In this on-location episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Travel with Terri” Show, hosts Terri and Ron Guthrie explore the River Road region of Louisiana, uncovering the fascinating history, plantations, and cultural significance that line the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

They visit and discuss some of the area’s most iconic sites including Destrehan Plantation — the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi River Valley — and Oak Alley Plantation, world-famous for its stunning canopy of oak trees and rich history. The conversation also highlights Houmas House and the Great River Road Museum, which presents an unfiltered look at Louisiana’s complex and layered past.

Throughout the episode, Terri and Ron reflect on the beauty of the Mississippi River, its impact on commerce and culture, and how its story is interwoven with the development of Louisiana’s plantations and small towns. The region’s culinary traditions, from rice and sugar production to modern-day Southern cuisine, also take center stage.

✨ As the conversation unfolds, it was discovered that their River Road journey followed part of the historic Jefferson Highway, a transcontinental route connecting Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans. The highway was officially established in November 1915 during a meeting in New Orleans, led by Edwin T. Meredith of Iowa with representatives from across the Louisiana Purchase states. Their vision created what became known as “The Palms to Pines Highway.”

This month marks the 115th anniversary of that historic meeting — making it the perfect time to celebrate the Jefferson Highway’s ongoing connection to the people, heritage, and landscapes of Louisiana’s River Road region.

🦆 With November being National Rice Awareness Month, this episode also touches on the area’s rice-growing history, which helped shape the region’s economy and cuisine.

🌐 Plan Your Visit - Houmas House and Gardens – https://www.houmashouse.com/ - Great River Road Museum – https://greatriverroadmuseum.org/ - Oak Alley Plantation – https://www.oakalleyplantation.com/ - Destrehan Plantation – https://www.destrehanplantation.org/ - Visit Ascension Parish – https://visitlasweetspot.com/ - Louisiana’s River Parishes – https://lariverparishes.com/tourist-commission/ - Visit Jefferson Parish – https://www.visitjeffersonparish.com/

🎧 New episodes of "Travel with Terri" air on Tuesdays: https://travelwithterri.podbean.com/

✨ This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Road Trip Radio,” “Vacation Station,” “Way Back When,” and “Jefferson Highway” podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork