Rip Van Winkle Gardens, 5505 Rip Van Winkle Road, New Iberia, LA 70560
Home of actor Joseph Jefferson, the Jefferson House was built in 1870 as Jefferson’s winter destination home. Along with 2,000 acres of rich, swampy land, the property was eventually sold by Jefferson’s heirs after his death and was renamed as the Rip Van Winkle Gardens in recognition of the actor’s most famous role.
The infamous gardens there were planted by its new owner and the home and land were donated to a private operating fund to ensure its upkeep and safe operation for years to come.
Upon arrival, I instantly felt like I was back in the 20s in a lush private garden surrounded by roaming peacocks and random, bright and beautiful birds. I was in heaven. We ate at the cafe on the grounds first and drank a few glasses of wine (duh).. Can’t explore without wine.
The hostess gave us a map of the grounds and times of the tour of the plantation. Since we had time to kill before the tour, we toured the garden and soaked in the fresh smell of the BEAUTIFUL flowers surrounded by buddhist statues, took pictures in the Japanese tea house, and continued to enjoy the peacocks showing off their bright green, yellow and orange feathers.. Like I really think one of the peacocks was showing off a little too hard. Don’t they court females that way?
The tour of the plantation was cool, but the tree lining up to the house were way more awesome. I could’ve spent hours in the garden taking pictures and drinking wine.
I think this would a beautiful wedding spot.. Of course not during Louisiana summer months. There are also cottages for guests to stay in. Its breathtaking.
http://www.ripvanwinklegardens.com