2017 CAJUN COAST Group Services Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS The Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau is ready to assist you with your Cajun Coast tour. Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Bureau . . . . 1 Our complimentary services include: Receptive Operators ...... 2 Tours ...... 2 • Check accommodations for space availability on your preferred tour Cajun Country Hub and Spoke Tour . . . . . 2 dates and solicit proposals from those properties that meet the special Casino Hub and Spoke Tour ...... 2 Golf Hub and Spoke Tour ...... 2 requirements of each tour. One Day Tours ...... 3 • Assist in planning a customized itinerary, including detailed Special Packages ...... 4 information on area attractions, restaurants and shopping. Ten Quick Stops that Easily • Make recommendations on special events that can be the highlight Fit into Your Itinerary ...... 4 of your tour. Accommodations ...... 5 • Supply digital photography. Attractions ...... 6 Restaurants ...... 8 • Provide promotional brochures and materials to help generate Calendar of Events ...... 10 interest and excitement for the tour. Background Info ...... 11 • Diddy bags Cajun Coast FAQs ...... 11 History ...... 11 We will make every effort to accommodate any of your special requests Services & Emergency ...... 13 before your arrival and during your stay on the Cajun Coast. Points of Interest/Accommodations Map . . . . .16 Driving Distances & Maps ...... 17

Mailing Address: The information in this manual is designed to assist the promotion of group tours, meetings and events. At the time of this edition (January 2017) the rates were current. They are subject to change P.O. Box 2332, Morgan City, LA 70381 without notice. Please call ahead to verify availability. The Cajun Coast Visitors & Convention Toll Free: (800) 256-2931 Bureau takes no responsibility for the information contained within this manual. Responsibility rests Phone: (985) 380-8224 solely with the listed establishments. The CCVCB does not independently verify information provided by the listed establishments and does not warrant the Fax: (985) 380-2876 quality or reputation of the services or products offered by them. E-mail: [email protected] FREE CAJUN COAST TRAVEL GUIDE APP Website: www.cajuncoast.com saltiest and sweetest spot in Louisiana. Tour the Tabasco® factory, RECEPTIVE OPERATORS Rip Van Winkle Gardens, Jungle Gardens, Konriko (the oldest rice mill in the United States) or Shadows-on-the-Teche (the most ALLONS À LAFAYETTE, INC. documented plantation home in the South). Return to Morgan 424 St. Joseph St., Lafayette, LA 70506 City/Franklin. Contact: Danny Bonaventure Day Six: Today you’ll tour the heart of Cajun Country. The Phone: (800) 264-5465, (337) 269-9607, Fax: (337) 376-0185 first stop is St. Martinville, home of the famed Evangeline Oak. E-mail: [email protected] Afterwards tour St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church or the Website: allonsalafayette.com Acadian Memorial. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Aspiring chefs can learn how to prepare a Cajun dish from the Cajun cooks at Vermilionville, a Cajun/Creole heritage and folklife TOURS park. In Lafayette tour the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve, Acadian Cultural Center or Acadian Village for a CAJUN COUNTRY HUB AND SPOKE TOUR glimpse into the life of the Acadians. If time permits, enjoy walking Day One & Day Two: Arrive in The Big Easy for two days Lafayette’s downtown for a little shopping. After a full afternoon, of nonstop excitement. Spend a day walking and shopping in enjoy dinner at one of Lafayette’s award-winning establishments, the French Quarter. Stroll the Riverwalk or go on a cruise down complete with Cajun music. the mighty Mississippi River. Ride the streetcar to the Garden District. Take in a show at the IMAX, visit the Audubon Zoo, tour the WWII Museum, Long Vue Gardens or the New Orleans CASINO HUB AND SPOKE TOUR Metropolitan Museum of Art. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one Day One: Arrive in Morgan City/Franklin at the hotel of your of the many top-rated restaurants, listen to music at Preservation choice and freshen up for a fun-filled evening. Drive down to Hall or the House of Blues, or try your Charenton to the Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel, Louisiana’s first luck at Harrah’s Casino. Overnight in land based casino. With over 1200 slots, 48 table games plus all New Orleans. their great restaurants, you’re bound to enjoy Acadiana’s loose and Day Three: Today travel into Cajun easy casino. Overnight in Morgan City/Franklin. Country and learn about the Bayou Day Two: Today you’ll make a stop in Amelia at the Amelia Cajuns. In Thibodaux, tour Laurel Valley Belle Casino before making your way to Harrah’s Casino in Plantation, the largest surviving sugarcane the Big Easy. Harrah’s is located in the heart of New Orleans’ plantation in the United States, which is downtown area. Here you’ll experi- still cultivating cane today. After touring ence live jazz music and Mardi Gras Laurel Valley, drive over to Houma, the parades while playing your favorite Venice of Louisiana, and enjoy a swamp slots and table games. Return to Morgan City/Franklin. tour. Whether you’re looking for musical Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel entertainment, education or exotic nature, Day Three: Today it’s off to Plantation Country for more fun and excitement. Begin the day at Houma has a tour for you. After dining Franklin at one of Houma’s numerous restaurants, Belle of Baton Rouge Casino and end the evening at Hollywood visit the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum where various Casino or L’auberge Casino, all found in the Capital City. Return exhibits explain the life and culture of the Bayou Cajuns. Next, it’s to Morgan City/Franklin. off to Morgan City. Stop at the Morgan City Welcome Center Day Four, Five & Six: After breakfast, pack up and travel for refreshments. Afterwards walk along the 21-foot tall seawall to Lake Charles, Kinder, Marksville or Shreveport to enjoy and get a bird’s-eye view of the Atchafalaya River. If time permits, Louisiana’s land and riverboat casinos. Select your favorite and let enjoy a walking tour of Morgan City’s Historic District or do some the good times roll. shopping down Main Street. In the evening go to a local restaurant for dinner or cooking demonstration. Overnight in Morgan City/ Franklin. GOLF HUB AND SPOKE TOUR Day Four: After breakfast, travel to Franklin, described as one Day One: Arrive in the The Big Easy, play a round of golf at of the prettiest Louisiana towns by Lyle Saxon in Old Louisiana. Audubon City Park, an executive par 3 golf course, or the TPC This stunning English town boasts over 400 noteworthy proper- (Tournament Player Club) of Louisiana. Located only 15 minutes ties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour one, away from the French Quarter, this 7,600 yard, par-72 champion- two or three historic homes: Oaklawn Manor, Grevemberg House ship course is nestled among stately cypress and oak trees and is Museum or Shadowlawn. In the afternoon, enjoy shopping down abundant with natural vegetation. Overnight in New Orleans. Franklin’s Main Street. That eve- Day Two: After breakfast, travel to Plaquemine for a taste ning enjoy local storytelling by local of The Island. This 7,000-yard, par-72 course is carved out of a Techeland Arts Council or gaming sugar plantation. With nine lakes on the course, you’ll be in for a at Cypress Bayou Casino. Overnight challenge! That afternoon, travel to Morgan City. Overnight in in Morgan City/Franklin. Morgan City/Franklin. Day Five: Next, travel to New Day Three: Wake up on the Cajun Coast and prepare for Iberia, home of the world famous the ultimate golf experience — the Atchafalaya Golf Course at Tabasco® sauce and the spiciest, Grevemberg House Museum Idlewild. This course was named the #1 golf course to play in 2 Louisiana by Golfweek Magazine in 2008 and 2009. Designed by National Register of Historic Places. Make up your own tour from internationally renowned designers Robert Von Hagge, Smelek a list of public homes open daily or churches opened especially for & Baril, the Atchafalaya Golf Course at Idlewild has 18 holes of your group. For lunch, enjoy a gourmet picnic basket at one of the picturesque beauty. The 7,533-yard public golf course contains five homes. Mix the tour with a walking tour of the historic district or lakes and 10 native wetland areas that encompass nearly 40 acres of shopping down Main Street. After a full day of touring and shop- this 175-acre layout, and is home to over 40 species of indigenous ping, enjoy a wine and cheese party at a historic home. For dinner flora. Over one-half million yards of native soil was used to develop enjoy eating at one of the local seafood restaurants and entertain- dramatic elevations on the course