Cajun Encounters Blog
Rebuilding Nottoway Plantation: Inside the Remarkable Effort to Restore a River Road Icon
If you have ever followed Louisiana’s River Road with the Mississippi River glinting beyond the levee, you know the moment when the scenery suddenly changes. The cane fields stretch, the oaks thick...
Top 10 Things to Do for Mardi Gras 2026 When Visiting New Orleans for the First Time
If this is your first visit for Mardi Gras, you are in for a citywide celebration that feels like a moving festival: parades, marching bands, costumes, king cake season, and that unmistakable New O...
Why Cajun Encounters Is the Most Trusted Family-Friendly Swamp Tour in New Orleans
Cajun Encounters offers New Orleans’ most family-friendly swamp tour: 2-hour Honey Island trip with certified captains, small boats, hotel pickup, child pricing.
Snowy Egret Magic: Essential Tips for Spectacular Sightings
The snowy egret is one of North America’s most elegant wading birds, instantly recognizable by bright white plumage, slender black legs, vivid yellow feet, and a fine black bill with a dash of yell...
Cajun Seasoning 101: The Ultimate Delicious Guide for Home Cooks.
If you have tasted perfectly blackened fish, a bold pot of jambalaya, or smoky red beans and rice, you already know the power of Cajun seasoning. The blend is pepper forward, aromatic, and incredib...
Airboats vs. Jon Boats: The Powerful Truth Behind Bayou Ecology
Louisiana’s swamps and marshes are places where movement is an ecological force. Both airboats and flat-bottom boats promise access to shallow water, yet they get there in very different ways. That...
Beloved Nicolas Cage Movies and the Legendary Crescent City
New Orleans is Nicolas Cage’s restless creative compass, the city whose streetcar rattle and cemetery shadows have imprinted themselves on more than a few Nicolas Cage movies. Talk to locals steepe...
The Ultimate Guide to Cypress Trees: Varieties, Planting Tips, and Practical Uses
Few trees evoke images as diverse and vivid as the cypress. Mention the name, and you might picture gnarled roots emerging from murky green waters in a Louisiana bayou or slender silhouettes standi...
New Orleans in June: 10 Refreshing Ways to Beat the Heat and Make the Most of Your Crescent City Adventure
When summer arrives in Louisiana, the combination of high humidity and bright sunshine can feel intense, yet June is still one of the most rewarding months to explore the city that locals call Nola...
Nottoway Plantation: From 19th‑Century Sugar Empire to a Breathtaking Modern‑Day Landmark and Its Place Among Louisiana’s River Road Plantations
A White‑Colonnaded Giant on the Mississippi Cruising the Great River Road between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, you’ll see one name rise above the cane fields: Nottoway Plantation. Embodying the gra...
What to Expect at Jazz Fest 2025: Music, Food & the Spirit of New Orleans
Experience the music, food, and culture of New Orleans at Jazz Fest 2025—your guide to what to see, eat, and know before you go.
Ghosts of the Bayou: The Rare White Alligator
In the murky waters of Louisiana’s swamps, where Spanish moss hangs like lace and the air is thick with mystery, there lives a creature so rare and so striking that many believe it’s the stuff of l...
Outdoor Things to Do in New Orleans
Discover the best outdoor activities in New Orleans, from swamp tours and scenic parks to riverfront strolls and festivals. Explore the city’s natural beauty today!
How Much Does a Trip to New Orleans Cost?
Planning a trip to New Orleans? Discover travel costs for flights, hotels, food, and activities—from budget-friendly options to luxury experiences.
The Secret Lives of Louisiana Swamp Critters After Dark
Discover the secret lives of Louisiana’s swamp creatures after dark, from alligator hunting habits to nocturnal owls, raccoons, and fireflies in the bayou.
The History of Mardi Gras: How Louisiana’s Biggest Party Began!
Every year, as winter fades and spring approaches, the streets of New Orleans explode with color, music, and celebration. Mardi Gras, the grandest festival in Louisiana, is famous for its parades, ...
Super Bowl Visitors: Experience the Swamp in Perfect Weather!
New Orleans is known for its unpredictable winter weather—one day it’s chilly, the next, it feels like spring has arrived early. And this year, nature has delivered a warm-weather streak just in ti...
The Music of the Bayou: Exploring Cajun and Zydeco Traditions
The bayous of Louisiana are more than scenic waterways lined with moss-draped cypress trees. They’re home to a rich cultural heritage that is deeply tied to music. Two of the most iconic sounds of ...
Must-Do Activities in New Orleans During Super Bowl Weekend
When Super Bowl weekend rolls around, New Orleans transforms into the ultimate destination for sports fans and travelers alike. The city comes alive with festivities, entertainment, and, of course,...
The Enigmatic Whiskey Tree of Pearl River Swamp
Deep in Louisiana’s Pearl River Swamp stands the legendary Whiskey Tree, a symbol of Prohibition-era bootlegging. Discover its mysterious carvings, rich history, and the role it played in the...
