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15 Fun Things To Do In & Around Lafayette, Louisiana

North America , Travel | November 12, 2020

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For my first ever trip to the southern United States, I visited Lafayette in Louisiana on a press trip to experience Cajun country’s Mardi Gras with Lafayette Travel . Between parades, we discovered some of the most fun things to do in Lafayette.

Lafayette is the hub city of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country on the American southern Gulf Coast. A cocktail of European, Caribbean and African influences bestow a unique charm on the destination.

Lafayette is like nowhere I’ve ever been before and it made me want to see more of the south  – when travel is back to whatever shade of normal we can salvage, that is.

Upon touching down in Louisiana, I quickly learned that life in Lafayette revolves around the three holy pillars: food, community and live music.

Almost more Caribbean in its culture and aesthetic than it is southern , Lafayette is surrounded by swamps and bayous.

It’s known as the happiest city in America, and my first taste of its famous southern hospitality from grinning locals had this British gal sold on that idea.

Fun things to do in Lafayette and surrounding areas

Here’s the lowdown on what to do in Lafayette: the hub city and beyond.

Watch my Youtube video about Cajun Mardi Gras in Lafayette

1. Start the day with a Zydeco breakfast at Buck and Johnny’s

Zydeco is a style of African American music that originated in the south of Louisiana. Its ability to get your toes tapping is remarkable! I developed a taste for it when I spent my first morning in the States joining locals two-stepping to a live band at this packed bar near Lafayette.

The Zydeco Brunch happens every Saturday during the breakfast service. The food is typically southern.

Order Beignets and Troubled Water to start, followed by a Buck and Jonny’s specialty such as Cajun Swamp Rice or the Don’t Mess with My Tasso.

They have 15 dollar Cajun Bloody Marys, if you’re looking to kick brunch up a notch before you hit the dance floor.

I absolutely loved the atmosphere at B&J’s. It was just so different to anything I’d seen back home! A breakfast party there has got to be one of the best things to do in Breaux Bridge, which is a city near Lafayette.

If you want to keep going after the music stops, move on to Tante Marie down the street for a jam session then wind up back at B&J’s in the afternoon.

2. Learn about Lafayette’s past at Vermillionville

Vermillionville is a Cajun and Creole living history museum named after the area’s original title. It’s spread over 23 acres so you can easily spend a whole day there, and there’s an on-site restaurant with reasonable prices.

You can take a self-guided tour around the original period buildings and the costumed historians working there will tell you stories about life in 19th-century Acadania.

They have a lot of fascinating information to share, and this is a great way to immerse yourself in the history of Lafayette.

If you go to Vermillionville on a Sunday you can catch live Zydeco music in one of the buildings.

Check tour prices on Viator

3. See the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

Originally named l’Église St-Jean du Vermilion, this beautiful cathedral is one of Lafayette’s top attractions.

The red and white brick building stands proudly above the cityscape, so you can’t miss it while you’re walking around downtown Lafayette.

The cathedral is beautifully maintained. Some of the features of note are the stained glass from Munich which depicts the life of the patron, oil paintings of Christ and the Apostles, and a grand Casavant Frères organ.

4. Dance the night away at Rock’n’Bowl

If you’re looking for an off-the-wall date night in Lafayette, head down to Rock’n’Bowl . I felt like I was in a movie!

Rock’n’Bowl is a ten-pin bowling alley with a difference: there’s a huge dance floor and a stage with live music in the centre of the lanes!

While the younger clientele aims for a strike, the rest of the crowd takes over the dance floor in pairs.

As a British girl, I can’t even imagine my male relatives anywhere near a dance floor so I felt quite emotional watching this wholesome fun play out! The fact that everyone dances in Lafayette made me fall a little bit in love with the place.

5. Join locals at a Boucherie

Attending a boucherie is one of the more unique experiences to have in South Louisiana. It’s a Cajun tradition that dates back to a time when butchering a hog was a necessary part of feeding the community, so everyone in the area mucked in.

We attended a boucherie at Lakeview Beach Park in Eunice and (thankfully) arrived after the slaughter. I’m glad I didn’t witness that bit, but I did enjoy the overall experience for its community focus.

While the pig was divided among the local chefs housed under a gazebo outside, the rest of the community got the party going in the big barn.

Everyone, awkward teenaged couples and creaky-hipped grandparents included, made for the dance floor. Drinks flowed and soon, heaped plates of pork were passed around. Every part of that pig was devoured!

It’s worth checking if your visit to South Louisiana coincides with a boucherie. The Lundi Gras Boucherie is a Cajun Mardi Gras tradition but there are events throughout the year.

6. Find live music – any night of the week

Lafayette is the self-proclaimed Free Music Capital of the World and there’s live Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music playing at bars all over the city from Wednesday to Sunday.

You can of course find live performances on a Monday or Tuesday night too, but you might have to venture outside of town. I personally loved the singers at Agave , a Mexican place on Vermillion Street.

Almost every bar we went to had a live band playing, and I learned a lot about South Louisiana’s musical past during our trip.

7. Follow the Boudin Trail

I had never even heard of Boudin before my trip to Lafayette but I think I ate it every day while I was there – and every single ‘link’ was different to the last.

Boudin is a type of sausage that’s a little like black pudding. The Cajun version typically contains pork and rice, and the spicy flavour really packs a punch.

One of the more unique tourist attractions in Lafayette is the Boudin Trail . Can you work your way around some of the best boudin in the city? It’s quite a challenge!

8. Wander around the Hilliard Art Museum

If the weather isn’t on your side, this is one of the best things to do in Lafayette when it rains. The Hilliard Art Museum ‘s permanent collection consists of 18th through 21st century European, Asian and American art works. 

There were some inspiring exhibitions when I visited, including Vitus Shell’s ‘Bout It, ‘Bout It, The Political Power Of Just Being’.

If you’re lost for things to do in Lafayette with kids, the museum has ‘Toddler Time’ that should keep them entertained.

The museum is closed Sundays and Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly. Adult entry is $5.

9. Visit a microbrewery

I developed a taste for the New Orleans raspberry beer Purple Haze during my time in Louisiana, but there are craft breweries local to Lafayette that you can support.

Parish Brewing in Broussard produce special brews like Ghost in the Machine and Opus Vert. You can take a tour of their taproom on Saturdays and they have Trivia Night on Thursdays.

Bayou Teche Brewing in St. Martin Parish is around 25 minutes in a car from Lafayette. It’s a family-run brewery and they host events throughout the year.

Try their signature brews like Biere Pale Ale, Ragin’ Cajun Ale & Lager, and Swamp Thing IPA. Cheers!

10. Shop in Downtown Lafayette

I spent my last morning in Lafayette trawling the shops in the Downtown area, stopping for a caffeine hit at Rêve Coffee Roasters , which has a surprisingly hipster edge that seems incongruent with the city itself.

I was pleased to find some hidden gems on the high street (are they called high streets in America?), including Genterie , which feels like a homegrown Urban Outfitters, and indie music store Lagniappe Records . Take home some ‘Swamp Pop’ on new or used vinyl as a souvenir of your trip.

If you’re shopping for gifts, Parish Ink is a good choice. They print t-shirts focused on their South Louisiana roots that express the cultural nuances of the area.

I keep wishing I’d bought the ‘Mais Bruh’ shirt – or how about one stating, ‘I wanna be loved bayou’?

You can also catch Lafayette Farmers Market at Moncus Park on Saturdays.

11. Slurp a drive-thru daiquri

Yes, you read that right. Lafayette is home to more than one daiquiri bar offering a drive-thru service. It blew my mind!

The menus are extensive, offering everything from White Russian flavour to strawberry daiquiris. Like you need any more reasons to visit?

Not gonna lie, this was one of my most memorable activities in Lafayette.

Just don’t put the straw in the slot until you’ve finished driving (because that’s how they keep things legal). Only in Louisiana!

12. Attend one of Lafayette’s festivals

It’s worth timing your trip to Lafayette to coincide with one of the various festivals taking place there throughout the year.

The  Festival International de Louisiane is the largest with entertainment on seven stages, but there are also festivals dedicated entirely to shrimp, boudin and Zydeco across the cultural calendar.

Of course, Mardi Gras is celebrated at the beginning of the year and the Cajun version is a little different to anywhere else’s.

You can read my blog post about what makes Cajun Mardi Gras different to find out more.

13. Visit the Tabasco factory

Located around 20 miles south of Lafayette, the Tabasco factory on Avery Island is a must-visit while you’re in Lafayette.

There’s a museum where you can learn all about the history of the McIlhenny family, who invented the hot sauce in 1868 and still run the company today.

I know what you’re thinking – does hot sauce have that much of a story to tell? But the museum is surprisingly engaging and I thoroughly enjoyed my visit.

You can see the iconic sauce being made and get samples in the tasting room. They have a wacky souvenir shop and restaurant on the surprisingly attractive premises. Try the Tabasco ice cream!

After your Tabasco factory visit, you can also explore Jungle Gardens , a 170-acre bird sanctuary and botanical garden founded by Edward McIlhenny. He did a lot for conservation of the local ecosystem.

14. Spot alligators on a swamp tour

One of the more adventurous things to do near Lafayette is a trip out into the swampy landscape. We got to enjoy a tour of Atchafalaya Basin Landing on an airboat.

Wrapped up in the blankets they hand out before you board, I found myself wondering why I would need layers on such a warm day. I quickly learned why.

The air chilled as we glided noisily over the murky water barely making a ripple, and I was glad of the extra insulation.

We were lucky enough to see a couple of alligators as well as some turtles and birds during our tour.

Our guide had been conducting tours of the basin for 30 years and seemed to know the swamp like the back of his hand, which blew my mind.

15. Browse Breaux Bridge’s antique stores

There are a number of quirky shops in Downtown Breaux Bridge , so if you don’t fancy carrying on in the bars after breakfast at Buck and Johnny’s, you can still kill some time in town perusing their wares.

Check out the 17,000 square-foot marketplace that is Lagniappe Antiques , Au Vieux Paris Antiques and the Breaux Bridge Antique Mall on Bridge Street. I could have spent hours searching for treasures there.

Find more things to do in Louisiana here

Where to stay in lafayette.

We stayed at the DoubleTree Hilton which is always a safe bet. Got to love those freshly baked cookies they hand out at check-in!

One of the most unique places to stay in Lafayette is Crawfish Haven/Mrs. Rose’s Bed and Breakfast . You can stay on a crawfish farm and harvest your own crawfish, see how it is cooked, then eat them.

Search for more accommodation in Lafayette using the booking.com map below.

How to get to Lafayette

I flew from London to Dallas, and from there it’s a short flight to the tiny Lafayette International Airport.

If you hire a car in New Orleans , the drive to Lafayette takes between two and three hours depending on traffic.

Best time of year to visit Lafayette

My visit was in February for Mardi Gras. The weather was a little unpredictable but we mostly got lucky, with only one afternoon of heavy rain.

The best time to visit Lafayette is in Spring or Fall, so you avoid the stifling heat of summer. I quickly learned that it gets much colder when it rains in Lafayette!

How many days to spend in Lafayette

I’d say three to four days should be enough to get around the main attractions in Lafayette. Of course, if you’re charmed by the local nightlife and love to dance, you might want to stay longer.

I hope you’ve found my guide to what to in Lafayette helpful for planning your trip!

Check out my Mardi Gras Instagram story highlight on my profile and follow me on Facebook and Twitter for more travel updates. I also have a Youtube channel .

As mentioned at the beginning of this post, I visited Lafayette for a press trip before travel restrictions were introduced. All views are my own and this content is not sponsored.

