enjoyed a couple of hours experiencing something fun, educational, and unusual from the daily grind.
Anthony (Beer Chronicle) Gorrity — Google review
What an amazing experience! Most of the animals come right up to you and eat out of your hand. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable and the ride was just the right amount of time. Bring water though, it’s hot out there, even with the shade of the covered wagons. The family feed was enough for 2-3 people to make it through the entire loop. Watching the animals run and having them eat out of your hand was the highlight of the trip!
Geena Fiorucci — Google review
Highly recommend! Family enjoyed this trip. We decided to do the private pinzer tour and it did not disappoint. We were able to go wherever the animals were as most of them were of the road a little bit. I would recommend buying 2 buckets of feed if you do the private tour. You will need it!
Brian Hicks — Google review
We enjoyed our Saturday trip to Global Life Safari. We loved seeing the animals roam freely. They gathered quickly at the wagons when we stopped. During this time you are encouraged to interact and fed the animals. We were informed that feeding the Zebras would be against the rules prior to starting the tour. Believe what they say…DO NOT FEED THE ZEBRAS. We purchased a bucket thinking it would be enough for a family of four. We were wrong! We were so excited about feeding and interacting with the animals that we ran out of food about halfway. We plan to purchase a sack or bin on our next visit. Our wonderful experience made up for the two hour drive time.
Freneau Hardges — Google review
Very family oriented loved personal tour by Marissa. This center offers you a unique way of interacting with animals, feeding them, and touching them.... The experience of feeding a giraffe inches from you and petting it to feel that connection with man and animal is priceless, i also got to feed and pet lamas, buffalo. Antalope, cows, tiny ponies, and so many more!!! Book a private trip today!! You won't regret it. Thank you to all the hard working staff who keep this place alive for the animals to have safe and fun environment.
nikki w — Google review
This is an awesome facility. I first visited here decades ago as a field trip and was so happy to be able to share the experience with my family recently. The drive up to the check-in facility gives you a good taste of what's to come. It is great that you can buy tickets online now too. Check-in was a breeze and every staff member was very friendly. Our tour guide (wish I could remember his name!) had full tour worked the crowd of people & animals well. The private tours are great, but you won't be disappointed with the larger group ones either--the animals don't discriminate!
Will Hennegan — Google review
Excellent upgrade after all the hurricanes last few years. The staff,grounds,cleanliness,bathrooms,all 5 star. Thank you so much. Please everyone come visit this place. We missed the Zebra's were on the do not feed list...but they get fed 3 times a day. They were the life of the party last time we came about 5 years ago. Must be because they are food aggressive. Appreciate all of the staff. Job well done. See you again next year.
Suz Ratkovcic — Google review
We always have a Great time at Global Wildlife Center. The facility is clean and well organized. The staff is friendly and helpful. It's a unique experience that the entire family can enjoy together. Highly Recommended. Definitely get your tickets in advance and arrive early.
Larry Clark — Google review
It was a nice trip for the kids. They really enjoyed being able to be around the wildlife & getting to feed some. They didn't start on time...which took away time from our reserve viewing time. I booked for 2p.m didn't start until 2:40 and finished an hr later. But we enjoyed it. The phone says you have to book online but I'm sure you can also buy tickets in their booth. We got the $35 dollar bucket of food and last us the whole way. Someone got a sack and finished it real quick. It all matters how you distribute the animals food through out the ride. Wish they had hippos or more diverse grass eating mammals. Go try it out, the wagon ride for adult cost 19..Kids over 2yrs 13. And infants is free.
Erica Ramirez — Google review
This place is really cool! Take a wagon ride on an adventure feeding many types of animals. My favorite is the giraffes feeding them or watching them run. I have been here 2 times so I have experienced both. It's a great little adventure to take with family.
stacey clark — Google review
Our tour guide was so sweet. I highly suggest Gabby!!! We all had such a great time. We bought private tour tickets so we were able to go all over the park. Can't wait to go back!
Renee Colombel — Google review
We absolutely loved this place! Best time to go is 9am! It's breakfast time. Even though it's hot in Louisiana, still the best time to go. My little girl loved being able to feed and pet the animals from the wagon!
Kayla Danielle — Google review
We had a wonderful time!! Definitely get the bucket of food vs the cup! I loved the Watusi's and the Buffalo! So fun feeding them! The giraffes were amazingly beautiful! Our guide Carlie was great, and has all the puns and jokes ready for ya!❤️
Michelle Morgan — Google review
Wish we fed more animals directly, but we were at the end of the wagon... get the front wagons for more animal traffic.
Lovely hostess! Decent prices for the invaluable experience of feeding well cared for animals on this beautiful conservancy.
Price Payne — Google review
This was really nice. I didn't know what to expect. It is about a 1:15 long ride around a nature preserve with hundreds/thousands of animals. We bought a family bucket of feed which worked well with the 2 kids we had with us. It was an enjoyable experience. Maybe this is appropriately priced, but I thought just a tad high - maybe I'm cheap.
Papa J — Google review
Our tour guide was great. It was a cold day so not all the animals were out. It was still a fun time and worth it. The 9 year Olds favorite was feeding the red deer from Germany.
Melinda Hooper — Google review
Really nice family fun. very clean a lot of stuff to do very professional animals are well taken care of. This place is a must do have all different types of animals.
Hunter Walsingham — Google review
Great idea for kids super safe ride isn’t long by the time it’s over the kids are ready to go so it’s perfect! Haha animals come in herds but the giraffes are a little hard to feed due to them being skittish but we got lucky! Highly recommend
Amanda Clontz — Google review
We had a fantastic time my daughter got the private tour for us and it was definitely worth the money. Our tour guide was one of a kind she was full of information and taught us a lot! You won't be disappointed it's a one of a kind experience
2,800-acre park on Lake Pontchartrain with a beach, nature trails, campgrounds & cabins.
Beautiful views, nice campsites, well maintained facilities. But the bathrooms by the beach are closed so they put some porta potties out there. The splash pad wasn't open when we went. We did see a baby snake on the main path to the beach. People just went around it pointing. It was windy and a little chilly but a very nice experience. The park ranger told us he had about 2000 people in and out that day which was a Monday! But we didn't see that many people even in the parking lot and we were there a long time. Lots of grass cutters there all day seemed to be going over the same spots. They keep it real clean cut.
Brandi WL — Google review
We stayed in this beautiful park for a week in January and couldn’t have been more happy. It is so beautiful. Trees surround the wide paved sites and the sites were spacious. My girls loved traipsing through the streams and looking out for deer. We went to the beach at the lake nearly every day. The bathhouse was clean and very nice for a state park. Water pressure and cell service was great! We hope to return to this park if we are ever in the area again!
Jen & Gary Coleman — Google review
I’m not sure why google says this place is a hotel, unless there is a hotel located somewhere near by, but whatever.. it’s a state park.. it’s absolutely stunning. You can take lots of videos and pictures. The shower/bath-house was closed due to being under construction from the store than went through. The alligator marsh was also closed off due to the storm ripping the bridge apart. Hope it’ll be fixed soon! We absolutely love this place and visit at least once or twice a year. It’s well worth the drive. It’s only $3 per person for a day visit. There’s camping spots, it’s quiet, peaceful and gorgeous… they do have plenty of bathrooms around the whole park. The waves and pelicans were singing beautifully!
Courtney Rutland — Google review
Love this park, you even have a little crabbing area there. Bring a pot if you plan on doing a little boil. We enjoyed our stay. We went in a camper, they do have some rental cabins also. The cabins looked very nice and right on the water.
Elois ambrosia — Google review
Enjoyed walking through park. Ruins of a sugar plantation remain and it was fascinating touring the grounds. There was a short trail, a pier, and a splash pad for kids. Listened to a cover band playing while I was here. Recall that they also have cabins available for rental.
Michael Hess — Google review
Beautiful State Park, especially the beach area! Entrance is $3/person. The alligator marsh boardwalk was closed due to damages from previous hurricanes. Trails are nice, might be a bit muddy at some points.
Definitely worth it!
Many photos shooting happening. Great spot for family pictures!
Adeline CHAUTARD — Google review
It was raining when we were here but the place looks like it would be gorgeous in better weather. Beautiful beach! Lots of bike trails & nice, paved, camping sites with fire pits & built in outdoor grills. In the summertime there is a splash pad for children that looked nice. The price on the weekend was rather steep - considering it is off season! I think I paid $40+ for a 30 AMP site on a Saturday in November 2022.
Nona Willet Bellware — Google review
We didn’t stay the night, but I brought my kids out there and we had them play in the beach and the water playground. The trees are beautiful and the scenery tin the park is really special. However, the welcome center is closed and in disrepair. So is the building near the water front. The folks at the gate were really nice and we loved the day trip to the park. Would have like to have seen what the welcome center had.
Jordan Hill — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting this state park, and it truly exceeded my expectations. The park offers a unique blend of history and tranquility. The remains of an old sugar factory add an intriguing touch, and the pottery course and sugar mill history tour were engaging experiences.
The park's ambiance is incredibly peaceful, making it an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The cabins and camps provided comfortable accommodations, and the meeting space was well-equipped for team building events. I particularly enjoyed the Spanish moss delicately draping over the ancient oak trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
The meeting space was practical with tables, chairs, and a kitchenette that included a full-size refrigerator. What impressed me the most was the option to conduct meetings either inside the building or outside under the shade of picnic tables.
However, I did notice one area for improvement: adding electrical outlets to the pavilions by the beach. With the growing number of remote workers, this addition could attract even more visitors to the park. Many people, myself included, prefer working with a nice view rather than being confined to a Starbucks. Providing charging ports would make it much more convenient.
Considering the reasonable $3 entrance fee, the park offers excellent value for money. The cabins and lodges are not only cost-effective but also spacious enough to accommodate large groups if needed.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this state park to anyone seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of history and ample recreational opportunities. It's a hidden gem worth exploring, and with the addition of charging ports, it has the potential to attract even more visitors.
Oh... And there's a splash pad for the youngins.
Jennifer Munguia — Google review
Clean park and bathrooms facilities. The natural landscaping is beautiful. Lots of mossy oak trees! Watching the sunset at the lake was breathtaking. I rode the Tammany Trace into Mandeville for the afternoon. Very easy and peaceful ride there and back. I did have some raccoons come visit me for dinner. But thankfully they didn't stay and eat.
Jennifer — Google review
This state park is a treasure. A huge, brick pool house stands as an reminder of the state's history . Reportedly the park once had a public swimming pool, but filled it in response to desegregation . Now there is an odd span of grass and no swimming pool. Still it's a nice place to watch for birds (gulls, kites, eagles...) and stroll through the woods. It has lots of photogenic Old Oaks with Spanish moss. The small Beach is nice for summer.
Deidra Petty — Google review
This state park is situated on the north Bank of Lake Pontchartrain. The Campground is not on the Lake, but rather back in the low, swampy areas. We reserved an improved site (81,) which has a perfectly level pad, but the area around the pad is muddy with standing water from recent rains. Bathhouse is nice, clean, with great water pressure and hot water. Very good since there are no sewer hookups. Lots of bike trails and close to shopping. Great place to stay for proximity to NOLA while still enjoying outdoor activities.
Update after 2 week stay: it rained pretty good and we ended up with swamp front property. Thankfully we were on an improved site with a raised concrete pad so we only lost our fire pit to the swamp. Other sites were underwater for a day or more.
M Dowd — Google review
A great place for all ages! All campsites, primitive and improved, are well kept and spacious. Plenty of things to do and all park staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. One of the best state parks in South Louisiana
Sara Easley — Google review
We camped here in July and found it to be completely empty. Almost frighteningly so. Obviously, the heat of midsummer is not the ideal time for this area, but the beach was nice and the location close to a cute town and the causeway was great. The bathhouse closest to us was very outdated. However, there were other more modern bathhouses in the park with AC, laundry facilities, and clean showers. If you are looking to call somewhere in the New Orleans area, this is a great spot.
Patrick Maguire — Google review
This Park is my personal haven for witnessing nature’s most breathtaking sunsets. It offers a front row seat to the sun’s descent beyond Lake Pontchartrain’s horizon. The park provides multiple spots for both relaxation and photography. It never fails to inspire.
Virender Ajmani — Google review
October is definitely the best time of year to go fishing. Just make sure that you keep an eye on the size fish, and if you're going to catch and release like my boys did take lots of pictures, they had a great time, and these are some of the biggest fish they've ever caught from the pier, just using shrimp and cut Bait. Big drum were hitting them like crazy. They even came home with a few Nice red fish. My voice go fishing about 2 to 3 nights a week. And have been sharing pictures with, like the ones shared here. Go out and get you some.
Shannon Ochoa — Google review
This is one of the best state parks we have camped in so far. The crew is super friendly and helpful. The batrooms are in very good condition and are being cleaned daily - have sent worst bathrooms on commercial campgrounds. Overall campground and park are very well-kept.