creating spectacular vistas. ment with Techeland Arts Council, a local storytelling group. Unique to the Atchafalaya at Idlewild is the large common green Overnight in Franklin/Morgan City. shared by holes nine and 18. The course features five sets of tees, each named after an animal native to the basin, large fairways and Civil War generous pin placements. The course includes a complete practice St. Mary Parish played an inte- Lake End Park facility and pro line rental clubs. Enjoy lunch at the Acadian-style gral role in the War Between clubhouse, which contains over 130,000 board feet of cypress the States because of its strategic lumber. That afternoon, visit Morgan City’s Historic District and location next to the Atchafalaya dine at one of our local restaurants or try your luck at Cypress River and Bayou Teche. Visit the Bayou Casino or the Amelia Belle Casino. Overnight in Morgan sites of Fort Starr (also known as City/Franklin. Fort Brashear), Fort Buchanan, Day Four: Return to New Orleans. Fort Bisland, the Battle of Bisland and the Battle of Irish Bend. See the bell from the Atchafalaya Golf Course at Idlewild gunboat Diana at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Civil War Room ONE DAY TOURS at Grevemberg or visit the Young Sanders Center for the Study of Cultural Tour the War Between the States. Begin the morning with a tour of the International Petroleum Fairs & Festivals Museum & Exposition, the Louisiana has hundreds of fairs and festivals throughout the year “Mr. Charlie,” the first sub- where you and your guests can experience Cajun joie de vivre (joy mersible oil rig. Learn about of life). Labor Day weekend offers a top-rated festival in Cajun the history of the oil industry, the role “Mr. Charlie” played and Country. Enjoy the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival, the future of the oil and gas industry. While in the downtown area, named the best festival in Louisiana (50,000 plus attendance cat- enjoy a walking tour of the Morgan City Historic District. Get a egory) by the Louisiana Fairs & Festivals Association. Also named bird’s-eye view of the Atchafalaya River, atop a 21-foot seawall. a Top 20 Southeast Tourism Society event and a top 100 American Go shopping along the Front Street area or visit Trinity Episcopal Bus Association event, the festival features over 16 great events. Church, one of the oldest churches in Morgan City. For lunch, Attend Mass in the Park, the historic Blessing of the Fleet and eat at one of our local seafood restaurants. After lunch travel to boat parade, street parade, music, arts and crafts and lots more. The Charenton to tour the Chitimacha Museum and learn about the Cypress Sawmill Festival is held every first weekend in April. This history of the Chitimacha Native Americans. Return to Morgan festival is a family festival featuring professional lumberjack shows, City and enjoy dinner and/or a cooking demonstration. The next a cypress sawmill display, numerous tournaments, a passe partout day, travel to Franklin and enjoy a sugarcane field tour. Learn how (two-person saw) contest, arts and crafts, classic car and truck sugarcane is planted, the growing season and the harvesting of show, a street fair with rides Cypress Sawmill Festival sugarcane. and games, and food and drink booths. The Bayou Teche Black Nature-Based Tour Bear Festival is full of traditional For early risers, enjoy a walk around Lake End Park, where you’ll events such as great music and get an unobstructed view of Lake Palourde. Travel to the Brownell food, arts and crafts, educa- Carillon Bell Tower, a 10-acre swamp park where you can walk tional activities and fireworks the trail, sit and listen to the sounds of the swamp and Carillon over beautiful Bayou Teche. bells while viewing wildlife. Next travel to Four Mile Bayou Road The Running of the Bears 5K for a scenic nature tour. Enjoy dinner at one of the many seafood Run/Walk, the Bear-y-Patch restaurants located throughout the Cajun Coast or enjoy a cooking Educational Area, Black Bear Obstacle Course, and the Cub Club demonstration. children’s area. The Harvest Moon Fest is a community-based downtown street festival celebrating the sugarcane harvest and the Preservation return of fall. Events include live entertainment, children’s activi- Preservationists won’t want to Chitimacha Museum ties, arts and crafts, a 5k run/walk, an antique hot-rod, classic car miss Franklin, described as one of and motorcycle show. The Eagle Expo is a tribute to the return of the prettiest Louisiana towns by the American bald eagle to Louisiana, which was recently removed Lyle Saxon in Old Louisiana. from the endangered species list. The Eagle Expo features boat This stunning English town tours to view eagles plus seminars. that boasts over 400 noteworthy properties, many listed on the 3 Mardi Gras on the Cajun Coast Trinity Episcopal Church windows designed to complement Mardi Gras is celebrated throughout South Louisiana. those found in the church. Friday prior to Mardi Gras Trinity Episcopal Church • Arrive in Morgan City founded in 1874, is one of the • Spend the morning on a special shopping tour of local boutiques oldest “congregations of worship” in • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant eastern St. Mary Parish. At the turn • Tour Morgan City Downtown of the century, a chancel was added • Attend the Krewe of Adonis Parade lineup. Photo opportunity to the “shotgun” style church, the • View the Krewe of Adonis Parade interior and exterior were refinished and the church was completely • After parade, enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant. furnished. Native cypress lumber was used extensively with last- Saturday prior to Mardi Gras ing results. In 1911, the church was remodeled after the old St. • Head to Franklin and tour Oaklawn Manor and Grevemberg Andrew’s Church of New Orleans and beautiful stained glass win- House or stay in Morgan City and tour downtown Morgan City dows were included in the mid 1950s. On one side of the church, and the “Mr. Charlie” Oil Rig Museum the stained glass windows depict the seasons of the Christian • Lunch at a local restaurant year and on the other side, the symbols of the miracles of Christ • View Krewe of Dionysus Mardi Gras Parade are represented. Also throughout the church musical symbols, • Attend the Krewe of Hephaestus Court & Ball presentations Episcopal shields and chalices are pictured in the glass. (balcony –cocktail attire) Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then travel to the City of Sunday prior to Mardi Gras Franklin. Church of the Assumption of Franklin is considered • Attend Krewe of Galatea Mardi Gras Parade lineup and parade one of the most magnificent in the state of Louisiana. Designed along the simple and elegant lines of classical Greek architec- Christmas on the Cajun Coast ture, the 1910 church features seven Romanesque columns with ’Tis the season to be jolly—and what better way to enjoy the Corinthian capitals on either side of the interior. A plaster cast season than on the Cajun Coast. Tour stunning plantation homes suspended ceiling of octagon-shaped medallions is highlighted beautifully decorated for the holiday season including Grevemberg with brilliant gold leaf detail. The exterior has a beautiful Basilica and Oaklawn Manor. Experience Christmas Under the Lampposts designed twin façade and baroque gables with three arch-front in Franklin, Morgan City’s annual Christmas Festival and local towers. The beautiful stained glass windows found throughout the parades. See beautiful Christmas lights at Kemper Williams Park church are of German craftsmanship and are designed to portray or Franklin’s Bayou Teche magical light display. the life of Mary, the patron saint, as well as the Priest of the Old Testament, the Priest of the New Testament, the Sacrifice of the Birdwatching and Wildlife Photography Old Law, the Sacrifice of the New Law and the Agony in the Pick up a copy of the America’s Wetland Birding Trail on the Garden. Louisiana Great Gulf Coast brochure. The brochure highlights 11 sites along the Cajun Coast that are great for birding and wildlife watching. The SPECIAL PACKAGES Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge Cajun Coast Landmark’s Progressive Luncheon is another great place for birding and Package includes a tour of three antebellum homes, wildlife watching. The 9,028 acre refuge step-on guide, progressive meal (first house: drinks and is forested with bottomland hardwoods snacks, lunch at restaurant, dessert and punch at third house). and cypress-gum forests. The American Menu and prices will vary. alligator and the Louisiana black bear are often seen throughout the refuge. Other We would like a minimum of 20 people for these packages. wildlife species of interest that can be Should the number be smaller, we’ll make every attempt to found on the refuge include wading birds, accommodate you. ducks and bald eagles.