Margie says

November 14, 2020 at 4:41 pm

I just listened to a podcast about Lafayette LA!! I saved a bunch of restaurant recommendations and now saved a couple more thanks to this post.

Krista says

November 14, 2020 at 6:36 pm

Great list of things to do here! I haven’t been to Lafayette before, but I heard it’s a lovely place to visit and judging by your photos that looks to be true!

November 14, 2020 at 10:09 pm

That Tabasco factory sure looks…spicy?? Oof. Love Louisiana. I haven’t been in yeeeears, since before Katrina, so it’s definitely time!

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Louisiana (LA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Lafayette (LA)

15 Best Things to Do in Lafayette (LA)

Often hailed as one of the best food towns in the country, Lafayette is a city in the center of Southwest Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole Country.

The city was founded more than 200 years ago beside Bayou Vermilion, a slow-moving tidal river just west of the Atchafalaya Basin, which is home to the largest swamp and wetland in the United States.

You can visit this environment at Lake Martin, which sums up most people’s idea of the southern Louisiana wilderness, with its alligators, rich birdlife and soaring bald cypresses draped with Spanish moss.

A city with a sizable LGBT community, Lafayette is a sociable kind of place, with more than 80 events and festivals downtown each year.

1. Vermilionville Historic Village

Lafayette’s first name, from 1821 to 1884, was Vermilionville, named after the bayou on which the city was founded. For an insight into those earliest days you can head to this outdoor attraction on 23 acres next to Bayou Vermilion.

Here you’ll get acquainted with the Native American, Acadian, Creole and African-descended cultures that inhabited this area between 1765 and 1890.

Awaiting you is a village of charming buildings in the Acadian or Creole styles, many of which are authentic and some that are accurate reproductions.

The village is full of life, and populated by costumed interpreters and artisans, showing off traditional crafts and customs.

There are scores of special events each year at Vermilionville Historic Village, including weekly dances on Sundays. If you book in advance you can also book a trip along the bayou aboard Cocodrie or Le Violoneux, both built using time-honored skills.

Since you’re in the heart of Cajun and Creole country, dining is a big part of the Lafayette experience. This place often tops polls of the best food towns in the United States, and if you’re wondering where to begin, you can always book a food tour.

One pick is the Cajun Food Tour, which works with more than 30 local eateries, with a selection that varies according to the season.

If you’re embarking on your own culinary adventure, some signatures are gumbo, boudin (spiced sausage), étouffée, fried seafood (especially oyster po’boys), crawfish boils (best January through June) and cracklin’ (fried pork fat), while King Cake is a Mardi Gras specialty with its own rich tradition.

In 2016, Lafayette named the Sweet Crude Rouler as its official cocktail, and this is made with local Sweet Crude Rum, sweet and sour, syrup, bitters and club soda.

3. Lake Martin

Right on Lafayette’s eastern flank is the Cypress Island Preserve, 9,500 acres of protected nature composed of cypress-and-tupelo swamp and bottomland hardwood forests. Many of the trees growing in the preserve date back half a millennium.

The main visitor attraction is Lake Martin, just ten minutes from downtown Lafayette. One of many species thriving at Lake Martin is the American alligator, and these can reach 14 feet.

This is also a haven for nesting waterbirds, including roseate spoonbills, white ibises, great egrets, great blue herons and snowy egrets.

From late January, these species make their nests in the rookery, and the views are stunning March through June. You can also walk a 2.5-mile levee trail from the fall to the spring.

If you’re fascinated by the alligators at Lake Martin, you’re sure to see plenty just by driving along Rookery Road, surrounding the lake.

To get even closer, Champagne Swamp Tours offers a range of experiences, from kayak rentals, to airboat rides to guided boat tours.

4. LARC’s Acadian Village

This cultural park in the southwest of Lafayette is a snapshot of Acadian life in the mid-19th century. All of the residences that you’ll see at LARC’s Acadian Village are authentic, having been restored on site and furnished with period items.

These homes are accompanied by a replica blacksmith shop, chapel and general store to paint a picture of a local community some 170 years ago.

LARC is a non-profit organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education and employment opportunities, including the Mardi Gras Bead Store, located in the village.

The biggest annual fundraiser is the Noel Acadien au Village during December, with a Christmas light display, carnival rides, food, visits to Santa and nightly entertainment.

5. Festival International de Louisiane

The largest non-ticketed francophone festival in the United States takes place in downtown Lafayette in April/May.

First held in 1987, the Festival International de Louisiane is usually a five-day event, inviting musicians, artists and craftspeople from across the globe, as part of a celebration of cultural ties between Acadiana and the French-speaking world.

In its time, this extraordinary spectacle has been named among the best music festivals in the world, presenting artists from more than a dozen countries on seven stages throughout downtown Lafayette.

Just a few of the acclaimed past performers are Dr. John, The Wailers Band, Tinariwen and Skatalites.

There’s also a truly international array of craft vendors, a children’s zone and a food selection from jambalaya to gyros.

6. Mardi Gras

The second-largest Mardi Gras celebration in Louisiana takes place in Lafayette, attracting as many as 250,000 people to the city.

There have been Mardi Gras celebrations in Lafayette since 1869, but the colorful parades (courirs) became an annual tradition here in 1934, with the foundation of the Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association.

These courirs hark back to a long-standing custom of masked men and women making their way through the countryside, joined by a band and performing for residents in return for the ingredients for a gumbo.

The courirs then return to the town to make that communal gumbo, which is enjoyed by all. The costumes are steeped in a kind of irreverence for authority, with capuchons (pointed hats) that once mocked the French royalty, and mortar boards to poke fun at the well-educated.

Usually starting ten days before Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), you get a slew of parades making their way through the city, with marching bands, doubloons and beads, and accompanied by other events like masked balls.

7. Downtown Lafayette

Cuisine isn’t the only thing going for downtown Lafayette. Mostly arcing along Jefferson St is a lively commercial district with museums, galleries, live music venues and interesting locally-owned stores for records, candles, clothing, books, shoes, groceries and bicycles.

We’ve seen that Lafayette has a social calendar that puts most towns to shame, and a big event is Downtown Alive!, with concerts on Friday evenings in the spring and fall.

This is another opportunity to catch some Cajun and Zydeco music. Something else to mark in your diary is the 2nd Saturday ArtWalk, a culture-rich experience mixing art, crafts, theatrical performances and yet more live music.

8. Acadian Cultural Center

A stone’s throw from Vermilionville at Bayou Vermilion there’s a unit of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, which is dispersed across several sites in South Louisiana.

Here, the Acadian Cultural Center explores the history and contemporary culture of the Acadians (Cajuns).

Smartly presented multimedia displays look into the origins of this group, along with migration, settlement and their rich contribution to modern life in Lafayette and South Louisiana.

You can also uncover the secrets of Atchafalaya Basin, America’s largest wetland and swamp, and arrange a ranger-led boat trip on Bayou Vermilion. The center has a wealth of programs, from traditional music performances, to dance, storytelling and food.

9. The Lafayette Museum

Downtown at 1122 Lafayette Street stands the Alexandre Mouton House (c. 1800), built by Jean Mouton, who was an early settler in Attakapas country.

He was the father of Alexandre Mouton (1804-1885), the 11th Governor of Louisiana and a United States Senator. Alexandre lived here until 1836, and after marrying Zelia Rousseau in 1836 enlarged the residence significantly.

Further additions were made after being purchased by one Dr. W. G. Mills in 1849, when the house gained its current appearance.

Complete with mid-19th century furnishings, the interior has been restored to the splendor of this period, and is open to the public as a house museum.

You can also browse local history exhibits, displays of Mardi Gras memorabilia, art collections, and tour the beautiful grounds.

10. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Not many university campuses can claim to have a swamp with alligators right next to its student union. This is exactly what you’ll find at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, within walking distance of downtown.

This school is well known for its Ragin’ Cajuns, with 16 varsity teams in NCAA Division I. Home court for the men’s and women’s basketball teams is the 13,000-seat Cajundome, which also hosts regular WWE events.

The football team plays at Cajun Field, nicknamed “The Swamp” as the the surface is two feet below sea level, using pumps and a drainage system to keep the field in playable condition.

For some culture, do not pass on a visit to the Hilliard Art Museum, which has impressive collections covering Japanese woodblock printing, ancient Egyptian art, European painting, fine art from Louisiana, folk art and more than 150 works by American Modernist Henry Botkin (1896-1983).

11. Lafayette Science Museum

In the very center of downtown Lafayette is a modern and interactive attraction dedicated to STEM subjects.

Filled to the brim with playful, hands-on exhibits, the Lafayette Science Museum introduces young minds to nanotechnology, meteorites, biology, aviation, energy, paleontology and much more.

There’s also an all-digital planetarium on the second floor, for exciting live and recorded presentations.

The museum’s building has some history, dating back to 1925 and constructed by prominent local businessman Maurice Heymann (1885-1967) as Lafayette’s first department store.

The city’s first supermarket, another Heymann venture, opened across the street in 1937 and now houses the Children’s Museum of Acadiana.

12. Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

One of the most striking landmarks in the city is the cathedral for the Catholic Diocese of Lafayette. Dedicated in 1916, this historic building is the third on the site, in a succession going back to the 1820s.

The cathedral is in the Dutch Romanesque Revival style and composed of red brick. Some of the many enthralling details to take in on a tour are the stained glass windows produced in Munich, an organ by Quebec’s Casavant Frères company and oil paintings depicting Jesus and the Apostles.

Jean Mouton donated the land for the church, and you can find his grave in the cemetery, along with his son Alexandre and grandson Alfred, a general in the Civil War.

13. Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival

Downtown Lafayette is 15 minutes from the official Crawfish Capital of the World. Breaux Bridge, with its quaint and low-key downtown, is worth a visit at any time of year.

But this town becomes a major destination on the first weekend in May for the world-famous Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, attracting upwards of 30,000 people each year.

This food and music extravaganza was launched in 1960, the year after Breaux Bridge received its official designation.

You’ll get a chance to sample crawfish every which way, be it boiled, in jambalaya, étouffée, bisque, fried, boudin, pie or as crawdogs, together with a smorgasbord of other Cajun and Creole classics.

The festival has long been a showcase for music, with more than 30 artists performing each year, bringing a blend of Cajun, Zydeco, swamp pop and much more.

If you’re in town a little earlier in the year, crawfish season normally peaks in March and April, and the festival is one of many boils and crawfish events in Breaux Bridge in spring and early summer.

14. TABASCO Brand Factory and Museum

A day trip to keep in mind in Lafayette is Avery Island, about a half hour drive to the south. The island is in fact a gigantic dome of rock salt, three miles long and adrift in salt marshes, swampland and bayous.

The unusual soils here allowed tabasco peppers to flourish, and it was on Avery Island in 1868 that the businessman Edmund McIlhenny (1815-1890) was able to mass-produce Tabasco sauce for the first time.

A combined ticket gives you access to the TABASCO Museum, barrel warehouse, pepper greenhouse, salt mine diorama, TABASCO Country Store and TABASCO Restaurant 1868.

15. Jungle Gardens

Also included in the Avery Island Fan Experience is Jungle Gardens, an incredible 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary established by Edmund’s second son, Edward Avery McIlhenny (1872-1949).

The gardens are teeming with wildlife, from Louisiana black bears to American alligators, as well as a massive flock of snowy egrets nurtured by McIlhenny and returning to the magnificent Bird City area every spring to nest, before departing on their migration in fall.

