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AI-LewisClark
04 Jan 2026
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Indianapolis to New Orleans road trip itinerary

Indianapolis to New Orleans Road Trip Overview

Embark on a scenic and culturally rich drive from Indianapolis to New Orleans that blends history, architecture, music, and natural beauty. Begin with driving stretches across Indiana and Kentucky into Tennessee and Mississippi, enjoying small towns and regional cuisine along the way. As you approach Louisiana, plan stops at historic sites and riverfront towns before reaching the vibrant city of New Orleans. In New Orleans, explore world-class museums like the National WWII Museum, stroll the lively French Quarter and Jackson Square to absorb Creole culture and live music, and visit Louis Armstrong Park to connect with the city’s jazz heritage. Venture beyond the city center to experience the atmospheric Garden District with its antebellum mansions, the evocative Oak Alley Plantation framed by its iconic oak canopy, and hands-on attractions such as the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas for family-friendly marine encounters. For outdoor adventure, take a guided Cajun Encounters swamp tour to see native wildlife and learn about bayou ecosystems. In Baton Rouge, the Riverwalk and the USS Kidd Veterans Museum provide pleasant riverfront views and maritime history. This route offers a balanced mix of educational museums, historic neighborhoods, natural landscapes, and lively cultural experiences — ideal for travelers seeking variety, photo opportunities, and immersive local flavor.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    National WWII Museum

    Offers an extensive, immersive collection of artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia exhibits that provide deep insight into the global impact of World War II, making it both educational and emotionally powerful for history enthusiasts and general visitors alike.
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    Jackson Square

    A historic public square in the French Quarter featuring the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, lively street performers, local artists, and scenic views of the Mississippi River — ideal for soaking up New Orleans culture and people-watching.
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    French Quarter

    The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, renowned for its vibrant architecture, rich Creole and musical heritage, unique shops and galleries, and lively nightlife, offering an unforgettable cultural and sensory experience.
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    Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

    Features diverse marine and riverine exhibits, including a large Caribbean reef tunnel, Gulf of Mexico habitats, and interactive touch pools, making it a great family-friendly attraction for learning about aquatic life and conservation.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Garden District

    Known for its well-preserved 19th-century mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries, the Garden District offers a peaceful, picturesque contrast to the French Quarter and is ideal for architecture, history, and photography enthusiasts.
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    Riverwalk (Baton Rouge)

    Provides scenic views of the Mississippi River, public art, walking paths, and nearby museums and dining — a pleasant spot for leisurely strolls, local events, and appreciating Baton Rouge’s riverfront atmosphere.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    USS Kidd Veterans Museum (Baton Rouge)

    A preserved Fletcher-class destroyer turned museum that offers hands-on exhibits, naval artifacts, and interpretive displays about US naval history and veterans’ service — appealing to military history buffs and families alike.
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Oak Alley Plantation

    Famous for its dramatic double row of 300-year-old live oaks and well-restored antebellum mansion, Oak Alley provides immersive tours that explore plantation life, architecture, and regional history in a picturesque riverfront setting.
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    Louis Armstrong Park

    A culturally significant green space honoring jazz legend Louis Armstrong, featuring monuments, open-air performance spaces, and proximity to the French Quarter — an atmospheric spot to connect with New Orleans’ musical heritage and enjoy live performances or quiet reflection.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour (near New Orleans)

    Offers guided boat tours through Louisiana bayous where you can see native wildlife (alligators, wading birds, turtles), learn about Cajun culture and local ecology from experienced guides, and experience the unique swamp landscapes and sounds — a memorable outdoor adventure and photographic opportunity close to New Orleans.
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Restaurants

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    Commander’s Palace

    4.6
    $$$$

    Commander’s Palace

    A legendary New Orleans fine-dining institution known for its refined Creole cuisine, impeccable service, and historic dining room—great for a special occasion or classic local dishes.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Cochon

    4.7
    $$$$

    Cochon

    Highly regarded for modern interpretations of Cajun and Southern flavors using local ingredients; offers hearty, rustic dishes perfect for exploring regional pork and barbecue traditions.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

    4.4
    $$$$

    Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

    An iconic Creole establishment celebrating generations of family-run cooking and cultural history, beloved for its gumbo, fried chicken, and role in the city’s civil rights history.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Peche Seafood Grill

