Did you know Avery Island isn’t actually an island? This salt dome, rising 163 feet above Louisiana’s marshes, produces over 700,000 bottles of Tabasco daily! The McIlhenny family has been crafting their world-famous hot sauce here since 1868, making this unique destination a perfect blend of culinary history and natural beauty. Whether you’re a hot sauce enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Avery Island offers an unforgettable Louisiana experience.
Getting to Avery Island
Avery Island is conveniently located about 140 miles west of New Orleans and just 30 miles south of Lafayette. Most visitors arrive by car, as the island is easily accessible via Highway 329 in Iberia Parish.
Plan Your Journey to Avery Island
Ready to experience the home of TABASCO? Start by booking your transportation to this unique Louisiana destination.
If flying, the nearest major airports are Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), about 30 minutes away, and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), approximately 2.5 hours by car. From either airport, renting a car is essential as there’s no public transportation to Avery Island.
“The drive to Avery Island through Louisiana’s bayou country is part of the experience. Keep your camera ready for stunning wetland views and wildlife sightings along the way.”
Planning Your Avery Island Visit
Most visitors spend between half a day to a full day exploring Avery Island. The TABASCO Factory Tour takes about 1-2 hours, while Jungle Gardens deserves at least another 2-3 hours if you want to fully appreciate its natural beauty.
Recommended Visit Duration
- TABASCO Factory Tour: 1-2 hours
- Jungle Gardens: 2-3 hours
- Restaurant 1868: 1 hour for lunch
- TABASCO Country Store: 30 minutes
- Bird City: 30-45 minutes (seasonal)
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Insect repellent (especially in summer)
- Water bottle
- Camera for wildlife and garden photos
- Cash for small purchases (though cards are preferred)
Important: Avery Island charges a small toll ($2 per vehicle) to enter the island itself, separate from attraction tickets. Have cash ready for this toll.
Best Time to Visit Avery Island
Avery Island welcomes visitors year-round, but the experience varies with the seasons. Spring (March-May) brings vibrant wildflowers to Jungle Gardens, while fall (October-November) offers milder temperatures perfect for exploring.
| Season | Temperature | Crowds | Special Features | Recommendation |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 65-85°F | Moderate | Azaleas blooming, bird nesting season | Highly Recommended |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 75-95°F | High | Lush gardens, hot and humid | Early morning visits recommended |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 60-85°F | Low to Moderate | Pleasant temperatures, fall foliage | Highly Recommended |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 45-65°F | Low | Camellias blooming, fewer insects | Good for factory tour focus |
Holiday Closures: The TABASCO Factory Tour and Jungle Gardens are closed on major holidays including New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Check the official website before planning a holiday visit.
Getting Around Avery Island
Avery Island is best explored by car. The main attractions—the TABASCO Factory and Jungle Gardens—are a short drive from each other. Jungle Gardens features a 170-acre natural area with a driving tour route and walking paths.
Transportation Note: Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are not available for pick-up from Avery Island. If you don’t have a car, taxi service is available Monday-Saturday through John Allen’s Taxi Cab Service: 337-940-1139.
Where to Stay Near Avery Island
While there are no accommodations on Avery Island itself, several charming options are available in nearby New Iberia (10 minutes away) and Lafayette (30 minutes away).
New Iberia Options
Just 10 minutes from Avery Island, New Iberia offers historic B&Bs and modern hotels. The downtown area features charming shops and restaurants within walking distance.
- Historic bed and breakfasts
- Mid-range chain hotels
- Close proximity to Avery Island
Lafayette Lodging
Lafayette, about 30 minutes north, offers more accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels. The city also has a vibrant food and music scene.
- Greater variety of hotels
- More dining and entertainment
- Easy day trip to Avery Island
Unique Stays
For a truly authentic experience, consider booking a houseboat on the bayou or a historic plantation home in the surrounding area.
- Houseboats on nearby bayous
- Historic plantation homes
- Cajun cottages and cabins
Top Attractions on Avery Island
Avery Island offers a perfect blend of culinary history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Here are the must-see attractions during your visit:
TABASCO Factory Tour & Museum
The self-guided TABASCO Factory Tour takes you through the fascinating process of making the world-famous hot sauce. You’ll learn about the McIlhenny family history, see the pepper greenhouse, explore the barrel aging warehouse, and witness the bottling process.
The tour includes the TABASCO Museum, where you can discover how this iconic sauce has been made the same way for over 150 years. Don’t miss the Country Store, where you can sample and purchase every TABASCO product imaginable.
- Hours: 9am-4pm daily (last tour starts at 3:30pm)
- Adult admission: $15.50
- Children (5-11): $12.50
- Seniors & Veterans: $13.95
Jungle Gardens
This 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary was established in 1895 by E.A. McIlhenny, son of the TABASCO founder. The semi-tropical gardens feature exotic plants, ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss, and abundant wildlife.