Rafal Brzegowy — Google review
Great state Park. Quite a few mosquitos, to be expected, you're in a swamp. Saw a lot of deer when we pulled in. Some of the sites don't have water, but there are clean bathrooms with showers and laundry available. The volunteer at check in was great, the state employee could use a little more training.
Back Stage — Google review
This is a beautiful and clean park. The staff is very nice and helpful. Above and beyond anything I have seen. It has been a great camping experience. Can’t wait to come back someday. Thanks to everyone here at the park!!
James Allen — Google review
This park is one of my favorites! I love camping here or just enjoying a beach day. We most recently went to do an engagement video shoot and it was so lovely! We got to see about 8 deer running around and playing together on our way out.
Holly Eve Chapman — Google review
Absolutely beautiful park with breathtaking live oak trees and a nice short nature trail. $3 entry fee. Plenty of parking. Did not see the visitor center as it was closed on holiday but the whole park is very well kept. Can’t wait til the alligator marsh boardwalk reopens— will definitely be back
Emily Haile — Google review
bathrooms are nice, park is really nice. i love how you get in free with america the beautiful pass. great place to visit if yiu havent been. bring sand toys, snacks, and chairs
Festive craft brewery producing several signature & seasonal beers plus offering tours & tastings.
Absolutely enjoyed our visit to Abita brewery. We met some very kind and helpful staff members that helped us find the right Abita beers to our liking. I enjoyed the purple haze the most. The cleanliness of the area was outstanding and the atmosphere was perfect. It was a busy place but still well kept. They also have guided and self guided tours. We enjoyed our visit and hope to back soon. I forgot to add, they also have a very large parking lot.
P.J. Sylvia — Google review
Passed through Louisiana and wanted to stop by a brewery. The outdoor seating area was large and great if your bringing a dog. The beer selection was great I loved that they had small special batches to try.
Jennie Johnson — Google review
Great time at Abita Brew Co. today. Have been looking forward to stopping by here ever since we moved to LA about 4 years ago. In addition to great beers and service, the taproom manager Alex went above and beyond for me and made the experience truly personal. Can’t wait to come back here again. If you’re coming around the area, take the detour and go have a beer or two. Promise it won’t disappoint.
Dakota Unruh — Google review
Abita Brewery is a Gem! We stopped for the night on our way to Alabama. Harvest Host has them on their list. Great parking area. Very quiet. Beautiful grounds. Fun karaoke night. But the best part was their beer. Huge production and so many great ones!!! If you find their brand in stores, buy it. If you're in Covington LA stop by. They are worth a stop. People are so nice too. Two thumbs up.
Michelle Harrington — Google review
The tap room employees are the best and so is the freshness of the beer. They have a bunch of pilot beers on tap that you can't try anywhere else. The pilots are hit and miss but mostly hits. If you like Abita beers then chances are you'll like something on the pilot taps even more. One thing to mention is that there is no food there unless they bring in a food truck. It's an enjoyable nice place.
Dan Whalen — Google review
Huge place! There was a seafood boil outside since there’s no food inside. Pick up whatever you want to eat and bring it. All the beers on tap, lots of merchandise, and most of the beers in the fridge to bring home. Nice outdoor space to compliment the indoor bar, games provided, dog park and picnic tables too, ample parking
Amanda Burau — Google review
Went by on Saturday for something to do, and there was a craft fair going on across the street. There were also a few food trucks out front and a great crowd inside. We had a couple of beers and even took the 2:00 tour. JD did a great job showing us around and teaching us the history of the brewery. Was absolutely blown away by how big the operation was and the quality of the equipment behind the scenes. Totally worth taking the time to learn a little about the beer we were drinking.
Sarah Ellison — Google review
The brewery was pretty small and clean. Tour was great for $10, and you will get a pint or flight after the tour. There's outdoor space as well.
Cristina Jeong — Google review
Edit: I am now adding a fifth star as a representative from their customer service team reached out to me and listened to what I had to say. I felt understood and appreciated. Thank you so much Heidi! You are amazing!
It was difficult to find the entrance to the parking lot when coming in. Once parked, walk in and check in at the bar and get four doubloons to get beer after the tour. Walk to where the gift shop is and wait. The tour was nice. I like how they are intentional with their recycling and power usage. When the tour was over, I asked about getting the beverages to go and there was only the offer of open containers, which I didn't really want since I live about an hour away and came to the tour by myself. If I had been pulled over with four open containers, that would not have been a good look. They were also out of root beer in the gift shop, which is one thing that I knew I wanted and no one was around to ask for help. A female bartender said they were too busy to help with the gift shop questions. The tour is five stars, the bar and gift shop are one star.
Andrea F — Google review
We had a fun and informative tour. Our tour guide did a wonderful job explaining the process as well as what makes Abita different.
My wife and I did tasting flights afterwards. Great beer! Keep an eye out for the beers currently on test runs. Give them feedback. It could become their next regular brew.
Chris Flanigan — Google review
Abita is known for their use of local ingredients, commitment to sustainability and of course Purple Haze – one of the most popular raspberry brews in the US. Unfortunately for us, we landed on a day without tours, bummer. Even without a tour, we looked forward to getting our hands on beers outside our general distribution. In this case, the AndyGator, Strawgator and Bourbon Street Barrel Aged Imperial Stout ended up on our flight alongside a fresh Purple Haze.
Bourbon Street BA is 100% the beer to get your hands on. BSBA is insanely smooth and delicious, also it was aged in Pappy Van Winkle barrels. For those of you who don’t know Pappy, that’s kind of a big deal.
We had a great time kayaking, it was very fun and the boats were in great condition. Where we were there was no one else kayaking so it was nice to feel so secluded in the swamp. Jessica was amazing in keeping my daughter calm when she freaked out after getting herself stuck in a tree, which we really appreciated. Would definitely do this again if we are in town.
Shaun Smith — Google review
This was such a great way to start our time in New Orleans! Jess, the owner and our guide was super kind, accommodating and very knowledgeable. My wife and I were thrilled to find a tour that was locally run and committed to conservation rather than focused on feeding alligators. The cypress swamp is so beautiful and unlike any other landscape and it was absolutely filled with all kinds of animals. Jess was knowledgeable about each organism and shared her expertise in an engaging way. It’s clear she has a great passion for wildlife and the community and is a local expert in the field.
We booked the trip a little last minute and Jess was still able to pick us up and drop us off from our downtown hotel for a reasonable fee which we really appreciated (about a 40 minute drive each way). She was a responsible driver and shared lots of her local knowledge and her own stories along the way. I would definitely recommend this to anyone interested in seeing the real deal of the local swamps. Thank you!
Katie Dell — Google review
Highly recommend this tour if you want to have a most excellent adventure in the Honey Island Swamp region of Louisiana. Jessica was very knowledgeable and absolutely entertaining. Loved her enthusiasm about birding - huge plus for us as avid bird lovers ourselves! She also gave us tips on maneuvering our kayaks in and around the swampy Pearl River area. We had so much fun and made a beautiful memory with my dear friend from Missouri!
Thank you Jessica!!
Dawn Fletcher — Google review
There can be only one! Jess was phenomenal! My wife and 5 kids (ages 12 through 18) contacted Jess about a night kayak. She is happy to customize a trip for you, and the night paddle is spectular. We left during the day (we left 3pm), paddled through an incredible cypress forest (water was low when we went last night exposing more of the trees and roots whick was even better). We then went winding through the swamp to a medium sized lake where we saw some houseboats as the sun completed going down and we paddled back in the dark (what a way to take out distractions and connect with the swamp, almost spiritual) with just some dim red headlamps to light the way, arriving back around 6pm. Mike, Jess's partner, was in the back to ensure nobody gets lost.
Jess is almost a cypress tree herself...growing up on a houseboat in the swamps, boating since she was 5 years old, she knows the area almost to the extent she could boat it blindfolded. She is full of local knowledge delivered in a humble fashion not making anything up but fact based (ask about the tree with the hive on top struck by lightning!). She has partnered with ecologists such as coring the oldest cyprus (over 400yrs old!).
Jess knows customer service and really made the experience smooth as silk. Life jackets, dry bags, headlamps, brining you in/out of the water so you stay dry...she will take care of you from the beginning to the end. Both tandem and single kayaks are similarly fun.
The kayaks are incredibly stable, you'd have to really try of you want to tip over. Apparantely the alligators are afraid of people so you can even swim in the water! We went in late December, so the gators were hybernating and we didn't see any, but on the other hand the weater was fantastic and there were no bugs...a worthwhile tradeoff. In theory though, if you go during gator season and happen to be fortunate, your headlamps can turn gator eyes silver for an chillling experience (but surprisingly safe).
This was the highlight of our trip, I can't recommend it enough. Water levels, season, and other factors I am sure will give everyone a different experience. But that's outside your control--what is in your control is getting the VERY best guide to take care of you and your family...this is the clear choice....contact Jess and hope she has availability.
Chaim White — Google review
We had an amazing afternoon with Jessica and Mike paddling around the beautiful waterways just outside New Orleans. Great communication and genuinely wonderful people. Jessica is very knowledgeable about the fauna and flora and history of the area and created a warm atmosphere where 8 strangers felt like a group of friends exploring the bayou. They were also very flexible and created a new tour for us to work with our schedule. Highly recommend.
David Lavis — Google review
Jess and Mike run a fabulous trip. We saw turtles, snakes, osprey, and herons. We learned some history and some random facts (floating soap works as catfish bait around here) and just generally enjoyed our trip around the swamp area.
Heather Kilpatrick — Google review
Fantastic tour! Our guide was knowledgeable and super helpful. She even got out of her kayak into the swamp to get us unstuck from a cypress knee 🤣
She found a cute baby soft shelled turtle to show us! And pointed out a rare orchid.
I highly recommend this tour if you want some great information about the swap ecosystem. No feeding marshmallows to racoons!!
Wendy Firestone — Google review
Fantastic tour! Jessica is so knowledgeable and created a fun and relaxed environment for everyone. Both Jessica and Mike are passionate about what they do and it's great to spend time amongst the Cypress. Logistics were clear and easy, perfect for beginners or experienced kayakers alike, great activity for all!
Laura Scott — Google review
Amazing tour! Worth every cent. Jessica was so knowledgeable, kind and charming and we enjoyed every moment of the beautiful kayak tour. The kayaking was easy - very stable boats and quiet and still waters.
We had Jessica all to ourselves (three people) and her husband helped us get into the water and back on land. Amazing value for money.
Thank you Jessica!
Margot Igland Skarpeteig — Google review
Highly recommend, we had a wonderful time! This was a very unique way to experience a swamp, and it was really cool to paddle up close to all the exposed tree roots and knobs (we were there during low waters in early Oct). Jess was very communicative both before and during the tour. It was just the two of us that day and we had a great time talking with Jess, who is very friendly. It felt like the best of both worlds of getting a eco-tour from a knowledgeable guide and also hanging out and getting to know someone. It's clear that Jess loves nature, and she really loves sharing the swamp with others - thank you Jess!
Della Fok — Google review
This tour was incredible. Highly recommend for anyone who is looking for an intimate, beautiful tour of swamps from someone who knows them inside and out.
Jess went above and beyond, even coming back for us to help when our car got stuck in the mud later that day after the tour was well over. Talk about hospitality! If you're looking for a swamp tour that genuinely cares about the swamp ecosystem and isn't just interested in making money by feeding alligators, look no further!
Bex Kwan — Google review
The best tour I’ve ever taken, by far. Jessica, and her family were so friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and safety oriented. I learned so much about the this pocket of swamp. Jessica knows her stuff, genuinely loves what she does and goes the extra mile to ensure it’s a great experience. Cannot recommend highly enough.
Kumar Jensen — Google review
3 Guides, 4 Guests, Rolls-Royce Service: We had the great good fortune to book the very first Honey Island Kayak Tours tour of the season. Veteran guide Nick was showing two other guides, River and Stephanie, the route paddling off the Pearl River and into a labyrinth of five convoluted waterways traversing the swamps. Nick is a friendly, low-key, extremely knowledgeable guide teaching us about the swamps foundation trees, the Tupolos and the Bald Cypress. He put us on look out for the various types of woodpeckers knocking their heads out above us, and dropped other nuggets of wisdom such as the oldest dated cypress is 3,600 years old, the largest in the area has a circumference of 56' and so forth. River and Stephanie added in all sorts of local lore. Stephanie taught my daughter how to turn the kayak on a dime from the front paddling position. It was an absolutely fabulous 2 hours and 20 minutes spend in the swamp. Great guides, comfortable kayaks, very reasonable price.
Markus Robinson — Google review
A must go-and-see tour thats like a historic expedition in Louisiana! Jess, our tour guide, is a knowledable nature enthusiast who is not only a local to the area but a nature conservationist who is passionate about perserving the ecosystem. She devotes her time to her business and the livelihood of the swamp. Every year, Jess and the community will volunteer to clean the whole swamp area that threatens the wellbeing of the Cypress trees and wildlife. A tour guide with a heart of gold! If you are a nature lover or looking for a getaway educational tour, come check out this swamp kayak tour. You will not regret it.
