Avery Island Guide
Spice Up Your Life: Explore the Home of TABASCO® Sauce on Avery Island Guide
Welcome to Avery Island, Louisiana, a geological wonder and the home of the world-famous TABASCO® Pepper Sauce. More than just a factory tour, a visit to Avery Island is an immersive experience that combines natural beauty, culinary history, and a dash of Louisiana spice. Prepare to be amazed by the island's unique ecosystem, its fascinating history, and, of course, the fiery flavor of TABASCO®. Avery Island is a salt dome rising above the surrounding marshlands, creating a unique environment that supports a diverse range of plant and animal life. The island has been inhabited for thousands of years, and its salt deposits have been mined since prehistoric times. In 1868, Edmund McIlhenny began producing TABASCO® Pepper Sauce on Avery Island, using a recipe passed down through his family. Today, the McIlhenny Company continues to produce TABASCO® on the island, using the same basic ingredients and methods that have made it a global icon. Take a factory tour to see how TABASCO® Pepper Sauce is made, from the planting of the pepper seeds to the bottling and shipping of the finished product. Explore the Jungle Gardens, a 170-acre botanical garden featuring exotic plants, birds, and wildlife. Visit the TABASCO® Country Store to purchase souvenirs and sample different varieties of TABASCO® sauce. While on Avery Island, enjoy a meal at Restaurant 1868, which features dishes made with TABASCO® sauce. The menu includes classic Louisiana cuisine with a spicy twist, offering a unique culinary experience.
Transportation
Avery Island is best accessed by car. From New Iberia, take LA-329 S. Follow the signs to Avery Island. There is ample parking available on the island. Public transportation options are extremely limited.