Things to Do at Downtown Houma Historic District
Complete Guide to Downtown Houma Historic District in Houma
About Downtown Houma Historic District
What to See & Do
Southdown Plantation House
This 1859 sugar plantation mansion now houses a museum with exhibits on local history, sugar production, and Cajun culture. The architecture alone is worth the visit.
Historic Courthouse Square
The heart of the district with the 1918 Terrebonne Parish Courthouse surrounded by period buildings. You'll likely stumble across local events or farmers markets here.
Bayou Terrebonne Waterfront
Walk along the historic waterfront where you can see working shrimp boats and get a feel for the maritime culture that still drives much of the local economy.
St. Francis de Sales Cathedral
An impressive Gothic Revival church from 1876 that anchors the religious heritage of the community. The stained glass windows are genuinely beautiful.
Historic Residential Streets
Wander streets like Barrow and Grand Caillou to see well-preserved examples of Louisiana architecture, from Creole cottages to Victorian homes.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
The district is accessible 24/7 for walking, though individual attractions like Southdown Plantation typically operate Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm
Tickets & Pricing
Walking the district is free; Southdown Plantation Museum charges around $10 for adults, $5 for children
Best Time to Visit
Fall through spring (October-April) offers the most comfortable weather. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography
Suggested Duration
Plan 2-3 hours for a leisurely walking tour, or a full day if you want to visit museums and really soak in the atmosphere
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
About 30 minutes south, this refuge offers excellent bird watching and a chance to see Louisiana's coastal wetlands up close.
A quirky folk art installation about 20 minutes away featuring hundreds of concrete sculptures created by local artist Kenny Hill.
A genuine local institution where you can pick up Cajun spices, local crafts, and get a sense of authentic bayou culture.
Houses an interesting collection of military artifacts with a focus on local veterans and Louisiana's military history.
Often hosts local festivals, concerts, and cultural events that might give you a taste of contemporary Cajun life.