Stained Glass Church Tour TEN QUICK STOPS THAT EASILY FIT INTO YOUR Spend the day touring three local churches, Sacred Heart Catholic ITINERARY Church, Trinity Episcopal Church and Church of the Assumption. • Because we’re midway between New Orleans and Lafayette, the All three churches are steeped in religious history, full of unique Cajun Coast is an excellent place to stop and have lunch at one architecture and adorned with beautiful stained glass windows. of our local Cajun restaurants. Sacred Heart Catholic Church, dating back to the 1850s • Stop at one of our main streets, walk around, stretch your legs has one of the rarest structures in the country. The church has a and do a little shopping. With notice, refreshments and European-style baptistery, fashioned after the Roman bathhouses discounts will be offered. of centuries ago and the building is a Gothic church structure • Have a gourmet picnic basket lunch at one of our historic complete with ornate stained glass windows, comparable to those homes or the Louisiana State Museum. found in Europe. The stained glass, located throughout the church, • Schedule a pick-me-up coffee and snack break at one of the illustrates various Biblical scenes as well as pictures representing the attractions. four gospel writers. It houses a baptismal font, chapel and a shrine • Tour the International Petroleum Museum and have lunch in of Our Lady of Lourdes, which is also adorned with stained glass the galley of the “Mr. Charlie” oil rig. 4 • Super Wal–Mart is always open and easily COMFORT INN & SUITES OF accessible. MORGAN CITY • In October, November and December stop and 610 Martin Luther King Blvd., pick your own satsumas (similar to tangerines). Morgan City, LA 70380 • Have a picnic lunch in Lawrence Park or Parc Phone: (985) 300-0035, Fax: (985) 300-0037 Sur La Teche and go shopping in Morgan City’s Contact: Ramesh Patel | Kia Dalcour Historic District or Franklin’s Main Street. E-mail: [email protected] • Go birdwatching at the Brownell Carillon Bell Website: www.comfortinmc.com Tower. Amenities: Free wired and wireless Internet, free hot • Walk on a 21-foot seawall and get a bird’s-eye breakfast, 24-hour coffee, access to health club, swim- view of the Atchafalaya River. ming pool, in-room fridge, microwave & coffeemaker. Cable television with free HBO.

ACCOMMODATIONS CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO • HOTEL 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Charenton, LA 70523 AMELIA EXTENDED STAY & HOTEL Phone: (800) 284-4386, (337) 923-7284 111 Cajun Way, Amelia, LA, 70340 Contact: Tom Schweitzer Phone: (985) 631-2220 E-mail: [email protected] Contact: Ella Rebardi Website: www.cypressbayou.com E-mail: [email protected] Amenities: Free in-room internet, spa-inspired bathrooms, large Website: www.ameliaextendedstay.com flat screen TV, quality linens, refrigerator, microwave upon request, Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, free local calls, free Community coffee, 24-hour fitness center, business center, complimentary valet parking. guest laundry area, vending area, guest business center, full kitchen rooms available, 32" flat screen TV, barbecue pavilion, horseshoe HAMPTON INN & SUITES pits, golf putting green, fire pit and overflow parking for larger 6365 Hwy. 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 vehicles and trailers. Phone: (985) 221-4421, Fax: (985) 384-7112 Contact: Bob Harrison BEST WESTERN FOREST INN E-mail: [email protected] 1909 Main St. (Hwy. 182), P.O. Drawer 1069 Website: www.morgancitysuites.hamptoninn.com Franklin, LA 70538 Amenities: Complimentary “On the House”® hot breakfast. Phone: (337) 828-1810 100% Hampton Satisfaction Guarantee. Complimentary wireless Contact: Gretchen Luke Internet. 32" LCD TV, microwave and mini-fridge in every room. E-mail: [email protected] Outdoor pool, fitness room and business center. Website: www.bestwestern.com Amenities: Restaurant, pool, coin-operated laundry, lounge, HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS meeting rooms, suites. Newly remodeled rooms and jacuzzi suites. 704 Dr. MLK Blvd., Morgan City, LA 70380 Free high-speed Internet and micro-fridges in all rooms. Phone: (985) 300-5300 Contact: Danny Donham BEST WESTERN MORGAN CITY E-mail: [email protected] 1011 Brashear Ave., Morgan City, LA 70380 Website: www.hixmc.com Phone: (985) 385-9175, Fax: (985) 385-9177 Amenities: Comfort and modern luxury rooms with stylish décor. Contact: Theresa Guillory Microwave, refrigerator, high-speed internet access, executive desk, E-mail: [email protected] digital cable TV and the best night’s sleep you’ve had in weeks. Website: www.bwmorgancity.com Enjoy our heated indoor pool, fitness center, conference room and Amenities: Pool, microwave, refrigerator, coffee­maker & hairdryer. complimentary breakfast. Free Wi-Fi, health club membership for all guests and free hot breakfast. Newly renovated guest rooms with 42" flat screen TV. LaQUINTA INNS & SUITES 2018 Allison St., Morgan City, LA 70380 CLARION HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER Phone: (985) 300-0200, Fax: (985) 300-0201 520 Roderick St., Morgan City, LA 70380 Contact: Angelle Allen Jones Phone: (985) 385-2200 or (800) HOLIDAY E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (985) 384-3810 Website: www.LQ.com Contact: Sharon Howell Amenities: Complimentary hot and cold breakfast. Wireless E-mail: [email protected] high-speed Internet, all rooms have microwave and fridge along Website: www.choicehotels.com with flat screen TV with full cable plus HBO, two whirlpool suites, Amenities: Full-service restaurant, beautiful courtyard pool, swimming pool and access to fitness center. in-room micro/fridge, 32" HDTV, on-site laundry facilities, lounge, video poker, expanded cable, wireless Internet, membership to local PLANTATION INN health club at no charge, group rates available. 815 Hwy. 90 E (Bayou Vista), Morgan City, LA 70380 Phone: (985) 395-4511, Fax: (985) 395-4862 5 Contact: Niassa Garth Contact: Edward Krempel E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.plantationinnmcla.com Website: www.ameliabellecasino.com Amenities: Pool, lounge, restaurant, meeting rooms, washateria, Buffet Hours: Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m.; laundry service, kitchenettes, suites. Free Wi-Fi and continental Fri., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. breakfast. Casino Hours: 24 hours Admission: Must be 21 to enter QUALITY INN & SUITES OF FRANKLIN 1819 Main St., Franklin, LA 70538 Phone: (337) 828-1134, Fax: (337) 828-3623 Contact: Carolyn Frances E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.choicehotels.com Amenities: Free hot breakfast, in-room coffee, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, full cable TV, business center, swimming pool and exercise facility. Located within walking distance of restaurants and historic sites.

