Amazing Houston To New Orleans Road Trip (2025 Guide)

Explore the best of southern Texas and Louisiana on this exciting Houston to New Orleans road trip itinerary!

Houston and New Orleans are two of the most iconic cities in the US South.

If you can’t decide which fabulous metropolis to visit, try to check out both! The two cities are very close and it only takes around 5 hours to drive between the two.

For an even more exciting adventure, try a Houston to New Orleans road trip!

Grab a rental car and hit the road, where you can explore the highlights of southern Texas and Louisiana. There is so much culture, history, cuisine, nightlife, architecture, and nature to discover.

From touring the tallest state capitol building in the USA in Baton Rouge, to visiting the famous Space Center Houston or Minute Maid Park in Houston, to checking out a historic site in Lake Charles, to touring the Mardi Gras Museum and listening to jazz music on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, many wonders await you in the south.

Here is our complete guide for a Houston to New Orleans road trip!

How long is a Houston to New Orleans road trip?

This Houston to New Orleans drive is best completed over 2-3 days. If you were to drive straight from Houston to New Orleans on the most direct route with no stops, it’s around 5 hours of driving. The total distance is around 350 miles.

But if you’re going to make the drive, you may as well stop at some of the amazing places on the way! Our Houston to New Orleans road trip includes several stops that extend the journey to around 425 miles. This is about 8 hours of driving, not including the time you spend at each location.

If you want to take your time and enjoy each place on the way, you may want at least 2 days for this road trip. If you have time, you can extend it to 3 days or longer. There is so much to see in Southeast Texas and Southern Louisiana!

Hoping to explore more of Texas? Check out these amazing road trips from Houston!

Where to start your Houston to New Orleans drive

You can start this road trip in either Houston or New Orleans easily. Both cities have international airports and plenty of car rental options so you can plan your road trip with ease.

This road trip takes you across the landscapes of southeast Texas and through southern Louisiana. You’ll pass historic sites, Gulf Coast beaches, wildlife refuges, small towns of Cajun country, and big cities of the Deep South.

Whether you start your road trip in Houston or New Orleans, you’re bound to fall in love with the historic places, local wildlife, and culture in southern Louisiana and Texas.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

When is the best time of year for a Houston to New Orleans road trip?

The best time of year for a Houston to New Orleans road trip is during the spring, from March to May. During this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit. This makes for comfortable driving conditions and enjoyable stops along the way.

Additionally, springtime brings a burst of wildflowers, particularly the Texas bluebonnets, which can make the journey visually stunning. Roadside attractions, outdoor festivals, and cultural events are also in full swing, providing ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Another ideal time for this road trip is in the fall, from September to November. Like spring, the fall offers mild weather with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The humidity levels drop, making it more comfortable to explore outdoor attractions such as state parks, historic sites, and scenic byways.

Fall also marks the beginning of various cultural festivals in New Orleans, including the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience and the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, which can be exciting endpoints to the road trip. Additionally, fall foliage, particularly in the areas east of Houston and along the Gulf Coast, can make the drive even more stunning!

Houston To New Orleans Road Trip Itinerary

Now let’s dive into the Houston to New Orleans road trip itinerary! Feel free to modify this itinerary however you choose so it suits your time frame and preferences.

We’ll also include some recommendations for extending the road trip if you have time. You can check out the famous Battleship Texas in Galveston or spend more time exploring wildlife refuges. However you choose to do this itinerary, have a blast driving through the US South!

Houston

Before you drive out to New Orleans, spend a few days enjoying the fabulous city of Houston, Texas.

As the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston is a global hub for entertainment, science, and culture. The city’s most famous attraction is NASA’s Johnson Space Center, also called Space Center Houston. The space center serves as a focal point for human space exploration and is a highlight of the city.

The city’s Museum District is a cultural epicenter, featuring renowned institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. Anyone looking for a fascinating science or art museum will be spoilt for choice in Houston.

