Discover New Roads

Explore New Roads through several distinct points of interest: the history of a road between the Mississippi River and False River, the historic commercial district, Mardi Gras, and an eleven-mile cycling route. The town’s history dates back to 1776; at the same time, a historic designation, Gothic architecture, and a festival that is still held today shape the town’s cultural character. When planning your trip, it is worth distinguishing between the town’s history, a specific festival date, and a cycling route.

History on False River

A road built by the Spanish in 1776 between the Mississippi River and False River gave New Roads its name. Around the turn of the 20th century, the town became a resort community as seasonal visitors came to enjoy the tranquil waters of False River. These two historical developments tell different stories: the road is connected to the name New Roads, while the visitors shaped the resort community of the time. False River is therefore part of both the town’s naming history and its historic appeal as a travel destination.

Historic Buildings and Town Development

The New Roads Commercial Historic District encompasses approximately twelve city blocks. Its significance stems from its role in the economic development of the town and the parish. Its approximate size gives a sense of the district’s scale; its economic significance tells another part of its story. Another dated landmark is the Pointe Coupee Parish Courthouse in New Roads, which has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1981.

St. Mary Church of False River is known for its Gothic architecture. These features have different points of emphasis: the district reflects economic development, the courthouse a historic listing, and the church a clearly defined architectural style. Those interested in New Roads’ history will find more than just the origin of the town’s name.

Mardi Gras and Reasons to Visit

Mardi Gras also has a long history in New Roads: celebrations were held there as early as 1881. The festival is still celebrated and attracts thousands of visitors. For trip planning, its historical roots and the current event are two distinct aspects: celebrations date back at least to the 19th century, while the continuing event makes specific dates relevant to today’s visitors. If Mardi Gras determines when you visit, check the event dates before booking.

Cycling Route and Regional Architecture

Cycling enthusiasts can explore the area via the Historic Bike Trail. The eleven-mile route runs along False River and passes the birthplace of writer Ernest J. Gaines. The route thus brings together cycling and a connection to literary history. Unlike a named district or an individual building, it centers on a longer route.

The False River region offers another architectural point of interest: the Pointe Coupee Parish Museum is on the west bank of False River near Parlange Plantation and features an exhibit on Pointe Coupee architecture. The original part of the museum dates to the early 19th century. The museum is also a rare example of log construction in a Creole-style house. In this way, the subject of the exhibit and the museum’s building history complement each other, even though they are not on the same scale.

Discover more destinations: Oscar.

Return to the broader travel overview: Pointe Coupee Parish.