Due to Louisiana’s location on the Mississippi River, it made the city of New Iberia a perfect landing spot for those looking to settle land in the U.S. This means that a lot of the communities in Louisiana are some of the oldest communities in the U.S. Not only that, but Native Americans actually populated Louisiana’s area meaning that this land is filled with history.
First claimed by spanish settlers in 1779, the banks of the Bayou Teche hold a lot of that history. This area known as New Iberia was eventually taken over by french settlers, who were known as Acadians. They were pushed out of Nova Scotia and once they settled here they became known as Cajuns. The perfect place to learn about Louisiana’s history while also maybe taking a vacation. We are here to tell you about a few different things to do in New Iberia, Louisiana.
Things to do in New Iberia
Known as a “hidden gem”, this museum has been years in the making. Offering educational tours and self guided tours, its visitors can explore the history and preservation this museum holds. The Bayou Teche Museum is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The doors open at 10 a.m. and they close at 4 p.m.. However, they can be open at other times when an appointment is made. Students pay $3 and adults pay $5; kids under five can enter for free.
The Shadows on the Teche was built in 1834 for a man named David Weeks, a sugar planter. The Shadows displays the life of four generations of the Weeks family living at the Shadows. The building is a historic sight and even still also holds all of the Weeks papers.
Not only is the house amazing, the large trees that fill the property will take your breath away. The Shadows on the Teche is open year round. Monday through Saturday, 10a.m.-4p.m. The first tour will begin at 10:15 and the last tour will begin at 3:15.
Click here for all of the admissions information.
Places to eat
Looking for a 50s style diner that sells the best fried chicken? Check out Duffy’s Diner. Located in New Iberia, this diner will for sure fill your hunger after checking out Main street. Their menu ranges from simple sandwiches to seafood platters. Locally owned and operated, this diner will take you back in time but won’t cost a heavy penny. Make sure to grab a milkshake to go for the ride home. You wouldn’t want to miss out on the best milkshakes in town.
Opened in 1991 this seafood and Chinese restaurant delivers to the city of New Iberia with its flavor. Featured in New Iberia’s Best of the Teche, Jane’s received many accomplishments. Including first place for the best wait staff. They are open from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays); check their website for their hours. This restaurant will please everyone with a little bit of everything. Make sure to try their chargrilled oysters, you’ll never forget them.
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