RED ROOF INN 7408 Hwy. 182, Exit 176, Morgan City, LA 70380 Phone: (985) 384-5750, Fax: (985) 385-0224 ATCHAFALAYA NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA Contact: Bobby Patel A Native American word, “Atchafalaya” (ah-CHA-fa-LIE-ah) E-mail: [email protected] means long river. Established in 2006, the Atchafalaya National Amenities: Lounge, pool, restaurant, wireless Internet, free health Heritage Area stretches across 14 parishes in south-central club access. Louisiana. Both a place and a concept, the heritage area is culturally rich and ecologically varied. It is home to Cajun culture, SLEEP INN & SUITES as well as a diverse population of European, African, Caribbean and 2033 Hwy. 90, Berwick, LA 70342 Native American descent. It also features beautiful scenery Phone: (985) 300-0202, Fax: (985) 300-0207 and abundant wildlife. Enjoy swamp tours, music, food, driving E-mail: [email protected] adventures and more throughout the Heritage Area. For more Website: www.sleepinn.com/hotel-berwick-louisiana-LA223 information call (985) 380-8224 or (800) 256-2931 or visit Amenities: Free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, micro/fridge in rooms. www.atchafalaya.org or www.cajuncoast.com. Suites available. BAYOU TECHE SCENIC BYWAY TREASURE BAYOU CASINO • HOTEL This 125-mile route winds through three parishes: St. Mary, 200 Ralph Darden Pkwy., Baldwin, LA 70514 Iberia, and St. Martin. The Bayou Teche Scenic Byway is home Phone: (337) 578-6322, Fax: (337) 578-6322 to two distinct cultures – the French Cajun culture of the upper Contact: Stacey McRay Teche area and the Anglo-Saxon culture of the lower Teche. It E-mail: [email protected] is also home to an incredibly beautiful natural landscape. As you Website: www.treasurebayou.com travel the byway, you’ll enjoy everything from moss-draped live Amenities: Less than two miles from Cypress Bayou Casino and oak trees along the banks of the Bayou Teche to over 100 historic Hwy. 90. Offering 44 regular rooms with king and queen beds and properties, many on the National Register of Historic Properties. four suites with bar and sitting areas. All rooms feature high-end For more information on the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway, visit amenities, cable television and free high-speed Internet access. louisianabyways.com. Suites also offer microwave, refrigerator, wet bar and sitting areas. Complimentary continental breakfast, covered porte cochere for guest unloading and daily housekeeping.

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AMELIA BELLE CASINO With more than 800 slots, finding your favorite game is easy at Amelia Belle. Or try your hand at one of our table games such as Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Mini & Midi Baccarat, Live Texas Hold’em Poker with a progressive bad beat jackpot and Three Card Poker. Enjoy lunch or dinner at the Cajun Buffet. 500 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA 70340 Phone: (985) 631-1777, Fax: (985) 631-1778 Downtown Franklin 6 BIKING Hours: 24/7 Bike throughout St. Mary Parish along Hwy. 182, also known as Admission: Free, must be 21 to enter the Old Spanish Trail and the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway. Along the way you’ll get a glimpse of sugarcane mills, plantation homes, CYPREMORT POINT STATE PARK a turn of the century boulevard, Bayou Teche and more. For more A great spot for sailing, swimming, fishing and picnicking along information on routes, mileage and points of interest visit the Bike a man-made beach on the shore of Vermilion Bay. Six cabins Louisiana web site at www.bikelouisiana.com. available for overnight accommodations. 306 Beach Lane, Cypremort Point, LA 70538 BROWNELL MEMORIAL PARK & CARILLON TOWER Phone: (337) 867-4510 A 9.5-acre park in a natural setting next to lovely Lake Palourde Contact: Linda Schouest (a Native American word meaning shellfish). The 106-foot-tall E-mail: [email protected] carillon tower contains 61 bronze bells which were cast in Holland. Website: www.lastateparks.com Bells play selection every 30 minutes. The park is a designated bird sanctuary and a must for naturalists and photography buffs. With EVERETT STREET GALLERY advance notice, a Wildlife & Fisheries agent can accompany your Art gallery displaying works of local artists. group to answer questions and give facts on 201 Everett St., Morgan City, LA 70380 the area’s wildlife, flora and fauna. Phone: (985) 385-9945 3559 Hwy. 70, Morgan City, LA 70380 Contact: Helene Allen Phone: (985) 384-2283 E-mail: [email protected] Contact: Steve Morell Website: www.everettstreetgallery.org Hours: Wed. – Sun., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Hours: Wed. – Fri., 1 to 4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. closed Monday & Tuesday; will open Admission: Free anytime for groups Admission: Free FRANKLIN HISTORIC DISTRICT Tour: 30 minutes On the National Register of Historic Places, the Franklin Historic District boasts more than 420 noteworthy structures. Stunning CHITIMACHA MUSEUM antebellum homes under a live oak arcade, charming Victorian The Chitimacha (Men Altogether Red) were the first inhabitants of cottages and a late 1800s downtown shopping district all contribute the region. The tribe was well known for their basket weaving skills. to the romance and elegance of this jewel of the Bayou Teche. A Take a trip back in time through the history of the Chitimacha. walking tour is a must for lovers of historic architecture and those View artifacts and brief videos. With advance notice, the museum looking for the authentic Old South. will open on Mondays for group tours. E. Main St., downtown and surrounding area, Franklin, LA 70538 3289 Chitimacha Trail, P.O. Box 661, Charenton, LA 70523 Phone: (337) 828-6345, Fax: (337) 828-6314 Phone: (337) 923-4830 Contact: Arlana Shields Contact: Kim Walden or Tahra Demarco E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected] Website: www.franklinla.com Website: www.chitimacha.gov Hours: Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Sat. by appointment; GREAT WALL closed Sunday Located along the Atchafalaya River in Morgan City and Berwick, Admission: Free the “Great Wall” stands 21-feet tall and overlooks the mighty Tour: 45 minutes Atchafalaya River. Visitors can get a bird’s-eye view of water traffic, Handicap Accessible as well as the beautiful Main Street, from the walkway which tops the concrete floodwall. CYPRESS BAYOU CASINO • HOTEL Front St., Riverside, Morgan City, LA 70380 Louisiana’s first land-based casino is located 50 miles southeast of Phone: (985) 380-4643, Fax: (985) 384-7519 Lafayette on the Chitimacha Indian Reservation in Charenton. Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel offers 24 hours of gaming excitement seven days a week. Play, stay and dine at South Louisiana’s premier entertainment destination. Boasting over 1,300 of the hottest, newest and most in-demand slot games available with denomina- tions ranging from 1¢ to $100, including in-house and wide-area progressives, the Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel slot floor is a thrilling sight to behold. Try your hand on more than 30 tables including Blackjack, Mini-Baccarat, Mississippi Stud and Three- Card Poker just to name a few. 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Charenton, LA 70523 Phone: (800) 284-4386, (337) 923-7284, Fax: (337) 923-7882 Contact: Stacey McKay E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cypressbayou.com Morgan City Riverfront 7 Contact: Steve Morell E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.morgancitymainstreet.com Hours: Open to the public daily Admission: Free Grevemberg House Museum GREVEMBERG HOUSE MUSEUM On the National Register of Historic Places, this 1851 Greek Revival style townhouse is authentically restored. Four “Temple of the Winds” Corinthian Oaklawn Manor columns grace the home, with its fine antiques, documented wallpapers and OAKLAWN MANOR early artifacts from St. Mary Parish. This 1837 Greek Revival plantation manor is the residence of 407 Sterling Rd., P.O. Box 400, Franklin, LA 70538 Louisiana’s former governor, Murphy J. (Mike) Foster. Built by Phone: (337) 828-2092, Fax: (337) 828-2028 Alexander Porter, an Irishman, the walls are 20 inches thick. The Contact: Craig Landry home is furnished with European antiques, lovely bird carvings and E-mail: [email protected] an extensive Audubon collection. Website: www.grevemberghouse.com 3296 Oaklawn Dr., off Irish Bend Rd., Franklin, LA 70538 Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: (337) 828-0434 Admission: $10 Adults; $8 Senior Citizens and Students 13-18; Contact: Anne Cortez $5 Children 12 and under; Groups of 20 or more, $8 per person E-mail: [email protected] Tour: 45 minutes Website: www.oaklawnmanor.com “Mr. Charlie” Handicap Accessible Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $15 Adults; $10 Children & Students; Group rates INTERNATIONAL PETROLEUM for 10 or more available MUSEUM & EXPOSITION Tour: 1 hour The only place in the world where the general public can walk aboard an authentic offshore SHADOWLAWN drilling rig! The renowned and historic drill- This striking Greek temple was ing rig “Mr. Charlie” is the centerpiece of this built chiefly of northern pine in unique facility as well as a training facility for the 1833 by Simeon Smith. The rear of offshore oil industry. Visitors learn about the oil his home was attached to a smaller Shadowlawn industry, past and present, the functions of the 1807 Greek Revival building, which oil rig and tales about the industry’s beginnings. was originally a tavern operated by Barnes Hulick. Shadowlawn Riverfront, 111 First St., P.O. Box 1988, Morgan City, LA 70381 remained in the Smith-Berwick-Snowden family for a century and Phone: (985) 384-3744, Fax: (985) 384-3047 a half. The home was meticulously restored by the late Dr. Mildred Contact: Virgil Allen Christian, and in 2011 it was donated to the St. Mary Chapter of E-mail: [email protected] the Louisiana Landmarks Society by Dr. Alan Hoberman. Website: www.rigmuseum.com 906 Main St., Franklin, LA 70538 Tour Times: Mon.– Sat., 10 a.m. & 2 p.m.; Group tours anytime Phone: (337) 828-2092 by appointment Contact: Craig Landry Admission: Students and group rate $4 per person; Admission: $10 Adults; $8 Senior Citizens $5; Adults $6 Senior Citizens & Students Tour: 1 hour 13-18; $5 Children 12 & under; ­ Groups of 20 or more $8 per MORGAN CITY HISTORIC DISTRICT person. By appointment only. In its second decade as a National Main Street Program, Morgan City’s historic downtown has undergone terrific revitalization. The WEDELL-WILLIAMS riverfront area is home to unique shops, excellent restaurants, close AVIATION & CYPRESS to several attractions within the historic district. Morgan City’s SAWMILL MUSEUM historic district is also home to splendid churches ranging from the (A LOUISIANA 1870s to the early 1900s. STATE MUSEUM) Riverfront, Front St. to Federal Ave., and Greenwood to Railroad, Named after Louisiana’s aviation Morgan City, LA pioneers, the official state Phone: (985) 385-1770, ext. 112, Fax: (985) 384-7519 aviation museum exhibits Contact: Steve Morell numerous aircraft. Also on dis- E-mail: [email protected] play are 1930s air race trophies Website: www.morgancitymainstreet.com and memorabilia, as well as Wedell Williams Aviation Museum 8 exhibits of Louisiana achievements in aviation and aerospace. The Cajun specialties Cypress Sawmill exhibit includes a variety of artifacts, photographs Phone: (985) 399-3688 and a film of this early regional industry (1872–1930). Contact: Kevin Fromenthal 118 Cotten Rd., Patterson, LA 70392 Hours: 7 days a week: Sun. & Mon., 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Phone: (985) 399-1268, Fax: (985) 399-9910 Tues.–Thurs., 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact: Gloria Lacoste E-mail: [email protected] BAYOU LAGNIAPPE Website: http://lsm.crt.state.la.us 102 Bowman St., Berwick, LA 70342 Hours: Tues. through Sat., Serving boiled and grilled seafood, gumbo, po’boys, specialty 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. sandwiches, chicken, étouffée, fettuccini, sliders and more. Admission: Free Phone: (985) 384-2245 Tour: 45 minutes Hours: Tues. – Fri., 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wed. & Thurs, 5 to 8 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 5 to 9 p.m. YOUNG-SANDERS Young-Sanders Center for the Study of the War Between the BAY CITY BISTRO States in Louisiana. Research Library. 618 Front St., Morgan City, LA 70380 104 Commercial St., P.O. Box 595, Franklin, LA 70538 Specializing in home cooked plate lunches. Sandwiches, soups and Phone: (337) 413-1861, Fax: (337) 413-0101 specialty salads. Contact: Roland Stansbury Phone: (985) 384-9291, Fax: (985) 384-8282 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.youngsanders.org Hours: Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; weekends by reservation Hours: Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: Free BOILING MADD 400 Hwy. 90 W, Patterson, LA 70392 Phone: (985) 395-4629 Hours: Open daily 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