    4.6
    $$$$

    Peche Seafood Grill

    Popular for its wood-fired seafood and innovative preparations highlighting Gulf ingredients—an excellent choice for fresh, flavorful coastal fare.
    4.6
    $$$$
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    Parkway Bakery & Tavern

    4.5
    $$$$

    Parkway Bakery & Tavern

    Famous for some of the city’s best po’boys and an unpretentious neighborhood atmosphere; ideal for a casual, hearty lunch stop.
    4.5
    $$$$
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Hotels

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    The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

    The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

    Luxury hotel in the French Quarter offering refined rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Jackson Square and Bourbon Street—ideal for upscale comfort and classic New Orleans ambiance.
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    W New Orleans - French Quarter

    W New Orleans - French Quarter

    Stylish, modern hotel near the French Quarter with contemporary rooms and vibrant nightlife proximity—good for travelers who want to be in the heart of the action.
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    The Pontchartrain Hotel

    4.4

    The Pontchartrain Hotel

    Historic Uptown boutique hotel with period charm, rooftop bar, and close access to the Garden District—perfect for those seeking character and quieter neighborhood surroundings.
    4.4
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    International House Hotel

    4

    International House Hotel

    Boutique hotel blending Southern hospitality with modern design, located in the Warehouse District near museums like the National WWII Museum—great for culture-focused stays.
    4
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    Omni Royal Orleans

    4.3

    Omni Royal Orleans

    Upscale hotel on the edge of the French Quarter featuring rooftop dining and classic service—convenient for exploring the French Quarter, Riverwalk, and nearby attractions.
    4.3
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Shen Yun

    Shen Yun

    The gong resounds, the curtain opens, and fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. Dynasties rise and fall as ancient legends of love, loss, humor and valor unfold before your e...
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Jan 2026
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    The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd's 'The Wall'

    The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Pink Floyd's 'The Wall'

    Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Pink Floyd's iconic album "The Wall" live in its entirety; note-for-note, sound...
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon24 Jan 2026
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    Liverpool Legends "The Complete Beatles Experience"

    Liverpool Legends "The Complete Beatles Experience"

    The event will take place at Jefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie.
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Jan 2026
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    A Chorus Line Teen Edition - JPA Theatre Kids

    A Chorus Line Teen Edition - JPA Theatre Kids

    A Chorus Line: Teen Edition is a full-length version of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, adapted for performance by high school students with family audiences. A Chorus Line is a stunning concept musical capturing the spirit and tension of a Broad...
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Feb 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Disney's Frozen the Musical

    Disney's Frozen the Musical

    For the first time in forever, experience the musical phenomenon that has taken the world by storm! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, Frozen includes all the beloved songs from the film by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lop...
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars

    Swan Lake by International Ballet Stars

    Timeless. Majestic. Unforgettable. Step into the world of Swan Lake ? a story of love, magic, and triumph, brought to life through the powerful choreography of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, set to Tchaikovsky?s iconic score. This production features ...
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon3 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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    Jagged Little Pill The Musical

    Jagged Little Pill The Musical

    Based one the world-changing music of Alanis Morissette, this Tony and Grammy Award-winning new musical about a perfectly imperfect American family is brimming with joy, strength, love, courage and life.
    Map IconJefferson Perf Arts Center in Metairie (10.47 mi)
    Calendar Icon18 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Stop and have a beignet at Cafe du Monde in the morning. New Orleans also has the World War II Museum and the Civil War Museum right across the street from each other. Ride a ...

    Finalizing Road Trip. Looking for suggested things to see (Jackson, MS, New Orleans, LA, Birmingham, AL)

    Stop and have a beignet at Cafe du Monde in the morning. New Orleans also has the World War II Museum and the Civil War Museum right across the street from each other. Ride a ...

    /r/roadtrip
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  • Reddit Icon

    I am going to take I-65 from Indy to Nashville and hope on Natchez Trace Parkway from Nashville, TN to Jackson, Mississippi, then I-55 down to New Orleans.

    Motorcycle road Trip from Indianapolis to New Orleans

    I am going to take I-65 from Indy to Nashville and hope on Natchez Trace Parkway from Nashville, TN to Jackson, Mississippi, then I-55 down to New Orleans.