Beyond the Big House: How Louisiana Plantation Architecture Tells a Unique Story of the Past
Louisiana’s rich historical tapestry is woven with stories of plantations, architectural styles, and cultural blends that can be seen in the structures that have survived the test of time. Understa...
The Coming of Fall: How the Changing Seasons Affected New Orleans Plantations
As autumn settled over New Orleans, transforming the vibrant greenery into a patchwork of warm colors, the arrival of fall signaled a major shift for the city’s historic plantations. This transitio...
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival: A Celebration of Music, Food, and New Orleans Culture
The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, held annually in New Orleans, is a vibrant celebration of Southern culture, bringing together two beloved aspects of the region: soulful blues music and ...
The Aftermath of Hurricane Helene: Assessing the Damage and Impact
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, communities along the Atlantic seaboard have been left grappling with widespread devastation. As the storm made landfall, packing winds of up to 130 mph and he...
The Evolution of New Orleans’ Flood Defenses: From Disaster to Resilience
New Orleans has long battled the threat of flooding due to its below-sea-level geography and vulnerability to hurricanes. However, the city’s flood protection systems have dramatically evolved over...
Experience the Ultimate Louisiana Tradition with Cajun Encounters: Crawfish Boils Now Available!
At Cajun Encounters, we’re all about immersing you in the authentic culture and traditions of Louisiana. That’s why we’re excited to announce a new addition to our tour experience: crawfish boils a...
Surviving the Storm: How New Orleans Natives Endured Hurricane Season in the 1800s
Discover how New Orleans natives in the 1800s survived hurricane season with resilience, community support, and traditional knowledge in a time before modern forecasting.
The Silent Cities of New Orleans: History of Our Cemeteries
New Orleans is a city that dances with ghosts. From the haunted halls of old mansions to the misty banks of the bayous, spirits seem to wander through every cobblestone street and shadowy alleyway....
Discover Why Cajun Encounters’ City Bus Tours Outshine the Competition
When it comes to exploring New Orleans, Cajun Encounters’ city bus tours offer an unmatched experience. Enjoy superior comfort with our air-conditioned buses, learn from our passionate and kn...
Destrehan Plantation: Louisiana’s Oldest Plantation
Explore Destrehan Plantation, Louisiana’s oldest documented plantation. Discover the grand architecture, lush gardens, and rich history of the Destrehan family and the enslaved individuals wh...
Why Alligators Love the 4th of July
While most of us celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, BBQs, and boat rides, there’s a scaly friend who has a different reason to revel in the festivities. Yes, we’re talking about ...
Discover The Architectural Beauty Of Louisiana Plantations In 2024
Exploring the diverse architectural styles of Louisiana plantations is a journey through the state’s rich cultural history. From Creole cottages to grand Greek Revival mansions, each style reflects...
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2024
Table of Contents Featured Image Credit: nola.com The vibrant city of New Orleans is once again gearing up for one of its most iconic celebrations of culture and music – the New Orleans Jazz ...
Things to do in New Orleans: Hogs for the Cause 2024
Pig out for a purpose at Hogs for the Cause 2024 in New Orleans! This two-day extravaganza promises to satisfy your cravings for BBQ, entertain you with live music, and, most importantly, support a...
Best New Orleans Swamp Tour: Cajun Encounters Reviews 2024
Cajun Encounters Rated Best New Orleans Swamp Tour! Embark on an exhilarating journey through Louisiana’s vibrant cultural landscape with Cajun Encounters, the premier New Orleans swamp tour ...
Louisiana Crawfish Festival 2024: An Iconic New Orleans Festival
Table of Contents Featured Image Credit: louisianacrawfishfestival.com In the heart of Louisiana’s St. Bernard Parish, an annual event brings together locals and visitors alike to celebrate t...
Things to Do in New Orleans: Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade
In the vibrant heart of New Orleans’ Irish Channel neighborhood, an annual tradition steeped in heritage and community spirit comes to life each year: the Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Da...
How to Spend Spring Break in New Orleans
Spring Break is rapidly approaching, and if you’re eager to make the most of your time off, why not head to New Orleans? With its vibrant culture, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine, the...
2024 New Orleans Entrepreneur Week
New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) is more than just a gathering of entrepreneurs; it’s a celebration of innovation and culture. For over a decade, NOEW has been the cornerstone event for i...
Fishing in Louisiana Through the Seasons: February
In the realm of fishing, Louisiana holds a unique allure. With no closed seasons, anglers can pursue their passion year-round, experiencing the rich bounty of its waters regardless of the month. Wh...
Crawfish Season 2024: A History of Crawfish in Louisiana and the Cajun Influence on Boils
Louisiana’s love affair with crawfish goes beyond mere culinary delight; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a tradition deeply rooted in the state’s history, agriculture, and religion. A...
New Orleans Tet Fest: Vietnamese New Year Celebration
As the festive air descends upon New Orleans, the Mary Queen of Vietnam Church proudly presents Tet Festival 2024—an annual winter celebration that illuminates the city with the spirit of the Vietn...
How to Spend Valentine’s Day in New Orleans
Welcome to New Orleans, a city whose enchanting allure has earned it a spot among the world’s most romantic destinations. While love knows no season, spending Valentine’s Day in the hea...
