Why Healthcare Travelers Will Love Louisiana
If you’re looking for an assignment that blends career growth with soul-fueling experiences, Louisiana might just be calling your name. This isn’t just another state—it’s a place where your downtime feels like a vacation, and the culture welcomes you with open arms.
Travel nurses and healthcare travelers can spend their time off paddling through bayous, dancing to brass bands, and enjoying a bowl of authentic gumbo. Whether you’re craving big city energy, quiet nature escapes, or once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences, here’s why Louisiana offers something unforgettable for travel assignments.
Northern Louisiana: Where Culture and Outdoor Adventure Collide
The Shreveport and Bossier City region blends cityscapes and natural beauty. Spend your days off exploring downtown’s local breweries and galleries, then head out for a paddle on Caddo Lake, where Spanish moss and glassy waters set the scene. The Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets along the Red River are great for shopping, dining, and catching live music in the evenings.
Red River Revel, one of the state’s largest art and music festivals, brings together food, creativity, and fun every fall—making it a great time to be on assignment in the area.
Other area highlights include:
- Scenic hiking at Lake Claiborne State Park
- Live entertainment at The Strand Theatre
- Casinos, crawfish boils, and a warm welcome wherever you go
Assignments in this region often provide a balance of high-quality care facilities with a more relaxed, community-focused pace.
See TNAA’s available jobs in and around Shreveport and Bossier City.
Central Louisiana (Cenla): A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Alexandria, the heart of Central Louisiana, offers a peaceful setting for travelers craving slower living, plenty of greenery, and robust arts and culture. Between shifts, you can unwind along the Red River trails or explore downtown’s historic architecture.
However, the real star in this area is the Kisatchie National Forest. This massive forest is popular for its scenic hiking, biking, and birdwatching trails. It’s Louisiana’s only national forest, and it’s a favorite among travel nurses and healthcare travelers who enjoy getting out in the natural world on their travels.
Assignments here tend to be in smaller facilities with welcoming teams, giving you the chance to connect with coworkers and the community in a meaningful way.
See TNAA’s available jobs in and around Alexandria.
South Louisiana: Energy, Flavor & Coastal Adventure
No region captures the spirit of Louisiana like the south. In New Orleans, you’ll hear jazz in the streets, see parades pop up out of nowhere, and eat food so good it might just change your life. Between Mardi Gras, French Quarter Fest, and the New Orleans Jazz Fest, there’s always something going on—but even outside the events, the city’s rhythm is magnetic.
Just an hour away, Baton Rouge brings its own flair. As the state capital and home to LSU, it’s buzzing with sports, live music, and local eats. Travelers love the walkable riverfront, weekend farmers markets, and the sense of tradition and pride in every neighborhood.
Looking for coastal serenity? Head south to Grand Isle State Park, where beach days and birdwatching are a perfect contrast to fast-paced hospital shifts.
See TNAA’s available jobs in and around New Orleans.
Acadiana: The Soul of Cajun Country
In Lafayette, Breaux Bridge, and surrounding towns, you’ll find a cultural heartbeat that’s completely unique. Here, life moves to the sound of Zydeco and Cajun music. On your off days, visit local festivals like the Festival International de Louisiane, take a swamp tour through the Atchafalaya Basin, or eat your way through roadside boudin shops.
Cajun hospitality is genuine—locals are proud of their roots and are quick to welcome you. It’s the perfect region for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Louisiana’s most authentic flavors, traditions, and tight-knit communities.
See TNAA’s available jobs in and around Lafayette.
The Florida Parishes: Small Towns with Big Charm
Just north of Lake Pontchartrain and east of Baton Rouge, the Florida Parishes offer scenic escapes and charming small towns like Covington, Hammond, and Slidell. These areas are ideal for travelers who want proximity to New Orleans and a quieter, small-town charm for their assignment or a weekend getaway.
A visit to this area must include:
- Antique shopping in downtown Covington
- Hiking and camping at Fontainebleau State Park
- Attending the Three Rivers Art Festival or a crawfish cook-off
Assignments here are a hidden gem—close to major cities but with the tranquility of smaller towns.
No Matter Where You Go in Louisiana, You’ll Find:
- A welcoming, friendly community of locals and healthcare teams
- Rich opportunities for career growth in diverse settings—from teaching hospitals to rural clinics
- Year-round festivals and events to keep your calendar full
- Nature escapes that feel like they’re straight out of a movie set
- Food, music, and culture that leave a lasting impression
Start Your Louisiana Adventure With TNAA
Each region of Louisiana offers its own personality, pace, and perks. Whether you’re drawn to the soulful streets of New Orleans, the quiet trails of Kisatchie, or the spicy energy of Cajun Country, there’s a perfect assignment waiting for you.
Plus, when you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with an agency that has your back every step of the way. Housing, credentialing, benefits, sick leave…we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is pack your bags and decide where you’re going.
Ready to explore Louisiana as a travel nurse or allied healthcare traveler? Check out our available travel nurse jobs in Louisiana and apply today!
