What Makes New Iberia A Standout Main Street Destination?

(KMDL-FM) What do Salem, Massachusetts, Bar Harbor, Maine, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, and New Iberia, Louisiana all have in common? They have all been honored in a "Best of List" by Country Living Magazine and its associated website.

The collaborative effort of editors and authors took a look at communities from all around the country and created a list. That became the article "40 of the Best Main Streets in America You Need to Visit ASAP"

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What Makes a Good "Main Street"?

The purpose of the article was to identify which communities still hold onto the time-honored tradition of a centralized downtown community. The editors and authors looked for places that offered a unique charm and a good selection of independent or "Mom and Pop" businesses.

Google Maps/Google Streetview

The survey was not driven by population size or over-the-top attractions, but instead a calm and quiet sense of community that would transport a visitor back to another time and another place when times weren't as hectic, and the pace of life was a lot more relaxed.

Besides New Iberia, What Other Towns Made the List?

This means New Iberia is mentioned in the same breath as places like Park City, Utah, Breckenridge, Colorado, and Telluride as well. Granted, "The Berry" doesn't have the scenic mountain vistas of those locations, but the authors from Country Living found an idyllic charm with the city's main street architecture and its vibe.

Google Maps/Google Streetview

The article mentions the historic Sliman Theater and the fact that Shadows on the Teche is nearby as well as key components of a complete visit to New Iberia. Of course, one visit to Shadows on the Teche and you'll see why New Iberia earned the moniker "Queen City of the Teche".

As far as the best time to visit New Iberia? I would say now, before it gets too hot, or you can wait until the fall when gumbo season rolls around. Gumbo season is far better than hurricane season in South Louisiana.

And if you're looking to add a little exercise to your visit, you might want to consider this as an option.

6 Great Spots to Ride E-Bikes in Louisiana

Electric bikes are becoming more and more common in Louisiana. And as more people get involved in the exciting way to exercise, they're looking for new places to ride and experiences to have. Here are half a dozen great suggestions for e-bike riders of all skill levels, and most of them aren't that far away.

Gallery Credit: Bruce Mikells