CAFÉ DELPHINE Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel, 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Charenton, LA Step into Café Bayou for lunch or dinner. Soups and salads, including our award-winning gumbo. A variety of burgers and sandwiches, including poboys, plus a full range of entrées from fried shrimp to steaks, Cajun specialties and baby back ribs. Phone: (800) 284-4386 Contact: Debbie Young Hours: Sun., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wed., 3 p.m. to midnight; Thurs. & Fri., 5 p.m. to midnight; Sat., 11 a.m to midnight Must be 21 to enter RESTAURANTS CAFÉ JO JO’S ACADIANA BAR & GRILL 624 Front St., Morgan City, LA 70380 615 Brashear Ave., Morgan City, LA 70380 On the river in Historic Downtown Morgan City, fine dining in a Seafood and steaks casual atmosphere. Phone: (985) 384-9291 Phone: (985) 330-3003 Contact: Jo Ann Blanchard Hours: Sun., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Mon.– Thurs., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. to midnight Hours: Tues. – Fri., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wed. – Sat., 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ATCHAFALAYA CAFE CAJUN BUFFET 7310 Hwy. 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 Amelia Belle Casino, 500 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA 70340 From mouthwatering shrimp and other fresh seafood to carving Phone: (985) 384-2707 stations and decadent desserts, the buffet is the place to indulge E-mail: [email protected] your every craving. Cajun cuisine, seafood and more Phone: (985) 631-1777 Hours: Mon. – Thurs., 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m;. Thurs.–Fri., 10:30 Contact: Edward Krempel a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m;. Sat., 5 to 9 p.m. E-mail: [email protected]