Monie — Google review
If I could give a million stars I would. Jessica was so engaging in her tour. She has incredible knowledge of the ecosystem and is deeply engaged with its conservation. She is a great storyteller and has a wealth of information. You can't help but love the swamp after your tour. She and her partner, Mike, went above and beyond to share their little slice of paradise. Would go again in a heartbeat.
Deidre Khes-Kovacs — Google review
Gorgeous swamp with an informative tour guide and an eco-friendly tour methods. We did the 2.5 hour tour of the Honey Island Swamp, and it was easy kayaking, a completely different type of forest than I'm used to seeing, and learned lots about the local ecosystem from our tour guide, Jessica. Bird enthusiasts on our tour were excited about some rare birds we saw, and I enjoyed the 400 & 700 year old cypress trees. I appreciated that this tour didn't feed the wildlife, which as a biologist I've seen cause many problems for the wildlife and the tourists. I also appreciated that the tour was led by a local whose family has lived in the area for generations and is actively spearheading restoration efforts, reforesting, and river clean ups. Since we didn't have a car on our trip, it was so helpful to be able to be picked up in town! Would definitely recommend this tour over other swamp tour companies!
Michelle H — Google review
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Boat Launch, 65583 Pump slough rd Old, 65583 Pump Slough Rd, Pearl River, LA 70452, USA
Grand waterfront casino with 24/7 table games, slots & poker plus live entertainment & dining.
Remember to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙᴏʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏᴍ when booking a place. They compare thousands of booking websites and usually will have rooms a lot cheaper than others! Thank me later on! This place is one of the highest rated in the area. I have been coming here for a long time. If you stay for a few nights you definitely won't be disappointed.
We had a fun time as we rarely go to casinos and are responsible with our money. Through the club points we had two free tickets to the buffet featuring Shrimp and Fish. We enjoyed the dinner.
SUMON SIKDER — Google review
Make sure to use Hᴏᴛᴇʟʙoʟʟʏ.ᴄᴏm when booking a hotel. They compare countless booking web sites and normally will have rooms much cheaper than others! You're welcome :)! This hotel is one of the best in this area. I've been staying here for years. If you stay for a few days you definitely will love it I'm sure!
The Crab Feast buffet is worth the price and the drive from Gretna! They even have a wide variety of "no sugar added" desserts that's delicious. Our hostess and waitress were awesome! I can't wait to go back.
Eddie Garcia — Google review
This was my second stay at the park. I stayed this time to enjoy the casino. I was cheated out of my free buffet comp for first time sign ups. The lady at the players counter told me I had to earn 100 points in the first 48 hours to qualify. I did just that x10. When i went to kiosk it was not there. I came back two days later to see if it was on my account it was not. I explained it to the lady at the counter and she refused to do anything. I am a frequent gambler and only came back to this park to enjoy casino. Comps are an important part of a gamblers incentive to visit and return. To be cheated the very first visit out of a simple buffet voucher is crazy when I gambled/spent hundreds of dollars with you. The math does not add up on your end.
Justin Sanders — Google review
I haven't been to Silver Slipper casino in 4 years. The garage and the grounds were fifty. There is no non smoking area.
The hotel was clean and we had a non- smoking room, but you had to go through the casino.
The buffet was great and we came to eat 🦀 and shrimp 🍤. The restaurant was clean and the service was good. There is a pool which we didn't use. Most of the service personnel were friendly and helpful.
Herman Tureaud — Google review
Kinds funny how bad review get left if people don't win. Casinos aren't built to give you money
BUT this hotel is always nice, everyone is super friendly, it's very clean. Sign up for a player card and they give you free buffets and table play and free hotel stays every month. Beautiful pool and private beach. We love it here!
Anna Butler — Google review
We were treated to a trip to the all you can eat seafood buffet. The food was cooked perfectly and seasoned to a perfection. The Snow crab and Dungeness crab was fresh and had not been sitting on the steam table long. Our waitress was busy but attentive. An excellent deal for seafood lovers, many other foods were available as well. My only complaint is that you have to walk through the smoke filled casino to get to the buffet, very strong odor of cigarettes. The buffet itself is a non-smoking area.
Cheryl LeClair — Google review
Although we did not get to stay due to an medical emergency with my husband.we have stayed before and always loved it. I want to say that the staff,security ,the staff in the buffet are all so awesome. I don't know what I would have done without them all. We do plan to return later this year when he is better. I thank them all and God Bless them for really stepping up and being so great. My hubby says they are the best ☺️
karen ray — Google review
Lovely casino I'm not a huge gambler but I actually won something and it was fun! The buffet is great. The RV park has a beautiful atmosphere and view. Very quiet, friendly people. It seems to be family that lives here. Which is lovely for the family that's a part of it.
Elizabeth Branch — Google review
My friend and I visits the silver slippers occasionally to enjoy the buffet. This time we went the 4th of July and was enjoying until a lady walked in with a large dog and took the dog from station to station as she got her food. Whether it’s a service dog or dog period it should not be allowed in a buffet . Everyone should not be exposed to this while trying to enjoy a meal . It instantly made me nauseous knowing she was petting her dog then went touched the utensils on the buffet.
Tammie Lou — Google review
It's confusing when arriving. Not clearly marked where to drive in order to park. Only Valet parking. Casino, nice, a lot of smoke throughout the casino. Had a lot of slot machines but not real loose. Played $150.00 with no take away. Had the Buffet, 50.00 per person isa bit much. Not worth the price. They did have 4 types of crab legs and several shrimp choices, but the rest of the food choices were extremely limited. Deserts were very good and several choices. Overall 3 star out of 5. Did not stay at hotel.
Dianna Haskell — Google review
Our first time attending Cruising The Coast 2023 and we decided to grab a bite to eat and came across this place. The food here in the restaurant was superb! They had so much food and a big variety of different dishes. The staff was very friendly and helpful as well as attentive. We definitely enjoyed our food as much as we did the atmosphere.
Sylvia Walls — Google review
Zero stars tonight if I could. We have been staying at the SS for a few months now, every week. We reserved our room and got there around 7, to which I’m being id’d to go inside. I’m 40 years old. Again, we have been here for a few months and I’m just trying to go to our room. I show my id, which it’s expired( expired on my birthday and I just found out). They refused to let me in. I understand that if I won, or I I was trying to get some sort of service, I would need a valid id, but my husband reserved everything in his name. Mine clearly shows I’m over 21. Very rude security guard and staff. I won’t argue with you about spending my money there. I won’t be back.
Ashley Harden — Google review
This was our first stay and the Silver Slipper, our overall stay was fantastic! My only issue was there was no tub, as I’m not a shower person but I made due! The ocean view room was wonderful, the bed was very comfortable and the room was very clean. We will definitely be back!
Ronda Crockett — Google review
This was the view out of my hotel window. What more needs to be said. A laid back environment with no pressure to spend where you can have fun alone or being someone special with you to gamble the night away. I love the slots here and the buffet is second to none. Definitely will be going back sooner rather than later.
Brock McCrory — Google review
We ate at the Palm Court Cafe. It was delicious. We ordered the omelet, tuna dip and sweet potato fries. It did take a while for our food to come out, but totally worth it. I highly highly recommend the tuna dip. It's so good!!! Staff was friendly.
Echo Bond — Google review
Stop by on my road trip with friends the casino was okay. The buffet wasn’t worth it to me. It was okay the highlight of the meals might be the funnel cake and sausage and one cake that was really good but everything else is just okay or not good. If you don’t like seafood like the king crab, crab and shrimp then go to a nice restaurant.
Tai Earthman — Google review
On May 1, 2023 my husband & I paid $156.00 + a $50.00 deposit for incidentals. Room had bare essentials. Quite disappointing. NO MICROWAVE OR MINI-FRIDGE. Beds were unbelievably hard and uncomfortable. They were lumpy even with my topper from home. We left at 10 pm that same night. Spending less than 30 minutes in room. Contacted administration through survey with no response as of May 10, 2023. I am not a complainer; but, the bed was just terrible.
A positive note: the buffet was very good. The crabs were fresh and perfectly seasoned! Deserts were fresh and spectacular. I encourage you to go. A bit pricey at $50 a plate.
KC Valencia — Google review
Had a short get away just for fun. Our room was very nice and clean. Shout out to housekeeper Leslie!! She’s the best! We didn’t have one of her rooms this time but was still very nice. Just need more winning slots so we could come more often!!! Love ya Slipper!
Paula Rester — Google review
Silver Slipper is a great get away. Very friendly staff. Food that is a “10”. The weather is incredible on the gulf coast. Very clean resort. Great pool. Five stars all the way around. Greg R
Greg Redmond — Google review
We went my birthday weekend and normally it usually at least let's you play the slot machines for a few hours. This time was like all others casinos I stopped going to as I played many machines and it took every penny on every one and paid absolutely nothing!!! Don't think I'll ever play their slots again as it was all greed!
Misty Dugar — Google review
It’s been quite some time since I’ve been here and my husband’s first. This is our first time staying in the room and it’s breathtaking. We stayed on the first floor with the ocean view and I can stay lost just watching the water as it ripples through. The bed is so comfortable and the curtains are shutters. The bathroom is nice nice and spacious. We ate at the buffet and it was really good with several different types of variety of foods to choose from. We truly enjoyed our stay.
Amanda Marcus — Google review
This was my first visit and stay to the Silver Slipper, my overall stay was fantastic! The view from my room was wonderful, the bed was comfortable and the room was very clean. I’ll definitely be back!
Joycelyn Bergeron — Google review
Went and gobbled down as many crab legs as possible at the buffet. My uncle had some comps. It was great! The only thing that was lame was the time it took to get in to eat. The line was several miles long...or so it seemed. But it was Saturday night...couldn't be helped. I rambled on and on about whatever while we waited in line. The food was worth the wait. The staff was friendly. At one point I dropped a cherry tomato from my salad onto the floor and it rolled slowly and comically out into the walkway...some of the servers were congregated at their station near our table and they saw the whole thing. They laughed; and I laughed as I got up and ran to grab it before someone stepped on it. It was a funny, memorable moment. After we finished stuffing our faces; we set out to try our luck at the slots. Our luck sucked! Didn't win, but didn't spend much. A fun cool night altogether. Thanks, everyone at the Slipper! 😁🥿(that's a blue slipper...there wasn't a silver one) heeheeehahaa
Monica Zornes — Google review
We’ve been going to this casino for over 15 years now. It’s close and small and my husband just likes it. But we’ve never won anything over a couple hundred dollars. They cater to certain people here. It’s always the same ones winning and I know because unfortunately we go so much. It’s really sad they can’t see the value in their regular visitors. Overall this really isn’t a nice casino. It’s dirty. The bathrooms are horrible and the hotel should be torn down and rebuilt. We haven’t stayed in a few years but I hear how nasty it is. I recommend choosing another casino. Most people have already done that because we can see a major difference in how busy they are according to a year ago.
Mrs. M — Google review
This my 2time to stay at Silver Slipper both nights we enjoyed out stay and we are pleased, the views it so pretty to see the water front and it’s so peaceful. The House keeper is friendly. I will be back again because I love to come to eat their sea food buffet .
PS. I would like to say a big thank you to Mary in the front desk for helping me, to make it possible to have a none smoking room. I really appreciate her help. Thank you again and again.
Alfreda Longcop — Google review
I would consider myself a buffet connoisseur.This is baford.The best seafood buffet I have ever had.I have been over fifty times and it's still not enough
Camping, fishing, disk golf, nature trails & more on 400-acre park on the Gulf.
Front gate ladies were awesome!
The site we had reserved was too tight for our 5th wheel. They were able to find us a few alternatives to choose from and got our reservation changed. Beautiful and well taken care of Park. Was able to ride bikes down to and along the beach.
Kathy Donour — Google review
This was a terrible 3 days for over $50/ night. I'm camping right by the gift shop/ store and they have 2 ice freezers and don't sell ice. Plus they're to cheap to turn lights on in game room & pool is closed & locked with chains! No one around. No fire pit rings no tables or grill. It Sucks here! I Feel like they Ripped me Off! I'm happy I'm leaving tomorrow morning!
Chad — Google review
Nice well maintained park. We were here in Feb. '22 and it was steadily busy the whole time, I have to imagine during the summer this parks packed. The little nature trail in the front is a bit muddy and buggy so plan accordingly but not too long or bad. The pool and water park both look nice, they weren't open while we were here but looked nice. There's a nice playground and and frisbee golf as well, so plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Hanna Vojtush — Google review
The park is well kept and sites are nice. It's big rig friendly. No hiking trails and no park amenities are included in your stay or discounted which is kinda a bummer but I get it.
The issue is the park rangers park whereever whenever. Mainly at the exit, they just park their truck without thinking hey... Can an RV get past me to leave... Because you can't get past them so twice we've stayed here and had to lay on the horn until someone came to move the ranger trucks. What's frustrating is they're less than 6 feet from open parking spaces dedicated to park rangers! Like why block the exit when you have parking spots at the door.
