An actor famous for playing a man who slept for 20 years picked one of the prettiest spots in Acadiana to rest. Joseph Jefferson played Rip Van Winkle on stage more than 4,500 times. In 1870 he built a home on the island that now carries his name.

The Mansion

The Joseph Jefferson Mansion is a Victorian-style house with a fourth-story cupola, and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It sits high on a salt dome, about 75 feet above sea level, which is rare for coastal South Louisiana. Inside you'll find heirlooms, period paintings and American and French Empire furniture.

The Gardens

Roughly 15 acres of semi-tropical gardens wind beneath oaks the gardens date at 350 years old. The loop runs about a mile and a half. It's a walking-only garden, since some spots are too tight for vehicles. Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds but not inside the mansion.

Bring binoculars. Jefferson Island is home to more than 260 bird species, and roseate spoonbills are the big draw for photographers at Rip's Rookery.

Plan Your Visit

Where: 5505 Rip Van Winkle Road, New Iberia

Hours: The gardens and gift shop are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours start on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week.

What's included: A guided mansion tour, a walk through the gardens and a short film about the property

Admission (plus tax): $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and up, military and veterans, and $8 for ages 6-17. Groups of 20 or more pay $12 per person.

Lunch: Cafe Jefferson is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.

Want to stay longer? The property also rents cottages, which you can book through the gift shop at (337) 359-8525. Call ahead around the holidays to confirm hours.

Fall is a great time to go. The weather is cool enough for a long walk, and there's a cafe lunch waiting when you're done.

Photo courtesy of Rip Van Winkle Gardens.