Flyway Byway

A drive down the 55-mile Flyway Byway will take you past fields of the agriculture and industry that have come to define this special part of Louisiana. From your window can see rice fields, crawfish ponds and even stop to take a crawfish farm tour (seasonal).  The area is also home to unique festivals and events, each serving up a big dose of Cajun hospitality.

Home to more than 160 species of birds, this southwest Louisiana trail has the greatest concentration of migratory birds in the southeastern part of the United States. It is a birders paradise.  Birds and rice harvesting go nicely together – there is a festival Yellow Rails and Rice Festival held in the fall, which provides one of the best opportunities to spot the elusive Yellow Rail, a rare marshbird that migrates to the Gulf Coast each winter.

Make your first stop at the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park and the Jefferson Davis Parish Tourist Information Center located at I-10 Exit 64.  While here, you can fish, take a stroll along the walking path, or hold an alligator at the Gator Chateau, our alligator rescue-educate-release facility, and you can get information about suggested byway stops and events happening during your visit.

Situated in the heart of Cajun Country in Louisiana’s southwest prairie region, it is known for great birding, local cuisine and rich culture. Located in downtown Jennings, Green’s Café hosts acoustical Cajun music Saturday, every other Saturday, welcoming musicians who just want to get together and jam. The idea is to introduce more people to Cajun music and to pass the Cajun French traditions to younger generations.

There are a variety of things to do along the Flyway Byway. You can enjoy the countryside while experiencing the area’s natural beauty and local wildlife. Paddle the waterways or bike the byway’s extreme trail to the historical Lorrain Bridge.  Shop in small towns and taste some of the best food in all of Louisiana. In Lacassine, enjoy rum tasting at America’s largest, privately-owned rum distillery.  Bayou Rum is handmade from local sugarcane and offers tours for those who want to know more about the process.

If you are more interested in relaxation, unwind in area hotels such as the luxury boutique L’Banco Albergo, Italian for The Bank Hotel, which is located in the old historic Jeff Davis Bank building in Jennings.

You can also experience local museums such as the Zigler Art Museum, the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum or the Welsh Museum.  At these locations you’ll find everything from fine works of American and European art and unique pieces by local artists to information and artifacts about the history of the small towns and communities along the byway.

FIND MORE INFORMATION:
Jeff Davis Tourism