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Downtown Houma Historic District - Houma

Things to Do at Downtown Houma Historic District

Complete Guide to Downtown Houma Historic District in Houma

About Downtown Houma Historic District

Downtown Houma's Historic District feels like stepping into Louisiana's quieter past, where Cajun culture mingles with antebellum charm along tree-lined streets. The district actually preserves some genuinely impressive 19th and early 20th-century architecture - you'll find everything from Greek Revival mansions to modest Creole cottages that give you a real sense of how different social classes lived in this bayou community. What's interesting is how the area has managed to stay relatively authentic rather than turning into a theme park version of itself. The district tends to surprise visitors who might expect something more touristy. Instead, you'll discover a living neighborhood where locals still go about their daily business among the historic buildings. Worth noting that Houma sits at the heart of Louisiana's oil and seafood industries, so the historic district offers a nice counterpoint to the working waterfront - it's where you can actually feel the deeper cultural roots of this unique corner of Cajun country.

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

Downtown Houma sits about 60 miles southwest of New Orleans via US-90 West - it's roughly an hour's drive through some interesting bayou country. You'll want a car since public transportation options are limited. The historic district is compact and walkable once you arrive, with street parking generally available. If you're flying in, New Orleans' airport is your best bet, then rent a car for the drive down. The route itself is actually pretty scenic as you get closer to the Gulf Coast.

Things to Do Nearby

Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge
About 30 minutes south, this refuge offers excellent bird watching and a chance to see Louisiana's coastal wetlands up close.
Chauvin Sculpture Garden
A quirky folk art installation about 20 minutes away featuring hundreds of concrete sculptures created by local artist Kenny Hill.
Bayou Country General Store
A genuine local institution where you can pick up Cajun spices, local crafts, and get a sense of authentic bayou culture.
Regional Military Museum
Houses an interesting collection of military artifacts with a focus on local veterans and Louisiana's military history.
Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center
Often hosts local festivals, concerts, and cultural events that might give you a taste of contemporary Cajun life.

Tips & Advice

Bring comfortable walking shoes - the sidewalks can be uneven and you'll want to explore the side streets where some of the best architecture hides
Try to time your visit with one of the local festivals or events at the courthouse square for a more authentic cultural experience
The humidity can be brutal in summer, so if you visit then, start early in the morning and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spots
Don't miss the chance to eat at one of the local Cajun restaurants - the food scene here is genuinely excellent and much less touristy than New Orleans

Tours & Activities at Downtown Houma Historic District

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