Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road Itinerary
Take the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road and explore the beauty of Louisiana! This road trip starts in Lafayette and ends in Houma, spanning a distance of ca. 194km. Along the way, you will pass through Breaux Bridge and Franklin, two charming and picturesque towns, which offer a variety of attractions to explore. The best time to enjoy this road trip is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant and the roads are in good condition. This is a road trip suitable for all drivers, and can be managed with a moderate budget. So, pack your bags and embark on this memorable journey today!
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number of days
194 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Lafayette
Distance 194 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
50.5 kWh
Airports
BTR
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MSY
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Lafayette, located in the United States, is the perfect starting point for the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road. This town is known for its picturesque scenery, historic sites and cultural attractions. Among the most interesting sights in Lafayette, visitors should not miss the Acadian Cultural Center which houses a permanent collection of Acadian artifacts and offers a range of educational programs. The Vermilionville Historic Village is also worth visiting, as it is a living history museum which showcases 18th and 19th-century life in the Acadiana region.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT). At this airport, visitors can find car rental services that can take them to the starting point of the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road. The road trip will take them through stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the South, offering an unforgettable experience.
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Lafayette
- Breaux Bridge
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
3.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to Lafayette and Breaux Bridge, two charming cities located 9 miles apart in the United States. This road trip is perfect for those who enjoy exploring historical sites, as the route is filled with them.
Start your journey in Lafayette, where you can visit the Acadian Cultural Center, a museum dedicated to the history of the Acadian people. There is also the Alexandre Mouton House, a restored 19th-century mansion that is now a museum.
Continue your journey to Breaux Bridge, where you can explore the Church of St. Martin de Tours, the oldest church in Louisiana. The city is also home to the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site, a park dedicated to the Acadian culture.
This road trip is ideal for those who want to explore the history of the Acadian people. The journey will take less than an hour, so you can easily cover it in one day. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Breaux Bridge - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Breaux Bridge
- New Iberia
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
10.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Greetings, road-trippers! Are you ready for a wonderful journey from Breaux Bridge to New Iberia? This 22mi stage of your trip will take you fewer than 1 hours, and you'll have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Breaux Bridge, you can explore the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, a local celebration of Cajun culture, and the Longfellow-Evangeline State Park, a great place for outdoor activities.
When you reach New Iberia, you should visit the Shadows-on-the-Teche, a historic plantation, and the Bayou Teche Museum, which offers a great insight into the area's culture.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy your journey!
New Iberia - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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New Iberia
- Franklin
Distance 41 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
12.3 kWh
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Welcome to the road-tripping stage between New Iberia and Franklin! This 25mi stretch is sure to be an unforgettable experience. It will take you fewer than 1 hours to drive, so you can easily fit in a few stops along the way.
In New Iberia, make sure to visit the Shadows-on-the-Teche, a beautiful plantation with a rich history. You can also check out the Conrad Rice Mill, the oldest operating mill in the United States.
In Franklin, you'll find the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival & Fair, the perfect place to experience the local culture. You can also take a stroll around the St. Mary Parish Courthouse, a historic building with a beautiful architecture.
This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road-trip!
Franklin - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Franklin
- Morgan City
Distance 43 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
11.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Franklin to Morgan City and explore the wonders of Patterson, located in between. This 27 mile journey will take you no more than an hour and will be packed with interesting sites and attractions.
Start your journey in Franklin, a city full of historical sites and monuments. Visit the historic Franklin Town Hall, the town's oldest building and a symbol of the city's rich history. There, you can learn about the city's past and take part in the many activities and events that take place there.
Continue your journey to Patterson, a small town with a rich history. Take a stroll through the town's quaint streets and explore the many charming shops and restaurants. Stop by the Patterson Town Hall, a historic building that was built in the late 1800s. Here, you can learn about the town's past and take part in the many activities and events that take place here.
Finally, make your way to Morgan City, a bustling city with a variety of attractions. Visit the historic Morgan City Courthouse and take a tour of the city's many museums. You can also explore the city's vibrant nightlife and enjoy the many restaurants and bars.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the wonders of Franklin, Patterson, and Morgan City!
Morgan City - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Morgan City
- Houma
Distance 59 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
15.4 kWh
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Take a road trip through Louisiana's Cajun Country and explore the vibrant culture of the region. Start your journey in Morgan City, the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. From there, drive 37 miles to Gibson, a charming town with a unique history and plenty of things to do. Be sure to visit the Gibson Museum, which showcases the history of the town and its people. Next, take a short drive to Houma, the heart of Cajun Country. Here, you can learn about the culture and cuisine of the area, as well as explore the area's many parks and outdoor activities. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the scenery and enjoy the beauty of the Louisiana landscape. This road trip is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the "Itinerary" of this stage. With a total driving time of less than one hour, this road trip is the perfect way to explore Louisiana's Cajun Country.
Houma - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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Houma
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Houma is located in the southern part of United States and is the perfect end to the “Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road” road trip. The city offers a lot of interesting attractions and activities, making it a great destination for a short break.
Start your exploration with the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum. It is a great place to learn about the local culture and history. The museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits, including a replica of an alligator farm. You can also take a guided tour of the nearby wetlands.
If you are looking for outdoor activities, there is plenty to do. The Grand Caillou Recreation Center is a great spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The nearby beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. After a long day of exploring, head over to the nearby restaurant, Café Milano, for some delicious Cajun cuisine.
Finally, for those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
Houma is a great destination to end your “Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road” road trip. With its unique attractions, activities, and restaurants, it is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Lafayette
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End:
Houma
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Distance:
194 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR),
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
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When to drive:
February, March, April, May, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey along the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road in Louisiana, stretching from Lafayette to Houma over roughly 194 kilometers (120 miles). This route takes you through a stunning corridor of southern allure, with stops in charming Breaux Bridge and historic Franklin. You'll experience a tapestry of cultures, architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Lafayette: Dive into the vibrant culture of Cajun Country, taste authentic Cajun and Creole dishes, and immerse yourself in history at the Acadian Village and Vermilionville Historic Village, which showcase the area's rich heritage.
- Breaux Bridge: Celebrated as the `Crawfish Capital of the World,` this town is a haven for seafood connoisseurs and offers quaint antique shops set in a rustic backdrop. Don't miss the annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, a testament to the town's title.
- Franklin: Admire the well-preserved antebellum homes and engaging historical narratives in Franklin's historic districts, a treat for architecture buffs and history enthusiasts alike.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Road Trip is during the spring and fall months, offering comfortable temperatures and lush landscapes, with spring festivals adding lively cultural experiences. Fall presents a cooler climate and the beauty of changing foliage.
Potential Risks:
The Road Trip is generally safe, but travelers should stay alert for sudden weather changes, particularly during hurricane season from June to November, and be mindful of wildlife on the Roads.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Along the route, you can enjoy a diverse array of cultural experiences, including foot-tapping zydeco music, vibrant regional festivals, and a rich history of the Acadian people.
- The manageable distance makes the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road suitable for a weekend adventure or as a segment of a bRoader Gulf Coast exploration.
- The journey offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations and dining options, catering to a range of preferences without breaking the bank.
- Roads in Louisiana are typically well-maintained; however, it's crucial to check for current Road conditions, closures, or detours before setting off.
A good choice for:
Pack your spirit of discovery and embark on the Old Spanish Trail Panoramic Road for a memorable Road Trip that weaves through the captivating landscapes and cultural fabric of Louisiana's heartland.