Louisiana is located in the southern part of the United States. The capital of Louisiana is Baton Rouge, while the largest city is New Orleans. It is the only state that is not divided into cities or regions, but into parishes. The largest parish by population is Jefferson Parish. The largest parish in terms of land area is Cameron Parish.

Louisiana is rich in cultural heritage and history. The state is a unique fusion of French, Spanish and African cultures, which makes the state exceptionally different from other US states. Louisiana had been a former Spanish and French colony. Many Africans also came in and resided in the area during the 18th century. On August 29, 2005, the state was devastated when it was hit by the Hurricane Katrina, particularly New Orleans and the parishes of Jefferson and St. Bernard.

The state of Louisiana is a major source for petroleum, natural gas, salt and sulfur, many of which mostly come from offshore deposits. Louisiana is also a major producer of agricultural products, such as sweet potatoes, pecans, sugar cane, rice, corn, soybeans and cotton. Other leading manufactured items include coal, paper, chemicals, wood, lumber, transportation equipment and processed food.
Louisiana is a very popular visitor destination, most especially the picturesque French Quarter New Orleans. Visitors flock during the annual Mardi Gras, which is held every year since 1838. While in Louisiana, be sure to also visit: Superdome, Chalmette National Historic Park, Baton Rouge and Cajun country.