Washington, LA

Is located on Bayou Courtableau.  In the 1800’s, Washington was an important steamboat port with cotton, cattle, sugar and molasses. This was the largest steamboat port between New Orleans and St. Louis, MO.  The last steamboat departed in 1900.  Changes to the water structures in the Atchafalaya Basin and the transition to rail shipping changed the economy of Washington.  This once wealthy town has a wealth of historical buildings from plantation homes to warehouses. You can visit the Washington Museum & Tourist Center which is open on Friday until 4:00pm and admission is free. 

EAT

St. Landry Parish Tourist Center