ATCHAFALAYA RESTAURANT CLUB HOUSE Website: www.ameliabellecasino.com Hours: Mon.– Thurs., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m.; 400 Cotten Rd., Patterson, LA 70392 A variety of prime steaks, burgers, sandwiches, salads and Fri., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 9 CHINA KING BUFFET FRESH 6509 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380 Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel, 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Chinese buffet Charenton, LA 70523 Phone: (985) 385-1388 Coffee bar serving fresh baked pastry items, Panini sandwiches and Hours: Sun. – Thurs., 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; salads Fri. – Sat., 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Phone: (337) 923-7284 or (800) 284-4386 Website: www.cypressbayou.com CITY BUFFET Hours: Fri., 5 to 11 p.m.; Sat., noon to 3 a.m.; Sun, noon to 8 p.m. 1828 Main St. Franklin, LA 70538 Phone: (337) 828-1798 GAMEDAY PIZZA All you can eat Chinese buffet 526 Hwy. 90 W, Patterson, LA 70392 Hours: Mon. –Fri. & Sun., 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sat., 10:30 Pizza. Lunch buffet a.m .to 10:00 p.m. Phone: (985) 412-6047 E-mail: [email protected] DON EDUARDO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & Hours: Mon., Tues. & Thurs., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Wed., 11 a.m. CANTINA to 6 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 10505 Hwy. 182 E, Amelia, LA 70340 Great Mexican cuisine. Take-out available. HARVEST RESTAURANT Phone: (985) 631-6665 500 Hwy. 90, Suite 114, Patterson, LA 70392 Hours: Mon.– Thurs., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Fri & Chinese cuisine, delivery Sat., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 10:30 p.m.; Happy Hour 5 to 7 p.m.; Phone: (985) 399-3388 Closed Sun. HOURS: Mon.– Thurs., 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun., 1 to 8 p.m. EAST GATE BBQ 7516 Hwy. 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 JOE’S ON THE BAYOU Enjoy delicious pork, beef and chicken, slowly roasted in a wood- 103 Wilson, Franklin, LA 70538 burning pit, with your family. Plate lunches and fried foods. Steaks, seafood. Beautiful patio Phone: (985) 384-7675, Fax: (985) 384-0430 overlooking Bayou Teche. Now serving breakfast every day. E-mail: [email protected] Seafood buffet featuring all you can eat fried foods and Website: www.eastgatebarbeque.com boiled crabs Wed. through Fri. Hours: Mon. – Sat., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Phone: (337) 828-1114 Hours: Sat.– Tues., 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 4 to 9 p.m.; Wed. & Fri., EL TORO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Thurs., 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. with live entertainment 7207 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380 Family-style Mexican restaurant featuring authentic Mexican food. LANDRY’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKHOUSE Phone: (985) 354-6050 OF JEANERETTE Hours: Sun. – Thurs., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 20371 Hwy. 90 – Frontage Rd., Jeanerette, LA 70544 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Steaks and seafood, lunch buffet Phone: (337) 276-4857 FOREST RESTAURANT Contact: Paige Landry 1905 W. Main (Hwy. 182), P.O. Box 1069, Franklin, LA 70538 Buffet Hours: Lunch Buffet: Tues.–Fri., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Cajun cuisine and seafood Grand Buffet: Fri. & Sat., 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Contact: Margaret Chauvin Sun., 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Phone: (337) 828-3300 Hours: Open Tues.–Thurs., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Hours: Mon., 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Tues.–Sat., 5:30 a.m. to Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 9:30 p.m. Closed Sundays and holidays. LATIN CORNER 201 Railroad Ave., Morgan City, LA 70380 Specializing in Spanish dishes and cuisine. Catering. (Cooking demonstration optional) Phone: (985) 385-2404 Hours: Mon.–Wed., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Thurs.–Fri., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m. Will open for groups.

LOCO MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel, 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Charenton, LA 70523 Menu features a variety of items from classic appetizers to those with a twist, as well as traditional Mexican 10 Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival Hours: Mon. – Sun., 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

SCULLY’S CAJUN SEAFOOD 3141 Hwy. 70, Morgan City, LA 70380 Seafood, fried or boiled in season Phone: (985) 385-2388 Contact: Robert Scully Hours: Tues.– Sat., 11 a.m to 2 p.m. and 4 to 9 p.m.

SHONEY’S 1011 Greenwood St., Morgan City, LA 70380 All American meals. Buffet every day and menu. Phone: (985) 384-5767 favorites. Live entertainment every Wed. & Thurs. Contact: Todd Shelby or Ginger Roy Phone: (337) 924-3336, (800) 284-4386 Hours: Sun.–Thurs., 6 a.m. to midnight; Fri. & Sat., 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. Website: www.cypressbayou.com Hours: Sun., Wed. & Thurs., 5 to 10 p.m.; SI SEÑOR MEXICAN Fri. & Sat., 5 to 11 p.m. 1201 Belleview St., Bayou Vista, LA 70380 Must be 21 to enter Phone: (985) 412-6780, Fax: (985) 412-6782 Casual atmosphere, friendly staff, great Mexican food and great LOTUS ASIAN CUISINE margaritas 605 East Blvd., Morgan City, LA 70380 Hours: Mon. – Sat., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. & 5 to 9 p.m.; closed Sun. Asian cuisine Phone: (985) 384-6147 SUSIE’S SEAFOOD Hours: Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 6701 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380 Specializing in seafood MABEL’S KITCHEN Phone: (985) 702-0274 Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel, Hours: 7 days, 4 p.m. until 832 Martin Luther King Rd., Charenton, LA 70523 Award-winning gumbo, soups & salads, paninis, po’boys and TAMPICO’S burgers, Cajun specialties such as crawfish étouffée. Sat. & Sun. 1025 Victor II Blvd., Morgan City, LA 70380 breakfast menu includes omelets, biscuits with gravy and pancakes. and 1425 Hwy. 90, Bayou Vista, LA 70380 Phone: (337) 923-7284 Mexican food E-mail: www.cypressbayou.com Phone: Morgan City: (985) 385-2784, Hours: Mon. & Tues., 11 a.m. to midnight; Wed. & Thurs., Bayou Vista: (985) 395-3859 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fri., 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sat., 8 a.m. to 4 a.m.; Contact: Michael Izaguirre Sun., 8 a.m. to midnight. Hours: Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun., 5 to 9 p.m. (Morgan City); MORGAN’S 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Bayou Vista) 520 Roderick St., Morgan City, LA 70380 Lunch buffet daily. Great seafood and steaks. THE GALLEY Phone: (985) 385-2200 7409 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380 Contact: Sharon Howell Phone: (985) 354-6439 Hours: Mon.–Fri., 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Hours: Tues. – Sat., 5 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

MR. LESTER’S STEAK HOUSE TOKYO FISH 832 Martin Luther King Rd. (Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel) 6214 Hwy. 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 Charenton, LA 70523 Phone: (985) 354-6433 Fine dining featuring prime steaks, the freshest seafood available, Sushi, hibachi, Japanese steakhouse daily culinary specials, premium cigars and an extensive wine list. Hours: Mon. – Fri., 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Phone: (337) 923-7408, (800) 284-4386 Sat., 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Contact: Lucinda Tillman Website: www.cypressbayou.com YELLOW BOWL RESTAURANT Hours: Wed. & Thurs., 6 to 10 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 6 to 11:30 p.m. 19466 Hwy. 182 W, Jeanerette, LA 70544 Must be 21 to enter Authentic Cajun cuisine, lunch & dinner seafood buffet Family owned for 50 years. SAM’S SOUTHERN EATERY Phone: (337) 276-5512 1829 Hwy. 90 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 Contact: Colleen Roberts Hulin Fresh seafood, generous portions and affordable prices Hours: Wed. & Thurs., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m. to Phone: (985) 395-4405 9:30 p.m.; Sat., 5 to 9:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 11 contest, arts and crafts, a Cajun cook-off, rides and games, and the CALENDAR OF EVENTS terrific food that made Cajun Country famous. (985) 380-8224, www.cypresssawmill.com Feb. 15–18, 2017, TBD 2018 EAGLE EXPO April 21–22 2017 Morgan City – Boat tours into BAYOU TECHE WOODEN BOAT SHOW various waterways to view eagles’ BAYOU TECHE BLACK BEAR FESTIVAL nests. Presentations on the Downtown Franklin • Two celebrations of one of the Cajun American bald eagle, wildlife, Coast’s most important residents, the Louisiana black bear, and a flora, fauna and the culture of the display of various wooden boats. Planned events include field trips area by wildlife professionals & into the Louisiana black bear habitat, educational seminars, pho- photographers. Guided tours and tography exhibit, a teddy bear repair clinic, live music and much more. Hospitality hour, dinner more. Over 50 classic boats will be on display along the Bayou and breakfast. Admission charged. Teche. (985) 380-8224 (985) 380-8224

