Happy, Happening Henderson

Louisiana’s tourism economy has been growing, developing, and diversifying for years, and one of the state’s particularly strong success stories is Henderson in St. Martin Parish. Conveniently located on I-10 and near several local waterways, the town is an easy entryway into both the waterways and natural beauty of the Atchafalaya and the Acadiana cultural region. What makes Henderson special is the local quality of its tourism development. Many of the businesses are locally owned and operated, which lets the area retain its local character even as it becomes more developed. Additionally, the businesses and attractions aren’t just for travelers, tourists, or passersby: people who live right down the road are also able to come by and enjoy themselves.  If tourists are looking for a chance to live and have fun like the locals, what better selling point than being where the locals come to have fun?

One of the key attractions is local favorite restaurant Crawfish Town USA. The classic seafood spot just recently was featured at the Country Roads 2017 Small Town Chefs Awards. Crawfish Town USA also offers Fresh Market next door, where you can by portions of their prepared food to take home (and pass off as your own cooking, if you feel bold) or fresh seafood.  Other culinary establishments include local favorites Pat’s Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant and Chicken on the Bayou.  For a drink, you can enjoy one of several Cajun zydeco landings in the area, and do some good old-fashioned dancing right on the water. For a more relaxed refreshment, Bayou Teche Brewery in Arnaudville is just up the road, offering tours, tastings, and live music. Families, or those aching to recapture childhood, can visit Prehistoric Park and Cajun Fast Track next door to Cajun Palms RV Resort.  Fishing and boating are a great way to spend time in Henderson and there are excellent airboat tours and flat bottom tour available. You can also rent a houseboat for the weekend at Houseboat Adventures.  And if you are looking for shopping opportunities while your partner is fishing, be sure to check out Louisiana Marketshops at the 115, Le Cajun Amis Market and Lehman Ashley.  St. Martin Parish is redefining what “just off the interstate” can mean for tourism. Drive on over and see for yourself!