Alissa Davis — Google review
We just discovered this place and absolutely love it. My 4 year old has the best time. Get there early if you want to rent a cabana or snag a table with an umbrella. There aren't alot of shaded areas.
Liberty Taylor — Google review
Spent a month here in the winter season.
Park was less busy through the week and more busy on the weekends.
Lots of walking roads.
Staff are friendly and helpful.
Wi-Fi is perfect. lots of antennas in the sites. Good speeds. Could stream movies.
Nice dog park, It is clean and lots of room for them to run.
Park is across the road from the Gulf.
We played Disc Golf several times. They have an 18 hole course.
There are also playgrounds for kids.
Leigh Hardy — Google review
Mostly quiet campground, except the two or three trains that go by each night. The sites are spacious and have plenty of room between campers. We went before the wave pool and camper pools opened for the year. The noseeums, a horrible Toby flying biting knats, we're out in force. It made it impossible to stay outside.
John Mason-Smith — Google review
The park was easy to find. There is pavement all the way including the interior roads. Signage is adequate. Check in was efficient and friendly. The rules are fairly basic.
Our site, 24 in Loop 1, was a back in that was just long enough for our Coach and Towed. Services (30/50 amp, water and sewer only) were to the left side. Distancing is good as a State Park should be. Some sites had a vegetation privacy barrier. Each site has a table on a concrete patio and some have a fire pit. Our site was flat and even. Overall the park was well laid out, nicely groomed and a pleasure to be at.
There is park included wifi but it was weak and often impossible to log onto. Our Verizon hotspot worked well. We found a number of OTA channels and satellite should not be too difficult. We did not use the washrooms or showers but we checked and found them clean.
There is a Store, Games Room/Arcade etc available (in season). Disk Golf and a Playground and laundry facilities are always available. There is as a Water Park and Wading Pool as well but only during season and it is an additional cost to use them. The beach is a little far to walk to but there is parking available should you wish to drive there.
There are no restaurants or stores within easy walking distance but about a 15 minute drive away you can find food, shopping and convenience stores. We found this park to be a good base to use visiting the local attractions. We paid $34.24 per night (inc Taxes) and we feel we received fair value. We will be back if in the area again.
Darrell & Jeredene Ollenberger — Google review
Love Bucaneer but they need more maintenance people. We only had 1 bench on our picnic table. It was that way last year too. Nice laundry. Store and game area. They aren't picky about rugs and driving or parking in grass.
Debra Vogel — Google review
I am so glad I found this place online. It is the nicest state park I've ever stayed in. They have a Fenced dog park. Great laundry facilities., Swimming pool which I didn't use. Because it is the winter and Ann incredible view of the golf coast. Everyone was so nice. I was so happy there.
Maggie Doyle — Google review
Wonderful campground! Negatives: they DEFINITELY NEED SIGNS ON WHERE CAMPERS CHECK IN. We pulled in, no one in the first small building, no signs on what we needed to do or where we needed to go. So we hopped back into the truck and just kept going. While we were staying there, we saw and talked to many other campers who had the same issue. Also, the back end of the park needs attention. (Roads and sites, very worn compared to the front of the park) Management- do a better job with park signage, please!
Brenda Teunis — Google review
Beautiful view!
We stayed in a Gulf View site (at the front of the park, separate to the main campground) and loved having the view. There is some road noise, not bothersome at night. Concrete sites are clean and level, with grass on each side. Very generous spacing between sites, which we enjoyed. Probably the biggest spacing we’ve had in nearly a year. Good base for touring the area.
Great water pressure, plenty of room to spread out on concrete pad, Starlink worked well.
If staying in a Gulf View site, take note you must register at the office toward the back of the park, but the turn-off to the sites is at the front of the park, as if you’re heading to the water park’s parking lot.
If you’re into fishing, you’ll literally just have a short walk across the road to the Gulf. A small beach and a long concrete walkway make for easy access.
Veness Travel Media — Google review
Great park! Across the road from the beach. The campground sites are at the back of the park, so peaceful. Park is kept mowed, bathrooms are clean but dated, they have a disc golf course in the park, a pool (open seasonally), a store, laundry and game room, plus trails to walk and plenty of road for biking. We stayed for 3 months each the last two winters. We love this park!
Nikki Chitwood — Google review
The camping spots were great. Plenty of room cement slabs made parking better. My complaint is that the pool and store closed for 6 pm. When it’s 100 degrees you want to wait until evening to go out by 6 because it stays light until 830 maybe they can change their times during pool season. The beach is within driving or biking distance
The Island View Casino Resort is a dazzling destination that boasts a casino, spa facilities, and direct access to the beach. With 11 different dining options and bars available on-site, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink. The hotel rooms are of high quality and there are ample gaming machines and tables for all patrons. Although winters can be chilly, the ocean views from this resort are breathtakingly beautiful year-round.
They serve the best breakfast buffet. The staff and service is very great. Prices are reasonable and a wide variety of food. They have sugar free items if you want them. The servers and the staff are great people always willing to help. I have never had a bad experience I would recommend it to anyone.
Linda Bruce — Google review
Best hotel on the Mississippi Gulf. Lots of player perks. The Buffet is fantastic. Great food all ready for me to enjoy. Breakfast about $12 lunch $14. Big value for the dollar. Friendly staff and dealers make you feel welcome. Clean comfortable rooms.
Starlight Lifter — Google review
Courteous staff, willing to explain the comps and points system for the rooms and restaurants. Rooms nice and spacious. The only problem we had was the bathroom sink was slow in draining (probably from previous occupant) not a deal breaker. Restaurants served plenty of food at a good price after comp points. We had a good time!!
Edward Amy — Google review
Island View is great to gamble at, they have plenty of different activities going on for the players club members, they give you more free play than any of the casinos on the coast. The employees are super friendly and helpful, there is plenty of parking and for the non-smokers that don't want to be around cigarette smoke, they have the smoke free side called Beach View. They have a great selection of slot machines, older ones and newer ones. I love the older machines. The food is great at the different eateries. If you want friendly service and are looking for more free play, $99 rooms, and free food get you a players card and you will really enjoy this casino.
Terra Foster (BlueBlood) — Google review
I'd like to say that my experience here was extraordinary pleasant! Lots of slots to choose from! What I liked is that they have fountain drink machines located at different places thru out the casino floor making getting a drink easy! The cocktail waitress was very polite and always right on time for me. I give ISLAND VIEW CASINO a very high 👍 up!! Thank u to all staff and security I had an amazing visit!!
william Battaya — Google review
Great quality for the price. Excellent service - everyone from the housekeeping, front desk, security, etc. was very friendly and helpful. Really nice, fun place to stay! Lots of dining options available inside.
Having a non-smoking side was great.
The only negatives would be that the room had some beaten up things and weren’t the cleanest (stains on the towels). Also, it seemed that not all the elevators worked… it took forever to wait on them.
Arianna Taggart — Google review
It was excellent. Beautiful inside. The staff were on the spot with our drinks and whatever came across. We had dinner in the buffet and it was absolutely amazing..not crowded at all and very quite. We enjoyed our time and stay.
Ethel Keller — Google review
My party of four women decided to dine at your restaurant, Island View on Saturday. Everyone was nice. They greeted and seated us quickly. While dining we noticed some commotion about four tables in front of us. This lady was upset that they were going to seat two ladies with their “service” dog beside her. The lady insisted they not seat them near her. The hostess proceeded to seat the two ladies with their “service” dog beside our table. I did not have a problem with the service dog, because she had him/her in a zipped up stroller. The problem arose when she unzipped the stroller and proceeded to feed the dog from her plate!!! The manager (a lady) proceeded to inform the women not to feed the dog from their plates or security would be called and they would be escorted out.
Needless to say the women continued to feed the dog from their plates and security was never called nor were the women asked to leave. This continued until we departed about another ten to fifteens minutes (could have been longer, but we let before dessert).
There are many diseases carried by animals that can be transmitted to humans through salivary glands. The process of feeding the dog from contaminated hands to handling the serving utensils has a GREATER risk of infection. Not only do we have to contend with COVID and the flu. But this cross contamination does NOT have to be another! Animals clean themselves by self licking!!! Imagine that!
If you LOVE dog hair and animal contamination in your food this is a GREAT place to eat!!!!
Melissa Jackson — Google review
When I made reservations I requested a non-smoking room, king sized bed for two adults. When I made the reservations I booked four nights and told the man I was entertaining “my Valentine”. 💘
When we got to the room I thought I was walking into a hospital room for TWO PEOPLE as the room had too much furniture in it, a lumpy mattress, a dirty coffee pot and a perfect view of the rooftop (we requested the “Beach View Tower”); Instead we had a “Roof View”!
Grant Williams, HAS, HIS, ACA, Audioprosthologist — Google review
This is a nice casino. Have seen some decline in the upkeep in the most used restrooms. Machines are not kept as clean as when I first started going there. Beach rooms are better than tower rooms. Tower rooms are dated. Prime cut restaurant is the best restaurant on premises in my opinion. Excellent service and outstanding food. Most of the slot machines are set up where you don't feel like you are stacked on top of other people. Walkways in between allow you to walk around without bumping into others.
Terri T — Google review
Hubby took me here after he earned some free hotel nights and dinner points. Nice place to eat, play and sleep. We lost some and win some at the casino. Liked that they had a non smoking casino & hotel but we stayed at their smoking hotel since the other was full. Free parking. Great food at their restaurants. Great drinks. Had a great time.
Sophea — Google review
What's not to like? Machines appear to be winning to me they were paying out. The food is great. There is no snow crab leg buffet any longer but the selections were still enough to hold my attention and I am a chef so do yourself a favor go gamble and eat and have fun here. It was worth the trip.
Loni Hammond — Google review
Still not used to smoking after having not been around it so long. However, and thankfully, there is a non-smoking side and it's a lot calmer. The pool setups are different on the smoking and non-smoking sides though but the non-smoking side has a view of the Gulf. I'm not a gambler but I signed up as a new member and was given a $20 credit and had fun spending someone else's money. All staff was nice and everything was open. Their food prices are great and that breakfast buffet was very reasonably priced and has good offerings. I'd come back here just for that! Having the two sides and it being clean, on both sides, is great. The rooms are good sized and comfortable. Room service was courteous and prompt.
Demetri — Google review
Right down by the beach! This was the first casino of our trip. One of the managers stopped by to check on us and knew our names. She was really sweet and wished us luck. We were new rewards members, so we got $20 in play credit and $20 food credit, which was awesome! We spent our food credit on the buffet, and it was pretty good. The Italian bar was the worst one. It was as if the food had sat there for hours, and there was no attendant in that area. Every other section constantly had someone.
Adriana Mojica — Google review
The hotel staff was extremely friendly and helpful and got me and my wife checked in to our room quickly. The room was nice but just that, nice. There was nothing special about the room, quite ordinary really. The gaming floor offered a large selection of slot/video poker machines, but the table games selection was limited. Cocktail waitresses were very friendly and, for the most part, very timely. There are always people cleaning the casino floor and restrooms. They have multiple restaurants/eateries that have good food to choose from.
adam lopez — Google review
Went on a girl's trip and stayed here for the first time. It was great! They have a side parking lot behind the nonsmoking side so you can go the beach, the pool on the smoking side is GORGEOUS. There was live music while we were there on Saturday night and the shops stay open most of the day, even a couple of them are 24 hours like the Casino part. Four of the girls on our trip won at least $400. Rooms were clean and stocked. Great time overall.
Paige Carter — Google review
One of the nicest casinos 🎰 I've been to and the one that I go to the most. The slot machines are always changing, meaning they always have new machines being installed and old ones removed. The comps a pretty decent even having a low Players Club card. I'm only on Plus in my comps are pretty good.
Christopher Horvath (Chris) — Google review
We came to Island View on a vacation because our past trips here were enjoyable. We checked in 3/26/24 and the casino seemed dirty some of the machines were sticky from other patrons when you touched them. The trash bins were old and dirty. The buffet last evening at 6:30 was not good its like the food was reheated from the day before and desserts dry and tasteless the fried foods were dark like the oil in the fryers needed changed. Very disappointed. Also a dog in a stroller was allowed in the dining area we didn't feel that was appropriate.
Karen Wampler — Google review
The 2 main buildings are joined by a walkway over hwy 90.
The casinos are large and takes lots of time to see all the rooms, restaurants, bars, pools, decks and casino areas.
The older building is a locals favourite and it is busy. Be aware that the casino has been smoked in for over 20 years.
The newer building has a wonderful harbour view and the Gulf and it is smoke free.
They have an excellent new player offer for food and free play.
