Historic Downtown Donaldsonville. Discover Donaldsonville's rich art and craft heritage at numerous art galleries, eclectic shops, historic attractions and unique restaurants. Enjoy many fun events, festivals and Louisiana-style entertainment that will spice up your visit. Take a leisurely walking tour of Downtown Donaldsonville to observe and appreciate the individuality and architectural variety of the buildings in the historic district, the second largest historic district in Louisiana.

Ascension Of Our Lord Catholic Church. The civil parish of Ascension derived its name from the Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church, established in 1772 in the settlement of Donaldsonville. The magnificent cathedral-like church, completed in 1896, stands as successor to two earlier structures on the same site. Group tours of the historic church are available daily. Originally a mission to serve the growing community of Acadians and evangelize the nearby Native Americans, the church has the largest and one of the most historic cemeteries in the area.  [Top]

Historical Donaldsonville Museum. The Historic Donaldsonville Museum preserves the heritage, history, architecture, culture, and technology of Donaldsonville. Housed in the B. Lemann & Bro. Building, the oldest family-owned department store in Louisiana and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Museum presents life in Old Donaldsonville through “Galleries of the Past.” Described as “the finest Italianate commercial building in any river town north of New Orleans,” the impressive building is evidence of the prosperity and cultural variety of Donaldsonville in the 1800’s.

River Road African American Museum & Gallery. Visit the River Road African American Museum & Gallery, dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting art, artifacts and buildings related to the history and culture of African Americans in the rural communities along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The Museum celebrates the heritage of African-Americans who were enslaved in this region and the traditions that have been passed down through art, music, dance, storytelling, cooking and crafts. Visit www.africanamericanmuseum.org.  [Top]

Lamar-Dixon Exposition Center. Attend one of the many activities, events, and festivals that are scheduled at this multi-purpose facility in Gonzales. Home of Octoberfest and many rodeos and equestrian events, the Expo features three large arenas, a YMCA, cattle holding pens, eight stall barns, RV hookups and scenic picnic areas. The Expo offers facilities and catering services for events of all sizes and themes. Visit www.lamardixonexpocenter.com.

No Problem Raceway Park/NHRA Racing. Located in Belle Rose, Louisiana, No Problem Raceway Park is a complex consisting of a 1/4 mile NHRA drag strip and a 1.8 mile road racing course for karts and automobiles. Experience fast-paced racing action, including drag cars, muscle cars, super pro, and motorcycle events. Visit www.noproblemraceway.com.  [Top]

Historic Fort Butler. Once a pivotal Civil War site, engineered by West Point, Fort Butler was built to guard the confluence of the Mississippi River and Bayou Lafourche, a major outlet to the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the star-shaped, log-and-earth construction, built and defended by area African-American Slaves turned soldiers E-mail: acapone@charter.net.

Alligator Bayou Tours. Cruise aboard the canopied Alligator Queen to experience the beauty, serenity, and ecology of the South Louisiana wetlands, the rich cultural legacy, wildlife and unique history. Visit an authentically furnished Louisiana swamp cabin and meet native animals. Special meals, parties, live music, dance lessons, and fishing tours are available. Visit www.alligatorbayou.com  [Top]

River Region Art Gallery. Exhibiting a gumbo of original artworks by over 90 Louisiana artists, River Region Art Gallery displays fine art, folk art, jewelry, photography, unique gifts and monthly theme shows. Enjoy the open air Art Gumbo Market every second Saturday under the trees, featuring arts & crafts booths, artist demos, musical entertainment, jambalaya and refreshments. River Region Artists present an Awesome Art Extravaganza featuring over 140 artisans, held annually in the Autumn Gardens of Houmas House Plantation every second weekend of October. Visit www.artgumbo.org.

Tanger Outlet Center. Shop at over 50-designer and manufacturer outlet stores and restaurants that are featured in this popular outlet mall in Gonzales. Special coupon vouchers and incentives are available for groups. Visit www.tangeroutlet.com  [Top]