Houston is also celebrated for its culinary diversity, with a food scene that spans global cuisines, reflective of its multicultural population. Neighborhoods like Montrose and The Heights are known for their eclectic mix of art galleries, boutique shops, and lively entertainment venues.

Those hoping to explore the outdoors can check out Buffalo Bayou Park for a lovely stroll, or catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park. So before you embark on your road trip, enjoy the vibrant energy of Houston!

Where to stay in Houston

For your stay in Houston, here are some top-rated accommodations that suit all budgets.

Budget – Club Quarters Hotel Downtown

Houston doesn’t have many cheap hotels, but Club Quarters Hotel Downtown is one of the cheapest options for budget travelers. You’ll still be right in the city center and have really nice amenities, so it’s quite a steal!

Mid Range – Cambra Hotel Houston Downtown Convention Center

For an upscale stay that won’t break the bank, consider the Cambria Hotel in downtown Houston. This affordable, 4-star hotel is non-smoking and has amazing reviews from past guests.

Luxury – Marriott Marquis

Marriott Marquis is one of the best hotels in Houston! This fabulous 4-star hotel, located right in the city center, has premium amenities and luxury furnishings so you can relax in style.

San Jacinto Monument

The San Jacinto Monument is a towering tribute to the decisive Battle of San Jacinto, which occurred on April 21, 1836. This battle was a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution, leading to Texas’ independence from Mexico.

Located in the small city of La Porte, Texas, the monument is a state historic site that rises 567 feet tall. It is the world’s tallest masonry column, surpassing even the Washington Monument!

Designed by architect Alfred C. Finn, it features a 220-ton star at its peak, symbolizing the Lone Star State. Surrounding the monument is the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, a 1,200-acre park in La Porte that offers a glimpse into the historical significance of the area.

Inside the state historic site, visitors can explore the San Jacinto Museum of History, which houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that chronicle the rich history of Texas from its early days through the Texas Revolution and beyond.

The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient artifacts to early settler relics, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s past. An elevator ride to the observation deck offers panoramic views of the Houston Ship Channel, the battleground, and the surrounding landscape.

San Jacinto Monument is one of the most iconic historic sites in Texas and is a must-see for those interested in Texas history.

Read next: 25 Best Things To Do In Texas

Port Arthur

From La Porte, continue east towards Port Arthur. This city is located right on the Texas-Louisiana border and has lots of cool historical sites and landmarks to check out.

The Museum of the Gulf Coast is a highlight of Port Arthur. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s history, including its music heritage that celebrates hometown legends such as Janis Joplin and the Big Bopper.

Port Arthur also boasts diverse natural and recreational attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors. The Sabine Lake and Sea Rim State Park provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, bird-watching, and hiking. Sea Rim State Park is a popular local spot that showcases the region’s rich biodiversity.

Port Arthur also celebrates its cultural diversity through numerous festivals and events, such as the Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas, which reflects the city’s vibrant community spirit. With its blend of industrial strength, historical significance, and natural beauty, Port Arthur is a unique and dynamic city on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Next, continue on your road trip and make your way across the Louisiana border to Lake Charles!

Lake Charles

Once you get to Lake Charles, you’re almost halfway through the Houston to New Orleans road trip. This vibrant city in southwest Louisiana is a great place to spend the night as there are so many things to do in Lake Charles.

The downtown area of Lake Charles features a charming blend of historic architecture, local boutiques, and a variety of restaurants serving up Cajun and Creole delicacies, offering visitors and residents alike a taste of the region’s unique culinary traditions.

Lake Charles is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The city is surrounded by an array of parks, bayous, and wildlife refuges, providing ample opportunities for fishing, boating, bird-watching, and hiking. Prien Lake Park and the Creole Nature Trail are two popular places to explore the nature of Louisiana.

