Road Trip: Louisiana’s Bayou Teche Scenic Byway

You’ll discover the rich blend of distinct French Cajun and Anglo-Saxon cultures here, while you enjoy the stellar sights of pine forests, moss-draped giant oaks and blackberry farms scattered throughout the area. Buckle up and enjoy some of these points of interest along this visually arresting trip.

Source: Shutterstock

Buck and Johnny's 

Start your journey with a combination of zydeco music and Cajun food at Buck and Johnny's restaurant. This Breaux Bridge establishment clears the dance floor every Saturday morning for its famous zydeco breakfast. This combines Cajun culinary delights like crawfish etouffee and boudin with a live band that provides a foot-stomping good time. Not sure how to dance? The restaurant also offers zydeco dance lessons which will have you moving like a local in no time. 

Source: Shutterstock

Cypremort Point State Park

This scenic byway runs near the waterfront locale of Cypremort Point State Park, situated only a few miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Stop and take advantage of the sand launch, perfect for windsurfing enthusiasts. There’s a whole host of other marine related activities to dive into – such as crabbing, water skiing or fishing.

Fancy a relaxing panoramic vista with the sound of the waves hitting the shoreline? The golden sand dunes of the beach offer a perfect spot to wind down. If you’re more interested in your surroundings, this state park’s 185 acres sit in the heart of a marsh that’s home to plenty of wildlife and natural beauty. If you’re feeling adventurous, spend an afternoon exploring the picturesque surroundings. You can even spend a night at one of the park’s campsites, an evening under the stars amongst the tranquility of nature.

Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site

Get a dose of history as you learn about Bayou Teche’s Creole and Acadian settlers at the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site. See what life was like during the early settlement days as you view an original 1850 Creole plantation. You can also tour the reconstructed Acadian farmstead, complete with artifacts and costumed interpreters. Before heading back to the car, stroll along one of the site's walking paths for a chance to spot some of the local wildlife.

Source: Shutterstock

Bayou Teche Museum

The city of New Iberia hosts a state-of-the-art facility that explores the Cajun history and influences of the area. It’s plethora of exhibits focus on the massive impact that the sugar industry had on the area. Experience the interactive salt mine display, witness colorful Mardi Gras attire, and admire the creative genius of artist George Rodrigue – it’s a visit that’s sure to add color to your trip. 

Grevemberg House Museum

Stop for a while and enjoy some classic Southern architecture in the city of Franklin with a visit to the Grevemberg House Museum. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this fully-restored 1851 Greek-Revival style house stuns from the outside. The museum features large Corinthian columns flanking the front and authentic period furniture like a mahogany dining table and a C. Lee bed. A tour through the rooms creates the feeling that you've stepped back in time. The original wallpaper, antique toys and fascinating Civil War artifacts displayed throughout the home add a sense of realism to the experience. 

Jeanerette Bicentennial Park and Museum

Learn about the region's culture, history, politics, geography, industry and more at the Jeanerette Bicentennial Park and Museum. Built in 1902, this museum is a smorgasbord of memorabilia and exhibits, many focusing on Jeanerette's 200-year history in the sugar cane industry. The museum also includes several interestingly themed rooms, including the Swamp Room which features more than 40 native specimens set in a natural wildlife setting, the Cypress Room with hand-made cypress patterns and the Mardi Gras Room. 

LeJeune's Bakery

You don't often find a bakery located on the National Register of Historic Places, but LeJeune's Bakery in Jeanerette is no ordinary bakehouse. Founded in 1884, it still uses its original 19th-century recipe to make its famous French bread and ginger cakes. This fifth-generation family bakery also specializes in garlic bread. When you arrive, look for the red light in the bakery storefront. If it's turned on, it means hot loaves are fresh out of the oven. You can taste generations of family tradition woven into the dough and presented as a delight to your tastebuds.

Do you have a favorite scenic Louisiana drive? Visit our Facebook page and tell us your must-see spots.