After over a year of living in Louisiana, I’ve found myself in really random places: watching a WW2 Fletcher-class destroyer be moved to drydock, bowfishing in the LSU Lakes (no actual fish were harmed in this process), and driving miles and miles to try different local restaurants. But my favorite place outside of Baton Rouge is this little town called Washington, Louisiana. It’s about an hour’s drive away and perfect for a weekend trip.
This is likely a hot take. New Orleans is right there. You might be wondering to yourself, what is in this town with a population of 700 anyway? The answer: more than you might think. Washington is a quintessential Hallmark town with an adorable aesthetic and a great restaurant. I’ve been there twice now, and I’d go back again.
Washington, Louisiana is the third oldest settlement in Louisiana, and one of the oldest settlements in America. The small town features tons of rehabilitated old buildings and one of the coolest antique fair/yard sales in the state. If you go, here are some places you’ve got to go within this hidden gem in St. Landry Parish.
Steamboat Warehouse
525 N Main St, Washington, LA
This 1800s steamboat warehouse turned restaurant is only open for dinner, but you have to go. Their Redfish Lafourche is hands down one of my favorite meals I’ve had in Louisiana. The flavors really work, and I’m such a big fan. If you go, be sure to sign your name somewhere on the wall. It’s a perfect spot for casual anniversaries or birthday celebrations. Prices are reasonable, and the food is delicious.
Thrify Way Pharmacy
310 N Main St, Washington, LA
Don’t let outside appearances deceive you. Thrifty Way Pharmacy might look small from the outside, but it’s home to the biggest Little Free Library I’ve ever seen. Thanks to the owner’s wife clearing out her bookshelves, there’s a huge selection here including recent releases and bestsellers. I picked up a cute little romance novel called “Of Literature and Lattes” and it felt perfect for the town.
Lou’s Bakery
303 N Main St, Washington, LA
Right across from a wedding venue and a boutique hotel, Lou’s Bakery is a nostalgic little dessert shop with great sno-balls, hand-dipped chocolates and other sweets. They make full cakes (including wedding cakes), but they also sell cake by the slice on the daily.
Pictured here is a slice of red velvet cake with cookies and creme icing.
Old School House/Antique Mall
123 S Church Street, Washington, LA
Only open Friday-Sunday
This old school house turned antique mall is home to a cute little old fashioned cafe/diner and some seriously awesome vintage finds. The building is 40,000 square feet large, and they’ve filled it up. Twice a year, they do a huge antique/flea market sale, but on a regular week, they have the antique mall open and ready for people to discover their next new-to-them favorite find. I bought my dresser from here when I first moved to Louisiana, and they were super helpful in helping me load it into my car to get it home.
It was closed during my most recent trip to Washington, but it’s a super neat place!
Is there anywhere I missed? Let me know in the comments below. I’m also looking for more day trips from Baton Rouge (within a few hours drive) for my Tiktok/Instagram series. Follow me on socials to keep up with where I go or send me a recommendation.
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