Morgan City
Morgan City offers a blend of nature, history and industry in a setting where you can slow down and feel the rhythm of Cajun Country. If you like outdoor adventure and down-home charm, it’s worth a stop.
Things to Do
One of Morgan City’s signature draws is The Rig Museum, where you can walk aboard and tour Mr. Charlie — the only place in the world you can tour an offshore drilling rig. Walk aboard and imagine life at sea as you visit the crew quarters, the rig’s legs and the machinery that made offshore drilling possible before Mr. Charlie’s retirement. If you visit Labor Day weekend, don’t miss the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival, a celebration of Morgan City’s seafood and oil heritage.
Morgan City Main Street offers a pleasant stroll of specialty and antiques shops, local restaurants and nightlife, and historic architecture. Just beyond is the seawall along the Atchafalaya River, where you can look out over shrimp boats, barges on the river and the wild marshes beyond.
The beauty of Morgan City is the water everywhere you turn. The Atchafalaya Basin supports freshwater fishing for bass, catfish and bream, among others. As you move toward the Gulf, marsh creeks, bayous and inlets become brackish — meaning redfish, speckled trout, flounder and more become possible saltwater catches. For kayaking or canoeing, follow the area’s Paddle Trails to glide through cypress tunnels, bayous and marsh fingers.
In Brownell Memorial Park, a bird sanctuary popular with photographers and birders, the 60-plus bells of the Carillon Tower play a delicate tune every 15 minutes.
Places to Stay
If you want to be close to nature and start your mornings on the water, Lake End Park Campground is a top pick. It offers campsites (and cabins for those who aren’t into tent or RV camping), boat launches, fishing piers and direct access to Lake Palourde. For a hotel stay, Holiday Inn Express is a solid choice and within easy reach of downtown and water recreation.
Where to Eat
A trip to Morgan City wouldn’t be complete without getting a bite to eat. Atchafalaya Café is known for using local seafood in its Cajun dishes, like its loaded shrimp po’ boy and creamy Bayou Pasta. At Café Jojo’s, highlights range from a renowned redfish to their weekly pasta nights. Another local favorite that delivers hearty plates is The Original Castalano’s, serving muffalettas and smash burgers to homemade sausage and cornbread dressing.
Getting Here
Morgan City is under two hours from New Orleans. If you're flying, rent a car, hail a taxi or book a rideshare from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Morgan City Tourism Resources