History of New Orleans Mardi Gras Music
Now that we’ve transitioned from the holiday season, it’s time to embrace a different kind of festivity—the vibrant and soulful tunes of Mardi Gras in New Orleans! As the calendar flips...
A Cajun Mardi Gras Celebration: Courir de Mardi Gras
Just as the gumbo flavors vary across Louisiana, Mardi Gras celebrations showcase the state’s diversity. While New Orleans dazzles with French Quarter parties, Lake Charles hosts regal balls,...
New Year’s in New Orleans: Upcoming 2024 Events
New Year’s in New Orleans Welcome to the heart of celebration in New Orleans, where the rhythm of the city matches the beat of your excitement. New Year’s in New Orleans beckons a promi...
New Orleans City Bus Tour: An Ideal January Activity
Explore the charm of New Orleans in January with a city bus tour, where the city’s vibrant character and cultural richness come to life without the summer heat. Enjoy the comfort of expert-gu...
Counting Down to the New Year: Top Parties and Events in New Orleans
New Orleans, a city synonymous with lively celebrations and a deep-rooted sense of community, takes center stage as the year comes to a close. Amidst the historic streets and iconic landmarks, the ...
Christmas in New Orleans: Local Traditions and Events
New Orleans Christmas Events As the holiday season kicks in, New Orleans bursts with a special mix of festive traditions that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re ...
Things to do in New Orleans: Bonfires on the Levee
Christmas Eve in New Orleans New Orleans, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and rich traditions, hosts an extraordinary event every Christmas Eve that adds a distinctive touch to the holiday ...
Packing for Success: What to Wear on Your New Orleans Swamp Tour in Winter
Winter in New Orleans Embarking on a New Orleans swamp tour in winter offers a mesmerizing experience, but it demands thoughtful preparation, especially in choosing the right attire. From waterproo...
Educational Benefits of New Orleans Swamp Boat Tour Visits
New Orleans is not just a city of music and festivals, but also a place of rich nature and history. One exciting way to explore this is by taking a swamp boat tour. As you glide through the still w...
Family-Friendly New Orleans Thanksgiving Activities
Thanksgiving in New Orleans Experience the blend of traditional Thanksgiving celebration with a unique New Orleans twist. Known for its diverse cultural heritage, the Crescent City offers a p...
How to Perfectly Plan Your New Orleans Black Friday Strategy
November is finally here, and that means one thing for shopping enthusiasts in New Orleans – Black Friday is just around the corner! The thrill of nabbing incredible deals and discounts awaits, but...
Gator Tours New Orleans: An Ideal Autumn Activity
Autumn in New Orleans As the refreshing autumn breeze signals the arrival of a captivating atmosphere, New Orleans adorns itself with the rich hues of the season. Amidst the process of trees changi...
Top 3 New Orleans Haunted House Explorations
Haunted New Orleans Houses New Orleans, steeped in history and mystique, is renowned for its haunting tales and eerie encounters. In the heart of the Crescent City lie enigmatic residences th...
Trick-or-treating Spots: Best Places to take your Kids Trick-or-Treating in New Orleans
Trick-or-Treating in New Orleans Halloween is just around the corner, and the anticipation is building! As parents, one of the key decisions we face is where to take our kids trick-or-treatin...
New Orleans Halloween Parade: Krewe of BOO!
In the heart of the Big Easy, the Krewe of BOO! Halloween Parade transforms New Orleans into a realm of spooky celebrations. Spanning multiple days, this festivity offers a plethora of activities, ...
Things to do in New Orleans for Halloween
As Halloween approaches, the unique city of New Orleans comes alive with eerie tales and festive celebrations. From the haunting legends of the French Quarter to the lively costume parades, the cit...
New Orleans Halloween Costumes: Channeling the Spirit of the Big Easy for Your Halloween Look
In New Orleans, Halloween is more than just a holiday — it’s an experience. The city, with its rich history of voodoo, ghost stories, and vibrant culture, transforms into a hauntingly festive...
New Orleans Day Trips and Group Adventures
Table of Contents Only in New Orleans Discover the enchanting allure of the Big Easy – a city that dances to its own jazz-infused rhythm. From historic neighborhoods to lively festivals, this iconi...
Things to do in New Orleans: Gentilly Fest
New Orleans, a city renowned for its lively spirit and cultural heritage, hosts a myriad of festivals and events that attract visitors from all over the world. Among these, Gentilly Fest stands out...
Sipping in Secret: Prohibition in New Orleans
New Orleans During Prohibition New Orleans, a city steeped in history, has a past filled with secrets that often go unacknowledged amidst the buzz of its party culture and lively nightlife. Wh...
Only in New Orleans: 4 Unique Quirks of the Crescent City
Welcome to New Orleans, a city like no other. Nestled in the heart of Louisiana, New Orleans boasts four remarkable characteristics that make it truly one-of-a-kind. With its eclectic energy, rich ...
