Prairieville, Louisiana: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Prairieville, Louisiana (Ascension Parish)

If you’re exploring Prairieville, Louisiana, you’re in a sweet spot between quiet country life and big-city fun. This fast-growing community in Ascension Parish sits just south of Baton Rouge and not far from New Orleans, which means you’ve got a ton of great things to do within a short drive. Whether you’re road-tripping through Louisiana, visiting family, or thinking about moving here, this guide covers 10 fun things to do near Prairieville that locals actually enjoy.

1. Spend a Relaxed Afternoon at Prairieville Park

You don’t have to go far to start exploring. Prairieville Park (sometimes called Prairieville Recreational Park) offers a simple, laid-back spot to stretch your legs and let the kids burn some energy.
  • Walking paths and open green space
  • Playground for little ones
  • Picnic tables and shade trees
On warm evenings, you’ll often see families tossing a football or shooting hoops. I stopped by one late Sunday afternoon and watched a group of kids play an intense game of tag while parents chatted nearby. It felt like classic small-town Louisiana. If you’re staying nearby, this is an easy first stop to get a feel for life in Prairieville.

2. Explore the Historic Houmas House & Gardens

About 20–25 minutes from Prairieville, along the famous River Road, you’ll find the stunning Houmas House and Gardens. This place is like stepping into a Southern movie set.
  • Beautiful antebellum mansion tours
  • Lush gardens with fountains and oak trees
  • On-site restaurants and a small inn
The house dates back to the early 1800s and has been carefully restored. Guides share stories about plantation life, architecture, and the people who once lived here. Even if you’re not a big history buff, the grounds alone are worth a visit—especially when the flowers are in full bloom. If you’re road-tripping through Louisiana, this is one of the most iconic things to do near Prairieville and a classic stop in Ascension Parish.

3. Cool Off at Blue Bayou Water Park (and Dixie Landin’)

Looking for a family-friendly day trip from Prairieville? Just up the road in Baton Rouge, about 15–20 minutes away, you’ll find Blue Bayou Water Park and the attached Dixie Landin’ Amusement Park. At Blue Bayou, you’ll get:
  • Water slides of all sizes
  • Lazy river and wave pool
  • Kid-friendly splash areas
Dixie Landin’ adds:
  • Roller coasters
  • Classic carnival rides
  • Game booths and fair-style snacks
On a hot Louisiana summer day (and there are plenty of those), this is one of the best things to do near Prairieville with kids. Plan to spend most of the day here, and don’t forget sunscreen—Louisiana sun is no joke.

4. Discover Local Flavor at the Gonzales Jambalaya Capital of the World

Just a short drive down Airline Highway from Prairieville is Gonzales, officially known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” If you love food—and you’re in Louisiana, so you probably do—this is a must-visit. Things to check out:
  • Jambalaya restaurants and plate lunches
  • Locally owned diners and seafood spots
  • Seasonal food festivals and cook-offs
If your timing is right, you might catch the annual Jambalaya Festival, packed with food booths, live music, and cooking competitions. Even if you’re just passing through, grab a plate of jambalaya or gumbo and taste what Ascension Parish is all about.

5. Shop and Dine at the Tanger Outlets in Gonzales

Need a shopping fix or a break from driving? The Tanger Outlets in Gonzales are only about 10–15 minutes from Prairieville. You’ll find:
  • Brand-name outlet stores
  • Casual restaurants and fast food options
  • Plenty of parking right off the interstate
This is a great rainy-day option or a good stop if you’re road-tripping along I-10 and staying near Prairieville. You can pick up discounted clothes, shoes, and travel gear, then grab a bite before heading back to your hotel or Airbnb.

6. Walk Under Ancient Oaks at LSU Rural Life Museum

About 25–30 minutes northwest of Prairieville is the LSU Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge. It’s peaceful, shady, and surprisingly interesting—even for people who don’t usually like museums. The museum focuses on 19th-century Louisiana life with:
  • Historic buildings moved to the site
  • Old farm tools and home items
  • Informative signs and exhibits
The grounds are lined with big live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. It’s easy to imagine what life was like more than 100 years ago. If you enjoy slow-paced, thoughtful outings, this is a lovely half-day trip from Prairieville.

7. Fish, Paddle, or Bird-Watch on the Amite River

One of the best things about Prairieville is how close you are to Louisiana’s natural beauty. The Amite River runs near town and offers a relaxing escape from highways and shopping centers. Depending on water levels and the season, you can:
  • Launch a small boat or kayak
  • Fish for bass, catfish, and more
  • Watch for birds and other wildlife
If you don’t have your own gear, look for local outfitters or guided trips in the broader Baton Rouge area. Always check river conditions—especially after heavy rain—before heading out. Even if you don’t get on the water, just driving along the back roads near Prairieville and catching glimpses of the river can be a peaceful break from busy city traffic.

8. Experience Saturday Nights at Tiger Stadium (Baton Rouge)

If you’re in Prairieville during football season, you are less than 30 minutes away from one of the most intense game-day experiences in the country: LSU’s Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. Why it’s worth the trip:
  • Electric atmosphere on game days
  • Tailgating that starts hours before kickoff
  • Night games that feel like a giant outdoor party
Even if you’re not a hardcore sports fan, a night game at Tiger Stadium is a bucket-list experience. Tickets can go fast for big SEC matchups, so plan ahead if you want to go inside. If not, simply walking around campus and tailgate areas before the game gives you a taste of Louisiana pride and energy.

9. Take a Scenic Drive Along River Road

When you’re ready for a slower pace, take a drive from Prairieville over to the Mississippi River and follow River Road. This stretch between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is dotted with historic plantations, small communities, and sweeping river views. Along River Road near Prairieville and Gonzales, you can:
  • Visit plantation homes like Houmas House and others nearby
  • Stop at local diners and seafood joints
  • Pull over for photos of sugarcane fields and old oak trees
It’s an easy day trip that doesn’t require much planning—just fill up the tank, grab some snacks, and explore at your own pace. If you like photography or simply enjoy scenic drives, this is one of the best things to do near Prairieville, LA.

10. Eat Like a Local in Prairieville

You don’t have to leave Prairieville to enjoy real Louisiana flavors. Over the past few years, more and more restaurants and cafes have popped up along Airline Highway and the main roads through town. While places change over time, you’ll typically find:
  • Cajun and Creole comfort food
  • Seafood platters and po’boys
  • Plate lunches with rice, gravy, and sides
  • Family-friendly spots and casual bars
One of the best ways to discover new spots is to simply ask a local, “Where do you like to eat around here?” You’ll usually get honest answers and maybe even a story or two. If you’re staying a few days, try a different local restaurant each night. By the time you leave Prairieville, you’ll have your own list of favorites.

Final Thoughts: Prairieville as Your Louisiana Home Base

Prairieville, Louisiana may not be as famous as New Orleans or Baton Rouge, but that’s part of its charm. It gives you a quieter, more relaxed place to stay—while keeping you close to:
  • Historic plantations and River Road
  • Family fun at Blue Bayou and Dixie Landin’
  • Big-time college football at LSU
  • Shopping, nature, and great local food
If you’re planning a trip to Ascension Parish or looking for things to do near Baton Rouge, consider using Prairieville as your base. You’ll be close to everything but still get that small-town Louisiana feel.

Share Your Prairieville Experience

Have you visited Prairieville, LA or anywhere in Ascension Parish?
  • What was your favorite thing to do near Prairieville?
  • Did you find a great local restaurant or hidden spot?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip to Louisiana—it might help them uncover a new favorite stop along the way.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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