Feb. 24 – 28, 2017 / Feb. 9–13, 2018 MARDI GRAS ON THE CAJUN COAST Experience the parades, pageantry and fun of Carnival in an authentic, small-town atmosphere. The whole family can participate in the traditional revelry of Fat Tuesday. In addition to the numerous parades, locals celebrate by decorating their homes in the Carnival theme. Oaklawn Manor is decorated for the carni- val season. (985) 380-8224 Feb. 24, 2017 Krewe of Adonis Parade, Morgan City, 7 p.m. Feb. 25, 2017 • Krewe of Dionysus Parade, Bayou Vista, 2 p.m. Feb. 25, 2017 Baldwin Mardi Gras Parade, Baldwin, noon Feb. 25, 2017 Cypremort Point Parade, Cypremort Point, 1 p.m. Bayou Teche Wooden Boat Show Feb. 26, 2017 Krewe of Galatea Parade, Morgan City, 2 p.m. Sept. 1–4, 2017 / Aug 31– Sept. 3, 2018 Feb. 27, 2017 LOUISIANA SHRIMP & PETROLEUM FESTIVAL Krewe of Amani Parade, Patterson, 2 p.m. Morgan City • Tap your toes and tempt your taste buds at Feb. 28, 2017 Louisiana’s oldest state-chartered harvest festival. The five-day Franklin Parade, Franklin, 1 p.m. extravaganza of family entertainment includes continuous live Feb. 28, 2017 music by local and national acts, a huge arts & crafts show and sale, Krewe of Hephaestus Parade, Morgan City, 2 p.m. a Children’s Village, the Cajun Culinary Classic, the traditional Blessing of the Fleet and water parade—and all with no gate fee! TBA 2018 1-800-256-2931, (985) 385-0703, www.shrimp-petrofest.org PATTERSON CYPRESS SAWMILL FESTIVAL Kemper Williams Park, Patterson • This Top 20 Southeast Oct. TBD Tourism Society event honors an industry that was vital to the HARVEST MOON FEST local economy at the turn of the century. The Sawmill festival is Downtown Franklin • Welcome the return of fall with all-day a family event featuring continuous live music, a cypress sawmill festivities located on Franklin’s charming Main Street. Harvest display, numerous tournaments, a passe partout (two-person saw)

Cypress Sawmill Museum 12 Moon Fest features live music, a began settling the bayou region of Louisiana, where they lived children’s carnival; teen activities; in permanent villages in homes constructed of cane, wood and an antique hot rod, classic car and palmetto leaves. They raised corn for hominy and meal and were motorcycle show; a power boat excellent hunters and fishermen. The plentiful shellfish of the exhibit; concessions, and special area were an important part of their diet. Of the traditional crafts retail promotions. (337) 828-6354 practiced by the Chitimacha, they are most famed for their extraor- dinary skill at basketry. Chitimacha baskets were made from wild Oct. TBD cane reed, dyed naturally and woven into geometric designs. CHITIMACHA POW WOW The Chitimacha in this area lived along the Bayou Teche (a The Pavilion at Cypress Bayou Chitimacha word meaning “snake”). Their legend has it that the Casino • Hotel bayou was formed when Chitimacha warriors battled a huge Learn about the culture of the venomous serpent that terrorized the region. The snake was miles first inhabitants of the region, the in length and as it twisted and writhed in death, it deepened the Chitimacha, while experiencing mud where it lay, forming the sinuous course of the bayou. competition dancing, food and Wars with the French and Spanish during the early 1700s left craft vendors, drum competitions the Chitimacha near extinction. In the mid 1800s, the Chitimacha and more. www.chitimacha.gov, obtained a governmental decree establishing title to 1,062 acres of (337) 923-4973 or (800) 256-2931 land, but by the early 1900s there were only 260 acres remaining in tribal hands. In 1918, Sarah McIlhenny (of the Tabasco family) Thanksgiving to Christmas helped petition the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the tribe’s federal CHRISTMAS ON THE CAJUN COAST recognition. Today, the Chitimacha Reservation encompasses Morgan City, Patterson and Franklin 283 acres of land. Approximately 350 tribal members live on the Christmas on the Cajun Coast encompasses numerous activities for reservation of a total tribal membership of approximately 900. the entire family. The Cajun Coast towns of Franklin, Patterson and Morgan City will celebrate the season with a trail of lights, his- Berwick toric houses decorated in holiday finery, parades on both land and The first white settler to trek through the wilderness in this water, an arts & crafts show and sale, concerts and more. Complete area was Thomas Berwick, a surveyor from Pennsylvania who schedule of events, call 1-800-256-293, (985) 380-8224 or visit was working in Opelousas. He settled along the banks of the www.cajuncoast.com Atchafalaya River in the late 1700s. Today the town of Berwick is home to several seafood processing plants and numerous boat BACKGROUND INFO companies. Patterson CAJUN COAST FAQS During the early 1800s, a group of Pennsylvanian Dutchmen Population 52,810 St. Mary Parish boarded a sailing vessel in New Orleans and ventured into the 11,835 Morgan City Bayou Teche. One of them, Hans Knight, decided to settle his 7,302 Franklin family in what is now Patterson. The community was originally º Climate Average temperature – 70 F called Dutch Settlement, Dutch Prairie and Dutch Town. In Average annual rainfall – 68.82 inches 1832, Captain John Patterson, a trader from Indiana, settled there. He built a store and became a prominent citizen. The town was HISTORY renamed Pattersonville after the captain successfully moved the post The Chitimacha office to Dutch Settlement. Pattersonville was incorporated in 1907 The Chitimacha Indians (“Men Altogether Red”) were the as the Town of Patterson. original inhabitants of the area. Around 500 A.D., the Chitimacha The town of Patterson was once home to the largest cypress

Chitimacha Museum Wedell Williams Aviation & Cypress Sawmill Museum (A Louisiana State Museum) 13 sawmill in the world, owned by Frank B. Williams. Two of his oak arcade on the East Main boulevard. East Main Street retains sons became prominent citizens within the community. Kemper its distinctive turn-of-the-century iron street light standards, which Williams was an extraordinary philanthropist, leaving behind foun- have become a symbol of the picturesque town. dations for the support of the Historic New Orleans Collection and Though a small town, Franklin has produced more than its the Kemper Williams Park and Campground in Patterson. share of statesmen, including five governors of Louisiana, four His brother Harry Williams was a wealthy playboy with a love United States senators, a Chief Justice and a Lieutenant Governor. of speed. He met Jimmie Wedell, a daredevil barnstormer, in 1927 Franklin was also the boyhood home of Jefferson Davis, president when he purchased his first airplane. Harry learned that though of the Confederacy. Jimmie had very little formal education, he was a genius with During the Civil War, the Battle of Irish Bend was fought near engines and had some innovative ideas about increasing air speed. Franklin on April 14, 1863. Though eventually forced to retreat, With Harry’s money and Jimmie’s know-how, they developed an the badly outnumbered Confederate forces cost the Union troops extremely successful partnership. The aircraft they manufactured significant losses. Four hundred men were killed or wounded in the held the world’s speed record for land planes as well as transconti- confrontation, which proved to be an important point in stopping nental and international records for flights across the United States. the Union drive to invade Texas. The Wedell-Williams Air Service was originally formed to Today Franklin is a modern town with a population of about provide charter trips to New Orleans. The business expanded to 9,000. The area produces oil, gas, carbon black, salt, seafood and, include sightseeing, student instruction and airmail. Jimmie Wedell of course, sugar. became famous for the construction of speed planes and his skill as a race pilot. He won the Bendix Trophy, the French Government Morgan City award, Shell Trophy, Thompson Trophy and many more. Jimmie Morgan City, formerly Brashear City, is the gateway to the Wedell died behind the controls of a plane on June 24, 1934, at the Atchafalaya Basin. Morgan City was originally called Tiger Island age of 34. by surveyors appointed by U.S. Secretary of War John Calhoun Harry Williams died in 1936. His widow was Broadway and because of a particular type of wild cat seen in the area. It was silent-screen star Marguerite Clark. With the loss of both Jimmie later called Brashear City after Walter Brashear, a prominent and Harry as well as other vital members of the Wedell-Williams Kentucky physician who purchased large tracts of land and acquired team, Marguerite could not keep the air service operational. She numerous sugar mills. During the Civil War, Brashear’s strategic sold it to Eddie Rickenbacker, owner of Eastern Airlines, then location at the mouth of the Atchafalaya made it one of the focal moved to New York, where she died in 1940. points of the campaign in the region. In 1876, Brashear City was renamed Morgan City in honor of Charles Morgan, a steamship Franklin magnate who successfully dredged the Atchafalaya Bay. The Founded in 1808 as Carlin’s Settlement, Franklin (named dredging allowed the city to become a booming port, which set for Benjamin Franklin) became the parish (county) seat in 1811 the pattern for future growth as a trade center. and the first incorporated town in 1820. Though early settlers The Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico have always included French, Acadian, German, Danish and Irish, the town’s been the economic lifeblood of Morgan City. Commercial fishing, culture and architecture is heavily influenced by the unusually large particularly shrimping in the Gulf, has provided for generations numbers of English that chose to settle there after the Louisiana of Morgan City natives. The natural resources of the Atchafalaya Purchase in 1803. Numerous large sugar plantations arose in the Basin have also been a major contributor to the local economy. The area, and with the development of steamboating, Franklin became Atchafalaya Basin is over 800,000 acres. It covers one third of the an interior sugar port. By the 1830s, Bayou Teche was the main state of Louisiana and is the largest overflow swamp in the United street of Acadiana, with one plantation after another. States. The Basin is home to countless species of fish and wildlife. The area’s sugarcane planters were among the South’s wealthiest The natural beauty of the Atchafalaya Basin at Morgan City was agriculturists. This is reflected in the grand plantation homes and chosen as the site for filming the first Tarzan movie in 1917, which mansions they built in Franklin and the surrounding countryside. starred Elmo Lincoln. Most of these magnificent structures are still standing and well In the last 50 years, the offshore petroleum industry has become preserved, giving Franklin its unique architectural flavor. Franklin’s a major sector of the economy. In 1947, Morgan City gained Historic District is listed in the National Register of Historic national recognition when Kerr-McGee produced the first offshore Places and encompasses over 420 noteworthy structures. Many of oil well out of sight of land. the spectacular Greek Revival antebellum homes are along the live

