Cities and Towns in Ascension Parish, Louisiana
Founded in 1807, Ascension Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, Ascension Parish was one of the original 19 parishes. The city of Donaldsonville is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 5, Ascension Parish has a population of 128,369 and area of 303 square miles (785 km²).
List of all cities in Ascension Parish, LA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brittany, LA | 70718 | 225 |
| Burnside, LA | 70738 | 225 |
| Darrow, LA | 70725 | 225 |
| Donaldsonville, LA | 70346 | 225 |
| Donaldsonvlle, LA | 70346 | 225 |
| Duplessis, LA | 70728 | 225 |
| Galvez, LA | 70769 | 225 |
| Geismar, LA | 70734 | 225 |
| Gonzales, LA | 70707 | 225 |
| 70737 | 225 | |
| Lake, LA | 70769 | 225 |
| McCall, LA | 70346 | 225 |
| Modeste, LA | 70346 | 225 |
| Prairieville, LA | 70769 | 225 |
| Saint Amant, LA | 70774 | 225 |
| Sorrento, LA | 70778 | 225 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ascension Parish, Louisiana
Gonzales
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 9.5 square miles
- Population: 12,231 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70737, 70738
- Latitude: 30.2385° N
- Longitude: 90.9183° W
Location and History
Gonzales, located in the southeastern part of Ascension Parish, is known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World” and is conveniently situated along Interstate 10 between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The town was named after Joseph Gonzales, an early settler who played a key role in the town’s establishment in the late 19th century. Initially, Gonzales was a small agricultural community, but its proximity to major highways and railways spurred growth in the 20th century. The development of local industries, including petrochemical plants, contributed to the town’s expansion, turning it into a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas. Gonzales also became famous for its Jambalaya Festival, which started in 1968 and celebrates the town’s culinary traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gonzales is home to East Ascension High School, Central Middle School, and several elementary schools. These schools are part of the Ascension Parish School Board and provide quality education to local students. The Lamar-Dixon Expo Center is a significant landmark, hosting events ranging from livestock shows to concerts. Another notable site is Jambalaya Park, a public space that hosts the annual Jambalaya Festival and features walking trails and a splash pad for family enjoyment. The town also boasts the Ascension Parish Courthouse and the Louisiana State Arboretum, which highlight its historical and natural significance.
Donaldsonville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: 6,695 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70346
- Latitude: 30.1016° N
- Longitude: 90.9920° W
Location and History
Donaldsonville, located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, is the parish seat of Ascension Parish and has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1806. The town was named after its founder, William Donaldson, and it briefly served as the capital of Louisiana in the early 19th century. Donaldsonville became an important port town due to its strategic location on the river, facilitating trade and transportation. During the Civil War, the town was occupied by Union forces and was the site of several skirmishes. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Donaldsonville grew as a center of agriculture and sugar cane production, and its historic downtown still reflects the architecture of that era.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Donaldsonville High School and Lowery Middle School are the primary educational institutions in the town. One of the most significant landmarks in Donaldsonville is the River Road African American Museum, which preserves the history and culture of African Americans in the region. The Ascension Catholic Church, founded in 1772, is another key landmark and is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the state. Historic downtown Donaldsonville, with its preserved buildings and shops, offers a glimpse into the town’s past. The Lemann Memorial Center, a local recreational facility, provides residents with sports fields, swimming pools, and community spaces.
Prairieville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 22.7 square miles
- Population: 33,197 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70769
- Latitude: 30.3022° N
- Longitude: 90.9718° W
Location and History
Prairieville is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Ascension Parish, just south of Baton Rouge. The area was originally a rural, agricultural settlement, named for the prairie-like terrain that once dominated the landscape. Over the past few decades, Prairieville has transformed into a suburban community due to its proximity to Baton Rouge and the industrial corridor along the Mississippi River. As Baton Rouge grew, Prairieville became a popular place for families seeking quieter, suburban living while remaining close to the employment and cultural opportunities of the city. Today, Prairieville is one of the fastest-growing areas in Ascension Parish, and its growth has spurred new housing developments, schools, and businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Prairieville is served by several public schools, including Dutchtown High School, Prairieville Middle School, and Oak Grove Primary School, all of which are part of the Ascension Parish School Board. The area is also home to several private schools. Major landmarks include the Oak Grove Community Center and various local parks that offer recreational opportunities for residents. Though Prairieville lacks a formal downtown, the nearby Blue Bayou Water Park and Dixie Landin’ amusement park, located just outside the community, are popular attractions for locals and visitors. Additionally, the area is known for its proximity to the historic Bayou Manchac, a waterway that played an important role in local transportation and trade during the colonial period.
Sorrento
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.0 square miles
- Population: 1,625 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 70778
- Latitude: 30.1821° N
- Longitude: 90.8579° W
Location and History
Sorrento is a small town located in the southeastern part of Ascension Parish, situated at the intersection of U.S. Highway 61 and Louisiana Highway 22. The town was founded in the early 20th century, and its name reflects its Italian roots, as many early settlers were of Italian descent. Sorrento’s history is deeply tied to the nearby railroad and the Louisiana sugar cane industry. The town grew as a local trade center, benefiting from the fertile lands of the region. Despite its small size, Sorrento has maintained its role as a gateway to both Baton Rouge and New Orleans, offering residents and visitors a blend of rural charm and convenient access to larger urban areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sorrento Primary School serves the educational needs of the town, while older students attend nearby schools in Ascension Parish. One of the most prominent landmarks in Sorrento is the historic Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, located just outside the town. This antebellum estate provides a glimpse into the history of the region and is a popular tourist destination. Sorrento also hosts several local events, including the annual Louisiana Hot Air Balloon Festival, which attracts visitors from across the state. The town’s close proximity to the Mississippi River and local bayous also offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.
