6 Top Spots for Agritourism in Louisiana
Named after King Louis XIV of France and home to the world-famous Mardi Gras celebration and the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana is melting pot of cultures. But even if you already knew the state was renowned for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, you might be surprised to discover it’s also home to an impressive collection of agritourism destinations that are well worth a visit on your next vacation.
Dee Dee’s B&B
Dee Dee’s Bed and Breakfast is the place to be if you fancy a weekend of fishing, roasting s’mores and savoring a true country escape. Staying here puts you conveniently close to everything from scenic byways to Civil War memorial sites and battlefields. You can also easily access the Sabine River for a day of fishing, kayaking or boating. Even though you’re up close and personal with everything Louisiana nature has to offer, you can still enjoy modern amenities and conveniences at the end of a long and fulfilling day.
WesMar Farms
Whether you’re traveling solo or on vacation with the whole family, everyone in your group is bound to enjoy an afternoon on a working goat dairy farm. WesMar Farms is located in the charming town of Moreauville and features a weekly market on Thursday afternoons in addition to year-round tours. Be sure to bring your appetite because their Farm Shop has everything from goat milk feta and chevre to goat cheese truffles. If you’d rather skip the cheese, you can always opt for a few of their goat milk soaps or other gifts and souvenirs. Make sure to call in advance if you want to see the farm because tours are by appointment only.
See more: 7 Louisiana Food Festivals to Add to Your Bucket List
Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins
There’s no better place to spend an afternoon than Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins if you have a love for all things agriculture and history. The 1,800-acre cotton plantation is owned by Buddy and Lynette Tanner. Buddy serves as a cotton producer delegate for the National Cotton Council as well as a trustee for the Mid-South Cotton Foundation. His wife grew up as a cotton planter’s daughter, and together they strive to preserve the history of Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins. The family provides guided tours through eight historical buildings on the property where visitors can learn about the historical and modern methods of planting, harvesting and ginning cotton. Depending on when you plan your trip, there may even be seasonal events on the calendar.
See more: Keeping Cotton King: Nurturing America’s Favorite Natural Fiber
View this post on Instagram
Red Stick Farmers Market
It’s always fun to drop by a local farmers market when you’re traveling, and Red Stick Farmers Market is no exception. This open-air market boasts more than 50 member farmers and only offers items that are produced locally by each. You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, baked goods like bread and pie, honey, milk, cheese, and a wide variety of other specialty items. Some producers even sell plants and herbs. In addition to taking home some delicious tastes and treats, your visit to the market supports local producers and the local food system in Louisiana.
See more: What’s Growing? Louisiana Produce Calendar
Hillcrest Blueberry Farm
Did you know blueberries are among the top fruits with antioxidant benefits? That means in addition to being absolutely delicious, they’re pretty darn good for you too. And if you happen to be staying in or passing through Gloster, Louisiana, you can enjoy some locally grown and harvested blueberries from Hillcrest Blueberry Farm. Depending on the time of year, you can inquire about their pick-your-own experience or purchase their frozen blueberries by the case. If you want something to enjoy on the spot, consider ordering their blueberry lemonade, blueberry muffins or soft serve yogurt topped with blueberries straight from the property.
View this post on Instagram
Craft Brews and Spirits Trail
While the Craft Brews and Spirits Trail isn’t a single destination to plug into your GPS, it is one of the most unique experiences for those wanting to make the most of their Louisiana adventure. There are several makers on the list: Crying Eagle Brewing Company in Calcasieu Parish includes a taproom with a rotating selection of beers that you won’t want to miss; Bayou Rum is a spirits distillery that crafts their beverages from homegrown Louisiana sugarcane; Yellowfin Vodka proudly crafts their drinks with Louisiana sugarcane as well, fermenting, distilling, filtering and bottling everything in house in Sulphur; And if you’re looking for a nonalcoholic option, Acadian Coffee Roasters is also on the trail and known for producing some of the most beloved coffee in the area.