James R McBride — Google review
This casino and resort is the bomb! Their hotel rooms are very nice, and there are definitely enough machines and tables for all their customers. My time spent viewing the ocean was an awesome one! Although I didn't get in the water, because it's winter, it was such a beautiful and peaceful place. I highly recommend going here, especially for vacations! However, I think it best to visit during the summer months so you can further enjoy the ocean waters. 🏄♀️🚣♂️🏊♀️🎰🚬🎲♠️♥️♦️♣️🃏🏤🧳🌊💰💲💳🧯🚻🔞☮♻️💯♿🏳️🌈🇺🇸
Malissa McSwain — Google review
Best Casino we’ve been to so far in the country, including Vegas! They give fantastic comps! Comp points add up quickly to use for free dining, or play money! Always great give-a-ways, cars, trucks etc. We enjoy the variety of drinks offered, and the many “Senior” day give-a-ways!! Can’t beat their breakfast buffets! Rooms always clean and ready. Staff always pleasant and helpful! Hotel on the beach, one side smoke free! We look forward to our visits there every few months! Can’t beat the value we get!
Patricia Barnett — Google review
Very new, clean, and spacious. Nice machines... good when you walk out two hours later in the plus column! It's also a plus when you get a dining credit that pays for your meal... it was all good, and non smoking, too... we will go back if we are in the area again for sure!! Two thumbs up!! 👍
peter pinkham — Google review
Let me just begin with "What is up with the pillows?!?!?" On a queen bed, there's an "oversized" polyester fill and a "normal (read "tiny" ) polyester fill. Come in, now! With the income from the casinos and food, surely better AND more pillows can be purchased for guests. Other than that, the rooms are clean and the location is convenient to gambling, the beach, and just a short drive from a variety of less expensive restaurants and retail shops.
Lea M. — Google review
We stayed on the beach side and rooms were nice. The gambling here is horrible on the beach side. Never could cash out anything, not one ticket. Cannot recommend this casino at all. Staff was not pleasant and acted as if we were inconveniencing them. No smiling faces must hate their jobs. Won’t be back ever!! The old casino was more fun. People a little friendlier. Do not eat at the buffet on Monday evenings. The price was $27.99 a person and all three of us could not eat any of it. It was disgusting even the desserts were terrible. Have never eaten soft, mushy boiled shrimp before. Even the lettuce in the salad was old. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere else
Shelley Moen — Google review
Always a great time when we go. We get comp rooms often. Everyone is so friendly there. You can cross over to there non-smoking casino which I think is fabulous. Dockside Deli has awesome breakfast!!! Goin Back for my birthday next month. Can't wait !!!!
Dawn Granger — Google review
Great Casino, with tournaments and lots of promo games! Awesome selection of games to choose from with 2 sides, smoking and non-smoking! Rooms on Ocean side are beautiful (5 stars) and have a safe, Smoking side of Casino (Beach tower) rooms need updating and definitely a safe added! Coffee staff is wonderful, also at the Carson’s Steakhouse Bar! I will be back, but only if I can manage to get a room on the Isle side. A favorite spot since I come from Las Vegas to gamble here at least 3X a year!
Debbie Smith — Google review
Island View has lured me down there and promised on the phone that if I returned and got 500 points they would allow for comp rooms then they changed their policy, the swim up bar is a joke, and very nasty. The guest relations office are unprofessional and do not meet the standards. 6 years as a patron and they did not allow the comp room they promised. Go to Treasure Bay it has the best perks now. Whatever you play as a new member you get it back the next day.
Island View has started to downward spiral and they do not take care of patrons that come all the time. See response below after I got a personal call from a host who had me come back then denied my rooms.
Their response to a weekday room that is fully available at this time as no one is selling out rooms all over the coast so n a Wednesday.
Good Afternoon Mr. Jim,
Thank you for contacting Island View Casino again.
As stated before, the 500 point offer does have to be booked in advance and the point have to be made during the stay.
You have from the moment that you check in under that offer until midnight to make the 500 base Points to make the room offer free. The points on your card presently do not count toward the point requirement.
We apologize for the misunderstanding.
At this time, we are not able to book a complimentary stay at this time.
Best Regards,
Guest Relations
Jim Reaves — Google review
I love Island View. I have been going here to gamble since 2017. I love the rooms and the beach side because it is smoke free! Once it opened I stay on the new side. The people who work the tables are very nice. I wish that if you have a longer stay that they would let us replace towels, give toilet tissue, and take out the trash. Our trash was over flowing. They dirty towels we had we were told by the cleaner to leave them on the floor so we had a pile of towels that were dirty after we asked for new ones. We also, had to ask for tissue multiple times throughout the stay.
Mandi Smith — Google review
I have never been in this casino in my life until today and it will be my last time going. I was out with my husband and 1 year old after seeing the aquarium. My dad and grandma were inside at the casino and told us to come in to the buffet. My dad met me outside and carried our one year old inside and we were greeted with an extremely rude older security lady that said no kids, EVEN TO EAT!! This is absolutely insane because no other place has this problem. We left after she was so rude. My dad went back inside because my grandma was still in there and the same security guard told him he had to leave because he was caught “on camera” holding a baby. HE HAD ALREADY BEEN IN THERE with my grandma for at least an hour. These people don’t care about you or your family. Strictly money is all they care about. Will never step foot in this place again and neither will my family. Definitely not kid friendly. Did not appreciate being treated like a criminal for bringing my kid in to eat.
Josie Pierce — Google review
My favorite casino on the coast. Comps are great, there are two Casinos. On on the beach-view side is no smoking. Island view is good also and has smoking. Walking indoor Bridge between them. Restaurants are really good. They have The Steamer across Street on the Island side-high end seafood. They have the Grille in the Casino decent food and big portions. Carter Green Steakhouse -delicious. There is a diner on beach side that's really good also. Table games and slots on both sides. Highly recommend. Employees very nice. Didn't stay in Hotel as we already had a place.
Patty Gatliff — Google review
My husband and I got a room here a few weeks ago. The girl who checked us in was rude.and not welcoming or friendly at all. She was very soft spoken, which is fine but we had to ask her what she said numerous times and still couldn't hear her and she got an attitude and rolled her eyes instead of raising her voice. Neither one of us are hard of hearing. We just couldn't hear her over all of the noises from the slot machines. The room was nice, however, when we tried to sleep in the bed the sheets and comforter were so cheap and uncomfortable that we laid there and could not sleep because both of us started feeling itchy scratchy sensations on our whole body. At first I thought maybe it was bed bugs but we didn't see anything and thank God didn't have any bite marks. We ended up leaving because there was no way either on of us were going to be able to sleep in that bed. During checkout we told a different girl at the front desk why we checked out early and she never acknowledged what we said. Never apologized for the inconvenience or anything.
Also, I never win anything there. I realize casinos are meant to take your money, but after never winning anything after the money I spend in there, it doesn't make sense to keep going back.
Renee Haynes — Google review
Nice hotel to charger my tesla! Beautiful casino carpet. I didn't stay in the rooms or eat at the restaurants!
I loved that they had complimentary beverages and gold peak sweet tea
SLutty Roo — Google review
WTH? I just called to reserve a room and they can't guarantee your bed type. They said that is first come, first served, so get here early.
We always book a king because my husband prefers the extra seating in the room. Imagine if you had 4 people to a room and you ended up with a king? Wow.
I really wanted to try this casino resort, but with my luck, we'd end up with two queens. Very disappointing.
Jo Gio — Google review
I was there gambling for about 3 hours, 3 nights ago. Played slots for around 2 hours, then went to the 3 Card Poker table. about 1 hour into me being at the table, I was approached by a female SECURITY employee and asked to take my sweatshirt off or turn it inside out because it had a 4 letter curse word on it. I wasn't bothering anyone. No one had complained, to my knowledge. I am curious as to how out of hundreds of people in the casino, I was singled out......especially after I entered the casino passing through the SECURITY check-in podium. I was told it was part of their "rules" that no vulgarity was allowed. Inside the casino ??? Where everyone is 21 and older.....getting drunk, smoking and gambling ??? There were no signs posted. So how was I supposed to know ? I wasn't at the table cursing or being belligerent. It was printed on my sweatshirt. And I definitely wasn't about to take my clothes off in the middle of the casino. So I waited to finish my hand, took my money and left. I have been going to this casino for over 13 years and have never had an issue. I realize to some, this is nothing, but to me it was ridiculous. It definitely put a bad taste in my mouth and I will think long and hard about coming back.
Cruises to Ship Island & Civil War-era Fort Massachusetts, with a chance to spot dolphins on route.
The wonderful staff took great care making sure we saw dolphins on our cruise and gave us some tips on where the best seats were to see them swim along side the boat. They did not disappoint! Friendly, knowledgeable & priced right, this is a must do cruise!
Aly B — Google review
This was a great family experience. The crew was friendly and informative and let everyone know when and where they saw any dolphins on the dolphin cruise. The boat would loop back and figure eight to give everyone a chance to see the dolphins. We were also told about other points of interest in the area and made it almost to Ship Island. When we return to the area, we plan on taking a trip with Ship Island Excursions to the island itself. I highly recommend this company. They offer a number of unique cruises and all of them sound like fun.
Ken's Alternate Universe — Google review
Bring so much bug spray! The experience was so cool & the staff was amazing! The island was so much fun!
My only recommendation is that they add infants-2 year olds when booking tickets. There is no place to add them when checking out except a note section that doesn’t specify since they are free. We add a couple of extra kids & they have to know when they are onboard.
Trinity — Google review
Great excursion out to Ship Island. Nice calm boat ride out there, and then you are free to roam the island to hang out at the beach or check out the fort. They have restrooms on both sides of the island, and they have a gift shop/food located near the beach area. Cool marsh area to look for birds and snakes. Lots of fun seashells in the sand, too!
Waverly Stevens — Google review
The crew were great with a very easy and streamlined check in process. The boat ride was very smooth all the way to ship island and back. We also did see many dolphins on both trips to and from.
Would recommend renting the umbrella and chairs on site, that’s just less things to carry as it’s a pretty far walk from the dock to the Gulf side of the island. Very enjoyable trip and would recommend!
Jason White — Google review
This experience exceeded our thoughts of a beach to walk on and enjoy, the seashells were AMAZING, the chairs and umbrellas a great addition for enjoying the day and the concession and bathrooms didn’t disappoint (clean and good food and drinks). Provided a history lesson about the Fort Massachusetts. What a memorable day! We’ll be back!!
Cheryl Davis — Google review
Such a fun trip! It was a last minute decision to go and we didn't bring what we normally would, but they had drinks, food, sun screen, sun glasses, everything we needed available to buy on the island as well as food and drinks on the boat. The boat trip is about an hour long each way. We saw dolphins on the way up and the way back and while we were on the beach. Be prepared to do some walking, only one set of bathrooms were open and it was a good little walk from the beach side. Chairs and umbrellas were nice to have for rent. Definitely buy the cup for $3 and get $1 refills.
Jessica Brown — Google review
This trip is an absolute blast! Saw dolphins coming and going from the island, and the staff was awesome as well.
Pro Tips:
Pack light, the more you carry, the worse you’ll feel.
Prepare for a 15-20 minute walk in the heat once you arrive/depart the island.
Ultimately, this is worth every penny you spend, plus some.
Russell Ledford — Google review
We went on a dolphin watching cruise and happened to see few dolphins. The crew was very helpful and supportive. It was a 1.5 hours ride and drinks/snacks available on board. The crew used to announce on mic if they spot any dolphins. It’s around 25$ for adults and 14$ for kids 3-12. It was safe and fun filled trip and finally watched some Dolphins. Our trip started at 4. To 5.30 and we booked online around that day morning, tickets were available even it was the Halloween weekend. Worth a try
Antony Jeyaraj — Google review
The water is a bit cleaner than the mainland. The snack shack had horrible food. Don't expect much. They did have necessary things if you forgot them at home. Suntan lotion, bathing suits, souvenirs, shirts, drinks and snacks, cold beers. Nice people. You could rent a boogie board for $10 or buy a raft for 7 or a tube for 5. You can also rent chairs on the beach for $5 and an umbrella for $15. Which you will need if you didn't bring any cover. The fort is a cool piece of history to visit and take pictures. The ferry ride was smooth and we saw a few dolphins along the way and some jellyfish. There is a snack bar onboard inside with cool air, with minimal seating, so if you're looking for a cool place better make it there first. Settle in cause it's an hour ride there and back.
Debra Durante — Google review
My family loved this! Full of history for the history nerds & one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. Full of wildlife. We seen blue crabs, dolphins, sting rays & lots of fish. Highly recommend!
Chelsea Wicker — Google review
I loved Ship Island! I will definitely take this excursion when I vacation in the Gulf Coast again in the future. I swam on the south end of the island and on the north end. The south end has chairs and umbrellas that you can rent. The pier and Fort are on the north end. There were a lot of fish and stingrays on the north end. It's such a beautiful place!
Jennifer Newville — Google review
On the cruise to the island we got to see a dolphin. The island was beautiful. I really enjoyed the tour guide at the fort. He was very informative. And really enjoyed touring the fort. The beach was really nice also. We had a great experience and enjoyed it. If you get a chance to take this excursion you will really enjoy it.
