Almost directly between Baton Rouge and New Orleans lies a cluster of unique communities which make up Ascension Parish, Louisiana.
Rich in history and overflowing with entertainment, Ascension is quickly becoming South Louisiana’s sweet spot. The region offers groups the perfect location to stay and enjoy the friendly, safe and festive atmosphere only small-town Louisiana can provide without sacrificing the comforts and multitude of brand-name accommodations, dining options and entertainment options of larger cities.
“We invite you to come and enjoy Ascension’s gumbo of cultures unique to the South and fall in love with the food, festivals and history that all reflect our unique way of life that we are so proud to share with visitors,” says Tracy Browning, Executive Director of Ascension Parish’s Tourism Commission. “Ascension Parish is the perfect mix Louisiana of history and culture.”
ASK:
Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
888-775-7990
tourascension.com
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Credit: Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
Houmas House and Gardens — Voted best Historic Mansion by USA Today, our crown jewel, Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, provides its guest with some of the finest dining, accommodations, gardens and home tours in the South. Groups can tour the historic Louisiana Estate and explore 38 acres of lush gardens or relax with a refreshing mint julep and enjoy the breeze off the nearby Mississippi River.
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Credit: Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
The Cajun Village — The Cajun Village is a wonderful collection of authentic, restored Acadian dwellings, in the heart of Plantation Country in South Louisiana. We invite groups to stroll the grounds, step back in time and visit the unique shops and boutiques that make their home in these sturdy old buildings. Enjoy some beignets ‘n cafe’ au lait while meandering through the stores, and shop for local art and souvenirs.
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Credit: Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
Historic Downtown Donaldsonville — Donaldsonville is known today as the “Gateway to Cajun and Plantation Country” because of its rich heritage and the numerous plantations along the Mississippi River and Bayou Lafourche. Rich in history, our Historic District is home to 50 blocks with some 640 buildings dating from 1865-1933. Groups can meander through the historic district, tour the River Road African American museum, meet primitive artist Alvin Batiste, shop for antiquex or take in the site of the Mighty Mississippi River on the Levee top Riverwalk.
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Credit: Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
The River Road African American Museum — The River Road African American Museum collects, preserves and exhibits art, artifacts and buildings as it is related to the history and culture of African Americans in the rural communities along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. More than just a slavery museum, it is an institution that tells stories of freedom, resilience and reconciliation. Exhibits in the museum reflect the fortitude and achievements birthed by a generation of artist, educators, physicians, craftsman, politicians, inventors and musicians.
