7 Coolest Things Ever Invented in Louisiana

LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL-FM) - Louisiana isn’t just famous for our culture, rich history, and mouthwatering food, Louisiana is also a powerhouse of innovation and creativity.

From groundbreaking scientific discoveries to iconic culinary creations, the Pelican State has contributed inventions that have left a lasting mark on the world.

This being said, let's take a look at 7 of the coolest things ever invented in Louisiana.

7 Coolest Things Ever Invented in Louisiana

These Louisiana-born innovations reflect the state’s unique blend of ingenuity, practicality, and cultural flair.

1. Binocular Microscope - In 1982, Tulane University scientist John Leonard Riddell invented the very first binocular microscope.

Riddell's invention absolutely revolutionized scientific research and the entire medical community for ever. Saving lives is pretty cool.

2. Jazz Music - Seriously, can it get any cooler than Jazz? New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz music, a revolutionary art form that reshaped the music world. Louisiana musicians introduced improvisation, rhythm, and fusion that continue to influence artists everywhere.

READ MORE: 7 Things Only People From Louisiana Can Truly Understand

3. The Sazerac - America's very first ever cocktail, the Sazerac, was invented by Antoine Amadie Peychaud in New Orleans.

4. Venetian Blinds - Hey world, you're welcome. During the blazing Summer months in Louisiana, and all over the world, people use Venetian blinds to help keep their houses cool.

John Hampson of New Orleans, Louisiana patented what know as the modern Venetian blind.

5. Raising Cane’s - Do I need to say more? Raising Cane's has gone from its first location outside of the gates of LSU in Baton Rouge to a global chicken finger powerhouse.

As of April 2025, Forbes estimate founder Todd Graves' net worth is at $17.2 billion, making him the 116th wealthiest person in the world according to wikipedia.com.

6. Poker - Anyone who has ever played a game of poker has Louisiana to thank.

Poker was invented and played on Mississippi riverboats around Louisiana in the 1800s, and has grown into what is arguably the most popular card game on the planet. That's pretty cool.

READ MORE: Louisiana's 8 Most Rare and Unique Cajun and Creole Dishes

7. Tabasco Sauce - Edmund McIlhenny could have never imagined 150 years ago when he started the McIlhenny Company in Avery Island that his tabasco sauce would grow into the most recognized Louisiana brands in the world.

Mcllhenny is now available in over 195 countries.