Ricky Anderson — Google review
This was an excellent day and Ship Island Excursions is a 5-star operation. First about the company, then the island. Reasonable prices for return fare to Ship Island - about $44 with taxes. The staff are very friendly and helpful. They have loaner coolers at no charge and all of their beverage and food prices, including on the island are *fair*. A cheeseburger on the island is $6 and a beer is $4. Wonderful to see a company not gouging tourists because of a monopoly. Ship Island is wonderful! Clear water, lots of wildlife, great, quiet beaches. We saw crabs, stingrays, dolphins, many species of birds, and tons of fish. One of the best days on the Gulf Coast that I’ve had. Willl be back soon.
Roy Haggerty — Google review
Ship Island Excursion was absolutely fantastic!!!! I was alone on a trip for the first time in my life! Talk about scary! Being on a boat with complete strangers and being completely alone! But when I went aboard everyone was so nice! I sat by a woman who was very friendly and we made fast friends! From there the whole day just got better and better! The staff was could not have been nicer! They are knowledgeable and friendly! They know everything about the island. The snack bar is amazing and fast! You can also purchase souvenirs if you wish! You can also rent beach umbrellas and chairs for a very reasonable price! The day I was there it was overcast but I still got some sun and just a little bit of a burn where I missed with my sunscreen my lower leg! So don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses!!!! And have fun and collect seashells!
Kristen Wilbanks — Google review
We booked a last minute ride to Ship island for their last return of the day. For this you pay half price of the normal rate since it’s the last trip of the day. You can’t get off the boat it’s just a round trip but, the best part of that is you have the boat all to yourself on the way there. It’s perfect to get on the water for a couple hours. The captain was very friendly and so were the staff we encountered. I accidentally paid for my 2 yr old grandson and they refunded me immediately! So friendly and a great time. Will definitely book again when in the area.
Kathleen Alcala — Google review
Had a great trip out to ship island. Staff was super friendly and we had a great time. Ship was clean and had plenty of very well trained staff
The Institute For Marine Mammal Studies is a reservation-based marine education center that offers interactive exhibits, touch pools, and programs featuring dolphins. It provides an enjoyable experience with a beautiful layout and knowledgeable staff who offer wonderful animal experiences. Although not as large as an aquarium, it features a ray pool which is a favorite among visitors seeking respite from summer temperatures. It's affordable to visit and offers close-up encounters with sea lions and dolphins that are particularly exciting for children.
This is a very fun place to go. We had an experience with the dolphins and the sea lion which I very whole heartedly suggest to do. It’s a bit pricy but an experience you will never forget! How many times in your life do you get to act like a Biologist without the schooling it’s lots of fun. We had a great time!! The staff are awesome and will answer every question you ask them. Hats off to the owner for having a great staff!! The only thing I would change is let the person that had to change into their bathing suit should be able to change their bathing suit when they are done to the same room they started with instead of a cramped stall in a public restroom with no privacy! Other than that it was great time!
David Tipton — Google review
Fantastic Double Birthday Celebration! We booked the Dolphin interaction experience for all the kids which included a private sea lion show for all to enjoy. Many thanks to the incredible team for their accommodating efforts ( Sonya, Anna & Emily). Wonderful memories- worth every penny! 💗
Jennifer Niolet — Google review
One of the best aquariums we have visited. Extremely memorable and lots of interaction!
Stephanie Walster — Google review
We visited in July and my son with special needs was treated amazing by staff. He did the dolphin encounter with Ellie and she went above and beyond for him. Everyone did, down to the employee who walked us there! Thanks to Mr. Moby for getting Cade here and seeing and nurturing his love for marine life!
Maegan Richard — Google review
It was smaller than I expected but nice. The trainers and dolphins 🐬 were awesome. But $4 for a powerade 😳 I'll drink that pool water that splashed me. But a great experience for the kids. Very informative speakers. The speakers 🔊 in the ray pool house 🙉 you can't hear,plus the kids yelping.
Roger Redd — Google review
This was the 2nd time were at the Marine Institute. My daughter's Stingray Swim was a great experience! Matt, the worker that was instructing my daughter was amazing. It happened that she was the only one doing this experience at our time slot, so it was very personal.
Matt was very personable, friendly, and knowledgeable. Took the time to answer any questions we had.
The experience feeding the rays and sharks was great! My daughter had a fantastic time and wants to eventually do the dolphin encounter (wanted to do that today, but the time we wanted was full).
We also fed the parakeets. So fun. Had 4 land on us at a time.
The only downside was we paid extra to be a "spectator" during our daughter's experience. It felt pointless when other guests came into ray pool area during her experience. I feel we would've have had to pay extra (other than we wouldn't have gotten to get first hand explanation of the rays and sharks).
Overall, it was an amazing day. 😀
Melissa Davis — Google review
Don’t let the gift shop clerk discourage you, this place is AWESOME!! Ask questions and save at least an hour for the discovery center! Great value, great learning opportunity, wonderful and knowledgeable staff.
Jimmy B — Google review
Very informative presentations. Place was clean for us and the animals. We happen to go 2/21. We were with 2 student groups, students were polite and paying attention. ...Hats off to their teachers for good leadership.
Jane Harris — Google review
First I would like to say..they rescue and help sick and stranded marine critters. They don't abuse or torture. It's a place they use to teach young girls and boys about marine life.so they will grow up and respect it..
It cost money to help and care for these critters ...so just know you are helping to save dolphins and sea turtles..and all the other critters. A great bargain if you ask me..
The people are great and helpful.wonderful place...Thank you...
Ned Snean — Google review
Amazing place and mission! The kids love it and we sent our daughter to the summer camp here one year.
Destiny & Crew — Google review
My mother and I visited here from Kentucky. We did the sea lion kiss and dolphin encounter. The staff were very friendly. You could see their compassion with helping the mammals. We loved every bit of our visit!
Kory Haas — Google review
A wonderful place to visit. It’s not crowded, has a beautiful layout. Granted it’s not as big as an aquarium, but they are very knowledgeable about the animals and have wonderful experiences for people to experience. The ray pool was my favorite, plus it’s a nice way to catch a break from summer temps. You won’t break the bank with a visit. It was fun to watch the little ones see dolphins and sea lions up close. The parakeets are so much fun to watch.
Perkins Family (Key Lime) — Google review
Wow what an amazing little gem! Affordable for our family of 6 and we had experiences we will never forget! The dolphin show was incredible and we had so much fun feeding the birds and touching the sting rays!
Sabrina Marie Wagner — Google review
Phenomenal Experience! Truly a hidden gem that I wouldn't pass up.
The place is clean, with a fantastic schedule of events, affordable pricing & the staff are stupendous! In the museum you can dig for real sand shark teeth (even my older kiddos enjoyed this.) Every staff member is eager to teach & answer questions. When your here you can attend: snakes & gators talk, sting rays talk, dolphin show, sea lion show, and bird show; all last about 10 minutes but are open for questions for all curious minds (that means adults too.)
They also have encounters which include the general admission in the cost. They have anything from dolphin kisses, dolphin encounters to hanging out with the string rays. As my daughter wants a career with animals I signed her up for Job Shadow. I can't speak for the other experiences offered but the Job Shadow experience was absolutely extraordinary! She was able to learn first hand from the trainers & experts themselves. They shared there love & knowledge of the job while making it fun & educational! If you have a kiddo that loves animals the way mine does I wouldn't hesitate and go make the day of their dreams come true, like mine. 🧡
A state-run water park on the Pascagoula River Basin offering fishing, swimming, boating & more.
AWESOME ENVIORNMENT. We tent camped in April, it was great but the bathhouses were not. My only complaint! Take your own TP and don't plan on a shower.
Mandi Slone — Google review
Place is nice and nature is beautiful. Our camp sites grill must have broken in the past and they removed it and have not replaced it yet screwing up our meal plans. Also for some reason they decided to renovate the bathrooms and showers in April. I don't know why they didn't do this during the winter season when no one would have been here.
James Houck — Google review
We stayed in rustic cabin 7. We payed over 100 a night. The air vents looked like that through out the whole cabin. I didn't know the couch had the furniture nails hanging out till my 17 month old daughter ran to me holding her little hand. The batteries in the thermostat died. We Had to replace them.. This place was a wreck. Called and went to the main office and never got hold of anyone. Was the worst experience I've ever had.
Michal Dunn — Google review
Wish they gave military discount. Other than that the lake is nice well kept up. But they have a lot of those weeds that makes it difficult to fish. Very quiet
donald wagers — Google review
It's a great place the bathrooms are getting ready done is places where dogs can't go in the campground but it's okay
Bernard Hughes — Google review
Completely disappointed in the camping situation here, there is no pride at this campground. Watched the people who permanently live in the "first come first serve" camp sites drive around and take firewood the was left for the next camper. The site we rented was absolutely garbage and trashed, easter toys, candy wrappers all over the site A WEEK A after Easter. Fire pit full of trash and cans, broken glass bottles, unlevel rv pads. Was told Over the phone it was the newest camp area they had and had the nicest bathrooms which is frightening considering the conditions , the gravel road through the camp had major wash out and if you had a low car it'd be impossible to get around. There were toilet seats ripped off in the bathrooms and literally feces spread on the wall that WASN'T fresh. I won't be back here and I'm going to make sure everyone in my network is aware.
Jason — Google review
Great place for RV Camping, tubing, boating and hanging by the water. Multiple little beaches throughout the reservoir. Several boat launches. Some camp sites are full hookup. At least 150 rv/tent sites with water and electric. Very shady. Cabins available to rent too.
Jacob and Mary Ainsworth — Google review
Beautiful place with cabins for rent. Boat launch, nature trails, picnic areas, beaches and a Waterpark. Everything you need for an escape.
Michelle Bacon — Google review
Great day swimming with friends! Wear sun screen!! Bring a canopy for shade in this crazy hot weather! Don't forget to bring a float to relax on! It says no alcohol but we saw someone get off a boat with a beer bottle in hand! 🔥
Angela Petrosie — Google review
This is our first time visiting and camping here. It’s huge.. two swimming areas… one swing set that needs updating. They are updating two of the bath houses.. the bath house that’s by us in the Seneca area, is very small. There’s 2 toilets and 1 shower. There’s no soap or paper towels in bathroom. I’m giving a 3 star cause we’re in a pop up camper, with two children on this trip with us, and require at least a two shower bath house when when have all 4 kids with us. You’d think with as many camping spots they have that they’d actually have plenty of showers and all for everyone. That was the only bummer. The water park is a nice little set up though. It’s $2off the wrist bands if your camping, so it’s $10 wrist bands for sliding and $3 for observing. You can’t bring any outside drinks or beer into the water park, which I think is great since it’s kid friendly. I also think they should have an adult section for the adults to hang out in water. I did enjoy the fact that the water park didn’t use chlorine water and used lake water instead.
Courtney Rutland — Google review
Update: Came back for our yearly august trip that got delayed due to the temp and burn ban. Burn ban was unfortunately still in effect and it got chilly enough a campfire would've been nice. Also we were not able to get our usual sites together and we're spread through the park. It was still a good experience, as always we stay in the RV section but only have tents. One group does rent a cabin, but I've never been in one. I didn't hear anything bad other than bring your own bedding and maybe a mattress pad/topper. Sites were clean, although the one I was staying on was hilly and basically ended up in the drainage ditch (def checked the weather). We had several families between 3 sites, with one by the beach. I'm guessing it's being remodeled, but the restroom by the beach was locked up the duration of our trip. The other restrooms were in cleanish, working conditions. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Between here and PBJ, this is by far the superior campground. The sites looked better and we're not as close together. Even with a mostly full park and ppl even having Halloween decorations out, it felt less cramped. Interactions with the park rangers were night and day. They were helpful instead of harassing us. We were admonished for not having our dogs on a leash, but that was it. Saw them driving around but they let the guests be. No complaints about 'too many units(tents)' @our sites. Everyone agreed this was the better experience, and a highly recommended campsite in general.
My first time here. Just did primitive camping with several groups. The group I was with does this every year. Got a site next to the beach. We brought all our gear but there are rentals nearby. Except for all the canoeing, jogging, kids and dogs it was very relaxing! One odd thing was while there were plenty of birds, we did not notice any squirrels or raccoons.
Malcolm Earhart — Google review
The Waterpark was fun and clean but that's the only positive part of my review.
We stayed in a camp house for 2 days and it was miserable. There were German roaches, the ac unit barely cooled down the cabin and it was super small.
The reservation lady told me that pots, pans and dishes were included but the cabin was bare when we arrived.
We were constantly cleaning and killing german roaches.
The flooring through half of the cabin was missing.
The bunk beds had cracks in the wood that held it to the wall.
The doors had zero weather stripping so the cool air was being sucked out as it was blowing.
The sink had a leak in the cabinet below.
The stove fan did not work.
