Discover Why Port Arthur is the Cajun Capital of Texas

When it comes to Cajun culture, there are some pretty great places for family travelers to experience it, but all it takes is a short time in the charming town of Port Arthur to see why it is the best place to enjoy it. As the official Cajun Capital of Texas, Port Arthur has plenty of reason to boast. Sitting along the Gulf of Mexico, along the western shore of Sabine Lake, the birthplace of legendary musician Janis Joplin is home to a rich Cajun history dating back to the 1920s when Cajuns first settled in the area. Since that time, their rich cultural history has been nurtured and preserved through the local way of life in Port Arthur.

From local cuisine and attractions to local festivals celebrating Cajun culture, there is plenty to do throughout the year. Come April, the city will host the annual Cajun Heritage Festival when local Cajuns come out for music, dancing, food and, of course, plenty of crawfish. There will be plenty of entertainment, children’s activities, and local food and beverage vendors, as well as one activity the entire family will enjoy: crawfish racing.

While you and the family are in town, you won’t have a shortage of fun ways to spend your time. You can visit nearby Pleasure Island, a man-made island on Sabine Lake where there is something for everyone in the family, from fishing and bird watching to shopping and dining. There’s even a pirate-themed playground at Lakefront Park. For an activity the whole family will enjoy together (other than grabbing a bite to eat), play a round of disc golf at the island’s course.

Back on the mainland, be sure to visit Port Arthur Boardwalk to enjoy a walk in the fresh air. You won’t want to miss a trip to nearby Sea Rim State Park, where the family can explore more than 5 miles of shoreline and 4,000 acres of marshland. The park is home to beautiful landscapes and local wildlife that helped shape the history of the people who call Port Arthur home.