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Garden · Lafayette, Louisiana
Jungle Gardens (Avery Island)
Gardens and reserve on Avery Island, south of Lafayette, with oaks, camellias, azaleas, a heron rookery and an old Buddha statue, near the Tabasco sauce factory.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Jungle Gardens (Avery Island)
Avery Island is not an island in the sea: it’s an uplift on a salt dome, surrounded by swamps and bayous, about 40 km south of Lafayette. It’s where the McIlhenny family has produced Tabasco pepper sauce since the 19th century.
Edward Avery McIlhenny, the family naturalist, created the Jungle Gardens in the early 20th century — roughly 70 hectares of gardens and woodland crossed by a narrow road, driven by car with short walking stops. There are oaks draped in Spanish moss, camellias and azaleas that bloom in late winter and spring, lakes and alligators.
The best-known spot is Bird City, a rookery McIlhenny created to protect snowy egrets, which were then hunted for their plumes. During the breeding season, thousands of birds often occupy the platforms above the lake.
A small temple houses an antique Buddha statue brought from China. The Tabasco museum and factory are also on the island and have their own visitor experience.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours by car with stops.
Best time
In spring, when the azaleas are in bloom and the egrets usually nest in Bird City.
How to get there
On Avery Island, about 40 km south of Lafayette via LA-329 by car. There is a toll at the island entrance.
Tip
Bring insect repellent: mosquitoes are common near the water. Check the website for island closing times.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Jungle Gardens (Avery Island)
Are the Jungle Gardens on the same island as the Tabasco factory?
Yes. Both are on Avery Island, and each requires its own admission.
When to see the egrets at Bird City?
In spring and early summer, when the egrets usually nest over the lake.
Can you do the Jungle Gardens on foot?
The route is driven by car along the internal road, with stops for short walks. Bicycles may have specific rules; check at the entrance.