Things to do in New Orleans: Oktoberfest 2023
Oktoberfest New Orleans Get ready for an unforgettable celebration in the vibrant streets of New Orleans! Oktoberfest 2023 is just around the corner, bringing with it the lively spirit of Bavaria t...
Things to do in New Orleans: Aerial Tours of the City
New Orleans, a city steeped in rich history and captivating culture, offers visitors a multitude of exciting experiences. One such thrilling way to explore the city is through aerial tours. These t...
Things to do in Slidell LA this Summer
Welcome to Slidell, Louisiana, where summer brings an array of exciting activities and adventures. Nestled in the heart of St. Tammany Parish, this charming city offers a perfect blend of nature, c...
Everything You Need to Know About Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Prepare to be whisked away to the colorful bayou! Disney’s latest attraction, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, is set to replace Splash Mountain in Disneyland and Walt Disney World’s Magi...
How to Have the Perfect New Orleans Excursions
Welcome to NOLA Discover the captivating charms of New Orleans, a city bursting with vivacious culture, captivating history, and delectable cuisine. Immerse yourself in a myriad of unforgettable ad...
Swamp Wildlife: Nocturnal Animals of Louisiana
Nocturnal Wildlife in Louisiana Enter the magical kingdom of Louisiana’s eerie swamps, where the surreal moonlight illuminates a world teeming with extraordinary nocturnal creatures. Ev...
Things to do in New Orleans: Red Dress Run 2023
New Orleans is a culturally famous city that is known for its festive reputation. One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Red Dress Run, an exciting annual and charitable event that e...
How to Have the Perfect Bachelor/Bachelorette Party in New Orleans
Perfect City for a Perfect Occasion Welcome to the vibrant and lively city of New Orleans, where the music is soulful, the cuisine is legendary, and the party never stops. That’s why planning...
Things to do in New Orleans: Bastille Day Fête
Bastille Day New Orleans Experience New Orleans’ lively culture and rich French heritage at the annual Bastille Day Fête celebration. During this time, the city comes alive with vibrant...
Things to do in New Orleans: Running of the Bulls
Running of the Bulls New Orleans New Orleans is a culturally diverse city that offers a unique experience like no other. Among the city’s many celebrations is the Running of the Bulls, ...
Why New Orleans Group Tours through the Swamp is a Great Activity this Summer
Embark on an enchanted world away from the chaos of city life this summer by venturing into the captivating Louisiana swamps by group tours in the Big Easy. These excursions provide a unique opport...
How Crawfish Plays an Important Role in Louisiana
Crawfish Season in Louisiana Louisiana’s swamps are a treasure trove of biodiversity and are integral to the state’s economy and culture. Among the fascinating creatures that call these...
Top 3 Activities for Fourth of July in New Orleans
Fun New Orleans Activities this Independence Day As the Fourth of July approaches, Americans across the country gear up to celebrate their independence in various exciting ways. For a vibrant...
Three Threats to Alligators
Don’t Take Gators for Granted Alligators are one of Louisiana’s most popular residents. While these large reptiles are one of the swamp’s more resilient species, they still face plenty of thr...
A Look Into the Famous New Orleans Sports Teams
Big Games in the Big Easy Known as the heart and soul of sports fandom, New Orleans stands tall as a city renowned for its passionate love affair with sports. From the raucous cheers that echo thro...
Things to do in New Orleans: Juneteenth Festival
New Orleans, Louisiana is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse population. One aspect of the city’s diversity is its significant African American community, which has been...
Things to do in New Orleans: Pride Fest 2023
Celebrate Pride in New Orleans! New Orleans has long been home to a vibrant queer community. As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the entire Southeast, the Big Easy is home to a welcom...
The Best Places to Stay in New Orleans: From Historic Hotels to Haunted Ones
Table of Contents Bienvenue! New Orleans has been a hospitable destination for visitors from all over the globe since it was founded in 1718. Interestingly, it has also been home to some otherworld...
New Orleans City Bus Tour: Central Business District
Welcome to the Central Business District Downtown New Orleans is a lively and diverse region encompassing the charming French Quarter, the creative Warehouse District, and the towering buildi...
Things to do in New Orleans: Cinco de Mayo Festival
Cinco de Mayo, Louisiana Style New Orleans is world famous for festivals that celebrate culture, food, music, and more. As one of the United States’ oldest cities and a centuries-old cultural...
A Guide to the Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans
Jazz City A sound unlike any other, jazz was born in the early 20th century in New Orleans’ Black community. Musicians took African rhythms and combined them with their own improvisations to ...
The History of Chalmette Battlefield – What Made it so Significant During the Battle of New Orleans?
The Battle of New Orleans In 1815, the United States was still a brand new nation. Louisiana had only been admitted to the Union as a state in 1812. As fate would have it, one of the most dramatic ...
Things to do in New Orleans – New Orleans Entrepreneur Week
New Orleans Entrepreneur Week 2023 Imbued with its famous festive atmosphere, New Orleans not only lives up to its reputation as a business town but celebrates it during the annual New Orleans Entr...
