Morgan City is a vibrant metropolis set on the banks of the Atchafalaya River. The city has a proud Cajun heritage and is a great place to experience the unique art, culture and cuisine of Louisiana. Swamp tours and paddling trails make it easy to explore the lush, wildlife-rich swamps and bayous that surround Morgan City.
Things to do in Morgan City
Stroll around the historic district and learn more about the city’s unique narrative. Colourful murals inspired by the sugar cane farming, shrimp fishing and riverboat industries decorate the sides of buildings. Lawrence Park skirts the Atchafalaya River and features a scenic waterfront promenade and shady picnic areas.
Morgan City is a gateway to the lush bayous and swamps of the Cajun Coast. Guided tours take you deep into the waterways, where you can spot enormous American alligators and local birdlife. Rent a kayak or canoe to explore picturesque paddling trails and cruise beneath towering oaks and moss-draped cypress trees.
Learn about the city’s booming energy industry at the International Petroleum Museum and Exposition. It’s set on the Atchafalaya River and offers a unique chance to board an offshore drilling rig designed in Louisiana. Exhibits explore the technologies and innovations that have shaped the oil industry over the decades.
Dine at local eateries and enjoy mouthwatering Cajun dishes like “jambalaya” rice, “gumbo” stew and “boudin” pork sausages. Po' boy sandwiches stuffed with fried shrimp, shredded lettuce and a tangy Cajun sauce are another local specialty. Wash it down with a glass of iced sweet tea.
Getting around Morgan City
Morgan City is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is in the Acadiana region, a 1.5-hour drive from New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Morgan City and explore surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.