Hudson-Silver Insurance Agency

Various facets of history all intersect at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum. From artifacts of some of the state's most high-profile figures to pieces from prehistoric life in the area, the dramatic sweep of these collected stories is breathtaking. The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is a Smithsonian affiliate museum and features 18 world renowned dioramas and rotating exhibits. Science, technology, culture and history intertwine here, and the stories that they tell will give you a deeper sense of understanding and appreciation of what the state's founding fathers went through. Admission is always free and the museum is open seven days a week.

If you want to steer the family away from all the hustle and bustle of the city and relax near the water, a good choice is the Charles and Marie Hamel Memorial Park. Clean, well-maintained and serene, the scenery is a nice break from all of the city's fast-paced activity and mainstream attractions. Over the park's seventeen acres, you'll find the perfect spot to have a picnic and enjoy the river view. The hours are dawn until dusk, so plan a day full of wide open spaces with the Hamel Park as your only destination.

If you're feeling particularly lucky and want to see how that luck will translate into cash, you can take several chances at the Horseshoe Casino Hotel. With 1,500 slot machines and 50 table games, the odds are pretty good that you'll walk away with a little more in your pocket, as well as the memory of the fun nightlife experience. And if all that gaming increased your appetite, you can enjoy a celebratory meal at the hotel's steak house, Asian restaurant, buffet, cafe and grille, or deli.