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History & Culture While Louisiana became a U.S. state in 1812, its history has even deeper roots. Native Americans arrived around 4,000 years ago, creating fascinating earthworks that still stand today — most notably at Poverty Point World Heritage Site. Waves of European explorers began arriving in the 1500s, and the Spanish, French, African, Italian, French-Canadian (Acadian) and British influences survive through Louisiana’s rich food and culture. Without all of these connections, Louisiana wouldn’t be what it is today! Getting Here Louisiana is easily reached by Interstates 10, 12, 20, 49 and 55. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is the state’s main flight hub, with regional airports throughout the state. Climate & Geography Louisiana’s temperate climate makes it an attractive year-round destination, with rarely freezing temps statewide and a warmer, tropical climate in the south. North and Central Louisiana are dominated by agricultural fields and rolling hills (highest elevation: Driskill Mountain, at 535 feet). South Louisiana is a land of waterways, most notably the Atchafalaya Basin — the nation’s largest river swamp — and the Mississippi River. Claims to Fame • New Orleans is the undisputed birthplace of jazz music. The New Orleans Jazz Museum and Congo Square are great places to discover the genre’s roots. • Louisiana is home to the Cajun Music Capital of the World (Mamou), the Jambalaya Capital of the World (Gonzales), the Crawfish Capital of the World (Breaux Bridge), Andouille Capital of the World (LaPlace), Catfish Capital of the Universe (Des Allemands), Perique Tobacco Capital of the World (St. James Parish) and the Boudin Capital of the World (Scott). All of these cities and more have festivals honoring their unique musical genres, dishes and customs. Learn more at LouisianaTravel.com/festivals. • Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish), founded in 1714, is the oldest city in the Louisiana Purchase. Walk the streets of its historic downtown to get a glimpse into its fascinating past. • Louisiana is the biggest producer of seafood in the contiguous U.S., with over half of the Gulf of Mexico’s blue crab, oyster and tuna catches coming from its waters. Louisiana Icons State Song: You Are My Sunshine State Cuisine: Gumbo State Reptile: American Alligator State Musical Instrument: Accordion State Tree: Bald Cypress State Nicknames: The Bayou State, The Pelican State, Sportsman’s Paradise More to Explore Plan your adventure with the help of Louisiana’s regional welcome centers, where local experts can help you find the best that the Bayou State has to offer. Visit LouisianaTravel.com/welcome-center to find out more.
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