I know the TV was a bonus but the speakers were busted and the TV was the size of a laptop.
Sarah Boyer — Google review
Avoid the lady at the front desk at ALL costs. She was rude and very obnoxious. When we went to this Fling Creek Waterpark at around 6pm, she asked us very personal questions as if it matters..?! She proceeds to ask us what our friends’ last name were when we told her that our friends were already here. And asks where we were going when we told her about 3 times from the very start. It was very weird. After that, she told us that we were only going to stay for 10-15 minutes before getting kicked out. We did NOT get kicked out, and got in for free. At the end of the day, it was very enjoyable at the Flint Creek Waterpark. Everything else was nice and I do recommend coming here. That rude lady ruined my mood tho f her
sophia bushia — Google review
Love staying at cabins every year. Had a few slight problems. A family members stove burners not all working and also one of the families fridge freezer in the cabin didn't ever freeze. Also could had used some bush trimming and weedeating that obstructed the water view.
Paula — Google review
I went in to get a shampoo and cut. I broke my arm a couple weeks ago and haven't been able to anything with my hair. Of course it had to be my right arm ugh.. sooo...I needed to get my hair washed and cut so that I could take care of it myself. Got about 6 inches cut off. So much easier! So A GREAT BIG THANK YOU TO AUDRA! She did a wonderful job! I love the cut! She saved my life! I'll be going back to see her again in a week to get a new color.
Paul B Johnson State Park is a vast area of over 800 acres that offers camping, swimming, boating, fishing and more. Visitors can enjoy full hook ups with water, electric and sewer for $28 per night. Additionally, on site laundry machines are available at each shower house which operate via coins. The park has a scenic trail along with lake activities and disc golf course. Visitors can take advantage of plenty of space between camp sites ensuring privacy from neighbors.
$28 a night for full hook ups with water, electric and sewer. On site laundry machines at each of the shower houses, the laundry machines are coin-operated. We had plenty of space between our site and our neighbors. The park has 1 trail, lake activities and a disc golf course. There is plenty of room to walk around and docs over the lake to enjoy the beautiful view. The shower house/bathroom was clean. We enjoyed our stay here and had a lakeside view.
Tarra Rotstein — Google review
Nice quiet out of the hustle and bustle of life! Remodeling all the cabins and building a bunch more! Has frisbee golf. Pavilions. Beautiful lake! We worth the stop. And fishing. RV sites were a tad narrow as you can see in one of my pics.
Mike W — Google review
We loved our stay at Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground in Hattiesburg, MS.
Very peaceful and quiet location except for the geese at night. 😆
We had great cellphone service. (Verizon)
We camped during the winter months when bad weather was moving through to the East Coast. Had a bit of rain. Cold and windy. We were unable to go on any trails and too cold to do anything at the water.
We had views of the beautiful lake from almost every window in our 5th wheel.
We didn’t use the facilities or see any of the rangers/hosts.
The site we had was a back in site long enough for our 34’ 5th wheel and GMC 2500 diesel truck. It was partially paved and almost level. Had a slight incline. The site was equipped with 20/30/50 amp full hookup w/h2o and sewage.
The campground was relatively clean and well maintained. It had a charcoal grill and picnic table. There is no fire pit at the site. Someone had burned directly on the grass and pine straw. Which was stupid because it obviously burned way out of hand since about 12’ of grass/straw had been burned. So dangerous. They left their firewood remnants. (No host/ranger removed the debris.) We only stayed one night, so we didn’t care because we didn’t really use that area. However, it was quite unsightly.
This location is very convenient to just about everything. Downtown Hattiesburg restaurants and shopping are within 25 minutes. It’s less than 2 hours away from New Orleans, LA and Jackson, MS.
We were surprised at how quiet and peaceful this location was considering that they were at about 75% capacity. Very surprised at how many people were there during winter months with overcast weather. We got a good nights sleep. Very pleased with our stay.
Would love to visit again. ❤️
#mississippistateparks #wintercamping #rvlife #lakesidecamping #beautifuldestinations #naturelovers
Berteena G — Google review
We just used the nature trail, which was beautiful. However, both wooden bridges were in terrible shape. I believe they are going to work on these soon. Otherwise, it is a very beautiful and peaceful place.
Valerie Kane — Google review
Our visit happened in the winter and the lake levels were really low. But this is a wonderful park for fisherman and boaters. The park has bath houses, laundry facilities, cabins, super sites, primitive sites that are wooded and secluded. We were not so close to our neighbors and plenty of room to keep from disturbing them. There were many families in the park that were preparing for Christmas dinner.
The park is rather secluded but we took the hour’s drive to the gulf coast and 20 min drive to eat Mediterranean food in Hattiesburg.
Our site had sewer, water and electricity. The pad was asphalt but it was crumbling and we had to be careful exiting our camper. It was quit a drop down. There is a very nice visitor’s center that we frequented and a boat dock near the visitor center. Don’t forget your fishing license.
We saw the park ranger but not the camp host but it was winter and close to Christmas.
Gwendolyn Martin — Google review
The lake and the grounds are great. They’re well maintained. The disk golf course is exceptional. The cottage leave a lot to be desired. Just don’t have your expectations too high on the lodging. I would recommend a tent. We will likely go back but not for an overnight. In case that’s what you’re planning. I don’t want to bash the place too bad. The park is a 5. The cottages are a 1.
John Turner — Google review
Great camp grounds. Our granddaughter goes to college in Hattiesburg. We stayed for 10 days. Hope to go back
Linda Mahoney — Google review
I have been coming here since my toddler years. This is full ofmy childhood memories. I come as often as possible. It's beautiful. And they are getting ready to do some upgrades, super excited. I miss the floating docks/what's that use to be there behind the club house.
M Favre — Google review
Enjoyed our visit in June 2023. State Parks really are a great deal. We had a 2 room cabin on the lake with its own pier and small sandy beach for much less than any two bed hotel would have cost. Master bed looked out over the lake. The usual bare necessities were present in the kitchen, and appreciated.
Staff was friendly and even found a discount we had not seen or was not available to us online for 100% Disability, which was credited back to the account we made our reservation on.
While we only brought kayaks, we saw others in several types of watercraft – so if that is your thing be sure to look it up.
Sadly, you can hear the nearby Highway 49 – but we didn’t find it too distracting. We also got to watch, but not hear, several aircraft land at the nearby Camp Shelby.
Get your head out of everything having to be “top end” by staying in a fancy hotel and instead enjoy a much larger private space and an outdoors to die for, right out the back door.
Jared Stanley — Google review
Beautiful lake. Lots of camping sites. Many cabins to rent from. Main house has a room that can be rented for meetings/reunions - accommodates about 50-60 folks. Restrooms. Several individual, covered picnic areas with grills. Main house has about 6 video games and 2 pool tables. Coke machines. Splash Pad. Good for biking and fishing. Disc golf course. The day I went they were having a disc golf tournament. Gas station right up to e road for fuel, snacks, ice etc.
Angel Taylor — Google review
This park was an unexpected gem! We are snow birds just migrating from one warm state park to another and we try not to have any expectations from any, but this one definitely exceeded them! Roomy full service sites, beautiful lake views, well kept grounds and facilities. Very accessible roads, full Internet/cell access, and within half hour to a delightful city, Hattiesburg, where there is everything you could possibly need. We will definitely be coming back here, but will stay a lot longer!
Corinne Flokos — Google review
Nice place to stop. We only stayed 2 nights. Quiet campground.
The Hattiesburg Zoo, located in Kamper Park, offers visitors the opportunity to view over 75 different animal species. This relatively small but entertaining zoo features a carousel and train rides for kids, as well as various activities. The Lights of the Wild light display is a popular attraction during the holiday season with Elsa, Anna and Olaf from Frozen available for pictures. Treats like popcorn and hot cocoa are also available at designated stations throughout the zoo.
Absolutely loved the Lights of the Wild light display at the Hattiesburg Zoo. This is the first year I have attended the light display at this particular zoo. They did an amazing job. Elsa, Anna, & Olaf were there to take pictures with the kids. There were stations setup to purchase popcorn, hot coco, and other treats. The line for the train ride was long but it moved relatively fast in my opinion. I would recommend and attend again!
Linda Shelton — Google review
Not the biggest zoo by any means. But what they do have is a nice zoo. The animals seemed to be well taken care of. Every enclosure had a fan blowing towards the animals to help cool them off. They had plenty of food and water & none seemed to be distressed.
The admission price is very fair as well the train ride tickets.
Free parking with shade is readily available. It's easy to get in and out of. All of the staff we encountered seemed to be in good spirits.
Outdoors With Shawn — Google review
Pretty cheap for a zoo. Once we entered there were a lot of signs that said due to the extreme heat a lot of animals would be inside. It would have been nice for that to be posted outside the admissions area so we could have chosen if we wanted to go in or not. Or even tickets to be discounted due to that. It was kid friendly as they had a splash pad and everything for them, even some tent shades for the adults. The workers at admissions didn’t care to be nice but all other zoo crew we met were nice. It would be cool to have each animals story posted on their cage given most are there for rehab. Overall it’s something fun to do but not sure if we will go back any time soon. Maybe once they change exhibits or it gets cooler but too small to continually go back.
samantha avallone — Google review
Stopped in for the first time today & really enjoyed it!! Really loved all the Halloween decor they have all over...very festive & fun!! 🎃 👻 👹Very kid friendly, not crowded so we were able to see all the animals & either read about them or the kind & knowledgeable staff were readily available for more information at several of the enclosures. Cool little train ride around the park in case you missed anything walking around, for just an additional 3 bucks a person. Very affordable, doesn't take all day. A must see when you're in the area. 🦒🦘🐖🐐🦛🐪🐒🦦🦚
H J — Google review
I had a blast at this zoo. It was on the small size, but there was lots for the little kids to do. We got there right before the zoo opened and there was already a small line of people waiting, this was on a Saturday so maybe the week days are less busy. We right away rushed over and bought tickets to feed the giraffes, they only sell a few tickets day of. It was so cool to get to feed them, staff were super outgoing and made sure everyone in the group was included. I paid for the sloth experience which is $50 but did include admission to the zoo. Again, that was a very cool experience. The sloth I met was Molasses, and she was so sweet and soft. I am very glad I paid for the experience! Finally the food was surprisingly delicious. We had lunch at Ladha’s Cantina and they had a special spring break menu with a Luau Burger 10/10 amazing burger. Super pleased with the whole day! We got there right before the zoo opened so we had no troubles finding a parking spot, however when we left at 2pm cars were fighting to find a space.
Katie Doran — Google review
Not a huge zoo but a very fun one with a decent variety of animals and very reasonable prices. It is well laid out so you don't spend tons of time just walking without seeing any exhibits. I definitely recommend it.
Chip Campbell — Google review
All of the animal enclosures were very clean and the animals were obviously well cared for. They have fans all through the zoo and they put up umbrellas on the sunny walkways for extra shade these 2 things really help with the heat. My kids loved the rope course and getting to pet the goats in the petting zoo. Overall it was a wonderful experience and we will go again one day.
Quillan Smith — Google review
Gemstones, 4 story high rope courses, creatures galore, trains, a carousel, snowcones, all day popcorn....just go it's a blast. There's also a splash pad so just wear you're swimsuit. This is not frowned upon in MS (it's too hot to care 😂)
Barrelin' Monroe — Google review
Been there twice this month. It's great. It's smaller than some of the other zoos, but makes up for it with its laid back charm. Kids love that it has a splash pad and a nice cool down area. The drinks and food are good as well. The electric train was cool.
sharlene Garcia — Google review
It was actually really fun and a lot of new stuff there. My children enjoyed themselves. I took lots of pics, but I'm only posting a few. They had a Renaissance fair going on there when we went, so that was cool too.
Angel — Google review
We went to the zoo on a field trip for my daughters school. Compared to the zoo in New Orleans I was highly impressed (our last trip to Audubon zoo was HORRIBLE) several opportunities to get up close and personal with animals, and the up keep of the zoo was just fabulous. Interactions with staff were all top notch; friendly professionalism. My daughter really enjoyed the obstacle course. Overall I would definitely recommend!
Ariel — Google review
What a wonderful gem! It's got some truly awesome animals, is small enough to see everything in just a couple hours, and they provide plenty of fans/shade along the routes. Don't forget to get your Dole Whip while watching the giraffes!
Jennifer B — Google review
It’s a lot smaller than I thought. However, it’s also more kid friendly than other zoos I’ve been to. The carousel was fun. Overall, everything was cheaper than I initially thought it would be. My kids had a blast. It was really clean and there are frequent restrooms.
Tayler Clark — Google review
We love the Hattiesburg Zoo! Our kids love the animals, the splashpad, and the other interactive and unique attractions that they have to offer. Most importantly, though, it's cheap! Definitely worth the visit.