Things to do in New Orleans: GatesFest 2023
GatesFest 2023: A New Orleans Art and Music Festival In New Orleans, springtime is festival season! Almost every weekend offers an exciting event where locals and visitors can enjoy the best food, ...
New Orleans Jazz Festival 2023: The Lineup
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival New Orleans is recognized as the birthplace of jazz, a unique American music form. However, jazz is only one of the many musical styles that has New Orleans...
Top 5 Endangered Louisiana Species
Endangered Species of Louisiana Louisiana wildlife is iconic for its beauty, diversity and exotic qualities. While some regional species continue to thrive, others are in danger of disappearing. Na...
Mardi Gras 2023: Everything You Need to Know About Fat Tuesday
Mardi Gras: Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday is one of the most vibrant and exciting cultural celebrations in the world. This annual carnival event is steeped in tradition and has been celebrated...
Top National Parks in Louisiana You Must See During Your New Orleans Visit
Louisiana National Parks If you’ve never been to Louisiana, you’re missing out on a world of incredible beauty and adventure. From the shady depths of its remote bayous to the rolling hills of its ...
Fun Things to do with Kids in New Orleans
Family Fun in the Crescent City If you’re searching for an unforgettable family getaway, the melting pot of culture and history, the iconic Crescent City offers something special for all ages. From...
World Wetlands Day – February 2nd
All About Wetlands Celebrate World Wetlands Day and honor the natural watery lowlands that help sustain life on every continent but Antarctica. From filtering pollutants to sustaining ecosystems, t...
Best New Orleans King Cake According to Locals
The Sweetest Part of Mardi Gras King cake is Mardi Gras’ most delicious tradition. This popular dessert, which has a consistency and flavor somewhere between a cinnamon roll and a coffee cake, beca...
Top 3 New Orleans Cuisine You Must Try When Visiting the Big Easy
A Beginner’s Guide to New Orleans Cuisine Are you ready for the culinary adventure of a lifetime? New Orleans is known for its diverse cuisine and rich cultural influences, which have combined to c...
Things to do in New Orleans: FAN EXPO 2023
Calling all fans of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, comedy, anime, gaming, comics, and more – the ultimate annual fan con in New Orleans is here! Kick-off 2023 with an exciting journey to FAN EXPO New Orl...
Top 5 Reasons to Book a New Orleans Bus Tour
See the Sights New Orleans is one of the biggest cities on the Gulf Coast, and one of the oldest cities in the United States – so it’s no wonder that this place has many sights to see! Visitors mig...
A Guide to Famous Mardi Gras Traditions
What is Mardi Gras? Mardi Gras is world famous, but most people don’t know much about it. In New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a lot more than just an extravagant one-day party – it’s a cornerstone of cul...
Things to do in New Orleans: Celebration in the Oaks
Spend Your Christmas in New Orleans New Orleans has a year-round passion for festive celebrations and exciting visual displays, so it’s no surprise that the city comes to life in spectacular fashio...
Different Louisiana Wildlife You May Spot on Your Swamp Tour
Welcome to the Swamp! Louisiana wildlife is legendary for its exotic diversity. Travelers from far and wide visit the region for a chance to learn about the exciting creatures that inhabit the murk...
Mardi Gras 2023: Krewe of Endymion New Parade Route
New Orleans Krewe of Endymion Mardi Gras wouldn’t be complete without word of Endymion. This iconic parade, known for being one of the largest during the festival, has been bringing Mardi Gra...
Famous New Orleans Filming Locations
Movies Filmed in New Orleans New Orleans is world-famous for its spooky atmosphere and its many haunting tales. It should come as no surprise, then, that the city has been used as a filming locatio...
The Essential New Orleans Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
If you’re new to New Orleans, figuring out how to spend your time can feel a little daunting. From visiting the World War 2 Museum to taking a swamp tour, there’s so much to see and do ...
Things to do in New Orleans: Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is a world-famous German festival that takes place every year in the city of Munich. The festival lasts for two weeks and features a variety of traditional activities, including beer dr...
Things to do in New Orleans Before Halloween
New Orleans is one of the best places to visit for Halloween! The city is full of history and mystery, making it the perfect setting for a spooky good time. There are numerous ghost tours available...
Things To Do In New Orleans: Red Dress Run
If you’re looking for truly memorable things to do in New Orleans, then the locally renowned Red Dress Run might just be for you. This annual “race” is held to raise money for charity, and pa...
Best Plantation Tours New Orleans
Looking for a New Orleans history tour? You may want to experience a New Orleans plantation tour. Decadent mansions set among beautiful gardens offer visitors an insider’s look into Creole history,...
New Orleans Bus Tours: City Park
The New Orleans City Park is not just a large urban park, it’s the 87th largest city park in America. Located near Lakeview, the park offers visitors an array of activities to keep you entertained ...
5 Fascinating Facts About Baby Alligators
If you’re like us, then you love all things that are cute and small. And if you’re also like us, then you probably can’t resist a baby alligator! Did you know that baby alligators are incredibly fa...
New Orleans City Bus Tours: Saint Louis Cemetery No. 3
New Orleans is a city with a long and rich history, and its cemeteries are one of the best ways to explore that side of it. Our New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tours offer visitors a chance to di...