A driving tour with walking paths lets you explore at your own pace. Don’t miss Bird City, a sanctuary where thousands of snowy egrets nest each spring, and the centuries-old Buddha statue nestled among the camellias.
- Hours: 9am-4pm daily
- Admission included with TABASCO Factory Tour ticket
- Driving tour with walking paths
- Best visited in spring for flowers or fall for comfortable temperatures
Restaurant 1868
Named for the year TABASCO Sauce was first created, Restaurant 1868 offers authentic Cajun cuisine with a spicy twist. Located on Avery Island near the factory tour, it’s the perfect spot to experience how TABASCO enhances traditional Louisiana dishes.
The menu features classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée, all prepared with various TABASCO sauces. Don’t miss the build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, where you can sample the entire TABASCO Family of Flavors.
- Hours: 11am-3pm daily
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Reservations not required but recommended for large groups
- Vegetarian options available
Bird City & Buddha Statue
Bird City is a sanctuary within Jungle Gardens where thousands of snowy egrets and other wading birds nest each spring. Created in the 1890s by E.A. McIlhenny, it’s one of the oldest bird refuges in North America.
Another highlight is the centuries-old Buddha statue, brought from China in 1936. This serene figure sits among lush camellias in a peaceful garden setting, creating one of the most photographed spots on Avery Island.
- Best time for bird watching: February through July
- Buddha statue accessible year-round
- Bring binoculars for optimal bird viewing
- Photography opportunities abound
TABASCO Country Store
No visit to Avery Island is complete without stopping at the TABASCO Country Store. This retail paradise offers every TABASCO product imaginable, from the classic Original Red Sauce to limited editions and flavors that aren’t widely available elsewhere.
The store features a sampling bar where you can taste the entire TABASCO Family of Flavors, plus branded merchandise, cookbooks, and unique food items. It’s the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for the hot sauce lovers in your life.
- Hours: 9am-4pm daily
- Free sauce sampling
- Exclusive products not available elsewhere
- Ships purchases worldwide
Culinary Experiences
Beyond the factory tour and restaurant, Avery Island offers special culinary experiences that let you dive deeper into Louisiana’s rich food traditions.
TABASCO Cooking Demo
Join the executive chef for a culinary course that reveals the secrets of recreating TABASCO-inspired Southern cuisine. This hands-on experience explores traditional flavors and innovative uses for the famous pepper sauce.
- Available Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am
- $50 per person (all ages)
- Includes recipe cards and tasting
- Reservation required at least 48 hours in advance
Acadiana Culinary Experience
Immerse yourself in Louisiana’s food culture with this comprehensive culinary experience. Learn about the region’s unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and the essential role TABASCO plays in Cajun and Creole cuisine.
- Available Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am
- $50 per person (all ages)
- Includes food sampling and beverage pairing
- Reservation required at least 48 hours in advance
Practical Tips for Visiting Avery Island
Make the most of your Avery Island adventure with these helpful tips from experienced visitors:
Visitor Recommendations
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during summer
- Take the guided tour for a more in-depth experience
- Bring a cooler for TABASCO purchases if traveling far
- Allow plenty of time for Jungle Gardens (at least 2 hours)
- Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience
- Bring binoculars for bird watching
- Have cash ready for the island toll ($2 per vehicle)
Things to Be Aware Of
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- Mosquitoes and insects are common (bring repellent)
- No ride-sharing services available for pickup
- Limited food options outside of Restaurant 1868
- Cash is not accepted at TABASCO attractions (cards only)
- Some areas of Jungle Gardens are not wheelchair accessible
- Holiday closures throughout the year
Is Avery Island suitable for children?
Yes, Avery Island is family-friendly. Children enjoy the TABASCO Factory Tour with its interactive elements, and Jungle Gardens offers plenty of space to explore. The TABASCO Country Store has kid-friendly souvenirs, and Restaurant 1868 offers a children’s menu.
How much time should I allow for visiting Avery Island?
Plan for at least 4-5 hours to fully experience Avery Island. The TABASCO Factory Tour takes 1-2 hours, Jungle Gardens requires 2-3 hours, and you’ll want time for lunch at Restaurant 1868 and shopping at the Country Store.
Can I bring my own food to Avery Island?
Outside food and beverages are permitted in Jungle Gardens for picnics, but not inside the TABASCO Factory Tour or Restaurant 1868. Several picnic areas are available throughout Jungle Gardens.
Experience the Flavor of Avery Island
Avery Island offers a unique blend of culinary history, natural beauty, and Louisiana culture that can’t be found anywhere else. From watching TABASCO Sauce being made to exploring the lush Jungle Gardens, this “island” rising from the marshes provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Whether you’re a hot sauce enthusiast, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Avery Island delivers a taste of authentic Louisiana that will leave you planning your return visit. The fiery spirit of TABASCO and the serene beauty of the gardens create a perfect balance that captures the essence of this special corner of Cajun country.
Ready to Experience Avery Island?
Start planning your visit to this unique Louisiana destination today!
The above is subject to change.
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