Louisiana's Hidden City Combines Local Flavor And Affordable Accommodations With Prime Birding Opportunities

New Orleans is usually the first place people think of when they hear "Louisiana," and for good reason: The Crescent City is full of unmissable things to do while there. However, travelers should not overlook the hidden city of Tallulah, which combines a great blend of outdoor activities (such as birding), local flavor, and affordable accommodations. Nestled in the northeastern part of the state between Monroe and the Mississippi state line, Tallulah is easily reached by traveling along Interstate 20; visitors can also fly into the Monroe Regional Airport (around 55 miles away). From Monroe, a rental car, taxi, or ride-share will get you to this overlooked gem. 

Tallulah was founded in 1857, has around 5,700 residents (at the time of this writing), and is the parish seat of Madison Parish. Farming is, and always has been, a huge part of life in Tallulah; the landscape is filled with fields covered with corn, rice, wheat, soybeans, and their most-produced crop, cotton. Scotts Field airport was one of the first to experiment with using airplanes to drop pesticides on farmland. While proud of their agricultural roots, residents of Tallulah also love and protect the natural beauty and wildlife found in the area.

The Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see while in Tallulah. Your first stop once at the refuge should be the visitor center, where you can enjoy life-size exhibits and get information about the area. While at the center, don't forget to pick up a map of the refuge and a list of frequently spotted animals; there's even an orientation video offering an overview of the refuge. You can also walk the Hollow Cypress Boardwalk Wildlife Trail from the visitor center to an observation tower. 

The refuge, which covers around 70,000 acres of bottomland forest, is open 365 days per year. It's common for visitors to spot wild turkeys, wood ducks, migratory birds in the colder months, and songbirds in the spring. You may even get a chance to view some endangered species, including the Bachman's warbler, the peregrine falcon, and the bald eagle.

While birdwatching is a major draw to the refuge, there are actually around 400 species of animals in the forest. The refuge is home to the state's largest population of Louisiana black bears, which were previously on the endangered species list. Visitors can see more of the refuge by enjoying a self-guided wildlife drive, joining educational programs led by park rangers, hunting, fishing, and spending time on the paddling and hiking trails found onsite. Looking for another spot just perfect for birding? Louisiana's Barataria Preserve is a scenic, wildlife-filled swamp great for watchers.

Another must-see while in Tallulah is the Hermione House, built in 1855 and restored and renovated as a museum overseen by the Historical Society in 1997. Many fascinating exhibits are housed in the museum, including Civil War artifacts and relics from the Native Americans who lived in the area centuries ago, such as the Tensas and Ouachita tribes. An exhibit showcasing Madame C.J. Walker (Madison Parish resident born to former slaves), who became the first female millionaire in the country, is simply awe-inspiring.

Tallulah has plenty of dining establishments to tempt your tastebuds. Eat like a local at Sugas (featuring Southern comfort food) and Fox's Pizza Den. According to Tripadvisor, the top three restaurants in Tallulah include Los Parrilleros (Mexican food), Country Pride Restaurant (comfort food), and Knock Out BBQ. Be sure to fuel up before heading out to explore all the area has to offer visitors. When traveling, affordably priced accommodations, such as this Louisiana bayou getaway in Cajun country can help extend your travel budget. Tallulah has plenty of budget-friendly options for visitors; choices include the Holiday Capri Motel, Super 8, and Days Inn. Regardless of which motel you choose, you will enjoy your time in this hidden gem.