Best Outdoor Places to Take Pictures in New Orleans
If you are looking for the best outdoor places to take pictures in New Orleans, then you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll be sharing with you some of our favorite spots for capt...
Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries Foundation – 12th Annual Fundraiser
Join the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation for their 12th Annual Fundraiser on October 13, 2022. As the spread of COVID-19 forced the fundraiser to cancel in 2021, it makes this year̵...
The Top 5 Reasons to Book a Private VIP Swamp Tour
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience for a special occasion, look no further than Cajun Encounters VIP Swamp Tours. Our small and intimate boat tours provide a more personal experience...
Jazz Festival 2022: The Lineup
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, or Jazz Fest as it’s known to locals, is one of the largest music festivals in the United States and takes place in the spring every year, spanning rou...
The Last Pirate in the Cemetery
For those who say pirates never existed in New Orleans, that the buccaneer myths are overplayed, and that Jean Lafitte was not as much of a notable figure in New Orleans proper; for all the lack of...
Pirate or Buccaneer? And Why the Eye Patch?
From Southwest Louisiana to Southeast Louisiana, folklore and history are weaved together when it comes to Jean Lafitte and roving bands of scurvy-ridden, plunder barons of the Caribbean. There are...
When the King of England Bowed to the King of Mardi Gras
It happened in New Orleans in 1950. To this day, there is photographic evidence on display at Antoine’s restaurant in the heart of the French Quarter. The photo taken at the moment of the legendary...
Where do King Cake Babies Come From?
It’s the dreaded question that no parent in Louisiana wants to be asked by their children. Without getting too deep into it, the default answer is China; the plastic, miniature babies are made in C...
From Russia with Mardi Gras Colors?
New Orleans has openly celebrated Mardi Gras since the 1730s, when the French settlement, Nouvelle Orleans, held Mardi Gras balls with no parades. The Spanish christened it “carnival” in about 1780...
How Christmas Trees Are Saving Louisiana
What happens to Christmas trees in Louisiana stays in Louisiana. Though not unheard of in the bayou state, a Christmas tree will often become a Mardi Gras tree in homes throughout Louisiana. Howeve...
Top 5 NOLA Places to Be For Midnight on New Year’s Eve
Amateur night, also known as New Year’s Eve in New Orleans, will see a huge influx of people who don’t just want to watch it on TV. One must be brave to wade the perilous streams of champagne and c...
Anne Rice: Top 5 Book and Film Locations in New Orleans
St. Elizabeth’s Orphanage. Image Credit: nola.co New Orleans native Anne Rice has left her mark upon New Orleans culture, almost shifting the attraction of the city to that of a darkened and ...
When is King Cake Safe to Eat? A Survival Guide for Mardi Gras 2022
Image Credit: saveur.comarticle/recipes/king-cake/ Please do not ruin Mardi Gras 2022 for us! Mardi Gras has been on life support lately. New Orleans hasn’t seen a Mardi Gras parade since February ...
If You Love New Orleans, Try Shopping in New Orleans
You better not pout. You best not cry. But Santa is leaving the French Quarter. After 44 years in the French Quarter, conveniently located on Decatur Street, Santa’s Quarters will see its last Chri...
Bayou Wild: Swamp Royalty
Recently, Cajun Encounters hosted a swamp tour featured in the episode “Swamp Royalty” on the Bayou Wild TV YouTube channel. Along for the ride were members of the Louisiana Propa...
The Legend of the Thanksgiving Po-Boy
Does it truly exist? A sandwich that eats like an entire meal?! It does, but only for the month of November. As the gods on Mount Olympus had ambrosia, so the people of New Orleans have the Thanks...
Swamp Encounters 101: Do Alligators Hibernate?
Featured Image Credit: George Howard, The Swamp Park, Ocean Isle Beach, NC It’s a question that has plagued mankind since the dawning of time: isn’t it too cold for alligators during the fall/winte...
Native & American: Spanish Moss, ‘The Swampy Cousin Of The Pineapple’
Louisiana, to some, can be seen as strange and beautiful. Last year, while Texas was experiencing a “snow-pocalypse”, in Louisiana we witnessed icicles hanging from Cypress trees in the swamps and ...
Top 5 Monsters of New Orleans
Real or imagined, the best (or worst) monsters are the ones that you can’t see. Some have left traces and evidence while others live on, immortalized in Louisiana Folklore. Though folklore and myth...
The Top 5 Haunted Hotels in New Orleans
After you’ve taken the Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour of the Honey Island Swamp, it’s time to step off the boat, leaving the natural world of the alligators, snakes, and raccoons behind. Returning to ...
Swamp Encounters 101: Water Moccasins vs Water Snakes
There are many snakes found in Louisiana, and despite their reputation, not all snakes are dangerous. In fact, many snakes that live in water are harmless. However, this does not stop some people f...
Swamp Tour Essentials: How to Prepare
With cooler weather approaching and COVID restrictions lessening, it is the perfect time to schedule a trip to the swamp, and a New Orleans swamp tour with Cajun Encounters is just what you are loo...
