Just under an hour from New Orleans, Terrebonne Parish is where the real Louisiana Bayou comes to life. Whether you’re drawn to our one-of-a-kind attractions, cultural traditions, affordable lodging, or mouth-watering cuisine (we don’t blame you), Louisiana’s Bayou Country welcomes you with open arms — because when you’re here, you’re part of the family.
Terrebonne (French for “good earth”) Parish was officially established in 1822, carved out of neighboring Lafourche Parish. The name couldn’t be more fitting. This land is rich, not just in soil, but in culture, history, and tradition. Located in Louisiana’s southernmost region, Terrebonne is one of the state’s largest parishes by area, and much of that area is water, wetlands, and marsh.
Houma is named after the Houma Tribe. The name means “red” in their language, whether referring to the sun or perhaps their crawfish war emblem. Their legacy is still part of our story today.
After the Spanish ceded control in 1762, many French settlers, along with Acadians exiled from Nova Scotia, made this place home. Their language, food, music, and traditions deeply shaped the culture here.
For generations, life here revolved around the land and water—fishing, trapping, sugarcane, shrimping, oysters, crabs, and the rhythms of the bayous. Even as modern industries grew, the spirit of living off and with the land remained strong.
In Houma, life flows with the bayou. From breathtaking nature and flavorful cuisine to music and traditions that run deep, it’s a place to unplug, explore and dive into authentic Louisiana life.
Take 300 years of history, add 2,500 square miles of wetlands, and throw in pirate kings, swamp monsters, voodoo priestesses, Indigenous stories, and faith healers, and you begin to see the rich tapestry of legends woven through Houma. But Houma is more than just lore.
Nature is part of daily life, from swamp tours and birding to scenic drives and quiet moments under the cypress. Our food is full of heart and flavor, with crawfish, gumbo, boudin, and étouffée recipes passed down from your grandmother’s grandmother. Music, faith, and festivals bring traditions to life — from Cajun and Creole rhythms to parish fairs and powwows. You can also explore historic plantations, museums, Acadian Deportation Cross Monuments, and learn about figures like Alligator Annie, Houma’s first Mardi Gras Queen, and the roots of our unique Cajun music.
