8 days in Gretna & Hot Springs Itinerary

On the 9th (Fri), immerse yourself in nature at Bayou Segnette State Park and then squeeze the most out of the city with Louisiana Tour Company. Here are some ideas for day two: contemplate in the serene atmosphere at St. Joseph Church and Gardens and then identify plant and animal life at Ultimate Swamp Adventures.

For maps, traveler tips, ratings, and other tourist information, use the Gretna trip itinerary planning app.

New Orleans to Gretna is an approximately half hour car ride. You can also drive. In July in Gretna, expect temperatures between 80°F during the day and 80°F at night. Finish your sightseeing early on the 10th (Sat) so you can drive to Hot Springs.

Step out of the city life by going to Lake Catherine State Park and Lake Ouachita. You'll explore the less-touristy side of things at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and Hot Springs Mountain. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Hot Springs: DeGray Lake Resort State Park (in Bismarck), DeSoto Bluff Trail (in Arkadelphia) and The Arkansas River Trail (in Little Rock). Next up on the itinerary: stroll through Grand Promenade, identify plant and animal life at Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, find something for the whole family at Funtrackers Family Fun Park, and indulge in some personalized pampering at some of the best spas.

To find maps, traveler tips, more things to do, and more tourist information, read our Hot Springs trip itinerary maker site.

Traveling by car from Gretna to Hot Springs takes 8 hours. Alternatively, you can drive. Traveling from Gretna in July, you will find days in Hot Springs are somewhat warmer (92°F), and nights are little chillier (72°F). Cap off your sightseeing on the 16th (Fri) early enough to catch the flight back home.