Named for the sulphur mines that operated in the area during the early 20th century, Sulphur lies in the heart of Louisiana’s Calcasieu Parish. It’s particularly renowned for the Frasch process of mining sulphur, which was developed here by Herman Frasch, a German immigrant, in 1890. The city is surrounded by bayous that provide a habitat for American alligators, as well as more than 400 bird species.
Things to do in Sulphur
Dive into Sulphur’s local history at Brimstone Museum, which occupies an early-20th-century depot of the Southern Pacific Railway. Learn about the Frasch mining process and its impact on the city, then admire the paintings by local artists on display. Adjacent is the Henning Cultural Center where rotating exhibitions are held.
Sulphur marks the start of the Creole Nature Trail, a scenic byway that extends 290 kilometres through what has been dubbed “Louisiana’s Outback”. A variety of birdlife, butterflies and alligators can be spotted in the surrounding marshlands and prairie, with several wildlife refuges located along the route. In addition to swimming at the sandy beaches, fishing and crabbing are also popular activities along the trail.
Keen golfers can enjoy a round at the Frasch Park Golf Course, an 18-hole, par 71 course framed by mature trees. You can practice your skills on the driving range, chipping and putting greens before enjoying a meal at the clubhouse grill. The surrounding parkland features several playgrounds, recreational courts and two baseball fields, as well as shaded picnic areas.
Getting around Sulphur
Sulphur is around 2.5 hours’ drive from Lafayette and just under four hours from New Orleans while Houston’s George Bush International Airport is 2.5 hours away. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of getting to and around Sulphur.