You can also savor McIlhenny’s exceptional collections of azaleas, camellias and other exotic plants, as well as a 12th-century Chinese buddha gifted to him in 1936.

15 Best Things to Do in Lafayette (LA):

• Vermilionville Historic Village
• Lake Martin
• LARC’s Acadian Village
• Festival International de Louisiane
• Downtown Lafayette
• Acadian Cultural Center
• The Lafayette Museum
• University of Louisiana at Lafayette
• Lafayette Science Museum
• Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
• Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival
• TABASCO Brand Factory and Museum
• Jungle Gardens

32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Lafayette (LA)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in Lafayette, LA

Lafayette is the fourth-largest city in Louisiana. It is located in Cajun Country in southwestern Louisiana and has diverse forms of attractions.

During your exploration, visit the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, try one of the great restaurants, wedding venues, watch a performance at the Acadiana Center for the Arts, take a tour of the Tabasco Factory on Avery Island, and take on other fun Lafayette attractions and activities.

You can visit the Lafayette Science Museum and the Children’s Museum if you’ve got kids with you. There are also amazing restaurants and unique attractions to make you have a great experience.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana.

Things to Do in Lafayette, LA

1. enjoy the local culture at acadian village.

The Acadian Village is a 32-acre private park located on Greenleaf Drive in Lafayette.

Established in the 1970s, the Acadian Village is devoted to preserving Acadian history and is one of the best things to do in Lafayette LA.

The park is a farmland that has been converted into an 1800s Cajun village, consisting of eleven buildings, seven of which are original 19th-century homes given out by ancestors of the families who owned the structures and dwelled in them.

You would be awed by the buildings as they demonstrate the unique construction techniques of the period with high peaked foods, wooden pegs of cypress wood, and high peaked roofs.

Acadian Village offers tours and the grounds are available for rent for meetings, weddings, and other events. The park is open from January to the end of October, Monday to Saturday.

Address: 200 Greenleaf Drive, Lafayette, Louisiana.

2. Alexandre Mouton House

The Alexandre Mouton House, also known as the Lafayette Museum is a darling historical landmark in Lafayette popular for being the home of the first Democratic Governor, and 9th Governor of Louisiana.

The museum is currently dedicated to promoting and conserving the history and culture of the Mouton Family and other many historically significant families that have chosen the house as their home.

Here, you get to learn about the awesome architecture, the unique ways that the home’s inhabitants lived, and the features of the home including the dogtrot that links the kitchen to the home.

Aside from Alexandre Mouton, visitors can learn about the lives of occupants like Samuel and Benjamin Paxton, Judge Cornelius Voorhies, and Dr. W.G. Mills.

Address: 1122 Lafayette Street, Lafayette, LA 70501

3. Kart Ranch

Opened to the public in 1985, Kart Ranch has been offering entertainment and high-speed fun to guests of all ages. It is family-owned and operated.

Kart Ranch is well recognized for its go-kart track where 5-minute speed-filled rides are offered to its racers. Also, the ranch has a Kiddie Kart track, a laser tag arena, a water wars facility, a castle clash, and even an adventure golf course.

Join other gamers in enjoying a trip to the Battle Botz Arena and the arcade, while youngsters can enjoy attractions like the Kiddie Train, the Spin Zone Bumper Cars, and an indoor soft play area.

It is indeed one of the best things to do in Lafayette.

Address: 508 Youngsville Highway, Lafayette, Louisiana 70508.

4. Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum

Located on Girard Park Drive, the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum is one of the top attractions in 1 Lafayette.

Established in 1964, it is the art museum for the University of Louisiana named after Paul and Lulu Hilliard, the major donors for the construction of the museum.

Covering 33,000 square feet, its facility features over 11,000 square feet of exhibition space.

The collection in this museum consists of more than 4,000 art objects traced from the 18th to the 21st century, including artworks from America, Asia, and Europe.

More collections include ancient Egyptian art, Japanese woodblock prints, folk art, and works by local artists of Louisiana.

Address: Girard Park Drive, Lafayette, Louisiana.

5. Azalea Trail

Looking for a notable symbol in Lafayette? The abundant azaleas that line the streets are not just common but a beautiful and vibrant symbol of the city.

With a variety of colors from whites, reds, pinks, purples, and a lovely hue of salmon, the azaleas stem down 20 miles of the city’s streets. Some of the more important bushes have been surviving for over 50 years.

The beauty of these flowers and how they wind in and out of the city birthed the Azalea Trail and remains one of the best walking tours any visitor would take in Lafayette.

The trail would touch Lafayette’s most famous attractions like the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, the Mouton Plantation, the Heymann Performing Arts Center, and the Girard Park.

If you wish to walk the Azalea Trail, the best starting point is the Lafayette Visitor’s Center, which provides maps and more information about the landmarks along the trail.

For fun things to do in Lafayette, LA, do add a visit to your bucket list of places to visit in Lafayette.

Address: 1400 NW Evangeline Thruway, Lafayette, LA 70501

6. Kid’s fun time at Children’s Museum of Acadiana

The museum was founded in 1990 and is housed in the old Heymann Food Center on East Congress Street in downtown Lafayette.

The Children’s Museum of Acadiana organizes several programs like classes, school field trips, workshops, and Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts programs.

If you are in thought of what to do in Lafayette with kids, this is an amazing place to visit.

The museum also plays host to special events such as garage sales, Art Stomp, the Spooktacular Halloween Party, and performances. This includes several kinds of birthday parties called Bonne Fete Party Packages.

Address: 201 East Congress Street, Lafayette, Louisiana.

7. Premier Lanes

Premier Lanes exists as a popular and dear member of Lafayette’s entertainment scene and offers a unique atmosphere to enjoy an amazing game of bowling and more within its facilities.

Premier Lanes was opened in 1984 and is a community favorite. Ever since its opening, patrons have frequented it over the years. Premier Lanes is outfitted with 32 world-class bowling alley lanes and with a lot of arcade games for other visitors to enjoy.

In addition, Premier Lanes regularly show sporting events on their big screens. Patrons favor the late hours of the weekend because they get to enjoy a few games of glow bowling.

Address: 3227 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Lafayette, LA 70506

8. Lafayette Science Museum

Located on Jefferson Street in downtown Lafayette, the Lafayette Science Museum showcases displays on various science subjects like paleontology, geology, marine biology, and much more.

The museum was founded in 1968 with a focus on offering hands-on experiences to any curious person, including children and adults.

It is devoted to education and encourages school field trips. There are many programs designed for children like Flight Adventures as well as planetarium programs offered for the general public such as The Modern Universe.

Address: 433 Jefferson Street, Lafayette, Louisiana

9. Southern Stone Indoor Climbing

It does not matter if you are a professional climber or completely new to the sport, Southern Stone Indoor Climbing is a lovely place to visit and enjoy diverse disciplines of rock climbing.

It would take newbies only ten minutes to traverse some of the center’s walls with trained coaches available to assist them at every point.

Southern Stone Indoor Climbing encourages diverse times of climbing disciplines including bouldering, where no ropes or harnesses are required to a maximum height of 14 feet.

Top-rope climbing is the most popular type of climbing at Southern Stone in which visitors will climb in pairs with a belayer.

There are also auto-belayer devices available for solo climbers to help visitors scale the highest walls of Southern Stone. Advanced climbers have sport climbing walls available too

Address: 109 Grand Avenue, Lafayette, LA 70503

10. Avery Island

Situated in the heart of the Louisiana bayou country, Avery Island is the home of the world-renowned McIlhenny Tabasco Company

You will see many popular sights on the island like the Tabasco Pepper Sauce Factory Tour. And though its bottling process only takes place from Monday to Thursday, the sauce is still offered every day.

There are the Jungle Gardens and Bird City which are open every day including Restaurant 1868, where you can eat local Cajun dishes.

The island’s nature preserve permits visitors to see flowers like camellias, azaleas, bamboo, and animals such as egrets, alligators, and deer.

 Address: Avery Island Rd, Avery Island, Lafayette, Louisiana

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11. Enjoy the taste and sounds of Prejean’s

After 40 years of excellent service, the legacy was transferred to the new owner, Tim Metcalf, an owner of other restaurants in the area.

Prejean’s is devoted to gratifying the culinary cravings of patrons while showcasing some Cajun culture as well.

It offers a tantalizing range of dishes with appetizers like the Alligator Sausage Cheesecake and Louisiana Crawfish, the Croc de Jacques, and Crawfish Enchilada.

Popular and awesome entrees to try at Prejean’s include the Shrimp Skillet Creole, the Oyster Saxaphone, and the Blackened Tilapia.

Prejean’s is open all through the week and diners can come through their doors from 10:30 am.

Address: 3480 NE Evangeline Thruway, Lafayette, LA 70507.

12. Champagne’s Cajun Swamp Tours

Champagne’s Cajun Swamp Tours provides ecotour adventures in the hub of the bayou and swamp regions of Louisiana.

They offer guided tours that take visitors through the Lake Martin Cypress Island Preserve with Spanish moss, cypress trees, birds such as woodpeckers, herons, owls, and reptiles like alligators snakes, and frogs.

They offer two-hour tour(s) which is/are available in English or French starting from a dock on Lake Martin and covering other areas.

There are also tours for school trips that up to 105 students and special tours like photography, bird watching, and night tours.

13. Test your knowledge and skills at Escape Room Lafayette

With eight exciting and puzzle-filled rooms to select from, Escape Room Lafayette is an incredible option for groups that want to experience entertaining and interactive gaming experiences.

Each room in Escape Room is designed so that teams are tested in terms of attention to, wits, problem-solving skills, and even code-breaking.

The escape rooms at Lafayette can accommodate as little as two and as many as eight players, each allotted 60 minutes and at different difficulty levels.

Prove your stance to be a wizard at the Public Wizard School escape room or figure out the actual culprit behind a murder that has been framed against you at Mystery Manor or escape before a madman comes back in the Cabin escape room.

This makes what to do in Lafayette for some fun, quite a perfect addition to your bucket list of fun things to do in Lafayette, LA. These rooms and more await you at Escape Room Lafayette.

Address: 5520 Johnston Street, Suite D, Lafayette, LA 70503.

14. Take on Cajun Food Tours

Cajun Food Tours is a tour company in Youngsville that provides Cajun food tours coupled with explanations of the history and culture of Cajun.

The tour groups accommodate up to 14 people in a customized tour bus that stops at six different locations for Cajun dish tastings such as boudin, etouffee, cracklin,’ gumbo, fried seafood, and king cake.

Places where the bus stops include the Cajun Market Donut, Poor Boy’s Riverside Inn, La Cuisine de Maman, and more.

Cajun Food Tours was established in 2011 and does well in introducing visitors to the local cuisine of Lafayette. It was voted the Tastiest Town in the South.

15. Enjoy delicious food at T-Coon’s Restaurant

T-Coon’s Restaurant is popular for serving up the best possible home-cooked food in the fastest time possible. They have been in this business for four generations, offering delectable meals to the Lafayette crowd.

It is owned and led by David Billeaud, a sixth-generation Broussard native with a French pedigree, offering wholesome breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and awesome dining options.

Though the restaurant does offer daily specials, there are some tested and confirmed menu offerings that please visitors. First-timers ought to try the Fried Shrimp, or Catfish Jambalaya, the T-Coon Breakfast Special, Catfish Court bouillon, or the Meatball Fricassee amongst others.

However, there is one thing guests should not forget to order, T-Coon’s delectable biscuits and gravy combos!

Address: 1900 West Pinhook Road, Lafayette, LA 70508.