Venomous versus Non-Venomous Snakes
Snakes are slender, cold-blooded reptiles who are known for having long bodies and no legs. While there are over 3,000 species of snakes, they all tend to look the same when you possess a strong di...
Cajun Village
For those looking for something different from their normal shopping routines, Cajun Village is the perfect place for you. Guests can take a trip through time as they shop through the restored hist...
Alligators versus Crocodiles: What’s the Difference?
Dating back over 240 million years, the Crocodylia lineage has outlived the dinosaurs by over 65 million years. For many, crocodiles and alligators are easily interchangeable and often considered o...
New Orleans Bus Tours: Marigny New Orleans
Looking for an offbeat, vibrant art scene? Look no further than Marigny New Orleans! This neighborhood is filled with a variety of establishments ranging in color and style, making it the perfect p...
New Orleans Bus Tours: Garden District
The Garden District is a place where romance blooms and memories are made. Visitors wishing to explore this magical neighborhood are met with oak tree-shaded streets, brick line sidewalks, and a va...
Crawfish Season 2021
Perhaps considered an unofficial mascot of New Orleans, crawfish hold a special place in the heart of every Louisiana resident. They are known by several different names, including craydids, crawda...
Swamp Encounters 101: Why Do Raccoons Wash Their Food?
Raccoons often find themselves in the middle of a love-hate relationship with the general public. Some people love them for their adorable appearance, but the emphasis is on the word some. Consider...
Swamps, Bayous, Marshes, Oh My! What’s the Difference?
For those who are unfamiliar, it is very easy to lump together swamps, bayous, and marshes. While they may seem similar at first glance, they do have a few unique characteristics. What are We...
Invasive Species in the Honey Island Swamp
Invasive species are defined as non-indigenous organisms that negatively alter any new environments. These species have the ability to adapt easily and reproduce quickly. While they can h...
February 2021 New Orleans Events
The introduction of the second month of the year brings both the love of Valentine’s Day and celebration of Mardi Gras. After a year like 2020, New Orleans will not allow restrictions to stop...
Mardi Gras 2021: New Orleans Mardi Gras Traditions
Traditions are labeled as a belief or practice passed down within a group or society, such as putting up a tree on Christmas or eating turkey on Thanksgiving. These traditions often hold symbolic m...
Mardi Gras 2021: New Orleans Mardi Gras Indians
Of all the Mardi Gras traditions, the Mardi Gras Indians are perhaps the least recognized. Considered a highly secretive organization, their parade dates, times, and routes are never known in advan...
Mardi Gras 2021: Mardi Gras Balls
While parades are one of the most known Mardi Gras traditions, grand and spectacular Mardi Gras balls hold a special place in Mardi Gras tradition. A ball is a formal party hosted by a specific kre...
Mardi Gras 2021: Popular Parades in New Orleans
When thinking of the festivities of Mardi Gras, parades are usually the first thing that comes to mind. Parades are processions of people, often in costumes, who are accompanied by marching bands, ...
January 2021 New Orleans Events
Out with the old and in with the new, it is time for us to welcome a new year. After the introduction of the infamous COVID-19, I am sure we are all ready to leave 2020 in the past. The end of the ...
Mardi Gras 2021: History
As Christmas ends, the true festive season has only just begun in New Orleans. Considered a major holiday, Mardi Gras is celebrated throughout the whole state of Louisiana. Much like New Orleans, t...
SEC Traditions: Cajun Encounters
Traditions are customs or beliefs that are passed down from generation to generation, and traditions are very much alive in SEC country. SEC Traditions, hosted by Marty Smith from ESPN, chronicles ...
New Orleans Bus Tours: Tremé
Originally known as the “back of town”, Tremé New Orleans is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Tremé, often referred to as Faubourg Tremé, is an important focal point in African-American...
New Orleans December 2020 Events
December is a time when things just seem brighter. A season associated with tasty treats, nice weather, and celebrations, it’s no wonder that New Orleans goes all out for the last month of the year...
New Orleans Bus Tours: French Quarter
Considered the historic heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its eventful nightlife and its wide variety of colorful buildings decorated with cast-ironed balconies. Visitors can of...
Louisiana Alligators in the Honey Island Swamp
What do alligators and the Honey Island Swamp have in common? They are both found in one of the most rural and picturesque counties in the state of Louisiana: St. Tammany Parish. Nestled along the ...
New Orleans November 2020 Events
Fall is a time for family and festivities. While the introduction of COVID-19 has significantly changed how society is allowed to celebrate, New Orleans is keeping the spirit alive by hosting event...
Halloween in New Orleans
Considered Louisiana’s second-biggest holiday folllowing Mardi Gras, Halloween is no stranger to New Orleans’ tradition of extravagant parties and outlandish decorations. However, with ...
Top 5 Haunted Places in Louisiana as seen on TV
Reality television has captured the attention of society for generations, guaranteeing drama and excitement in every moment. A new type of reality has caught the attention of viewers, however: the ...
