Raceland

Raceland is one of the many small Cajun Country cities you'll find while driving down Highway 1, the stretch of road that begins in Port Allen and ends at the sandy beaches of Grand Isle.

There are many theories about the origins of Raceland's name, all of which relate to the region's rural, agrarian history. The name may have come from the horse races that were once held on the banks of Bayou Lafourche that runs through town. Or the town may have been named in honor of its fertile soil, which made crops "race" to maturity — indeed, sugarcane grows well throughout Lafourche Parish, where Raceland is located.

What's most likely the case, however, is that Raceland was named for the Race family that once owned a large plantation (also called Raceland) on Bayou Lafourche.

Being so close to the Gulf of Mexico, there are numerous charter boat outfitters in and around Raceland. When you're planning your trip to south Louisiana's bayou country, look up local outfitters and also take some time to pick up fresh-caught Gulf seafood from one of Raceland's markets and restaurants.