For those interested in gaming and entertainment, Lake Charles is home to several casinos and resorts, including the L’Auberge Casino Resort and the Golden Nugget, which offer not only gaming but also luxurious accommodations, golf courses, and live entertainment.

Lake Charles is a great place to include in your Houston to New Orleans road trip, especially if you want to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Louisiana’s Cajun country.

Find more fun activities with our list of the best things to do in Lake Charles!

Where to stay in Lake Charles

If you are looking for a spot to break up your Houston to New Orleans drive, Lake Charles is a convenient place to stop. There are some affordable and luxurious accommodations in Lake Charles, and here are some top-rated options.

Budget – Super 8 By Wyndham Lake Charles

Lake Charles is an affordable place to stay in southwest Louisiana, so it’s an easy pit stop on your drive to New Orleans. Super 8 by Wyndham Lake Charles has great prices and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Mid Range – Best Western Plus Prien Lake Hotel & Suites

You can find some lovely and affordable places to stay in Lake Charles such as the Best Western Plus Prien Lake Hotel and Suites. Complete with air conditioning, a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, free parking, and more, you can relax in comfort during your journey from Houston to New Orleans.

Luxury – The Golden Nugget

The Golden Nugget is the most iconic hotel and casino in Lake Charles. People come here just to hang out for the day, so if you’re able to spend the night at this gorgeous hotel, definitely go for it.

Lafayette

About an hour east of Lake Charles lies Lafayette, Louisiana, often referred to as the “Heart of Acadiana”. This city is celebrated for its vibrant Cajun and Creole culture and was founded in the early 19th century.

Lafayette has grown into a cultural hub known for its rich history, lively music scene, and delectable cuisine. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Festival International de Louisiane, the largest free Francophone festival in the United States, and the annual Festivals Acadiens et Créoles, which showcases traditional music, dance, and food.

Lafayette’s downtown area is bustling with activity, featuring a mix of historic buildings, local boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of restaurants that offer authentic Cajun and Creole dishes.

For a bit of Louisiana history, head to the Acadian Village in Lafayette, a historic site and attraction that transports visitors back to the 19th century. This reconstructed village features authentic, restored buildings, including homes, a chapel, and a blacksmith shop, all set within a picturesque 32-acre landscape.

Or check out the Acadian Cultural Center. The fascinating cultural center showcases a variety of programs including guided tours, film screenings, and cultural demonstrations such as traditional music and dance performances.

Vermilionville is another living history museum similar to the Acadian Village provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, with restored buildings and costumed interpreters depicting life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Once you’ve taken in all the historical sites in Lafayette, continue on your drive from Houston to New Orleans.

Check out our full guide to the best Lafayette attractions!

Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge

From Lafayette, head east into the wilderness of the Mississippi Delta. About 20 minutes from the city you can find Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge which is a great place to connect with nature.

The ecosystem spans over 15,000 acres within the larger 850,000-acre Atchafalaya Basin, the largest river swamp in the United States.

Established in 1984, the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge plays a critical role in preserving the region’s unique wetlands, bottomland hardwood forests, and waterways, which provide vital habitats for a wide array of wildlife.

The refuge is a sanctuary for numerous species, including the endangered Louisiana black bear, alligators, white-tailed deer, and a rich variety of migratory birds.

Visitors to Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the area through fishing, bird-watching, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife photography along its scenic trails and waterways.

After exploring nature, head back into the city for a visit to Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is a vibrant city to visit on your Houston to New Orleans road trip. Baton Rouge boasts a rich historical heritage reflected in its architecture and museums.

One of the top attractions in Baton Rouge is the Louisiana State Capitol building, an Art Deco masterpiece and the tallest capitol building in the United States. You can tour the building or head to the observation deck of the Louisiana State Capitol building for panoramic views of Baton Rouge.

Another historic building to visit in Baton Rouge is the Old State Capitol building. This is a national historic landmark in Baton Rouge and is a must-see while touring the city. The striking Gothic Revival structure served as the statehouse from the mid-19th century. Now the Old State Capitol Building is a museum that showcases the city’s political history.

