Find it in Franklin "Under the Lampposts"
Stroll along Franklin’s wrought iron-trimmed downtown for a dose of serious Southern charm. One of just 35 accredited Main Street America cities in Louisiana, downtown Franklin entices visitors with its shops, eateries, and historic properties—all set against the dreamy backdrop of Bayou Teche. Proprietors extend a genuine welcome as visitors pop in and out of local businesses housed in vintage storefronts. Meander from shop to shop on your own to discover gifts, art, fashion, and furnishings, or to really get the inside scoop, join a guided walking or ghost tour led by local company Tours By Steven. It’s easy to snap Instagram-worthy pictures in front of the Spanish moss-draped oaks here. At night the town’s beauty shines brighter, lit by the cast iron lampposts lining its main boulevard. Topped with globe lights, these iconic fixtures inspired Franklin’s catch phrase, “it’s all under the lampposts!”
Cajun Coast
Favorite downtown landmarks include The French Door, which greets shoppers with a generous bounty of trendy clothing, pretty and practical home décor, and furnishings; while Gather on Main is a vintage market specializing in artwork, handmade wood items and antiques. After shopping, enjoy a tasty respite at The Lamp Lighter Coffeehouse & Bistro, housed in what used to be Franklin’s main pharmacy. The restaurant plies guests with distinctive local eats from burgers to gumbo, and from coffee to beignets. There’s regular live music, too.
You’ll also find FIFOLET Candle Makers, a locally owned artisan candle studio and retailer, lighting up the heart of Franklin’s historic district. Stop by to see how hand-poured candles are made and don’t forget to pick up your favorite scents to bring home.
Restore Your Soul in Paddler’s Paradise
Ahh, hear the birds sing, feel a coastal breeze against your skin and listen to bayou waters lapping against your kayak. The Cajun Coast works wonders to restore your spirit. After all, it features 135 miles of waterways so pristine they’ve been designated a National Water Trails System by the National Park Service.
This paddler’s paradise gives adventurers easy access to quintessential Louisiana waterways including historic Bayou Teche and the 170,000-acres Atchafalaya Basin Swamp. Paddling enthusiasts know they’ll have a top-notch experience when they hit the water, with plenty of boat launches and local outfitters, including Tours by Steven and Lake End Rentals, making exploration by kayak or canoe both convenient and accessible. No fewer than six National Water Trails System padding trails, ranging from easy to difficult, provide access to the scenic waterways of the Cajun Coast—an environment National Geographic described as “hauntingly beautiful land.”
Cajun Coast
In the mood for messing about in boats? Franklin tour company Tours by Steven offers 2 ½-hour guided kayak tours on Bayou Teche, and at Lake End Park in Morgan City, Lake End Rentals has kayaks available for rental. Paddling Trails are ranked by difficulty. The Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge trail leads you on a tranquil float through a designated Louisiana Black Bear habitat. Or, if you’re looking for something more challenging, try the Cypremort Point and Burns Point Trail, a route that includes an open-water paddle clear across West Cote Blanche Bay. It’s best accomplished when combined with an overnight stay at Cypremort Point State Park.
Exploring St Mary Parish by water is an excellent way to revel in this distinctive region’s stirring natural beauty.
The Many Charms of Morgan City
Home to outdoor recreation, artisan makers, and friendly people, Morgan City is an essential stop along the Cajun Coast. Visit nearly three dozen arts and craft vendors, and small businesses under one roof at The Market. As you wander from booth to booth you’ll find a wide variety of eclectic handmade items including jewelry, clothing, gifts, charcuterie boards, local honey and jams, artwork, and more. The Market also serves daily plate lunches by Rojay’s, bakery items, and specialty food items. It’s an inspiring place to spend the day.
Cajun Coast
Franklin Main Street
For outdoors lovers, Morgan City’s popular campground and marina, Victor Guarisco Lake End Park, opens the door (or the tent flap) to a multitude of experiences. The park is right on the shores of beautiful Lake Palourde and welcomes families, couples, and friends. Fish for catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill from the banks or fishing pier. Spend the day on the water in your own boat or rent a vessel from the onsite marina (Lake End Rentals rents pontoon boats, kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis and more.) Splash and swim in the lake’s cool waters. Plan an overnight stay and wake up to birds calling from the resident grove of bald cypress trees. The park features 147 modern, convenient RV hookups, primitive campsites, and rustic cabins with front porches perfect for watching the sun set after a full day on the lake.
Warm nights, warm folks, and a picturesque setting make Louisiana’s Cajun Coast a one-of-a-kind destination to enjoy this spring. Visit cajuncoast.com to get started.
