Louisiana
"Union, Justice, Confidence"
Nickname
Pelican State
Capital
Baton Rouge
Statehood
April 30, 1812 (18th)
Motto
Union, Justice, Confidence
Explore Louisiana
18 of 18 articles available
Top mountains
Signature peaks and elevation highlights.
Best hikes
Trail ideas from day hikes to overnighters.
State parks
Must-see parks and natural areas.
Road trip loops
Weekend-friendly scenic drives.
Waterfronts
Lakes, rivers, and coastal stops to visit.
Waterfalls & springs
Cool-down spots and photogenic falls.
Scenic overlooks
Pull-offs and vistas for quick views.
Camping spots
Easy campgrounds and dispersed sites.
Historic towns
Main streets, museums, and landmarks.
Family weekends
Low-stress itineraries with kids in mind.
Top universities
Best-known universities and colleges.
Top biggest cities
Largest metros and fast-growing hubs.
Top places to visit
Must-see destinations and attractions.
Top high schools
High-performing public and private schools.
Top cities
Beloved cities for living and visiting.
Basic information
Quick facts, nickname, capital, and region.
Geography
Landscapes, neighbors, and natural regions.
Economy
Key industries, employers, and growth drivers.
About Louisiana
Louisiana's culture runs on a mix of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences found nowhere else in the country, most visible in New Orleans but present throughout the bayou country and river towns beyond it. The Mississippi River's final stretch to the Gulf shapes the state's geography, economy, and constant relationship with flooding.
Below, the guides move from that river delta into the state's cities, food culture, and the industries — shipping, oil, and agriculture — built around its waterways.