Baton Rouge’s downtown area is a lively district featuring the Shaw Center for the Arts and a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a cultural and social epicenter.

Those looking for an art museum can check out the LSU Museum of Art or the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, both of which are highlights of Baton Rouge. Magnolia Mound Plantation is another cool landmark in Baton Rouge. The well-preserved example of a French Creole plantation house showcases 18th-century architecture and heritage.

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, Baton Rouge is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The city is nestled along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, providing picturesque views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.

Baton Rouge also features numerous parks and green spaces, such as the expansive City Park and the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, which offer trails, gardens, and wildlife observation areas.

The city’s rich culinary scene, deeply rooted in Creole and Cajun traditions, offers a gastronomic adventure with its local restaurants serving dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée. There is so much to do in Baton Rouge, Louisiana!

Read next: 22 Best Things To Do In Tulsa, Oklahoma

Oak Alley Plantation

Just an hour outside of Baton Rouge lies Oak Alley Plantation, another cool place to check out during your Houston to New Orleans road trip.

Oak Alley Plantation, located on the Mississippi River in Vacherie, Louisiana, is one of the most iconic and visually stunning antebellum plantations in the United States.

Established in 1837, Oak Alley Plantation is renowned for its breathtaking canopy of 28 evenly spaced live oak trees that line the walkway leading up to the grand Greek Revival mansion. These majestic oaks, believed to be planted in the early 1700s, create a picturesque setting that has made Oak Alley Plantation a popular location for films and photography.

The mansion itself, with its grand columns and elegant architecture, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the plantation’s original owners, the Roman family, and their role in the region’s sugarcane industry.

Oak Alley Plantation is an important educational site that delves into the complex history of the South, particularly the lives of the enslaved people who worked there. The plantation’s exhibits and guided tours provide a comprehensive narrative that includes the harsh realities of slavery and the contributions of the enslaved community to the plantation’s operations and success.

By combining its stunning aesthetics with a commitment to historical accuracy and education, Oak Alley Plantation offers visitors a powerful and multifaceted experience of American history. From the plantation it’s just a one hour drive along the Mississippi River until you reach New Orleans!

New Orleans

You’ve finished your Houston to New Orleans road trip! It’s time to spend a few days enjoying the culture, nightlife, architecture, music, and cuisine of New Orleans.

Also known as the Crescent City, New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unique blend of French, Spanish, Creole, and African influences. Founded in 1718 by French colonists, New Orleans is celebrated for its distinctive architecture, particularly in the historic French Quarter.

You could easily spend all of your New Orleans trip in the French Quarter. As the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, the French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans’ nightlife and entertainment. The famous Bourbon Street offers a nonstop array of bars, live music venues, and restaurants.

The French Quarter is also home to historic landmarks such as Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the French Market, where visitors can experience local art, cuisine, and crafts.

Rich in history and brimming with life, the French Quarter encapsulates the unique charm and spirit of New Orleans, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

Other draws to New Orleans include annual events such as Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Even if you can’t make it to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, the Mardi Gras Museum is a great place to learn about the iconic festival.

Ghost tours, airboat tours of the Louisiana and Mississippi delta swamps, cemetery tours, and steamboat jazz cruises are more ways to get in touch with the nature, history, and culture of New Orleans during your stay.

Where to stay in New Orleans

From listening to jazz music in the French Quarter, to partying on Bourbon Street, to venturing out on a boat into the heart of gator country, there are so many things to do in New Orleans!

Here are some recommendations for where to stay during your trip to the Crescent City.

Budget – Holiday Inn Express

For a cheap stay in New Orleans, Holiday Inn Express has you covered. It’s just a short drive outside downtown, so it’s perfect for travelers on a road trip who want somewhere quiet and affordable to stay.

