Cities in Iberia Parish, Louisiana
Iberia Parish, located in southern Louisiana, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic beauty along the Bayou Teche. Established in 1868, it features a mix of Cajun and Creole influences that reflect the heritage of its early settlers. The parish includes New Iberia, the parish seat, along with a handful of other towns and communities that contribute to its unique charm. Iberia Parish is also known for its agriculture, especially sugarcane production, and its natural attractions like Avery Island, home of the famous Tabasco sauce. The region’s transport network includes major highways and proximity to waterways, making it an important location in the region.
Iberia Parish Facts
- Population: Approximately 70,000
- Parish Seat: New Iberia
- Number of Cities and Towns: 4
List of Cities and Towns in Iberia Parish, Louisiana
1. New Iberia
City Facts
- Year Founded: 1839
- Population: ~30,000
- Population Density: 2,000 people per square mile
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 20 feet
City Overview
New Iberia, the largest city and parish seat of Iberia Parish, is located along the Bayou Teche and serves as the cultural and economic hub of the area. This historic city is known for its diverse architecture, featuring influences from Spanish, French, and Creole cultures. New Iberia is connected by U.S. Highway 90, a major route linking it to Lafayette and New Orleans, providing convenient access to both metropolitan and rural areas. The city has a balanced economy with key sectors in agriculture, oil and gas, and tourism, particularly related to its unique cultural and historical sites.
Things to Do
Visitors to New Iberia can explore the charming downtown area, which includes the Shadows-on-the-Teche, a historic antebellum home with beautiful gardens and guided tours. The city also hosts the annual Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. Avery Island, home of the Tabasco factory and lush jungle gardens, is a must-visit, offering factory tours and nature trails. Other attractions include the Bayou Teche Museum, highlighting local history, and nearby fishing and boating activities along the bayou.
2. Jeanerette
City Facts
- Year Founded: 1878
- Population: ~5,000
- Population Density: 1,000 people per square mile
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 10 feet
City Overview
Jeanerette, located west of New Iberia along the Bayou Teche, is known as the “Sugar City” due to its deep-rooted connections to the sugar industry. With beautiful oak-lined streets and a slower pace of life, Jeanerette captures the essence of small-town Louisiana. The town is accessible via Louisiana Highway 182, which connects it to New Iberia and Franklin, making it easy to travel between nearby towns. Jeanerette’s economy is heavily tied to sugarcane farming, seafood processing, and small local businesses that support the community.
Things to Do
Jeanerette offers a unique look into Louisiana’s agricultural history, particularly at the Jeanerette Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to sugar production and the town’s history. Fishing and boating along the Bayou Teche are popular activities, providing a peaceful escape. The town also has antique shops and cafes that reflect its cultural heritage. For those interested in local cuisine, Jeanerette’s restaurants offer classic Cajun dishes made with local ingredients.
3. Loreauville
City Facts
- Year Founded: 1871
- Population: ~900
- Population Density: 750 people per square mile
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 13 feet
City Overview
Loreauville is a small town nestled along the banks of Bayou Teche, known for its close-knit community and rural charm. This town is primarily residential, with many residents involved in farming and fishing industries. Loreauville is accessible via Louisiana Highway 344, connecting it to nearby towns like New Iberia and St. Martinville. The town’s serene environment and beautiful natural surroundings make it a quiet retreat from the busier urban centers in the region.
Things to Do
Loreauville offers a range of outdoor activities, particularly along the Bayou Teche, where visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing, and nature walks. The town is also home to several historic churches and local eateries that showcase Cajun cuisine. Each year, Loreauville hosts community events that celebrate the local culture, providing opportunities for visitors to engage with residents and experience small-town life in southern Louisiana.
4. Delcambre
City Facts
- Year Founded: 1907
- Population: ~1,800
- Population Density: 850 people per square mile
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 7 feet
City Overview
Delcambre is a small coastal town located along the Vermilion Bay, known for its strong ties to the seafood industry, particularly shrimping. The town is accessible via Louisiana Highway 14, providing easy access to New Iberia and Abbeville. Delcambre has a vibrant fishing culture, with many of its residents involved in the shrimp industry, and it holds a unique coastal charm with its scenic views and waterfront activities.
Things to Do
Delcambre is widely known for its annual Shrimp Festival, where visitors can experience local seafood dishes, music, and activities that celebrate the town’s heritage. Fishing and boating along the bay are popular activities for both residents and visitors. The Delcambre Canal offers scenic views and is a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water. Local seafood markets and restaurants serve fresh catches, making Delcambre a great destination for those looking to savor Louisiana’s coastal cuisine.
List of Communities in Iberia Parish, Louisiana
1. Coteau
Community Facts
- Year Founded: Late 1800s
- Population: ~200
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 16 feet
Community Overview
Coteau is a small, unincorporated community north of New Iberia. Known for its rural character and agricultural roots, Coteau is primarily a residential area with easy access to nearby urban amenities.
2. Lydia
Community Facts
- Year Founded: Early 1900s
- Population: ~500
- Population Density: Sparse
- Area Code: 337
- Elevation: 10 feet
Community Overview
Lydia is an unincorporated community south of New Iberia, with a quiet atmosphere and strong ties to the region’s farming and fishing industries. The community provides a peaceful lifestyle with proximity to Bayou Teche and New Iberia’s attractions.