Fat Tuesday-that wonderful day of the year in the life of
a New Orleanian. It certainly lives up to its billing. How else
could we possibly find the energy to keep up with that merry
marathon of friends, floats, and festivities? Well, it just so
happens that this delightful day of debauchery isn't everyone's
idea of a good time. Don't worry, you've arrived at a nojudgment
zone. The truth is, this last day of the pre-Lenten
season is just another day of business in most other places in
the country. If you and your family have had enough of the
parades and are looking to engage in something different
this year, simply fill the car up with gas and grab some
refreshments for a fun-filled day trip to an enlightening place
that may or may not be on your mini-vacation radar. Either
way, you'll soon discover what a great day you've picked to
beat the crowds.
Avery Island
Are you a lover of hot sauce? Well, the salt dome that is Avery Island produces the world's most famous variety: Tabasco sauce. Learn all about Edmund McIlhenny and his historic recipe that took the nation by storm in 1868, in a self-guided, 10-exhibit factory tour and museum, complete with restaurant and spectacular gift shop. With all of that, you may be surprised to learn that Tabasco isn't the only reason to visit Avery Island. No trip here is complete without a tranquil and exhilarating walk through Jungle Gardens, a 170-acre botanical garden that also functions as a bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve. This also just happens to be home to a staggering 900-year-old statue of Buddha, one of Louisiana's most breathtaking attractions. junglegardens.Biedenharn Museum and Gardens
One of the most fascinating spots in Louisiana is Biedenharn Museum and Gardens. Joseph Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola, moved his operations in 1913 from Vicksburg, Mississippi, to Monroe, Louisiana. It's three museums for the price of one, as you'll tour his historic home and garden, a Bible museum, and, of course, a celebration of all things Coke. Be amazed at the historic soda fountain, with its own highly entertaining and informative soda jerk. This experience is not really recommended for followers of the keto diet, as you'll be tempted beyond belief to buy an ice-cold Coke from the original five-cent vending machine. Since the drive to Monroe is 280 miles, it would be optimal to arrive in town Monday night or start your drive there at the crack of dawn on Tuesday. bmuseum.orgGlobal Wildlife Center
What's better than rubbing elbows with abundant giraffes, bison, camels, zebras, and a host of other species? Not much, since you'll have the absolute time of your life feeding them all from the comfort of the park's safari wagon. You'll tour 900 acres of Folsom's beautiful, nationally renowned wildlife preserve, all the while wondering if you were unwittingly transported from Tangipahoa Parish to the African plains. You should purchase the family-size bucket of feed. While it may seem a little pricey at $32, you'll kick yourself if you buy the 32-ounce cup because it will be gone approximately three minutes into the 75-minute ride. globalwildlife.comNatchez, Mississippi
Are you ready to encounter 300 years
of history on the banks of the mighty
Mississippi River? Known as the "Jewel of
the South," Natchez is steeped in cultural
heritage, with must-visit sites including the
Museum of African American History and
Culture, Fort Rosalie, Melrose mansion,
and the William Johnson House-the latter
three comprising the Natchez National
Historical Park. Take a free tour of the
Old South Winery and taste wine made
exclusively from muscadine grapes. If you
haven't been to Natchez in a while, or ever,
you'll really be amazed at the rate in which
the city is growing and thriving. Before
you leave, be sure to watch the sunset on
the great river while enjoying an ice-cold
beverage from the Under the Hill Saloon.
This may be exactly what Mark Twain was
describing in all those novels.
visitnatchez.org
Poverty Point
An archaeological marvel located in
Louisiana? Absolutely. This prehistoric
earthwork overlooking the Mississippi River
floodplain was cultured by indigenous
peoples from 1730 to 1350 B.C. and was
designated both a world heritage site by
UNESCO and a national monument by
the National Park Service. Located just
four hours away in Pioneer, this incredible
array of laboriously produced ridges and
mounds predates the Mayan pyramids and
is no less impressive. Admission is only $4
per person with seniors and small children
entering for free. povertypoint.us
Tunica, Mississippi
This is a little bit of a drive (about five and
a half hours' worth), but if you have the
luxury of being off on Lundi Gras, a trip
to the "Vegas of the South" would be well
worth the trip. Casinos, museums, and
down-home Southern cooking are just a
few of the attractions in Tunica. Experience
the rich history of the Mississippi Delta
at the Tunica RiverPark & Museum and
take a ride upon the riverboat known as
the Tunica Queen. You'll soon find that
simulating life on the Mississippi works up
quite the appetite. For authentic Southern
food and hospitality, look no further than
the Blue & White Restaurant, a Tunica
institution for 85 years and counting,
serving incomparable gastronomical
delights that will please both your stomach
and wallet. Do yourself a favor and try the
fried chicken livers and gravy.
tunicatravel.com
Military Park
Under siege for 47 days by Grant's forces,
the confederate stronghold of Vicksburg,
Mississippi, was the site of the last major
battle of the U.S. Civil War. A major port
on the Mississippi River, Vicksburg was
deemed more important than New Orleans
to the Union effort by President Lincoln,
and the nearly 20,000 deaths from both
sides prove it. A day-long excursion here
includes a self-guided driving tour through
the hallowed grounds (simply download
the free app) and a walk aboard the USS
Cairo Gunboat and Museum. The cost is
only $20 per car, whether you have one or
10 people. Seriously, there is so much to
experience here, you could easily spend
multiple days, which is why the pass is
good for an entire week. nps.gov/vick
