Exit 64 on I-10 is the half way point between New Orleans and Houston. It's a great place to stop an stretch your legs. But what makes this stop cool, is the Gator Chateau in Jennings!
"Here at the Gator Chateau you can come in and hold baby alligators. It's a rescue facility for baby gators. You can also see some larger gators inside our lazy river, as well as some pretty large alligator snapping turtles.", says Jamie Lee, Communications Director of Jeff Davis Parish Tourism.
The site has been at Oil and Gas Park for decades, but the new facility still has that new car feel! Lee adds, "The attraction is about 30 years old, but we've been open in this new facility since May of last year."
You can find information on tons of local spots and other tourism sites. "The front of the building is the Jeff Davis Parish tourist center and we have brochures for statewide attractions. We have rest rooms and a gift shop!"
Jennings is also known as the birthplace of oil in Louisiana. You can stretch your legs at Oil and Gas Park. They have a great walking trail and more! "We also have a fully stocked pond that's free to fish in, as long as you have a Louisiana fishing license. We also have a full playground."
The center does have a few COVID restrictions in place. Lee says, "To come in the building you do need to wear a mask per the Governor's mandate. Also, we have hand sanitizing stations throughout. We do ask that if you have a large group that you let us know in advance because of our special requirements."
And with several school systems not starting until September, this is a great, last summer getaway for you and your kids!
