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Houma

Houma, Louisiana, United States

Dive into Cajun Country: Discover Houma, Louisiana Houma, Louisiana, beckons you to experience the heart of Cajun Country. Nestled amidst the vibrant tapestry of bayous and swamps just south of New Orleans, Houma offers …

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Houma.

Top Hotels in Houma

Top Flights to Houma

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Houma.

Tours

Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum

Explore the local aquatic life and history of the bayou region through interactive exhibits.

Southdown Plantation & Museum

Discover the heritage of Terrebonne Parish with guided tours of the plantation house and museum.

Houma Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Start your journey at the visitors bureau for maps, brochures, and local tips from friendly staff.

Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center

Engage with local culture through workshops, concerts, and exhibits at this vibrant cultural hub.

Main Street Historical District

Stroll down Main Street to admire historic buildings and visit quaint shops.

Regional Military Museum

Explore military history through exhibits that include vehicles, aircraft, and artifacts.

Shopping

Mandina's Grocery and Hardware

Find local crafts, antiques, and unique items in this charming family-owned shop.

Outdoor

Downtown Marina

Enjoy fishing, boating, or a scenic walk along the waterfront at Houma's Downtown Marina.

Houma Civic Center

Attend concerts, conventions, and events at the spacious Houma Civic Center.

Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center Nature Trail

A peaceful trail perfect for walking or jogging, surrounded by natural beauty.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Houma.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, French

Average weather

Houma

Jan

16°5°

Feb

18°7°

Mar

21°10°

Apr

25°14°

May

29°18°

Jun

32°22°

Jul

33°23°

Aug

33°23°

Sep

31°21°

Oct

27°16°

Nov

22°10°

Dec

17°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Houma.

What people love

Houma, Louisiana, located in the United States, offers several unique attractions and experiences for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Houma include:

Cultural Enrichment: Houma is home to a rich Cajun culture, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore traditions, music, and cuisine specific to this region. The Terrebonne Folklife Culture Center, Southdown Plantation House, and Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum are just a few of the cultural attractions worth visiting.
Outdoor Adventures: With its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and various bayous, Houma offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can go on swamp tours, fishing trips, kayaking adventures, and bird watching excursions to explore the unique ecosystem of the region.
Delicious Cuisine: Louisiana is famous for its delectable cuisine, and Houma is no exception. Visitors can indulge in authentic Cajun and Creole dishes at local restaurants, seafood markets, and festivals. Don't miss out on trying gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, and other regional specialties.
Festivals and Events: Houma hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and food to culture and wildlife. The Rougarou Fest, Voice of the Wetlands Festival, and Mardi Gras celebrations are just a few examples of the vibrant events that take place in the area.
Southern Hospitality: Visitors to Houma can expect to experience the warm and welcoming hospitality that the South is known for. The friendly locals, laid-back atmosphere, and sense of community make Houma a pleasant destination for travelers looking to unwind and connect with the local culture.

Overall, traveling to Houma, Louisiana, offers a blend of culture, nature, cuisine, and hospitality that can provide a memorable and enriching experience for visitors.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Houma, Louisiana, located in the United States, include:

Limited public transportation: Houma is a relatively small city with limited public transportation options. Renting a car or using taxis may be necessary to get around.
Weather considerations: Houma is located in a region prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November. Travel plans may need to be adjusted in case of severe weather conditions.
Limited tourist attractions: Compared to larger cities in Louisiana like New Orleans, Houma may have fewer tourist attractions and entertainment options. Visitors seeking a vibrant nightlife or a wide range of cultural activities may find Houma lacking in comparison.
Language barrier: While English is the predominant language spoken in Houma, visitors may encounter local dialects or accents that could be challenging to understand, especially for international travelers.
Limited dining options: While Houma offers a variety of local cuisine, the number of dining options may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors with specific dietary preferences or looking for a diverse culinary scene may find their choices restricted.

It's important to note that these cons may vary based on individual preferences and priorities. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Houma, Louisiana.

Houma, Louisiana, is a city with a rich history rooted in the cultural tapestry of the Southern United States. Located in Terrebonne Parish, Houma serves as the parish seat and is an integral part of the larger Houma–Bayou Cane–Thibodaux Metropolitan Statistical Area. Here is a detailed overview of the history of Houma:

Early History and Founding

Indigenous Roots: The area around Houma was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Houma people, from whom the city gets its name. The Houma tribe was part of the larger Muskogean language family and was closely related to other southeastern tribes.
Colonial Era: During the French colonial period, the French established settlements in the area. By the 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and abundant waterways.
Official Founding: Houma was officially founded in 1834 by European-American settlers. The name “Houma” is derived from the local Native American tribe, although the tribe itself had mostly relocated by that time.

19th Century Development

Economic Growth: The economy of Houma, like much of Louisiana, was heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of sugar cane, as well as fishing and trapping. The bayous and wetlands provided rich resources and were central to the livelihoods of the inhabitants.
Civil War Era: During the American Civil War, Houma and the surrounding areas were affected by Union blockades and military actions. The region, being part of the Confederacy, faced significant economic disruptions.

20th Century to Present

Oil Industry: The discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed Houma’s economy. The city became a hub for the offshore oil industry, leading to population growth and economic diversification.
Cultural Diversity: Houma has a diverse cultural heritage, with influences from the French, Spanish, African, and Native American communities. This cultural blend is reflected in local traditions, cuisine, and festivals.
Modern Challenges and Growth: In recent years, Houma has faced challenges such as hurricanes, which have periodically caused significant damage to the area. Despite these challenges, the city continues to thrive as a center for the oil industry and a gateway to the natural beauty of Louisiana's wetlands.

Significant Landmarks

Terrebonne Parish Courthouse: This historic courthouse is an important architectural and governmental landmark in Houma.
Southdown Plantation House: A restored 19th-century plantation home that now serves as a museum, offering insights into the region's history and culture.
Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum: Celebrates the history and culture of the bayou communities, focusing on the maritime and fishing industries.

Notable Figures

Allen J. Ellender: A prominent political figure from Houma who served as a U.S. Senator from Louisiana from 1937 until his death in 1972. He played a significant role in national politics, particularly in areas related to agriculture and education.

Houma is a city deeply interconnected with the cultural and economic history of Louisiana, serving as a testament to the resilience and diversity of its people.