On A Budget? Free Things to Do in Louisiana

Believe it or not, even with inflated prices, there are still plenty of free & fun things to do in Louisiana. Let the good times roll — without spending a dime! Exploring Louisiana doesn't have to come with a price tag.

Traveling and sightseeing can hit the wallet pretty hard. You'll be happy to know some places in Louisiana where you don’t have to fork out money to have a good time. There are several locations where you can immerse yourself in the state's rich traditions and cultural history for free.

From cultural landmarks and historic treasures to splash pads and outdoor festivals, the Bayou State offers plenty of free, family-friendly adventures. Whether you wanna stay close to home or are looking to take a road trip, we've got you covered. Check out these budget-friendly spots across the state, including right here in Calcasieu Parish.

Historic Sites & Cultural Landmarks

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve
419 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Open 9 AM – 5 PM
Explore Louisiana’s natural beauty and heritage through exhibits, trails, and self-guided tours.

️DeQuincy Railroad Museum
400 Lake Charles Ave, DeQuincy, LA 70633
(337) 786-2823
This hidden gem gives visitors a glimpse into railroad history with vintage trains and artifacts.

E.D. White Historic Site
2295 St. Mary St, Thibodaux, LA 70301
1-800-568-6968
The former home of Louisiana’s 10th governor, this site captures both political and Creole history.

Louisiana Old State Capitol
100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801
Open 10 AM – 4 PM
(225) 342-0500
This Gothic-style landmark doubles as a museum and a lesson in Louisiana politics.

St. Louis Cathedral
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116
One of the oldest continuously active cathedrals in the U.S. — beautiful inside and out.

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
515 Cathedral St, Lafayette, LA 70501
(337) 232-1322
Completed in 1916, this Romanesque cathedral is a local landmark with deep roots in faith and architecture.

Markets, Events & Town Squares
French Market
518 Saint Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Open 9 AM – 6 PM
A vibrant, open-air market with music, shopping, and the soul of NOLA on full display.

Louis Armstrong Park/Congo Square
701 N Rampart St
New Orleans, LA 70116

Louisiana History Museum
Washington Street 503
Alexandria, LA 71301
(318) 487-8556

Black Heritage Gallery
1001 Ryan Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 488-0567

Jackson Square
701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Open 8 AM – 6 PM
Perfect for soaking up art, live performers, and New Orleans history.

Red, White, Blue & You Festival (2025)
Lake Charles Event Center, Bord du Lac Drive
(337) 491-9147
️ July 3 (5 PM – Until) & July 4 (5:30 PM)
Enjoy patriotic fun with fireworks, live music, and free entertainment for the whole family.

Parks, Nature & Outdoor Fun
Lake Charles City Parks & Splash Park
Lake Charles, LA 70601
April–Oct: 7 AM – 7 PM | Nov–Mar: 7 AM – 5 PM
(Mondays open at 1 PM year-round)
This includes Tuten Park, Riverside Park, and Millennium Park. You can walk, play, picnic, or let the kids cool off.

Ward 3 Parks & Splash Pads
3210 Power Centre Pkwy, Lake Charles, LA 70607
(337) 990-0112

Louisiana Boardwalk
11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
540 Boardwalk Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111-4370
(318) 752-1455

Cajun Music Hall of Fame & Museum                                                                      Mon-Fri 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Summer: Tue-Sat 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Winter: Tue-Sat 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
240 S C C Duson St, Eunice, LA 70535
(337) 457-6534

Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
2740 Ruth Street
Sulphur, LA 70665

Liuzza Produce Farm
56188 Holden Cir Independence, LA 70443
(985) 981-5788

These community parks and water features are a hit during summer, all free. Soak up Louisiana without spending a cent. From historic gems and sacred spaces to playful parks and cultural events, there's no shortage of things to see and do, even on a budget. Pack a cooler, grab the family, and experience the spirit of Louisiana one free stop at a time.

From free self-guided tours, parks, and nature trails to free family movie nights under the stars and farmers’ markets. There are plenty of family-friendly, fun-filled things to do for free in the Bayou State. So, let the good times roll! Check out a few cool locations in Calcasieu Parish and other parts of the state.