A classic summer activity is the road trip. There's something pioneer-like about loading up the car with family, friends, and food to see what's over the horizon. But not too far over, since the open road can quickly expand in almost direct proportion to the shrinking of the car. Resulting torrents of "Are we there yet?" and "Stop touching me!" will quickly spoil the automotive adventure. Children may act up as well. Solution? Pick a destination that takes no longer than a day to reach, tour, and return from. It helps if you live in a place that offers interesting sites to visit. Luckily, we do. Here are just a few ideas…

Louisiana's Scenic Byways
http://www.crt.state.la.us/crt/tourism/scenic/scenicbw.htmlink removed
Since the back roads of Louisiana are so easily missed by sticking only to the interstate, this site offers a listing of attractions, festivals, parades, and general areas of interest broken down by parish. This site is provide by the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism.

Louisiana Swamp Tour
http://www.louisianaswamp.com/link removed
Whether you're interested in a relaxed tour on a party barge or a hair-plastering airboat ride, this organization can satisfy either desire. Plus, they guarantee you'll see at least one alligator - even if it is their pet, "Ali."

MomsMinivan.com
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If children or passengers with little patience for the open road are kept occupied, it will make for a more enjoyable experience for everyone. This site offers a variety of entertaining games and activities to help melt away the miles without causing a meltdown.

The River Road
http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/travel/louisiana/riverroad.htmlink removed
A comprehensive website maintained by the National Park Service covering the basics for those with a passing interest and links to other sites for the avid historical buff. Plantation houses along River Road are showcased with a handy map for finding historic sites of interest throughout Southeastern Louisiana.

RoadsideAmerica.com "Your Online Guide to Offbeat Attractions"
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As the name suggests, there are some truly unusual places to visit in Louisiana. You'll probably be surprised or amused by at least one of the places on this list. Don't pass up going to the "Electric Map" to find attractions throughout the country.

-- David Wolff
dwolff@lsuhsc.edulink removed