16. Get down to Cypress Island

Cypress Island is a preserve located along with Lake Martin between Lafayette and Breaux Bridge. It spreads about 9,500 acres with protected cypress swamp and hardwood forest land.

You will see the Visitor Center at the southern end of the lake where LA Highway 353 and Rookery Road meet.

There is a picnic pavilion here and the start of the 2.5-mile Levee Trail that guides visitors through the preserve and around the lake.

From January down to June, several kinds of birds come to the preserve to make their nests, the likes of roseate spoonbills, little blue herons, and several types of egrets like great, cattle, and snowy egrets.

Plan to explore this beautiful area with your loved one on a romantic day trip. It is one of the top things to do in Lafayette.

17. Have fun at Moncus Park

Moncus Park was opened in January of 2022.

It was born out of a movement to secure and preserve the property formerly known as The Horse Farm – the equestrian center of the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute.

In 2018, construction to transform the land into a world-class park started after several supporters’ advocacy and hard work. While in 2021, the second wave of construction for the other half of the 125-acre property commenced.

Moncus Park bears its name following a massive donation from philanthropist James Moncus, with the park’s operation funded fully by donors and local organizations confirming it as a community park in every bit.

It is open from 5 am to 10 pm and guests to the park can enjoy exploring the Ravine Gardens, walking the park’s 1-mile loop trail, absorbing sun rays on the many grand lawns, or spending time relaxing at the Cajun Prairie.

The park is also home to a hammock grove, a water playground, a fishing pier, and a veterans memorial.

Address: 2913 Johnston Street, Lafayette, LA 70503.

18. Acadian Cultural Center

Dedicated to intimating the public about the culture of the Cajun people, the Acadian Cultural Center is another lovely place to visit in Lafayette.

The center is situated on Fisher Road, just a few miles from the Vermilionville Historic Village, and focuses on the origins, migration, and settlement of the Acadians, or Cajuns, who were originally from Canada before they settled in Louisiana.

There are portable media players available for guests to borrow at the Visitors Center.

There are also films, exhibits, and ranger programs including ranger-guided boat tours on the ship called Cocodrie.

More activities include special events like music, dance, storytelling, and Girl Scout and Boy Scout programs, school field trips, and summer camps.

Address: 501 Fisher Road, Lafayette, Louisiana.

19. Visit the spectacular Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is one of the most magnificent buildings in Lafayette and is included on the National Register of Historic Places.

The cathedral which is a glorious towering red and white brick building is found on the aptly-named Cathedral Street and provides a calm experience to anyone who wishes to visit.

The artistic works are particularly impressive and include stained glass windows representing Saint John the Evangelist’s like and various oil paintings, making the visit well worth it. 

Also, one can explore the building itself on a guided tour, you can cap off your visit with a trip to the gift shop and on-site museum.

Address: 515 Cathedral St, Lafayette, LA 70501, USA

20. Eat great at Roly Poly

The Roly Poly restaurant has a way of making you think as though they are giving something away on your first visit.

There is normally a line at the counter, and they usually give customers free drinks while they wait. Roly Poly makes sandwiches, not just any kind of sandwich.

Located on Coolidge Street, the Roly Poly restaurant is so good that the company decided to open 125 stores across the country to make their customers happy. 

They have no big secret to their successful service delivery and management. They use fresh ingredients and interesting flavor combinations that are not found anywhere else, coupled with fast service.

Ingredients like fresh sliced avocado, green leaf lettuce, alfalfa sprouts, fresh tortillas, and Roma plum tomatoes are the standard. They’ve got probably everything you would ever want in inwrap, be it hot or cold. They have hundreds of combinations!

You will like the Chipotle Cheese Steak with sliced steak, cheddar, melted jalapeno jack, green peppers, onions, and mushrooms immersed with mild chipotle dressing. They serve it with fresh salsa.

Address: 1004 Coolidge St, Lafayette, Louisiana

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21. Catch a show at Heymann Center

Heymann Center is the largest and most welcoming Performing Arts Center in Lafayette. With a wide range of performances that appeals to tastes and age groups, it is one of the top things to do in Lafayette.

Here, music of all genres can be enjoyed with live shows from international stars in the worlds of Western, Hip-Hop, Country, and lots more besides.

Maybe, you would love to engage your funny side with one of the regular stand-up shows here, or if you’re checking at the right time, you could even participate in a bodybuilding contest!

Whatever interests you, just know that there is always something going on at the Heymann.

Address: 1373 S College Rd, Lafayette, LA 70503

22. See feathered friends at Lake Martin Rookery

Lake Martin Rookery

If you are in Lafayette, the perfect place to get a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life is at Lake Martin Rookery.

The area is recognized for its abundant natural wildlife, and you together with your family have the option to explore at will.

You may even decide to take one of the guided tours if you prefer a more comprehensive discussion of the exhibited flora and fauna.

There are so boat tours on the lake, which is an opportunity to potentially sight an alligator in the wild. The serenity and tranquility of the whole area you to enjoy nature at its best.

Address: Rookery Road, Lafayette, LA 70517

23. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with the locals

If you are searching for the best way to spend an afternoon in Lafayette, then you have the Lafayette Farmers and Artisan Market to see to that.

The market is popular for its fantastic food – ranging from desserts you can enjoy on-site to take-home meals – to the stall that sells top-quality arts, gifts, and crafts.

The market welcomes pets and families, so you can take the entire family along and check out the local ware and may even dance to the beautiful on-site music!

The market is only open on Saturdays, from 8 am to 12 pm.

Address: 2913 Johnston St, Lafayette, LA 70503

24. Lafayette must-visit: Vermilionville

Vermilionville is a museum and park devoted to sensitizing the public about the culture of south-central Louisiana.

The park is located on Fisher Road close to the Lafayette Regional Airport and sits on 23 acres along the banks of the Bayou Vermillion. Its focus is on Creole, Acadian, and Native American cultures from 1765 to 1890.

The park features 19 attractions, with 13 artisans exhibiting the early settlers’ crafts and seven restored homes.

It also hosts Native American Culture Day events, workshops such as Canning and Preserving, and musical performances featuring local musicians.

Vermilionville also organizes tours including Adult Group Tours and Boat Tours.

This makes what to do in Lafayette, for History lovers, a recommended addition to your bucket list of things to do in Lafayette, LA, for fun.

Address: 300 Fisher Road, Lafayette, Louisiana

25. Soak up the atmosphere at Parc Sans Souci

It is very appropriate a name, too, as the laid-back ambiance of the park is perfect for a walk in the grassy environs or a relaxing picnic.

There is an outdoor concert venue at the heart of the park, and it has a landmark living sculpture as a feature.

The letters “LAFA ETTE” are permanently fixed, allowing you space to stand with your arms raised thereby making a “Y” shape for a photo opportunity that celebrates the city.

Opening hours for the park are Tuesday to Friday, 11 am – 5 pm and 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Address: 201 E Vermilion St, Lafayette, LA 70501

26. Enjoy Bon Temps Grill

If you are looking for a place to bring the family for dinner, then head to Bon Temps Grill. It is a friendly, lowly neighborhood place and adds to our exciting list of things to do in Lafayette.

This restaurant is also a place to unravel authentic ‘swamp edge cuisine’, a blend of Cajun and Creole dishes that are hard to separate but are defended with passion.

The restaurant grills its food with aromatic mesquite wood that adds a fine nip to the meats. Have a taste of their grilled pork chops packed with apple and tasso (pork shoulder.)

They also have superb local craft beer on tap and some lovely local cocktails.

Address: 11211 W Pinhook Rd, Lafayette, LA 70503

27. Eat, drink and knock bowls at Rock ‘n’ Bowl

Looking for what to do in Lafayette, LA?

Designed to offer everything you could want from a night out, Rock ‘n’ Bowl is amongst the fun things to do in Lafayette, LA, for a memorable time.

You are assured of getting diverse entertainment, great fun, and excitement all from the comfort of the same venue.

Of course, bowling makes any evening round, and you will also have the chance to catch one of the well-known live music acts that have made customers give this experience very strong reviews.

If you wish to have a dish as a cap for your evening, Sainte Marie restaurant is stand by and would never disappoint.

If you want to dance, bowl, and have a nice time with your family and friends, Rock ‘n’ Bowl in Lafayette will always be in contention.

They are open from Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 12 am (closed on Mon & Tue)

Address: 905 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501

28. The French Press

At French Press, breakfast is turned into an entirely new affair. At first look, it is a tastefully decorated and cozy casual dining place in downtown Lafayette.

French Press offers lunch and dinner, but their breakfast has become the talk of the town and what distinguishes this place from others.

Their chef, Justin Girouard handles his native Cajun cuisine in a way that becomes modern and with effect from his spin.

It is innovative and well-recognized at the same time, the perfect comfort food that leaves you full and satisfied.

Girouard prepares the dishes using only fresh and local ingredients, and he even makes sausages himself. His Cajun Benedict is world-class: toasted French bread with two poached eggs soaked with gumbo made of chicken and Hebert’s boudin sausage. There is also Andouille sausage, sprinkled with fresh scallions.

Address: 214 E. Vermilion St., Lafayette, Louisiana.

29. Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site

Located on North Main Street in St. Martinville, just about 18 miles southeast of Lafayette is another interesting attraction called the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site

The Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site is the oldest state park in Louisiana, focusing on the culture of the Bayou Teche area of Los Angeles.

The Bayou Teche is a long waterway that stretches 125 miles in south-central Louisiana, with the site exploring various cultures of the region including Creoles, Cajuns, Native Americans, and more.q

Henry Wadsworth Longsworth in his poem, “Evangeline,” talks about two Acadian lovers, Evangeline and Gabriel. The tree where they met in the tale and Evangeline’s grave are located on the site.

You can also go on guided tours of the Maison Olivier, a historic 1815 plantation home.

Address: 1200 North Main Street, St. Martinville, LA 70582

30. The Acadiana Center for the Arts

Located on West Vermilion Street, the Acadiana Center for the Arts is a gallery and performance venue in downtown Lafayette.

The center has its James Devin Moncus Theater, featuring theatre, films and music, and visual performances.

The museum houses several engaging exhibits in its galleries, as well as workshops and arts and cultural classes in its educational spaces.

Some of the programs hosted in the center include Arts Grants for Teachers, Teaching Artists Program, Student Arts Expo, Touring Arts Performances, and more.

Several spaces in the center are available for rent for special events like weddings and meetings. They include the Board Room, the Art House, the theater, and the Atrium/Cafe.

Address: 101 West Vermilion Street, Lafayette, LA 70501.

31. Surge Entertainment by Drew Brees

Surge Entertainment By Drew Brees is a giant building with loads of fun. It is a unique and deluxe destination for all your party needs. 

Their children’s birthday parties are filled with various activities to pick from. Surge Entertainment by Drew Brees is also an ideal venue for hosting your private or corporate event. 

You can eat and drink alcohol while you wait for your kids. It also has many games that allow children to earn points for prizes, with loads of prizes. 

Celebrate your special event or host your corporate team-building events at Surge Entertainment by Drew Brees, and you will not be disappointed. 

Address: 2723 W Pinhook Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508, United States

32. Fun Nation

Fun Nation is a family entertainment center that offers rolling skating as a healthy and fun activity in Lafayette. 

This number-one birthday party destination provides an enormous arcade, flat screens TVs, pizza, and complimentary WiFi for your enjoyment. 

This facility is a suitable place for parties, church and athletic organizations, and fundraising events for schools. 

They also have a birthday club you can enter for a special discount and extended hours during summer weekdays and holidays. 

Head to Fun Nation for your next event, party, or fun night. It offers birthday parties in private, semi-private, and group settings. 

