Brought to you by Ascension Parish and Louisiana Office of Tourism


Over 500 years define the history of Ascension Parish; an area historically identified by the important junction of the Mississippi River and Bayou Lafourche.

Today, Ascension Parish is a true American treasure. It is the “Gateway” to a glorious and sublime portrait of time and people spanning more than five centuries. Nestled right between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Ascension Parish is an immense collection of diverse histories. Where names such as Gonzales, Sorrento and Donaldsonville reflect the story of a blended cultural past. Where soul food merges with Creole cuisine. Where art, agriculture and industry meld to echo yesterday and today.

“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,” said Tracy Browning, executive director of Ascension Parish’s Tourism Commission. “Ascension Parish is the perfect mix of Louisiana history and culture.”

Ascension Parish Tourism Commission
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SEE

Ascension Parish Tourist Commission itinerary Houmas House and Gardens

Voted best Historic Mansion by USA Today, our crown jewel, Houmas House 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, explore 38 acres of lush gardens, visit the Great River Road Museum and relax with a refreshing mint julep while enjoying the breeze off the nearby Mississippi River.

DO

Ascension Parish Tourist Commission itinerary 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.

EXPERIENCE

Ascension Parish Tourist Commission itinerary Historic Donaldsonville

Rich in history, our Historic District (Historic Downtown Donaldsonville) 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 antiques or take in the site of the Mighty Mississippi River on the Levee top Riverwalk. Also located throughout the historic downtown are seven walking panels called Donaldsonville’s Historic Portals to the Past, allowing groups to walk and learn about the town history while taking in the sites.

LEARN

Ascension Parish Tourist Commission itinerary 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.