Most likely, when you think about Louisiana, images of picturesque swamp life, crawfish feasts, sweet-smelling magnolia and jasmine, and café au lait and beignets spring to mind.
This distinctive southern state is not only a fun destination for vacations, but it’s also a great spot to live out your golden years. Louisiana is a fantastic retirement destination because of all of its unique qualities, as well as its low cost of living and availability of peaceful rural communities.
Add these senior-friendly towns to your list of potential retirement locations after checking them out.
St. Martinville
The meandering Bayou Teche, which runs beside St. Martinville, is home to a variety of locally distinct vegetation, animals, and wildlife. The St. Martin Parish Community Health Center is one of the many healthcare facilities that are easily accessible to seniors residing in St. Martinville.
Seniors looking for a more sedate retirement should consider St. Martinville, where they can spend days hiking and biking at natural locations like Magnolia Park, Adam Carlson Memorial Park, and Evangeline Oak Park, which is home to lovely Spanish moss-draped oaks.
However, the town also hosts year-round music and art festivals, including the Okra and Acadian Memorial Festival, the Pepper Festival, and a Mardi Gras celebration, for those who prefer a little more excitement.
Read Also: Retirement Havens: 5 Cozy Virginia Towns That Welcome Seniors
Abita Springs
With a lengthy history, Abita Springs is well-known for its mineral springs, which are said to have therapeutic properties. To keep elders engaged, the quaint town also organizes a number of annual events, like a vibrant Fourth of July festival.
Located at the Tammany Trace trailhead, Abita Springs offers year-round hiking, biking, and animal viewing opportunities. Free entrance is available at the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum, which offers a thoughtful insight into the town’s history.
The weekly Abita Springs Art and Farmers Market, which has live music, fresh produce, and locally produced arts and crafts, is another great event for retirees.
Read Also: Senior Health Crisis: The Top 7 Texas Counties Struggling with Alzheimer’s
Houma
Outdoor enthusiasts can’t wait to explore the 2,500 square miles of marshes, swamps, and wetlands that make up Houma. At the Mandalay Wildlife Refuge, stroll along boardwalks encircled by cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
You may also enjoy fishing and boating on the neighboring Gulf of Mexico.
A journey down the Wetlands Cultural Byway, which passes by antebellum plantation homes, museums, and other historic attractions in nearby towns and villages, is a great way for seniors to get a taste of vibrant Cajun culture.
Read Also: Retirement Dreams Come True: 5 Charming New Mexico Towns to Explore
Natchitoches
Sweet Natchitoches, with its historic center lined with brick buildings and situated on the winding Cane River, embodies all that makes a charming southern town. At the Cane River Creole Historical Park, seniors can exercise while learning about local history.
The park also provides social events for the community, such game nights. For those with greater sense of adventure, consider trekking a trail in the Kisatchie Forest or canoeing or kayaking along the Cane River.
Seniors who prefer a more relaxed approach can also reserve a beautiful trip on the Cane River Queen River Boat or a horse-and-carriage tour through the historic neighborhood of Natchitoches through the Cane River Carriage Company.
Read Also: Senior-Friendly Towns: The Best Places to Retire in Minnesota
Breaux Bridge
Nestled on the banks of Bayou Teche, the charming hamlet of Breaux Bridge has earned the title of “Crawfish Capital of the World.”
Seniors can visit the Bayou Teche Visitor Center and the Atchafalaya Welcome Center Cultural Exhibit to learn more about what the area has to offer.
Boat rentals are available at Cypress Cove Landing, a recreational area in Breaux Bridge that’s ideal for a day of swamp exploring.
Seniors who are daring and active can join one of the many local tour organizations, such Borel’s Swamp Tours or Cajun Country Swamp Tours, for a guided swamp trip.