Address: 4518 W Congress St, Lafayette, LA 70506, United States

Want more of Louisiana? do check out our list of things to do in Monroe  for a memorable vacation.

Plan your trip to Lafayette

Lafayette promises a great experience for both the locals and visitors. It has so many engaging attractions that offer guests a lot of excitement.

From parks to museums to historic sites to restaurants to Theatres, you will have a classic vacation experience with your family.

Start planning your trip to this lovely city and if you need some guidance, do well to check back here anytime.

Have a great trip.

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Welcome to Lafayette, LA, the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country where there are many ways to laissez les bons temps rouler or as we say it let the good times roll. Whatever your passion, be it music, cuisine , festivals , history, culture, shopping , architecture , arts, outdoors , wildlife or a little bit of everything, we’ve got something for you to discover. So kick back, relax and let us help plan your escape to the Happiest City in America.

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Lafayette's blog showcasing the food, music, culture and history at the heart of Cajun & Creole Country.

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21 BEST Things to Do in Lafayette, Louisiana [2024 Guide]

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

From diving into the Cajun and Creole food, music, and culture, to exploring the swamps, here are our top things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana.

When we locked in our trip to Lafayette in the southern state of Louisiana in the USA, there was one main thing we wanted to see – swamps!

As we started to research our adventure though we quickly realised there was a lot more to see and do than jump on a boat and cruise through the flooded plains.

Turns out Lafayette is a bit of a cultural gem, and we managed to fill an itinerary with plenty of activities.

White not as well-known as its neighbor, New Orleans , Lafayette offers an incredible glimpse into the multicultural roots of this corner of the USA’s South.

Known for traditional Cajun and Creole culture, Lafayette opened our eyes and minds to amazing cuisine, traditional music, and world-class festivals which happen year round.

In addition to the rich culture, there are tonnes of interesting nature spots and wildlife to see near Lafayette.

There are numerous wildlife sanctuaries, islands, botanical gardens, bird colonies, and more scattered around the swamps of southern Louisiana.

You can tour the nature with a local guide via boat or kayak like we did, or just wander through the marked walking trails on your own.

Whether you’re into culture, history, or nature, Lafayette is saturated with all three.

So if you’re planning your own vacation to check out all the things to see in Lafayette, our latest travel guide is exactly what you need.

Table of Contents

1) Go on a Swamp Tour

2) eat some crawfish, 3) tour the tabasco factory on avery island, 4) get in touch with nature at jungle gardens on avery island, 5) stay in a historical plantation home, 6) explore downtown lafayette, 7) broaden your mind at the lafayette science museum, 8) see the lafayette museum (the alexandre mouton house), 9) visit the acadian cultural center, 10) step back in time at the acadian village, 11) tour the vermilionville living history museum, 12) explore cypress island nature preserve on lake martin, 13) taste the local cuisine with cajun food tours, cajun jam at the moon, cajun french live music jam, 15) catch live zydeco music, 16) attend a free music festival, 17) tour the paul and lulu hilliard university art museum, 18) bring the kiddos to the children’s museum of acadiana, 19) visit the rip van winkle gardens at jefferson island, 20) indulge in some treats at a local bakery, 21) see a show at the acadiana center for the arts, best budget accommodation: woodspring suites, best mid-range accommodation: hilton garden inn, best luxury accommodation: maison mouton b&b , the best things to do in lafayette louisiana.

There are so many fun activities to do in the area that you’ll find yourself wishing you had more time here!

Learn about Cajun culture through live music events, food tours, and historic villages.

Get your fix of science at the Lafayette Science Museum, or art at the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum. Tour a swamp or eat some crawfish.

Whatever your interests are, you are sure to find something that excites you on this list of the best things to do in Lafayette.

One of the main things we wanted to do in Louisiana was check out the swamps. We had heard so much about them and seen them in movies, but wanted to know what they were really like.

So when we found out we were coming to Lafayette, we discovered that the largest swamp in the US, the Atchafalaya Basin, was a short drive away. Hell yea!

After doing some research on how we could best visit the swamp we found  McGee’s Swamp Tours , a family-run eco business that does boat tours out to the basin.

We signed up for a 90-minute slow boat swamp tour and it was sensational!

We cruised around looking for wildlife and exploring the huge delta basin. It was so much greener than we thought it would be, and was actually very beautiful. Nothing like what we expected.

There are people that live on the swamp in small houseboats, and our legendary guide Skip (who grew up on the swamp himself) told us all about the history, culture, and life of people here.

It was honestly so fantastic and we loved every second of it. This is one of the best guided boat tours you can find for the swamps.

If you find yourself in Southern USA definitely add a swamp tour to your bucket list.

When you get to Louisiana, everybody will ask you if you have tried crawfish yet.

It’s the number one meal here in the state, and crawfish boils are a massive part of the local culture.

There was no way we could leave Lafayette without seeing what all the fuss was about.

Kaylie, a Lafayette local, caught up with us for dinner and was willing to show us how to eat the favoured cuisine.

She rose to the challenge, and took us to a small yet popular diner called the Crawfish Spot to give it a go.

Curious to know what it was like? Check out our video from the experience and let us know if you’d give it a go too!

Did you know that the original (and only) Tabasco Factory is found near Lafayette, on Avery Island in Louisiana?

When we found out you would have thought Jarryd was a kid going to Disneyland. He LOVES Tabasco sauce.

Tabasco sauce was invented right here in Louisiana in 1868, and is still the only place in the world where it’s made.

You can tour the factory where all the magic happens, and wander the beautiful grounds.

We learned all about the famous hot sauce and how it was made, with the chili mash fermenting for three years in whiskey barrels before being mixed with vinegar for a month and then bottled and distributed.

The ingredients and recipe for this famous hot sauce is practically unchanged for 150 years.

Visiting the Tabasco Factory is easily one of the best things to do in Lafayette Louisiana.

• Address: 32 Wisteria Rd, Avery Island, LA 70513
• Opening Hours: 9am-4pm, 7 days a week
• Website: https://www.tabasco.com/visit-avery-island/tabasco-tour/
• Price:  $12.50 adults, $9.50 kids (includes Jungle Gardens and Tabasco Factory admission)

After getting your fill of hot sauce, explore more of Avery Island and head to the tranquil Jungle Gardens.

Located on Avery Island in South Louisiana, Jungle Gardens is a large green space home to some interesting attractions.

There are about 170 acres of botanical gardens and wildlife sanctuaries. There is also a bamboo grove and a historic Buddha statue.

Bird City is an egret colony and sanctuary designed to protect local egrets, as hunters used to kill them for their feathers to use in ladies’ hats.

Nowadays, you can visit Bird City to admire these majestic, snowy white birds enjoying life in the marshes.

Jungle Gardens also hosts birding and wildlife tours so you can see all the wildlife that thrives in the marshes around Avery Island.  Find more info on their website !

• Address:  Hwy. 329, Avery Island
• Hours:  9am – 5pm daily

While visiting Lafayette, you could always extend your sightseeing and cultural immersion to your accommodations.

Instead of staying in a normal hotel, why not stay in a historical plantation home?

There are some really lovely places to stay in and around Lafayette where historic buildings have been converted into locally-run bed and breakfasts.

One of the absolute best options is  Maison Mouton B&B , which is where we stayed during our time in Lafayette.

This cozy, centrally-located bed and breakfast is set in a restored Creole house from the 1820s.

Surrounded by gardens and small cottages, and complete with charming, comfortable rooms, the B&B is filled with character, yet still has all the modern amenities you would ever need.

There is no better place to experience Southern hospitality and history than staying in a historic home such as Maison Mouton.

On our list of things to do in Lafayette Louisiana, we had to include taking some time to explore the Downtown area and chat to locals.

Downtown Lafayette is a lively area that doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it deserves.

With numerous unique local restaurants, live music venues, sporting events, museums, art galleries, and more, there are so many fun things to do downtown.

We’ll get into more detail about some of the top attractions later on this list of the best things to do in Lafayette Louisiana.

But just meandering through the easily-walkable streets of Downtown is a great way to get a feel for the “Hub City”.

But here’s our top tip for now – if you love coffee, and we mean good coffee (we’re Australians, trust us), check out Reve Coffee Roasters .

Visiting the Lafayette Science Museum is one of the most fun things to do downtown.

If you have any interest in science and the natural world, this museum is a must.

From geology, to marine biology, to paleontology, and more, you can learn so much when exploring this incredible museum.

There is a planetarium, a gift shop, sculptures and paintings about natural history, and plenty of interactive exhibits.

Visit the website  to see what special interactive exhibits are on at the Lafayette Science Museum when you’re in town.

• Address:  433 Jefferson Street
• Hours:  Saturdays 10am – 6pm, Sundays 1pm – 6pm
• Cost:  $12 Adults, $8 kids

Exploring more of Louisiana? Check out this 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary !

The Lafayette Museum is a historic home and garden that preserves the history and culture of the town.

Constructed around 1800 by some of the first settlers in South Central Louisiana, the house is known for housing Alexandre Mouton in 1825.

Mouton was the first Democratic Governor of Louisiana. His home has been preserved as a museum so that visitors to downtown Lafayette can catch a glimpse of what life was like back then.

For more information about events and admission, as well as photo galleries and stories about the history of the museum,  check out the website .

• Address:  1122 Lafayette Street
• Hours:  10am – 4pm Tuesday – Saturday
• Cost:  $5

Visiting the Acadian Cultural Center is another one of the best things to do in Lafayette Louisiana.

Acadian history is a huge part of the local life in Lafayette, and it’s worth learning a bit about it.

“Acadians” refers to the group of people who migrated from France to Nova Scotia and other parts of northeastern North America in the 17th and 18th Centuries.

Some of them also settled in Louisiana, and the descendants of the Acadians eventually became known as “Cajuns”.

The Acadian Cultural Center used exhibits, films, art, and events to educate visitors about the history, movements, and culture of the Acadians and their descendants, the Cajuns.

It’s free to visit, so if you’re interested in the culture and history of the area, it’s worth checking out the Acadian Cultural Center.

• Address:  501 Fisher Road
• Hours:  9:30am – 4:30pm, Tueday – Saturday (closed on holidays)
• Cost:  Free

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

For more education about the history of Cajun country, also consider visiting the Acadian Village.

The Acadian Village sits on 32 acres of land just a 15 minute drive outside downtown Lafayette.

Designed to preserve Cajun culture, the village is an impressive replica of an authentic 1800s Cajun village.

There are 11 buildings in total, 7 of which are actual homes that have been donated to the Acadian Village by descendents of the original inhabitants. There is also a blacksmith shop and lush farmland, all with a peaceful bayou running through the village.

To see what a Cajun community really looked like hundreds of years ago, definitely see the Acadian Village when you visit Lafayette.

• Address:  200 Greenleaf Drive
• Hours:  10am – 4pm, closed Sundays
• Cost:  Free

Vermilionville Historic Village, also known as the Living History Museum, is a unique place to visit in Louisiana Bayou Country.

Dedicated to educating visitors about the history of the area’s native people, Vermilionville Historic Village offers an enriching and interactive learning experience.

The village celebrates and appreciates the culture of Native Americans, Creoles, Acadians, and other groups of people who thrived in the area throughout history.

Learn about the tools of Cajun and Creole music, browse through historic artifacts, tour 17th, 18th, and 19th Century homes, and more.

• Address:  300 Fisher Road
• Hours:  10am – 4pm, Tuesdays – Sundays
• Cost:  $10 adults, $5 students

One of the most fun things to do in Lafayette Louisiana for nature lovers is head out to Lake Martin and tour the Cypress Island’s Nature Preserve.