Bryan Leonardy — Google review
Nice zoo that seems to be still expanding. Expected the splash pad to have fixtures, but it's just water shooting up out the ground. It cut out while we were there. I don't know if this is normal because this was our first visit.The train however needs to be replaced. It's leaking and just looks old as heck. There's a new looking train that was parked while we were on something that sounded as if it would give out at any moment. It has a decent amount of animals in nice enclosures. There were a lot of them not on display however. No tigers and the were a few others not there. I have been to a lot of zoos, this one is at the bottom of the list. I'm used to seeing way more animals. This zoo may be a contender in the up coming years. They are building a water park. Never been to a zoo with an actual water park.
Dorothy Richardson — Google review
I loved the zoo! Definitely would recommend to stop by if you happen to be in Hattiesburg. There’s lots of beautiful animals, they seem to be good taken care for. There’s good options to stop by for a drink or a snack. Lots of places for kids to play on. It took me 2 hours to go through the entire place.
I loved the decoration they have for each display, related to the animal’s original country/part of the world.
The Christmas/Holidays decor was so cute! All over the zoo the were lights and decorations. I would’ve love to visit in the night time.
10/10 ⭐️
Camila Calizaya — Google review
LOVED OUR VISIT!!! The people were super friendly. Prices amazing. Piña coladas and funnel cake fries were to die for! Animals were active and beautiful. I’d give it 6 out of 5 if I could.
Justin Schell — Google review
In all the years I've lived here, I've never been to zoo lights. It was an amazing experience to get to ride the train, see Santa and Mrs Santa. They have food, games, animals and excitement. I can't wait to do it again.
Latara Moore — Google review
You have to buy tickets, but it is well worth your money. The zoo offers as much as others do. You can walk to see the exhibits or ride the little train. There is a playground area in the rear for your kids. There is what was once a place for bands and dances in the big pavilion by the restrooms and playground. On the other side of the zoo is tennis courts, a baseball field, a walkway between the tennis courts and an exercise walking trail. There is plenty of shade trees for an old fashioned picnic too.
Penny Middleton — Google review
We really enjoyed the day with the family. It’s a super entertaining place and good organization. Excellent employees. We will definitely be back.
Emmanuel Merced Torres — Google review
The work that has been done so far is awesome! I'm so happy that the zoo has been brought back to life! I invited my family to come & they showed up!!! Everybody loved the zoo!!
This a beautiful museum with so much Art and history. Everyone was friendly and eager to share.loved the walking tour by George Bassi! George was so very knowledgeable!
Betty Andrews — Google review
Beautiful hidden treasure in Laurel, Mississippi! This is a beautiful collection of portraits, landscapes, sculpture, and textiles. The museum itself is a work of art. The historic homes walking tour is delightful and doable for most. Several older amblers were with our tour. George Price the museum director was a fun and knowledgeable guide. We will be back!
K — Google review
Amazing museum, the staff were unbelievably welcoming and Ms Angie was so good and kind with our three kids. The southern hospitality is no joke in Laurel and they displayed that here...
The museum has a really nice selection of art and exhibits, the whole vibe is great and a lovely place to visit if you are in town.
James King — Google review
Great place to visit while in Laurel. Free but requested donation to see the visiting Chihuly display. Donation request well worth viewing. History of the area was impressive. Highly recommend visiting here. Staff very helpful donation would have been given even without Chihuly display, museum is well worth it.
morton bill — Google review
Used to be a library in Laurel, and still provide the books for anybody to sit and read! Amazing museum of art! You got to see this place. And they sell stuff as well.
Michael Shirley — Google review
I was surprised at the size and quality of the museum and it’s collection. There was a wide variety of pieces (including a visiting Chihuly collection) and they were well displayed. This museum appears very well funded, and tells a story of turn of the 20th century wealth and affluence in Laurel (think hanging with the Vanderbilts) resulting from the large-scale timber and lumber mill business. Poised to take his place in the family business ,the museum’s namesake died in an untimely manner from complications of appendicitis after graduating Princeton and 9 months after marriage. The facility was originally established in his memory as a public library but has continued to grow with acquisitions and expansions.
James Underwood — Google review
No entry fee (that i know of)
Donations accepted (I usually give 3-5 dollars)
The Chihuly exhibit is well worth seeing.
Simply beautiful.
Pictures do not begin to capture the beauty.
See it in person!
Stephen Brown — Google review
More than it appears! Being from Chicago, we have experienced world class museums and this one rates up there as well!
Laurel is rich with history and the Lauren Roger’s Museum shares that rich history so well! It is amazing to see and experience in the impact and the passion that one person and one family can have. This museum is so much more than a single family sharing collectibles, it truly captures the essence of art’s beauty and all that it stands for.
We purchased the coffee table book which contains much of the artwork shown in the museum and now a month later we still open it to look at the beautiful photos of the art in the museum.
Jason Mitchell — Google review
The museum exceeded expectations! Beautiful building with interesting history and excellent art library along with interesting collections from private collectors. Nice Japanese block print collection and original examples of the NYC Trashcan artists which was new to me. Superb bronzes along with large and intricate blown glass sculptures. A definite must see if you are in the area!
Wayne Nadler — Google review
Brought the family from Hattiesburg to see the Van Gogh exhibit. My son raves about it after going on a field trip so we had to check it out. It was a wonderful visit and we learned alot about Van Gogh as well as lots of other types of art throughout the world and different time periods!
Ashley Roberts — Google review
I was in the area with a friend looking at places in the area. Another museum we went to suggested this as a place to go to, so I made my driver come for a visit.
Lauren Rogers was the son of a local businessman who was the major wood processor in the area who passed away tragically because of appendicitis. Admission is free, so make a donation or buy something from the gift shop. Talk to the employees because they love to talk about the building and its history.
Andrea F — Google review
Greeted by a lovely lady who gave us the history of the museum and the Rodgers Family.
There's a short film about the history of Laurel in an adjacent room, and the exhibits are fantastic! My personal favorite is the basket exhibit since I'm a basket weaver myself!
The Van Gogh exhibit was spectacular as one can jump right into a scene.
Great job!
Jan Pagragan — Google review
Great docent walking tour of historic area! Thanks, George!
Lovely museum! Nice variety of artwork: oil paintings, sculptures, English silver and Native American basketry! (May I suggest a paper backing to glass descriptions of items to make it easier to read. The lighting makes it difficult.)
And that Chihuly glass chandelier was spectacular!
Need an inexpensive paperback book about Laurel, walking tour house details & pictures and some museum picture examples. Would be a great way to get museum donations & let patrons leave with a nice memory souvenir!!!
Three lakes anchor this scenic 3,300-acre park, which offers fishing, hiking & horseback riding.
Beautiful place to walk, picnic or enjoy the outdoors. My first visit and it was very nice. They rest stations along the wking trail surrounding the lake. Just a neat place to get some exercise or just have a seat and enjoy beautiful days.
Steve Daniels — Google review
Very well maintained area. There are a few parkings, a toilet, and lunch tables on a site. Beautiful surroundings. Not crowded at all. I had a wonderful time just walking around and resting a bit (was traveling by car and stopped there to have lunch). Definitely worth visiting
Olga Morozova — Google review
Such a beautiful park to get some fresh air, sit by the water, hit some trails, or enjoy a sunset & just unwind. Bring a friend or relish in your own company. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy your time here :-)
Sorry Ms. Jackson — Google review
It was so beautiful and such a peaceful place to spend time with our family when we went to visit for the holidays.
JeremyandDanielle Stimmell — Google review
Beautiful pit stop for our road trips to and from the gulf coast from Memphis. There are playgrounds and parks for our kiddo to run around and stretch her legs, plenty of shaded picnic areas, walking paths, and a lovely view of a lake and lots of trees. My only concern was how fast sole cars were driving through the park, even with speed bumps. Watch out with small children!
Shannon Little Briggs — Google review
Such a beautiful area and worth the stop! Whether you are coming here for fitness, great backdrop for photo shoot, or just to get the peace of mind of being by the lake it is worth the time! In my opinion this is the best area in Meridian.
Diveonne — Google review
Loved this park! Ate a big cracker barrel breakfast, then did this trail. like other reviews have said, it's about 1/3 paved walking and about 2/3 gravel path through the woods. plenty of steep inclines and declines, but nothing that a regular non-athletic beginner can't handle. For reference, I am 5ft 10in 360lbs and I did the loop in about 2.5hrs. My distance measured on All Trails showed just a little over 6 miles.
Sunday morning around 10:30am to about 1pm, gloomy cloudy conditions, temp around 60 degrees, not crowded at all. 10:30 to noon I only passed like 3 people going the opposite direction. Noon to 1pm I saw more people coming in and walking around the smaller reservoir loop.
Really beautiful and peaceful wooded walking trail
Tracy Newman — Google review
Beautiful great place to walk! Nice playground for kids!
Pat Barbee — Google review
Love bringing the kids out here and walking, however I don’t understand why dogs aren’t allowed on the circle when they have bird poop all over this area that you have to dodge. Overall love walking here and it is a great place for your daily cardio.
Katie Andreacchio — Google review
Nice reservoir beside the bigger Bonita Lake. There is a 1.19 miles paved walking way around the reservoir. Free parking and a big playground makes a stay for families perfect.
Fabian S — Google review
A great place to have a day in the sun with family,friends that special someone or just for a peaceful bit of alone time. Clean restrooms, safe play areas, level walkways,beautiful views and nice hiking trails. all for free entry and parking.
Gino Mostaccio — Google review
Great place to get close to nature and stY close to town. Wonderful hiking trails and nice place to kayak. Playground for the kids and plenty of space to run around.
Zachary Gaines — Google review
I love Bonita and refer to it as my happy place. I use the walking track frequently. I sometimes walk the trails. They are both nicely maintained. Bonita has numerous picnic tables most with beautiful views of the lakes. There are two playgrounds that my grandson enjoys. Horse riding is very popular here as well as mountain biking. There is a boat ramp and ample parking for boat trailers. I see people fishing quite often. I enjoy taking photos of the animal life and the flora through the seasons. I highly recommend sending time here.
Donna Culpepper — Google review
I would love going here but the jerks that pretend to work there make me not to want to go back. Apparently its okay for them to threaten my kids for riding their scooter and skateboard. They ain't hurting anyone. And the signs up say nothing about boards or scooters
Latasha Salers — Google review
I enjoy the trails here. I once had to use this scenery for my art class years ago
Very peaceful and lovely to look at.
Claudine Fuller — Google review
Just ignore the lady who lives in her car and screams things at you as you walk by - this place is otherwise a wonderful place with different areas to explore 😊 The pup loves saying hello to the friendly folks here and the sunsets have been a treasure. Went kayaking on one of the lakes and enjoyed a good ol PB&J.
Loved visiting! Our tour guide, Delaney, was lovely! The gift shop is so cute. Very interesting to see an actual plantation home and hear about how life was back then!
Audra Stoutt — Google review
I did not get a chance to go inside. But the outside was stunning and kinda sad at the same time. The exterior needs attention but that is what gives it authenticity. Overall it is a beautiful example of Southern History
Paul Young — Google review
Beautiful! Our tour guide really knew his history behind every room and furniture. Only wish we could have taken pictures of our tour inside to show our family back home.
Rita — Google review
Lots of history nice place nice very knowledgeable tour guide.
Aaron Gonzalez — Google review
Great home. Tour guide was wonderful. Lots of interesting facts. Thanks so much. Would highly recommend.
Tamela Vander Ark — Google review
Incredible house. The guides were animated and knowledgeable.
Ask about the ghosts.
Must see !
steven latter — Google review
Delaney was such a fun tour guide— made our whole day. & It’s a beautiful and unique house!!
Audrey Stephens — Google review
Gainswood is beautiful and our guides was very knowledgeable. It was sad to see that despite it being a registered national landmark and being managed by the state, there was obvious repair needed in many areas of the building. I hope our state fully funds it and preserves it.
Angie Dutton — Google review
I debated between visiting Gaineswood and Magnolia Grove...I am more than happy with my decision. Gaineswood has been (and is) restored to it original beauty. While the grounds are not as large as they once were, you still feel the immense beauty of the place. What is perhaps the most impressive fact is that Whitfield designed the house from a dog run cabin to its current state with no formal training. Both the director and the volunteers were knowledgeable and welcoming, they truly knew how to treat guests with an experience they would not forget. You are taken through the house as it was built by Whitfield and each room simply drips with history of a long-gone era. There are many original elements and pieces throughout the house which only adds to the experience. Allow yourself at least 2 hours to properly see the house and ask questions as the come to you. Gaineswood is just a wonderfully hidden gem in Demopolis, AL. I made the 2-hour drive from Montgomery to see the house and I do not regret my decision at all.
Admission is $7 for Adults, $5 for Military, $3 for Students (6-18), they are cash only, so keep that in mind however, if you forget there are two ATMs (one at Regions Bank) located close by.
Evan Muxen — Google review
This is a beautiful house and full of history. We arrived late and were happy just touring the grounds but the wonderful staff let us in to see this amazing house.
Kiersten Cox — Google review
Great historical old house with lots of history. Worth a visit.