    /r/roadtrip
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  • Reddit Icon

    11 votes, 62 comments. My son has grown up on the west coast, never been to a red state or had proper BBQ, and loves music. We take a trip together

    Route / activity suggestions from Nashville to New Orleans for father /son (12) road trip..?

    11 votes, 62 comments. My son has grown up on the west coast, never been to a red state or had proper BBQ, and loves music. We take a trip together

    /r/roadtrip
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  • Reddit Icon

    110 votes, 104 comments. Hello! I am going to <strong>New</strong> <strong>Orleans</strong> in a couple of weeks and was wondering if those who visited can share some cool pla...

    r/travel on Reddit: Trip to New Orleans

    110 votes, 104 comments. Hello! I am going to <strong>New</strong> <strong>Orleans</strong> in a couple of weeks and was wondering if those who visited can share some cool pla...

    /r/travel
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  • Reddit Icon

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... Portugus (Brasil)SvenskaEspaol (Espa...

    Any recommendations, Chicago to New Orleans?

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... Portugus (Brasil)SvenskaEspaol (Espa...

    /r/roadtrip
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  • Reddit Icon

    17 votes, 48 comments. I was thinking it might be cool to take my kids on a random long weekend road trip around the state to see some of the

    Indiana Roadtrip Stops

    17 votes, 48 comments. I was thinking it might be cool to take my kids on a random long weekend road trip around the state to see some of the

    /r/Indiana
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    As far as New Orleans, make sure to get some beignets at Cafe Beignet and Cafe du Monde! Also, the World War 2 museum was incredible and easy to checkout in a few hours. If yo...

    Roadtrip from Los Angeles to New Orleans and back. Any suggestions for stops along both routes?

    As far as New Orleans, make sure to get some beignets at Cafe Beignet and Cafe du Monde! Also, the World War 2 museum was incredible and easy to checkout in a few hours. If yo...

    /r/roadtrip
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... I have a week off and no kiddos this...

    Indiana to New Orleans on a motorcycle

    Whether you enjoy traveling by motorcycle, car, or recreational vehicle this is your destination for everything related to road trips! ... I have a week off and no kiddos this...

    /r/roadtrip
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

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    Chris Stapleton - Midnight Train To Memphis

    Chris Stapleton - Midnight Train To Memphis

    A driving, rootsy tune that captures the feeling of heading south with momentum and nostalgia—great for highway stretches.
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    The Animals - House Of The Rising Sun

    The Animals - House Of The Rising Sun

    A timeless, melancholic folk-blues piece rooted in New Orleans lore; it sets an evocative mood as you approach the city.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World

    Louis Armstrong - What A Wonderful World

    Louis Armstrong’s warm, hopeful voice celebrates moments of beauty—perfect for scenic stops and reflecting on the journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    An upbeat classic about road travel and iconic American stops; it adds a playful, adventurous vibe to any road trip playlist.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Linda Ronstadt - Blue Bayou

    Linda Ronstadt - Blue Bayou

    A wistful song that evokes longing and Southern landscapes, suited to late-afternoon drives along riverways and bayous.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Dolly Parton - Jolene

    Dolly Parton - Jolene

    A strong, narrative-driven country track with emotional intensity—good for singing along and keeping energy up between destinations.
    Listen on Spotify
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    The Dixie Cups - Iko Iko

    The Dixie Cups - Iko Iko

    A lively, New Orleans-rooted parade song with infectious rhythm—ideal for walking through the French Quarter or soaking up local festivity.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Al Green - Take Me to the River

    Al Green - Take Me to the River

    Soulful and swampy, this track blends R&B and Southern flavor—fitting for cruising through Louisiana landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Ricky Nelson - Travelin' Man - Remastered

    Ricky Nelson - Travelin' Man - Remastered

    A classic upbeat rockabilly song about life on the move; it complements the nomadic spirit of a cross-state road trip.
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    Jon Batiste - Saint James Infirmary Blues

    Jon Batiste - Saint James Infirmary Blues

    A haunting jazz-blues standard strongly associated with New Orleans’ musical tradition—great for evening drives or atmospheric listening in the city.
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