This is a great place to see native flora and fauna, especially because it’s less swampy than other nature preserves in the area.

You can easily drive there and explore the swamp via walking, canoeing, or kayaking without any trouble.

Located in between Lafayette and the small town of Breaux Bridge, Lake Martin is home to lots of reptiles, amphibians, and birds.

A stroll along the walking trails of Cypress Island will most likely provide you with views of thousands of nesting shorebirds. It’s also likely you’ll spot some alligators in the waters.

There is a kayak rental shop at the end of Lake Martin Road if you want to get out on the water and paddle around Lake Martin.

For guided tours by kayak or canoe, check out  Pack and Paddle , a local company that runs tours of the area.

Cypress Island Nature Preserve is run by the  Nature Conservancy , and their goal is to restore and preserve the wildlife and environment of the swamps in this corner of Louisiana.

You can visit Cypress Island Nature Preserve for free during daylight hours. The Visitor Center is open from 10am – 4pm on Wednesdays through Sundays.

One of the best things about traveling in Louisiana is indulging in plenty of authentic Cajun cuisine.

Made with fresh local ingredients and bursting with flavor, the Cajun food around Lafayette is mouthwatering.

Guided food tours are the easiest way to taste all the best dishes from the best local places.

Cajun Food Tours  is a top-rated local company that takes its guests through the heart of Cajun country. Listen, learn, and most importantly, eat!

Cajun Food Tours combines history lessons with culinary expertise and allows you to sample the very best of the local cuisine.

You can join a walking food tour through downtown Lafayette or hop on a food tour by customized tour bus that travels to some further spots like Breaux Bridge.

They even have a full day Cajun experience that includes a swamp boat tour of Lake Martin and Cajun dance lessons, while of course featuring local Cajun dishes throughout the day.

14) Watch or Play Live Music at a Cajun Jam

One of the most fun things to do in Lafayette Louisiana is head to a Cajun Jam.

This is essentially a laid-back, informal live music jam where anyone can join in. Free to enter and open to all, a Cajun Jam is a lively and exciting way to experience Cajun music and local culture.

Some of the best musicians from the Lafayette area attend the Cajun Jams, so it can be super impressive to just watch. If you’re a musician, join in the fun!

Two of the most popular live music events in Lafayette include:

• Location:  Blue Moon Saloon
• Date & Time:  Every Wednesday from 7pm – 10pm
• More info:  https://www.lafayettetravel.com/event/cajun-jam-at-the-moon/24939/
• Location:  Vermilionville Living History Museum
• Date & Time:  Every Saturday from 1pm – 3pm
• More info:   https://www.lafayettetravel.com/event/cajun-french-music-jam-at-vermilionville/30274/

Cajun culture and music is pretty well known in Lafayette among tourists, as the area is part of “Cajun Country”.

But a lesser known type of music that is absolutely worth checking out is Zydeco Music.

This genre of music which originated in southern Louisiana is an intoxicating mix of black Creole, French Creole, and Native American sounds, language, and beats.

Accordian and guitar are popular instruments, and the music blends rhythym and blues with jazz and traditional folk music. It’s extremely unique and beautiful.

Some of the best live music venues for hearing Zydeco tunes in Lafayette include  El Sid-O’s Zydeco and Blues Club and  Blue Moon Saloon .

Read next: 21 Best Things to Do in Atlanta, Georgia

Because Lafayette is such a vibrant, multicultural, artistic place, the city often hosts incredible music festivals that are completely free!

So if you’re a music lover and you’ve already hit up a Cajun jam or a live music venue, consider heading to Lafayette during one of these awesome festivals.

The most popular is the  Festival International de Louisiane,  hosted annually on the last weekend on April. This five-day festival celebrates French heritage through amazing live music performances and lots of delicious food.

Another one of the best festivals in Lafayette is the  Festivals Acadiens et Creoles.  Hosted on the second full weekend of October, this free music festival specializes in Cajun, Zydeco, and Creole music.

The Hilliard University Art Museum is a top attraction in Lafayette for art lovers.

Located at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette, the Hilliard Art Museum is a visual arts museum that focuses on education.

With three main galleries showcasing international art as well as American Southern Gulf Coast art through paintings, artifacts, sculptures and more, there is so much to see here.

See ancient Egyptian art, Japanese prints, and photography from local Louisiana artists. There are also rotating special exhibits, which you can learn more about  on the website .

The museum was originally named the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, after Paul and Lulu Hilliard who donated $5 million to the construction of the museum.

• Address:  710 East St. Mary Boulevard
• Hours:  9am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday (close at 8pm on Wednesdays and open at 10am on Saturdays)
• Cost:  $7.50

If you’re traveling through downtown Lafayette with kids, this is the perfect place to entertain them for an afternoon.

The Children’s Museum of Acadiana is for children ages 10 and under. It promotes education and community engagement, so it’s a great way to get your kids involved in the local culture.

With a focus on interactive exhibits and activities, the Children’s Museum will get your kids involved in local crafts, cultural classes, games, and other hands-on projects.

• Address:  201 E. Congress Street
• Hours:  Time slots available on the  website
• Cost:  $7 (Free for infants under 1)

A quick 30-minute drive south of Lafayette will bring you to Jefferson Island, a lovely attraction full of nature and history.

Jefferson Island is named after Joseph Jefferson, an American actor who became famous for playing the role of Rip Van Winkle on stage. The role was based on the 19th Century short story of “Rip Van Winkle”.

The southern plantation style home of Joseph Jefferson and the surrounding Rip Van Winkle Gardens are a magnificent attraction on Jefferson Island that makes a nice little excursion from Lafayette.

Wander through the semi-tropical gardens, admire the Victorian architecture of the mansion, and marvel at the trees that are over 300 years old.

• Address:  5505 Rip Van Winkle Road
• Garden and Gift Shop Hours:  9am – 5pm
• Home Tours:  10am -4pm
• Cost:  $12

If you’re craving something a little different than crawfish and Cajun food, head to one of the cozy local bakeries in downtown Lafayette and enjoy some home baked goods.

Lafayette has some amazing bakeries that sell fresh bread and pastries, as well as meals and take away snacks.

A local favorite is  Poupart Bakery.  Opened in 1967, this is the oldest authentically french bakery in town.

Poupart Bakery is family-run and has daily specials available. Check out their  instagram  and try not drool over the gorgeous, colorful cakes!

Speaking of cake,  Piece of Cake Lafayette  is the best place to go for artisan cakes. This is a favorite among locals for elaborate, custom-order cakes, but you can also pop in for a delicious slice of cake or pastry to-go.

Another authentic french bakery is  Keller’s Bakery Downtown . Located in a historic building, the bakery was founded by the Keller family, a family of bakers who migrated to the USA from the Alsace Region of France in the 1700s.

Looking for more vibrant cities of the USA South? Check out this list of the Best Things to Do in Nashville, Tennessee

Last on the list of the best things to do in Lafayette Louisiana is heading to the Acadiana Center for the Arts.

This cultural center has so many things to see and do, from ticketed performances to free public events to art galleries and more.

You could come for a live show, such as a dance recital, a play, or a musical. There is so much music that plays at the Acadiana Center as well, from rock bands, to folk groups, to opera singers.

There are always touring arts performances coming through the Acadiana Center. You could easily see a famous band one day and then see a small local artist the next.

The Acadiana Center for the Arts is also home to visual art exhibitions and galleries that you can see at any time. Stop in to browse, or book a show in advance for when you’re in town.

• Address:  101 W Vermilion St.
• Hours:  Galleries are open Tuesday – Saturday from 9am – 5pm
• Cost:  Depends on which events/exhibitions you are attending.  Find more info on the website .

Where To Stay in Lafayette, Louisiana

Now that you know what to do in Lafayette, here are some of the top-rated accommodation options for your stay.

Unfortunately there are no hostels in Lafayette, as the city is not yet on the popular tourist trail of the USA.

But there are some great budget hotels and motels for those looking to save money. And there are lots of great mid-range accommodation options, as well as some pricier options for those with cash to spend!

For accommodation under $100 USD per night,  Woodspring Suites  has some of the best ratings.

It is not directly in the city center, so having a car could be handy as it is a few kilometers to most attractions. But this is a lovely, quiet place to stay with all the amenities you may need, like a fitness center, flat screen tv, and kitchen facilities.

The  Hilton Garden Inn  is a top-rated hotel near downtown Lafayette that is still very reasonably priced.

With rooms costing around $150 USD per night, you get to enjoy high quality rooms and service without spending a fortune.

There is an on-site restaurant as well, and the hotel is close to all the highlights of downtown.

We mentioned this incredible historic plantation home bed and breakfast earlier in the article. But if you’re looking for the best accommodation in Lafayette, this is it. 

The best thing about  Maison Mouton B&B  is that the prices are very reasonable for such a stunning place. 

A stay in a gorgeous, cozy room with garden views surrounded by giant oak trees is only around $150-200 USD per night, depending on your dates. You also get a delicious home cooked breakfast, of course. 

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15 Things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana [With Sample 3 Day Itinerary]

Lafayette is located in the southern part of Louisiana. Because of its rich history and beautiful landmarks, Lafayette is really a city that you everyone should explore! One of the places that you shouldn’t miss here is the Acadian Village. It would give you a glimpse of what happened in the past. 

In this article, we listed down the 15 things to do while you’re in Lafayette, Louisiana. I would help you have an idea of what to do when you decide to visit this awesome city.

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Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana

1. vermilionville.

This is the perfect place to learn more about the history of the area. Not only it has amazing houses from the 18th-century, but it’s also full of nice artifacts that make everything come alive.

Suggested Tour: Tour Historic Vermilionville

2. Lake Martin Rookery

If you want to have a memorable and relaxing day, Lake Martin Rookery is waiting for you! Have a great 2-hour swamp tour that is really worth it. You’ll see some animals and the view is amazing. People who love photography would really love this place!

3. Cathedral of St John the Evangelist

A very picturesque church! This quasi-Romanesque brick cathedral in Lafayette is worth a visit, even just for a short time. This old church is rich in history. And even though it is old, it still looks new because of the materials used. When you’re in Lafayette, Louisiana, don’t forget to go here.

4. Acadian Village

This private cultural park located in Lafayette, Louisiana would help you step back in time. People who love history would enjoy reading artifacts here. So if ever you get the chance, don’t forget to visit here

5. Lafayette Science Museum

This museum is great for people of all ages. Everyone would surely enjoy seeing exhibits inside. It houses over 1,000 paintings, prints, and sculptures of Louisiana artists and regularly changing exhibits and planetarium programs.

6. Acadian Cultural Center

A visit here is free. By going here, you can learn about the area’s past and development of the local culture. There is also a documentary available for visitors to watch. This trip is really educational and fun at the same time.

7. Alexandre Mouton House

Alexandre Mouton House, also known as the Lafayette Museum houses antiques, paintings and a collection of Mardi Gras costumes. After visiting here, you will surely gain a lot of knowledge about the history of this house.

8. Evangeline State Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Maddie (@smol_spooky_witch) on Jun 25, 2017 at 12:46pm PDT

This park would take you back in time. Get a chance to learn about the history of the Bayou Teche area and early settlers. The ground itself is also beautiful. Never miss this place when you’re in Lafayette, Louisiana.

9. Louisiana Airborne Memorial Bridge and Monument

This bridge is 18 miles long and it will give the visitors the chance to see the beautiful swamp. This is also a great monument dedicated to the men and women of the United States Military who have served as airborne soldiers. There are a lot of interesting facts about its history when you go here. 

10. Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Siete Salsa (@thesietesalsa) on Jan 25, 2020 at 7:32am PST

The ideal place if you want to buy a lot of things! There are a lot of good items here. There are different types of vendors including foods, wines, body products, clothing, metal and woodworks and more. 

11. Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission

This is a very informative tourist center. It has tons of information and staff are friendly and so much willing to help you! 

12. Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum

This is a contemporary art museum. The exhibits inside are very interesting. This museum was named after Paul and Lulu Hilliard, who donated $3 million for the building’s construction.

13. Children’s Museum of Acadiana

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Children’s Museum of Acadiana (@childrensmuseumofacadiana) on Dec 6, 2019 at 4:09pm PST

From the name itself, of course, this place is ideal or kids! So if you’re traveling with kids, then you should head here. A lot of fun activities for children! There are several different rooms themed as a child’s size world. A grocery store, a restaurant, a bank, a dentist’s office, etc. Your kids won’t get bored here.

14. Cajundome & Convention Center

This the perfect place for big events! If you want to watch a good concert, this is the place for you. A great venue for you to entertain yourself.

15. Lafayette Art Gallery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lafayette Art Gallery (@lafayetteartgallery) on Jul 21, 2015 at 12:25pm PDT

This small art gallery has unique works of art. Art of all types by local artists can be found here such as painting, ceramics, wood, jewelry, mixed media & sculpture. They exhibit all around the city. If you’re interested in art. Then you should go here.

Things to do with 3 days in Lafayette, Louisiana

Day 1 in Lafayette, Louisiana

Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission –   Before you start your journey in Lafayette, Louisiana, it is recommended to go to Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission. This center would help you have more information about your trip.

Vermilionville – For you to be able to know more about the city, then you should head here. You’ll see houses from the 18th century with lots of artifacts. People who love history would enjoy this place.

Day 2 in Lafayette, Louisiana

Lake Martin Rookery – This 2-hour swamp tour would let you feel closer to nature. It has great views and you’ll see different animals as well. If you like photography, this the perfect place for a nice photo.

Cathedral of St John the Evangelist – This very beautiful church is a must-visit. It is rich in history and the church is very picturesque that people who love photography would enjoy going here.

Day 3 in Lafayette, Louisiana

Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market – Before you leave, you should go to Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market first. You can buy a lot of things here, from food, wines to clothing and a lot more!

Frequently Asked Questions about Lafayette, Louisiana

1. Is it safe to travel to Lafayette, Louisiana?

Lafayette’s tourist attractions are mostly safe. However, tourists are advised to be cautious at night, everywhere you go.

2. When is the best time to visit Lafayette, Louisiana?

The best time to visit Lafayette would be spring and fall season. The weather is nice and cool during these days. Everyone would surely enjoy having a good time in the city during these seasons. 

3. How to get to Lafayette, Louisiana?

Unfortunately, only a few airports from different cities fly directly to Lafayette (Dallas, Atlanta, Denver, and Houston). In some states, you need a connecting flight. The main airport in the said city is Lafayette Regional Airport. You can check Skyscanner for available flights.

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About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima . My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram .

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lafayette

Things to do in lafayette, explore popular experiences, tours in and around lafayette.

Tour Historic Vermilionville

Lafayette Scavenger Hunt: Lafayette In Full Bloom

Cajun Food Bus Tour in Lafayette

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Lafayette by Zombie Scavengers

Talking To The Dead On Tour

Lafayette Locomotion Scavenger Hunt

Guided Candle Pouring Soiree in Louisiana

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in lafayette.

Other Top Attractions around Lafayette

What travellers are saying

• Vermilionville
• Lake Martin Rookery
• Cathedral of St John the Evangelist
• Acadian Village
• Lafayette Science Museum
• Evangeline State Park
• Acadiana Park Nature Station
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park
• Pack & Paddle

• Weekend Getaways
• Romantic Trips
• Last Minute

25 Best Things to Do in Lafayette, LA

Last Edited By VacationIdea on March 10, 2024

Acadian Village

200 Greenleaf Drive, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-981-2364

Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum

Girard Park Drive, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-482-0811

Children's Museum of Acadiana

201 East Congress Street, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-232-8500

Lafayette Science Museum

433 Jefferson Street, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-291-5544

Avery Island

Avery Island Rd, Avery Island, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-365-8173

Champagne's Cajun Swamp Tours

337-230-4068

Cajun Food Tours

337-230-6169

Cypress Island

Here, you can find a picnic pavilion and the start of the 2.5-mile Levee Trail that leads visitors through the preserve and around the lake. From January to June there are many different kinds of birds that come to the preserve to make their nests, including little blue herons, roseate spoonbills, and several types of egrets like cattle, great, and snowy egrets. Plan a romantic day trip and explore this beautiful area on vacation.

Acadian Cultural Center

501 Fisher Road, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-232-0789

1004 Coolidge St, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-234-3289

Tsunami, Lafayette

412 Jefferson St., Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-234-3474

Vermilionville

300 Fisher Road, Lafayette, Louisiana, Phone: 337-233-4077

Bon Temps Grill

11211 W Pinhook Rd, Lafayette, LA 70503, Phone: 337-706-8850

The French Press

More vacation ideas: Unique Romantic Places to Stay in Louisiana .

The Acadiana Center for the Arts

101 West Vermilion Street, Lafayette, LA 70501, Tel. (337) 233-7060 Best things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana for couples include the Acadian Village , Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum and Avery Island .

Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site

You may also like: 19 Unique Romantic Places to Stay in Louisiana .

Alexandre Mouton House

1122 Lafayette Street, Lafayette, LA 70501, Phone: 337-234-2208

Moncus Park

2913 Johnston Street, Lafayette, LA 70503, Phone: 337-500-1177

508 Youngsville Highway, Lafayette, Louisiana 70508; Phone: 337-837-5278

Azalea Trail

1400 NW Evangeline Thruway, Lafayette, LA 70501

Premier Lanes

3227 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Lafayette, LA 70506, Phone: 337-981-4034

Southern Stone Indoor Climbing

Whether you’re a seasoned climber or totally new to the sport, Southern Stone Indoor Climbing is a great place to come and enjoy multiple disciplines of rock climbing. In just ten minutes, newbies can find themselves traversing some of the center’s walls with trained coaches there to assist them at every point. Southern Stone Indoor Climbing supports several times of climbing disciplines such as bouldering, which requires no ropes or harnesses to a maximum height of 14 feet. The most popular type of climbing at Southern Stone is the top-rope climbing in which visitors will climb in pairs with a belayer. For solo climbers, there are also auto-belayer devices available to help visitors scale Southern Stone’s highest walls. For advanced climbers, sport climbing walls are also available. 109 Grand Avenue, Lafayette, LA 70503, Phone: 337-981-8116

3480 NE Evangeline Thruway, Lafayette, LA 70507, Phone: 337-896-3247

T-Coon's Restaurant

1900 West Pinhook Road, Lafayette, LA 70508, Phone: 337-233-0422

Escape Room Lafayette

5520 Johnston Street, Suite D, Lafayette, LA 70503, Phone: 333-371-2883

• 1. Acadian Village
• 2. Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum
• 3. Children's Museum of Acadiana
• 4. Lafayette Science Museum
• 5. Avery Island
• 6. Champagne's Cajun Swamp Tours
• 7. Cajun Food Tours
• 8. Cypress Island
• 9. Acadian Cultural Center
• 10. Roly Poly
• 11. Tsunami, Lafayette
• 12. Vermilionville
• 13. Bon Temps Grill
• 14. The French Press
• 15. The Acadiana Center for the Arts
• 16. Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site
• 17. Alexandre Mouton House
• 18. Moncus Park
• 19. Kart Ranch
• 20. Azalea Trail
• 21. Premier Lanes
• 22. Southern Stone Indoor Climbing
• 23. Prejean's
• 24. T-Coon's Restaurant
• 25. Escape Room Lafayette

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Fun Things To Do In Lafayette, Louisiana: Enjoy Bon Temps In The Heart of Cajun Country

Experience Cajun good times with these fun things to do in Lafayette, LA. Discover local history, gorgeous nature, and warm southern culture in the HUB city.

Deep in the heart of Cajun country sits one of Louisiana’s most underrated cities. Laden with southern charm, mouthwatering home cooking, and packed with Spanish, French, and Caribbean culture, Lafayette, Louisiana is a destination with endless opportunities for adventure.

Lafayette, which sits along the banks of the Vermillion River in southern Louisiana, is rich in Cajun and Creole heritage. Lafayette is the fifth-largest city in Louisiana. It’s just two-and-a-half hours from New Orleans and just an hour from Baton Rouge.

These fun and exciting things to do in Lafayette, LA will help you plan the perfect itinerary that includes great food, incredible attractions, and lots of southern hospitality.

About Lafayette

Table of Contents

The city of Lafayette, LA is home to just over 120,000 people. The city is at the heart of the Acadian region of Louisiana where thousands of former French colonists in what would become Canada were expelled from the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick.

Many of the Acadians settled in Louisiana in the 1700s and began to rebuild their lives. Over time, the name “Acadian” morphed into “Caju n” (If you slur your words together, it’s easy to see how this happened) and a unique American culture was born.

While Lafayette is one of the largest French-speaking regions of Louisiana, it’s also home to many Creoles of Caribbean ancestry as well. Lafayette Parish is home to stunning swamps packed with incredible wildlife, epic food experiences, and countless dance halls pumping with their iconic Zydeco music.

I had the opportunity to visit Lafayette in the midst of its Mardi Gras celebrations. I even got the chance to take part in everything from the Lafayette Mardi Gras Parade to local festivals like a Boucherie and a Chicken Chase. It was an absolute treat.

Lafayette during Mardi Gras is vibrant, alive, and full of festivities. But I quickly learned that this energy was something that permeates throughout the city year-round.

Fun Things To Do In Lafayette, LA

Explore acadian history at vermilionville historic village.

To get a true appreciation of just how special Lafayette is, it’s important to understand its history. So one of the top attractions in Lafayette for history and culture is Vermilionville Historic Village.

This vibrant living history museum has 12 buildings that explore the life and times of residents of Lafayette and Southern Louisiana at the turn of the century. The 23-acre park gives a great interpretation of Acadian and Creole life from 1765-1890.

Vermilionville was the original name of the city of Lafayette, and Vermilionville Historic Park was built to preserve the legacy, history, and heritage of the city’s early settlers. It opened in 1990 and has become one of the top places to visit in Lafayette for both tourists and locals.

Visitors are drawn to the scenic village and educational displays along with the re-enactments of early life in the bayou. There are also displays marking the Indigenous inhabitants of the Lafayette region, some of who continue to live and thrive within Lafayette Parish.

Locals visit Vermilionville for the on-site restaurant which offers popular meals from Wednesday to Saturday and a buffet lunch on Sundays. Don’t miss the daily music offerings, especially Sundays when live Cajun Zydeco music is paired with lively dancing in the Performance Center.

Experience a Lafayette Swamp Tour

You simply can’t visit Cajun country and not visit the swamp. That’s why one of the top things to do in Lafayette involves flat-bottom boats or airboats rocketing travelers across the bayou.

Lafayette is surrounded by the bayou, and to explore this incredible ecosystem, you need to get off of dry land and explore from the water. There are several Lafayette swamp tour companies where visitors can experience the landscape by airboat or kayak.

