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.
Authentik tipYou're in a wetland! Don't forget your insect repellent. The mosquitoes can be very annoying when visiting the bayou... |
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 19th 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.
History of sugarFor more than 150 years, sugar was king in South Louisiana, enticing pioneers to the region and rewarding them with prosperity and progress. The city of Houma in Terrebonne Parish was home to 86 sugar mills during the industry’s boom years. The last operational mill in the Parish was the Southdown Mill, located adjacent to Southdown Plantation House. It closed in 1979. |
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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.
