Though the fictional character Rip Van Winkle hails from the Catskills, he inspired a gorgeous estate in southern Louisiana. Rip Van Winkle Gardens in New Iberia is a peaceful place to spend time outside among flowers, birds, and a gorgeous Victorian-era house overlooking little Lake Peigneur.

The home was built in 1870 by stage and silent film actor Joseph Jefferson, who portrayed Rip Van Winkle in films. Inside, you’ll find era-appropriate furniture and artwork as well as family heirlooms.
Mumclt/TripAdvisor
This Victorian-era mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fifteen acres of sub-tropical gardens outside the mansion sit below massive, shady oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
Mumclt/TripAdvisor
The gardens are a popular photography location for private events and weddings.
Carl Zoll/Google
See the garden's website for more details on photography fees.
Sculptures and statues representing different cultures reflect Jefferson’s eclectic tastes.
T N/Google

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You can also grab a bite to eat here at Café Jefferson. The dining room features massive windows to enjoy the surrounding oak trees and gardens.
Dawn Owens/Google
The menu includes salads, sandwiches, and Cajun and Creole entrees.
Keep an eye out for the gardens’ resident peacocks! They have free reign over the property.
Bobby Kelley Jr./Google
Aside from peacocks, this place is also a terrific spot for birdwatching.
Brandy Comeaux/Google
Rips Rookery on the grounds attracts 260 species of birds including colorful herons, spoonbills, and egrets, some of which migrate here to nest.
The mansion and gardens are open for tours every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Kat win/Google
You can also tour at your own pace.

Aside from touring the garden and mansion, eating at the café, and browsing the gift shop, you can also stay the night on the estate. Guests can book the Cook’s Cottage or Servant’s Quarters for a bed and breakfast experience. You can learn more about rates, admission, hours of operation, and other important visitor information on the estate’s website.

Have you visited Rip Van Winkle Gardens or stayed as a guest in one of the two accommodation options? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments!

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Rip Van Winkle Gardens, 5505 Rip Van Winkle Rd, New Iberia, LA 70560, USA