Depart New Orleans
Board your motorcoach in the New Orleans area and enjoy a comfortable ride up to Angola. Our tour director will share the history of the rodeo and what to expect when you arrive.
The Angola Prison Rodeo is one of the most unique events in all of Louisiana — held inside the Louisiana State Penitentiary, the largest maximum-security prison in the United States, where inmate cowboys compete in a full rodeo for one of the most unforgettable audiences in the South. There is nothing else quite like it. We'll handle the roundtrip motorcoach transportation from New Orleans and your rodeo tickets — all you have to do is show up and enjoy an extraordinary day.
Tour Highlights
- Roundtrip motorcoach transportation from the New Orleans area
- Rodeo admission tickets included
- One of Louisiana's most unique and talked-about annual events
- Inmate artisan crafts marketplace on-site
- Held inside the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola
- A truly one-of-a-kind experience you'll be talking about for years
Day by Day
The Angola Prison Rodeo
Arrive at the Louisiana State Penitentiary for the Angola Prison Rodeo. Watch inmate cowboys compete in traditional rodeo events — bull riding, barrel racing, and more. Browse the inmate artisan marketplace, where prisoners sell handmade crafts, artwork, and furniture. Grab food from on-site vendors and soak in one of the most remarkable atmospheres in Louisiana.
Return to New Orleans
Board your motorcoach for the return journey to New Orleans, arriving back in the early evening with memories that will last a lifetime.
What's Included
✓ Included
- Roundtrip motorcoach transportation from New Orleans
- Angola Prison Rodeo admission tickets
- Professional tour director
✗ Not Included
- Meals and food (available on-site)
- Personal purchases and souvenirs
- Travel insurance (recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the Angola Prison Rodeo?
The Angola Prison Rodeo has been held at the Louisiana State Penitentiary since 1965. It's a full professional-style rodeo where inmate cowboys — who train and compete year-round — take on traditional events like bull riding, barrel racing, and more. The event is open to the public and draws tens of thousands of visitors each October. It's also one of the only opportunities for the public to enter the prison grounds.
Is this appropriate for all ages?
Yes — the Angola Prison Rodeo is a family-friendly public event. Children are welcome. The atmosphere is festive and the focus is on the rodeo competition and the artisan marketplace. Comfort-wise, the event is held outdoors so dress comfortably and bring sunscreen.
Where does the motorcoach depart from?
Pickup location and exact departure time will be confirmed upon booking. We depart from and return to the New Orleans area on the same day.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and cash for food and the artisan marketplace. Note that as a prison facility, there may be restrictions on what you can bring inside — we'll provide a full information sheet upon booking.