Cajun Encounters Guest Reviews
Take a trip down to the famous Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters. Their captains are considered experts in their field, resulting in visitors experiencing an authentic tour of one of America...
Attractions of New Orleans
Nicknamed the “Big Easy”, New Orleans has made a name for itself by having an exciting nightlife, a vibrant music scene, and a cultural mix of cuisine. A city filled with so much to offer can somet...
New Orleans October 2020 Events
Table of Contents With the introduction of the infamous coronavirus, our daily lives have looked a little different than usual. Popular events were cancelled and birthday celebrations were forced t...
What to Expect on a Honey Island Swamp Tour
Geography Honey Island Swamp is one of the most natural and untarnished habitats in the United States. Located in St. Tammany Parish, this marshland earned its name from the swarms of honeyb...
Guest Video: Swamp Encounter 2020
https://www.cms.cajunencounters.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/KiserFamilySwampEncounter2020.mp4 Check out this video that a guest shot during their recent tour in the beautiful Honey Island Swamp....
Most Instagramable Spots in NOLA
By Kimberly Hoffman If you’re fixin’ to make a trip to The Big Easy, you want the most picture-perfect locations to impress your friends. We get it. Social media is an important enhance...
How Littering Affects the Pearl River and Honey Island Swamp
Cajun Encounters Tour Company’s owner, Jeff Rogers, grew up on the Pearl River and knowshow important it is to take care of the land that takes care of you. Last month, Jeff and hiscaptains took ad...
Cajun Encounters Rated Top Swamp Tour by Travelocity
Cajun Encounters’ Award Winning Swamp Tour is one of the “Top Things to do with kids in New Orleans,” as featured by Travelocity on December 30, 2019. As Danielle Braff writes, “You’ll ...
The Haunted Truth About Halloween in New Orleans
Last year, New Orleans celebrated its Tri-Centennial. After 300 years, this city has seen a large enough share of ghosts and witches to now be called, “the most haunted city in America.” These haun...
Cajun Encounters Swamp Tours – Where Spice and Adventure Meet
Peter A. Boese What do you get when you combine a 60-pound sack of live crawfish with a 16-foot Alligator in Southern Louisiana? Answer: An exciting party! Well, that is exactly what we experienced...
West Pearl – Pristine River in Jeopardy
Peter A. Boese As the communities up-river in Mississippi continue to forge ahead for the construction of a dam they don’t need, I contemplate the possibility of the loss of the Pearl River S...
Whitetail Deer
Deedee Garcia Student Whitetail deer are found in North, Central, and South America. They typically live in wooded areas. When whitetail deer find a place where there is plenty of food, they tend t...
Armadillos
Caroline Warms Student Knock knock. Who’s There? Armadillo. Armadillo who? It’s an armadillo! There are no funny armadillo knock knock jokes, but arma-deal with it. Armadillos are small mammals abo...
Owls
Alexis Inguez Student Owls have always been my favorite animals, ever since I was in elementary school. So when I saw the Barred Owl, on the list, I knew that it was the one I was meant to write ab...
Swamp Tour Water Lillies
Mikaela Lopez Student Water lilies, or Nymphaeaceae, are a family of flowering plants. They live in tropical climates and are rooted in soil in fresh water bodies of water, marshes, and swamps. The...
The Life of A Fox
The Life of a Fox Student A small head popped out from behind a tree, its eyes looking over the terrain. It looked over the people that stood a couple of feet away from it, staying behind the tree,...
Seagulls
Katelyn Bawden Student Seagulls are sea birds of the family Laridae in the suborder Lari. They are most closely related to the terns and only distantly related to auks, skimmers, and more distantly...
Mallard Ducks
Katherine Woytek Student Mallard Ducks are one of the many animals that live in the marshes, swamps, rivers, ponds, and grain fields. You can find Mallard Ducks over most of the northern hemisphere...
Magnolia
Shivani Kapoor Student Named after the French botanist Pierre Magnol, the magnolia is a diverse genus that encompasses over 200 flowering plants. The magnolia is an ancient group of trees, which ha...
Snapping Turtle
Radhani Kapoor Student The Snapping Turtle, also called Chelydra serpentina, lives in southern USA and parts of Canada. It lives in slow and shallow moving waters with muddy bottoms and lots of pla...
The Opossum: Superhero of the Swamp
Claire Gambrell Student There is an animal that saves thousands of others every year just by eating. Not just normal eating like insects, snails, berries, road kill, or even garbage. This animal ea...
Meet The Coasties Behind Your Boat Tour
When you’re in a Louisiana swamp, that life vest better work. Philly has duck boats. Massachusetts does whale watching. In the Florida Keys, you might go on a snorkeling trip. But here in Louisiana...
How A Few People Are Saving Louisiana’s Wetlands
Living along a disappearing shoreline, perpetually at risk of extreme flooding, New Orleans residents are painfully aware of the risks that come with living in a city that’s almost entirely below s...
Why We Choose to be Eco-Friendly
You may not want to jump into that thick, green blanket of the Honey Island Swamp, but many rare species call our Louisiana swamp home. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of critters like t...
