Enjoy America’s largest river swamp with your pup on the Atchafalaya Experience in Breaux Bridge. Louisiana’s Atchafalaya River is a perfect place to spot beavers, deer, alligators, crocodiles, and over 30 bird species. Tour the swamp with experienced naturalists whose love of the area and expertise make each trip memorable. Tours begin daily at the Atchafalaya Welcome Center, but you should call ahead for reservations. For another nearby adventure with Fido, travel to Avery Island for a visit to the 170-acre Jungle Gardens. Dogs are welcome on the grounds but should remain leashed at all times.

After trekking through the scenic Louisiana wilderness, you and Fido will welcome the charming appeal of the Mouton Plantation in Lafayette. Pet-friendly accommodations are available in the property’s cottages.

If you’re a fan of spooks and specters, enjoy a nighttime tour of New Orleans with Bloody Mary’s Tours. On the French Quarter Supernatural Tour + Ghost Hunt, you’ll conjure spirits and search for spooks with a real Voodoo priestess. History and haunts come to life as your guide entertains you with stories about 19th century vampires Marie Laveau and Madame LaLaurie. Reservations are required. For a less-spooky look at New Orleans, climb aboard the pet-friendly Algiers Ferry and enjoy incredible views of the city as you and your pooch travel to Algiers Point. While you’re there, stop in for a pint and a snack at The Crown & Anchor, which welcomes pups inside and out.

When you check in at The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, a boutique property located just a few blocks from New Orleans’ French Quarter, Fido will be treated like the VIP (very important pet) that he is. He’ll be greeted with treats, a pet bed, bowls, and ID tags during his stay. When it’s time to go for a walk, beautiful Lafayette Square is just around the corner.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s colorful capital, is a must-visit for dogs who can appreciate the beauty in nature and art. Visit LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens for nearly 5 miles of walking trails through pretty gardens full of colorful flowers, woodlands, wetlands and an arboretum. For off-leash fun, drive south toward the Mississippi River and pay a visit to Burbank Dog Park, where your pooch can paddle on hot days. After experiencing flower power firsthand, discover handmade beauty with a mural tour. The Walls Project was designed to bring together local artists and businesses in hopes of inspiring urban and rural beautification in the Baton Rouge community. By the time dinnertime rolls around, enjoy a feast with your beast at The Bulldog. The downtown patio is loved by four-legged tourists and locals alike.

Rest up with your pup at La Quinta Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Denham Springs. This firm furry favorite is a stone’s throw away from the action and welcomes dogs of any size to stay.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to Louisiana preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code PELICAN to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!