5 Weekend Getaways from New Orleans
It’s hard to run out of things to do in New Orleans. The Crescent City is such a fun place to walk the historic streets, visit nearby plantations, and enjoy delicious food and drinks while watching live entertainment. But if you’re a local, or you’re spending a lot of time in the area, you might want to plan a day trip or weekend getaway within driving distance from New Orleans. Why not expand your horizons and visit other notable cities in the heart of the South? Biloxi, Mobile, Grand Isle, and other must-visit destinations are just a short road trip from New Orleans.
Use this list to get inspired for your next weekend getaway or day trip from New Orleans!
1. Biloxi, Mississippi
Distance from New Orleans: 90 miles; 1.5 hours by car
Drive 90 miles northeast from the Crescent City and you’ll reach Biloxi, Mississippi, a charming town on the Gulf Coast with beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and entertaining casinos where you can go all in on a variety of slots and table games.
The views of the Mississippi Sound beckon, and if you can’t resist, hop on a schooner for a sunset sailing tour or spend the day with your toes in the sand. Sports enthusiasts can catch a baseball game (go Shuckers!), and shopaholics are sure to enjoy the many stores and boutiques.
By night, Biloxi is home to fantastic dining and fun things to do. Walk along the historic district with your alcoholic beverage in a go-cup and enjoy people-watching around Back Bay and Veterans Avenue. Catch a headliner show at one of the casinos or challenge your friends to a game of poker.
Just an hour and a half away, Biloxi is the perfect destination for a day trip from New Orleans – but there’s so much to do that you might want to book a hotel and extend your stay!
2. Mobile, Alabama
Distance from New Orleans: 145 miles; 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
Pack your walking shoes for a weekend getaway or day trip to Mobile, Alabama. Mobile is a historic gem and one of the South’s must-see destinations. This coastal town is teeming with fascinating people, storied establishments, and whimsical attractions. Shaped by 300 years of history, Mobile is known for Southern hospitality, long-standing traditions, and authentic experiences.
If you love history and museums, Mobile is sure to delight! From the Battleship USS Alabama and National Maritime Museum to the History Museum of Mobile and even the Mobile Carnival Museum, you could spend your entire weekend learning about this amazing city.
Beyond indoor and historic attractions, Mobile is known for its beautiful parks and botanical gardens and great restaurants. Don’t miss the Firehouse Wine Bar & Shop, located in the Hook & Ladder Company No. 1 Firehouse.
There are also wonderful attractions for couples, like the romantic Bragg-Mitchell Mansion and Dauphin Street. The historic district consists of 19th-century buildings designed in a variety of styles including Greek Revival, Federal, and Italianate, with cute shops and restaurants to explore.
3. Grand Isle, Louisiana
Distance from New Orleans: 108 miles; 2 hours and 10 minutes by car
You don’t have to leave the state for your weekend getaway. Located in the southern part of Louisiana, Grand Isle is a Gulf Coast town known for fishing, birdwatching, and water sports, not to mention the delicious, fresh-caught seafood. If you’re in the mood for a road trip to the beach, Grand Isle offers several public beaches and a wildlife refuge where you can explore coastal dunes, beaches, mangroves, and saltwater marshes.
Visitors to Grand Isle love the town’s laid-back feel and friendly locals and tourists. The most popular activities here are fishing, walking and hiking, camping, and swimming. It’s the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy simple living and proximity to nature. You can still enjoy vacation amenities like restaurants, shops, and places to stay. From sports bars to seafood joints and quaint bed and breakfasts, Grand Isle offers the relaxing vacation you’ve been longing for.
4. Memphis, Tennessee
Distance from New Orleans: 395 miles; 5 hours and 40 minutes by car
Feeling up for a 3-day weekend? Head north to Memphis, Tennessee, known as Bluff City. Located on the Mississippi River, Memphis is a top destination for sightseeing, biking, shopping, and of course, eating some of the best barbecue in the South. There are more than 60 attractions across the city, with options for couples, solo travelers, and families with young kids. Trust us, the drive is worth it!
Memphis may be known for music and barbecue, but there’s so much more to see and do. Wander the downtown, midtown, and south Memphis neighborhoods, stopping to walk the famous Beale Street. Known as “America’s Most Iconic Street” and “Home of the Blues,” Beale Street’s three blocks of nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and shops have something for everyone. This National Historic Landmark is rooted in live music history. It’s a place where great music, food, and company come together to create authentic experiences.
Beyond the undeniable charm of Memphis’s music melting pot, the city is a hub of arts and culture, heritage, nightlife, and outdoor activities. Bask in the sun at a riverfront park, walk the bridge over the Mississippi, and venture into the state park for hiking or biking.
Visit our sister website, Tennessee Activities, for more trip planning ideas. You can also book tours and activities in advance online.
5. Orange Beach, Alabama
Distance from New Orleans: 196 miles; 3 hours and 20 minutes by car
Orange Beach is another Alabama town that should be on your weekend travel list. Just over three hours from New Orleans, it’s a quick drive that will reward you with immaculate white sand beaches and thrilling activities like parasailing. Inland, you’ll find manicured golf courses and challenging biking trails, while the calm turquoise water makes Orange Beach a hub for watersports.
Walk the Wharf to shop ‘til you drop at funky souvenir stores and quaint boutiques. If you’re a surfer, don’t forget to visit the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop located near the popular Gulf State Park. The store has been a staple of Orange Beach for decades! Beyond shopping and sunbathing, you can play mini golf, go horseback riding or shelling on the beach, visit arcades, and even spend the day at a zoo or amusement park. Orange Beach truly has something for everyone in the family.
With these road trips from New Orleans right at your fingertips, you should have no trouble planning your next weekend getaway! In the meantime, if you’re looking for ways to stay entertained in NOLA, check out these tours and activities from local businesses.