Houma

Welcome to bayou country! Founded in 1834, Houma was named after the Native American tribe who settled here, the Houmas Indians.

The area features many marshes and swamps and some 50 bridges built to cross all of these bodies of water.

The city has become a must-see Louisiana destination for its bayous, but also for its Cajun culture, traditions, music, cuisine, and legendary hospitality.

The locals love to discuss their culture with tourists. You will quickly discover their joie de vivre!

Bayou Black Drive

Bayou Black Drive in Houma attracts many tourists because of its charming B&Bs and small local restaurants. If you are lucky enough to run into any Native Americans (there are still a few families in the area), don't hesitate to start a conversation and ask them about their history.

Southdown Plantation / The Terrebonne Museum

Four generations of the Minor Family, along with hundreds of workers and their families, lived and labored at Southdown Plantation.

You can tour the 19^th century sugar plantation and manor house, which is filled with objects from the past. The on-site Terrebonne Museum presents exhibits on plantation life, the sugar industry and life in 19th century southern Louisiana.

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Ardoyne Plantation

This sugar cane plantation was founded in 1838 by a Scottish family. At the time, the 1100-acre farm had 67 slaves. Fifty years later, the land was purchased by Louisiana senator John Dalton Shaffer, and the house was completed in 1894. Ardoyne Plantation House is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the largest and most elaborate example of rural Victorian Gothic architecture in the state of Louisiana. A tour of the house reveals original family furniture, china and plantation memorabilia.

Currently closed for repairs following Hurricane Ida in September 2021. Check website for updates.

Boat tour of the bayou

If you haven't yet had the chance, treat yourself to a guided tour on one of the region's many bodies of water: it's a don't miss experience! You will see alligators and learn more about local wildlife and vegetation. Several companies offer 90-minute tours, such as Cajun Man's Swamp Cruise (www.cajunmanadventures.com / 985-868-4625) and Bayou Black Airboat Swamp Tours (www.bayoublackairboattours.com / 985-665-8571). Reservations are necessary in high season.

Tours leave from Bob's Bayou Black Marina at 251 Marina Drive, Gibson

Greenwook Gator Farm and Tours

Greenwood Gator Farm offers a one-hour tour through the back swamps of Houma, where many surprises await! You can also visit the alligator farm and find out how alligators are part of Louisiana life. You will even get to hold and meet a live alligator face to face!

Reservations are necessary. You must also call ahead to book your swamp tour with the Captain.

Cocodrie

Time permitting, pay a visit to the charming village of Cocodrie , less than an hour from Houma along Highway 56, where you will find a unique and friendly community.

The houses are built on stilts and, like their ancestors, most of the village residents make a living from fishing. It's a unique, authentic place that looks and feels like the end of the world.