New Orleans tends to be ranked as the crown jewel in Louisiana's tourism crown, and for good reason. Its Cajun culture, historic architecture, world class festivals, and musical heritage make it the obvious choice for a designer of outdoor wicker furniture in Toronto who's looking for a hot vacation destination. However, Louisiana is a big state, so if you've seen New Orleans and you think you've already explored all the state has to offer, think again! Here are some other great places to visit in Louisiana.

Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is the capitol of Louisiana and in addition to being a major industrial and shipping hub it is also the seat of art and culture. The city has a Mardi Gras party to rival New Orleans, a yearly hot air balloon festival, world class galleries, art museums, theaters, and points of architectural interest, and its own symphony orchestra. So if you're in town for the Avaya Service convention, stay a couple extra days and take in the sights.

Bayou Country

Louisiana is a state with a lot of river systems, which create unique wetland areas in low lying parts of the state that are called bayous. Commonly found in the Gulf Coast area of Louisiana near the Mississippi River, a trip to the bayous is a step backward in time. You'll forget all about your job as a landscape designer as you witness these preserved areas, which are home to everything from crayfish to crocodiles and talk to some of the peculiar people who live in these areas.

Salt Domes

For amateur geologists, a trip to Northern Louisiana to look at the state's marvelous salt domes is an absolute must. You don't have to be a bond tester to appreciate the beauty of these former marine areas. Home to many types of fossils and often hidden in the most remote parts of the state, traveling to the salt domes isn't so much a day trip as it is an adventure that can be combined with camping and water sports.

Paddle Steamer Cruise

One of the most internationally recognized symbols of Mississippi River culture is the paddle steamer. Decades ago these boats cruised the river regularly and can still be found as part of Louisiana's tourism offerings. Whether you take a day trip on a casino steamer to blow off some steam after your meeting name badges or take a multi-night cruise of the river, a paddle steamer cruise will take you back to turn of the century Louisiana.