Franklin Main Street Morgan City Seawall 14 Atchafalaya Basin Atchafalaya Golf Course at Idlewild

Wag-A-Pak SERVICES & 518 Hwy. 90 W, Patterson, (985) 395-6611 EMERGENCY SEWAGE DUMP Kemper Williams Park 264 Cotten Rd., Patterson, (985) 395-2298 AIRPORT Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport 3884 Airport Rd., Patterson, (985) 395-4501 COMMUNITY FACILITIES E-mail: [email protected] Churches Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, Other Call (800) 256-2931 or (985) 380-8224 for a specific church DIESEL FUEL Bayou Vista Truck Plaza 1829 Hwy. 90 E, Bayou Vista, (985) 399-7032 HOSPITALS Franklin Foundation Franklin Travel Plaza 1097 Northwest Blvd., Franklin, (337) 828-0760 1032 Hwy. 317, Centerville, (337) 836-5580 Website: www.franklinfoundation.org Hollywood Truck Plaza & Casino Teche Regional Medical Center 2051 Hwy. 90 W, Suite B, Bayou Vista, (985) 399-45688 1125 Marguerite St., Morgan City, (985) 384-2200 Website: www.techeregional.com Menard Oil Co. 1034 Lee Charles, Franklin, (337) 828-0810

EMERGENCY INFORMATION Northwest Auto Truck Paza Emergency...... 911 1401 Northwest Blvd., Franklin, (337) 828-3338 Morgan City Police Dept...... (985) 384-2310 Morgan City Fire Dept...... (985) 380-4611 Patterson Truck Stop & Casino Franklin Police Dept ...... (337) 828-6331 1902 Highway 90 W, Patterson, (985) 395-2379 Franklin Fire Dept...... (337) 828-6328 Sheriff’s Dept. Rio Fuel & Supply Morgan City...... (985) 384-1622 1015 Front, Morgan City, (985) 384-8090 Franklin...... (337) 828-1960 Louisiana State Police ( )...... *LSP (*577) Valero Corner Store from cellular phones 1923 Main St., Franklin, (337) 828-2510 15 TO NEW IBERIA Bayou T ou T 9 TO 182 y 10 LAFAYETTE eche 87 5 CHARECHARENTNTONON 182 12 US den Pkwy. 90 326 Ralph Dar CAJUN 21 BALDWIN

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POINTS OF INTEREST 2 Amelia Belle Casino 3 Argus Spa United States 4 Atchafalaya Golf Course at Idlewild 5 Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge Boardwalk 6 Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge Office 7 Blu Dog Charters Louisiana Little 8 Brownell Memorial Park & Carillon Tower Rock 9 Cajun Riviera Tour de Swamp, LLC 10 Chitimacha Museum 167 11 Cypremort Point State Park & Cabins Dallas 12 Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel 13 Cypress Park 20 Shreveport Monroe 14 Everett Street Gallery Jackson 15 Great Wall 20 16 Grevemberg House Museum 165 18 Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival Office 49 19 Wedell-Williams Aviation & Cypress Sawmill Museum (Louisiana State Museum – Patterson) 21 Morgan City Auditorium 45 22 “Mr. Charlie” Oil Rig Museum Alexandria 23 Oaklawn Manor 24 Palmetto Hiking Trail Baton 55 Rouge 25 Shadowlawn Lafayette 26 Southwest Reef Lighthouse/Everett Berry Lighthouse Park 12 27 Bayou Vista Recreation Park Lake 10 90 182 70 10 28 Young-Sanders Center Houston Charles FRANKLIN 90 New Orleans CAMPGROUNDS MORGAN CAJUN CITY 1 Amelia RV Park COAST 2 Burn’s Point Boat Launch & RV Campground 3 Carriage Cove 4 Crow’s Landing Within Louisiana Morgan City Franklin 5 Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel & RV Park New Orleans (French Quarter) 90 miles 117 miles 6 Cypress Lake RV Resort 7 Kemper Williams Park & Campground Houma 37 miles 64 miles 8 Lake End Park, Campground & Cabins New Iberia 48 miles 21 miles 9 Mary’s RV Park Lafayette 68 miles 41 miles 10 Michel’s RV Park 11 MC RV Park Baton Rouge 77 miles 104 miles 12 Roy El Oak Campground Franklin 27 miles 13 Two Sister’s Landing Morgan City 27 miles 14 Verret’s RV Campground

ACCOMMODATIONS Within USA & Canada Morgan City/Franklin 1 Amelia Extended Stay – America’s Best Value Inn Houston 285 2 Atchafalaya Oaks B&B Dallas 460 3 Bayou Fever Camp Rental Little Rock 584 4 Best Western Forest Inn 5 Best Western Morgan City Biloxi 170 6 Billmar Motel Jackson 245 7 Cajun Houseboat & Rentals, Inc. Memphis 450 8 Comfort Inn & Suites of Morgan City 9 Cypress Bayou Casino • Hotel Gulf Shores 272 10 Red Roof Inn Pensacola 289 11 The Fairfax House B&B Orlando 723 12 Hampton Inn & Suites 13 Clarion Hotel & Conference Center Tampa 738 14 Holiday Inn Express Chicago 981 15 LaQuinta Inns & Suites St. Louis 731 16 Morgan City Motel 18 Plantation Inn New York 1394 19 Quality Inn & Suites Los Angeles 1839 20 Sleep Inn & Suites Montreal, Canada 1738 21 Treasure Bayou Hotel 22 Twin City Motel Toronto, Canada 1384 17