Understanding the Distance Between Texas and Louisiana
Knowing how far Louisiana is from Texas helps you plan your trip, whether you're driving or flying. These two neighboring states share a long border and have several travel options. The exact distance depends on the cities you're traveling between.
This guide explains both driving and flight distances between Texas and Louisiana. You'll also find FAQs and travel tips to help you prepare for the journey efficiently and confidently.
How Many Miles is Louisiana from Texas by Car?
Driving from Texas to Louisiana is one of the most common ways to travel between these two states. Here are the most popular city-to-city routes and their estimated distances:
- Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA – Approximately 350 miles
- Dallas, TX to Shreveport, LA – Around 190 miles
- San Antonio, TX to Baton Rouge, LA – Roughly 400 miles
- Austin, TX to Lake Charles, LA – About 300 miles
The Texas-Louisiana border stretches over 500 miles from north to south, so your total drive distance depends on your start and end points. In general, traveling by car takes between 3 to 7 hours.
What is the Flight Distance from Louisiana to Texas?
Flying is a faster option when you're covering longer distances between major cities. Here are common aerial distances between Texas and Louisiana cities:
- Houston to New Orleans – Around 305 miles
- Dallas to Baton Rouge – Approximately 350 miles
- San Antonio to Shreveport – Close to 370 miles
- Austin to New Orleans – Around 450 miles
Most nonstop flights between the two states last between 1 to 1.5 hours. When factoring in airport check-in and wait times, the total travel time can be around 3 hours.
Is Louisiana Close to Texas Geographically?
Yes, Louisiana directly borders Texas to the east. They are neighboring states in the southern region of the United States. Both states are located along the Gulf Coast and share cultural, historical, and economic ties.
The shared border and transportation networks make traveling between Texas and Louisiana convenient by car, bus, train, or air.
Driving Tips for a Road Trip Between Texas and Louisiana
Planning a road trip? Here are some helpful driving tips:
- Check road conditions before starting your trip, especially during hurricane season or heavy rain.
- Interstates like I-10 and I-20 connect major cities across the states—stick to these for faster routes.
- Have a reliable GPS or smartphone navigation to avoid delays.
- Take breaks at rest stops to avoid fatigue on long drives.
- Gas up before hitting rural areas. Some stretches have fewer service stations.
If you're driving from Houston to New Orleans, you’ll travel mainly on I-10 East. This scenic route takes you through Baytown, Lake Charles, Lafayette, and Baton Rouge.
What’s the Best Travel Option Between Texas and Louisiana?
The best option depends on your needs:
- Choose driving if you're traveling with family, carrying luggage, or want to visit small towns along the way.
- Choose flying if you're short on time or traveling long distances like Dallas to New Orleans.
- Choose buses or trains for budget-friendly travel. Routes like Greyhound and Amtrak are available between major cities.
Your choice also depends on how soon you want to arrive and how you prefer to experience the journey.
Popular Routes Between Major Texas and Louisiana Cities
Here are the most traveled city-to-city routes and what they offer:
- Houston to New Orleans – A rich blend of food, music, and culture; about 5–6 hours by car.
- Dallas to Shreveport – A shorter drive for business or weekend trips; about 3 hours.
- San Antonio to Baton Rouge – A scenic drive with historical pit stops; around 6 hours.
Each route has local attractions, food stops, and points of entertainment along the way.
FAQ: Common Questions About Traveling Between Texas and Louisiana
How long does it take to drive from Texas to Louisiana?
Driving can take anywhere from 3 to 7 hours depending on your starting and ending points. For example, Houston to New Orleans takes about 5.5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Texas to Louisiana?
Bus services like Greyhound are usually the most affordable. They connect cities like Houston, Dallas, Shreveport, and New Orleans.
Is there a train from Texas to Louisiana?
Yes. Amtrak offers service between Texas and Louisiana through routes like the Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle. These trains make multiple stops across both states.
How far is the Texas-Louisiana border from major cities?
From Houston, the border is about 110 miles east. From Dallas, it’s around 180 miles southeast. From San Antonio, the border is nearly 200 miles east.
Can I make a day trip from Texas to Louisiana?
Yes, if you are near the border. Traveling from Houston to Lake Charles or from Dallas to Shreveport can be done in a day with time to return.
Final Thoughts: Exploring the Road From Texas to Louisiana
Whether you're driving or flying, the journey from Texas to Louisiana offers variety, convenience, and adventure. You can choose a method that fits your schedule and budget while enjoying different landscapes and cultures.
Use this guide to help plan your trip, estimate your travel time, and choose the best route. Regardless of where you start and finish, the route between Texas and Louisiana is rich in experience and scenery.