Mid Range – Virgin Hotels New Orleans

Stay in the heart of New Orleans at Virgin Hotels, a beautiful 4-star hotel with a sun terrace, rooftop pool, and incredible ratings from past guests.

Luxury – The Royal Sonesta New Orleans

If you want to splurge at the end of your Houston to New Orleans road trip, check out the Royal Sonesta. This 5-star hotel exudes class and luxury, and it’s located right in the French Quarter.

Extend your Houston to New Orleans road trip

This itinerary for a Houston to New Orleans road trip is very efficient and most of these places are right on the way.

If you have more time for your drive, you can venture to more nearby attractions and destinations that are slightly out of the way. Here are some ideas for extending your road trip to explore more of Texas and Louisiana.

Galveston, Texas

Explore Galveston at the beginning of your road trip as it’s about an hour south of Houston.

The coastal city is a hotspot for outdoor attractions! With miles of sandy beaches and the beautiful Galveston Island State Park, there are lots of opportunities for bird-watching, swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

Boat tours take guests around Galveston Bay and into the Gulf of Mexico where you can spot dolphins and admire the stunning coastal beauty.

The city also boasts family-friendly attractions like the Schlitterbahn Waterpark and the Pleasure Pier, an amusement park with rides and games extending over the Gulf of Mexico.

A fascinating historic site to visit in Galveston is the Battleship Texas, also known as the USS Texas (BB-35). Battleship Texas is currently undergoing extensive restoration in Galveston after being relocated from its long-time berth at the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site.

This iconic Battleship Texas is a veteran of both World Wars. Once the restoration is complete, Battleship Texas will once again serve as a floating museum, offering a unique glimpse into the past and honoring the legacy of those who served on this remarkable vessel.

Beaumont, Texas

About 25 minutes north of Port Arthur, Texas, is Beaumont. This city is rich in history, industry, and cultural diversity.

The city’s historical significance is reflected in landmarks such as the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, which commemorates the famous Spindletop oil discovery that sparked the Texas oil boom. You can also see the Spindletop Hill salt dome which is the site of the 1901 oil discovery.

Beaumont also offers cultural attractions such as the Art Museum of Southeast Texas and the Beaumont Botanical Gardens, providing residents and visitors with opportunities to explore art, nature, and local history.

Another highlight of the city is Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands & Boardwalk. This tranquil spot is the perfect place to go for a walk, stretch your legs, observe diverse wildlife, and admire the expansive wetlands.

Avery Island, Louisiana

Avery Island, located in southern Louisiana, is a geological salt dome known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The island is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Tabasco sauce, produced by the McIlhenny Company since the 1860s.

Visitors to Avery Island can tour the Tabasco factory to learn about the sauce-making process and explore the Tabasco museum, which showcases the history and global impact of this iconic condiment.

The island’s lush landscape is also home to the Jungle Gardens, a 170-acre botanical garden. Jungle Gardens has incredible wildlife, birdlife, azaleas, bamboo forests, and majestic oak trees adorned with Spanish moss.

Avery Island is a popular destination for day trips from nearby cities like Lafayette, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge. So you can easily include it in your road trip itinerary if you’re willing to stray from the course for a cool adventure.

Check out these amazing day trips from New Orleans for more ideas.

Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana

Nature lovers who have a bit of extra time on their road trip can spend some time at Sabine National Wildlife Refuge.

Situated in southwestern Louisiana near the Gulf of Mexico, this sprawling sanctuary of diverse coastal habitats can fit into the road trip after Port Arthur and before Lake Charles.

Established in 1937, the refuge is crucial for protecting and preserving the region’s wetlands, marshes, and freshwater ponds, which serve as vital habitats for migratory birds and other plant and animal life.

Visitors to Sabine National Wildlife Refuge can explore the refuge’s network of trails and boardwalks, offering opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and photography. The refuge is also popular for fishing and crabbing along its waterways, providing recreational activities amidst its scenic landscapes.

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