Skip to main content

Day Trips from Lafayette

← All Lafayette day trips

Day Trips from Lafayette: Scenic Drives & Road Trips

The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Lafayette, LA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.

6 scenic drives near Lafayette

Live oak Rd Scenic View, Abbeville, LA 70510

Live oak Rd Scenic View

Abbeville, LA 70510

Just 52 min from Lafayette, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

52 min5.0 (3)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Scenic Overlook, Derry, LA 71457

Scenic Overlook

Derry, LA 71457

Just 2 hrs 5 min from Lafayette, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.

2 hrs 5 min5.0 (1)Attraction$10 - $40

Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.

MS Gulf Coast Scenic Byways, Bay St Louis, MS 39520

MS Gulf Coast Scenic Byways

Bay St Louis, MS 39520

Just 2 hrs 41 min from Lafayette, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

2 hrs 41 min4.9 (28)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Lake Pontchartrain Scenic View, Madisonville, LA 70447

Lake Pontchartrain Scenic View

Madisonville, LA 70447

Just 2 hrs 2 min from Lafayette, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.

2 hrs 2 min4.8 (12)Attraction$10 - $40

Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.

Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway, Derry, LA 71416

Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway

Derry, LA 71416

Just 1 hr 54 min from Lafayette, rated 4.6 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 54 min4.6 (15)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Mississippi Scenic View, St Gabriel, LA 70788

Mississippi Scenic View

St Gabriel, LA 70788

Just 1 hr 20 min from Lafayette, rated 4.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.

1 hr 20 min4.0 (1)Attraction$10 - $40

Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Lafayette

What are the best scenic drives near Lafayette, LA?

The best scenic drives near Lafayette include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.

How long are the scenic drives from Lafayette?

Most scenic drives near Lafayette range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.

What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Lafayette?

Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Lafayette, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.

What should I bring on a scenic drive from Lafayette?

Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.

Don't know where to go?

Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.

Surprise me