Madisonville

Madisonville, Louisiana, is a charming riverside town nestled along the Tchefuncte River, offering a rich blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or festival-goer, Madisonville has something to captivate their residents. At Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum delves into the region’s nautical past at this museum, which showcases exhibits on boatbuilding, lighthouses, and the maritime history of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin. The museum also hosts the annual Wooden Boat Festival each fall, celebrating traditional craftsmanship and maritime culture. Built in 1837, this historic lighthouse stands at the mouth of the Tchefuncte River, guiding vessels into Lake Pontchartrain. Though accessible only by boat, it’s visible from Marina del Ray and the Madisonville Boat Launch, offering picturesque views, especially at sunset.