You’ll get an up-close and personal view of Lafayette wildlife including alligators, lizards, and countless bird species. There are several Lafayette swamp tours available including Cajun Country Swamp Tours , which departs from Breaux Bridge, and McGee’s swamp tours , which explore the Atchafalaya Swamp, 30 minutes from downtown Lafayette.

Celebrate Cajun History At Acadian Village

Where Vermilion Historic Village explores settler life in what is now Lafayette, Acadian Village dives deeper into the unique Acadian culture that makes Lafayette one of the coolest places to visit in Louisiana.

Covering a massive 32 acres, this park gives visitors the chance to explore a traditional 1800s Cajun village. Acadian Village houses eleven buildings including seven authentic 19th-Century homes, a blacksmith shop, a chapel, and even a general store (stocked with traditional products of course).

Kayak Through Cypress Island Nature Preserve

Flooded Cyprus groves are one of the quintessential images of life in Cajun country, and there are few better places to experience the peaceful magic than Cypress Island Nature Preserve.

The reserve is located on Lake Martin near the small town of Breaux Bridge just 15 minutes from Lafayette. Here you can explore the majestic Cyprus trees on foot, via their wooden boardwalk, or by visiting the kayak rental shop and paddling your own adventure.

There are also guided boat tours for those who aren’t able or don’t feel comfortable navigating the brilliant nature experience on their own. Keep your eyes open for local wildlife such as alligators, lizards, and birds.

Cyprus Island Nature Preserve also has a wonderful Visitor’s Center where you can find out fun facts about the park, discover more about the local wildlife, and pick up some truly unique souvenirs.

Wander The Rip Van Winkle Gardens at Jefferson Island

Just 30 minutes from downtown is one of the top attractions in Lafayette, LA. The Rip Van Winkle Gardens are part of a modern nature park situated on the grounds of the Joseph Jefferson Mansion.

The plantation-style mansion was built in 1870 and the property is a crown favorite, stocked with magnificent gardens, statues, fountains, and a family of colorful peacocks that love to greet visitors.

The pride and joy of the Jefferson Island property are the meticulously maintained Rip Van Winkle Gardens. They are a delight to explore and an absolute must for photography enthusiasts.

Hit The Floor At A Lafayette Dance Hall

Spend a little bit of time in Lafayette, and it won’t be long until someone asks you to dance. Music and dance are absolutely central to the fun-loving social atmosphere in Cajun Country, and it seems that almost every bar, restaurant, and yes, even bowling alley, features live music and a dance floor.

In fact, if there isn’t a dance floor, chances are that the locals will just push the tables aside and make their own.

The music scene in Lafayette is absolutely amazing. And you’ll find everything from country, rock, and local Cajun Zydeco tunes roaring almost everywhere. If you love music and dancing, one of the best things to do in Lafayette, LA is to visit the dance halls.

Check out Seed and Feed downtown for live music and plenty of dancing, Whiskey and Vine restaurant for a more low-key dining experience with energetic music, the Grant Street Dance Hall, or the Vermilionville Performance Center for some of the most lively experiences.

Visit a 450-Year-Old Oak Tree

Drive around Lafayette and you’ll be blown away by the incredible trees that line the streets, parks, and neighborhoods of the city. But the granddaddy of all of these trees is the St. John Cathedral Oak.

This majestic tree sits next to the beautiful St. John Cathedral and has a trunk that measures a whopping 29.5 feet in diameter and a canopy that covers a mind-blowing 250 feet.

This distinguished tree sits within walking distance of downtown Lafayette on St. John Street. Its one of my favorite places to visit in Lafayette. Don’t miss the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist right next to the tree. This 100-year-old Catholic Church has a stunning facade and interior.

Hilliard University Art Museum

One of the top attractions in Lafayette for art and culture lovers is the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum. Situated on the grounds of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the Hilliard Art Museum boasts an astonishing 33,000 square feet of space with over 11,000 square feet dedicated to art exhibits.

Throughout the Hilliard Art Museum, you’ll find antique and modern art from across the globe as well as exhibits dedicated to local, Cajun, and Creole artwork. These creative works span all kinds of media including painting, woodwork, and sculpture.

Acadiana Center For The Arts

Another wonderful place to visit for art lovers in Lafayette is the Acadiana Center for the Arts. This non-profit organization has been an important part of Southern Louisiana’s art culture since 1975.

More than just an art gallery, the Acadiana Center for the Arts provides education on Acadian culture and supports festivals, performances, and events throughout the city.

Check out their  website  to learn about upcoming events, performances, art exhibitions, and educational opportunities.

Wander The Grounds Of The University of Louisiana at Lafayette

One of the most beautiful places to visit in downtown Lafayette is the grounds of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. This is the only university campus I’ve ever encountered that has a swamp on campus, complete with resident alligators.

Wander among the storied buildings, towering oaks, and beautiful gardens just steps from the action in the heart of downtown.

Top Things To Do In Lafayette With Kids

Rock ‘n’ bowl.

Located right in the heart of downtown Louisiana, Rock ‘n’ Bowl reminded me a lot of Radio Social in Rochester New York , but it’s also completely different. Rock ‘n’ Bowl is far more than just a bowling alley that pumps out loud music, it’s a full-on performance center.

At the center of the Rock ‘n’ bowl experience is a large stage and massive screens fronted by a huge dance floor. Guests can munch down on pub food while listening to live music and dancing. The space is as much for parties and events as it is for regular guests and there are private rooms available for rental on the second floor.

Children’s Museum of Acadia

One of the top things to do in Lafayette with kids involves a stop at the Children’s Museum of Acadia . This fun and interactive activity space is packed with exhibits that help children wrap their heads around real-world knowledge such as money, health, and food. And it does this in a way that is straightforward, fun, and exciting.

The Lafayette Children’s Museum invites kids to wander and explore the fun exhibits and playground. You can even sign them up for workshops and special programs.

Exciting Things To Do Near Lafayette, LA

Situated about 45 minutes from downtown a visit to Avery Island in nearby New Iberia is one of the must-do experiences in Lafayette, LA. This incredible island was once a salt mine but exploded to fame in 1868 when the McIlhenny Family launched their hot sauce-focused McIlhenny Tabasco Company.

McIlhenny Tabasco Company

Hot sauce lovers rejoice. You can learn all about the history, production, and growth of America’s favorite hot sauce brand on Avery Island.

The island has been home to the McIlhenny Tabasco Company since its inception in 1868 and still produces most of the company’s signature hot sauce recipes. On the island, you’ll find the fields where the peppers are grown, a museum, a production room, a barrel aging warehouse, a museum, and a tasting room and restaurant.

The island is actually a salt dome that extends eight miles beneath the earth and, until recently, the salt used in the Tabasco sauces was mined right from the island.

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the island and walk through some of the vital aspects of the production process. Just don’t breathe too deeply. The hot pepper smell can literally take your breath away.

If you want a deeper experience, this guided tour includes a cooking course, a six-course Tabasco-inspired menu, and a tour of the grounds. Or you can opt for the self-guided tour here .

Jungle Gardens

Also located on Avery Island is Jungle Gardens, a vast garden and trail network launched by Ned McIlhenny in 1895. He was a talented horticulturist and imported flora from around the world and planted them throughout the property.

Jungle Gardens is immaculately landscaped and includes some notable features including gorgeous old oak trees, Cyprus groves, and a nesting ground for snowy egrets.

Festivals In Lafayette

I had the chance to visit Lafayette during Mardi Gras, and it’s an experience that I won’t soon forget. Enjoy countless parades, complete with bead tossing, a boucherie (a traditional Cajun pig roast), live music stages throughout the city, and all of the fun and excitement of what’s been dubbed the “family-friendly Mardi Gras.”

Mardi Gras, also called Shrove Tuesday, takes place annually on  the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday .

Cajun Jam at the Moon and Cajun French Live Music Jam

Cajun Jam is one of the most popular festivals in Lafayette. These free Cajun music festivals takes place each year in mid-February.

With stages all across the city, Cajun Jam draws visitors from across the US and around the world. Both offer an opportunity for incredible musicians from across Louisiana to showcase their mojo on a world-class stage.

Festivals Acadien et Creole

This annual music festival takes place each year in October and offers visitors a chance to discover the food, music, and culture of Cajun country.

There’s plenty of music, dancing, crafts, and world-class performances to welcome visitors to Lafayette.

Where To Eat In Lafayette

Cajun table.

Boiled crawfish is one of the go-to dishes in southern Louisana, and few places are more popular than Cajun Table. Located in a strip mall on Ambassador Caffrey Parkway, Cajun Table sells traditional boiled crawfish laden with seasoning. You can pair your crawfish platter with all sorts of tasty starters.

The restaurant is owned by a crawfish farmer and all of the crawfish served are farmed from his property right outside of Lafayette. If crawfish isn’t your thing, you can find a full menu of other Southern favorites as well.

Vermilionville Cafe

Located in one of the most historic properties in Lafayette, Louisiana, this 1800s plantation-style home still represents the original build. Most of the walls, beams, and floors are from the original house. This upscale restaurant features some of the best food in Lafayette in an environment that will transport you into the early days of southern Louisiana’s Cajun country.

Bon Temps Grill

This traditional southern dining experience is a great place to enjoy casual dining in Lafayette. With flavor-filled favorites such as alligator bang bang , crawfish jalapeno hush puppies , and fried catfish mon Dieu this Lafayette restaurant will ignite your southern senses.

Social Southern Table and Bar

Known as the go-to brunch spot in Lafayette, Social Southern Table and Bar serves up seasonal dishes in a social atmosphere. Look up to see their copper pipes connecting the beer kegs to the taps at the central bar.

Dig into southern favorites like fresh greens, smoked fried chicken served with sweet potato biscuits , walk of shame frites , and chicken fried green tomatoes .

The Best Stop Market

Known for making some of the best cracklins and boudin (sausage stuffed with a unique meat and rice mix) in Lafayette, the Best Stop Market might not appear to be one of the best restaurants in Lafayette, but it draws a crowd.

Stop into their market for fresh and frozen southern dishes such as flattened chicken, boudin, or lamb, or hit their restaurant to enjoy their freshly fried cracklins and breakfast sandwiches.

Enjoy These Amazing Things To Do in Lafayette, Louisiana!

Lafayette Louisiana offers all of the charms of Cajun country without the overwhelming atmosphere of New Orleans. It’s a fun and exciting destination for family travel, especially during Mardi Gras. These fun and exciting things to do in Lafayette can keep you busy while you explore the city and meet the people.

If you love family travel as much as we do, please join our  Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.

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12 Best Things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana

This city was founded in 1821 as Vermilionville, and later renamed Lafayette in 1884. Its locals are known as Creoles and Cajuns as they have a mixed heritage, descendants of colonial French, African Americans, and Native Americans. More specifically, Cajuns originate from French immigrants who were forced to leave Canada and made their way down to Lafayette.

The Cajun culture is still strong in Louisiana, and there are several things to do in Lafayette that enable you explore its history. The city is also known for its delicious traditional food – if you’re a foodie you’re going to love Lafayette! The region is famous for its countless festivals where the rhythms of the popular Cajun and Zydeco music will have you up on your feet in no time!

12. Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum

The University Art Museum was founded in 1968, though it has changed buildings a few times since then. The museum was renamed after Paul and Lulu Hilliard after they donated five million dollars towards the construction of the current museum, which opened in 2004.

The museum is owned by the University and forms an important part of the art faculty. During your visit you’ll spot students sketching and professors in thought amongst the various tourists. The museum runs educational programs for adults and kids and encourages everyone to get creative! They have artwork from the 18th century through to the 21st century from Europe, America, and Asia in their permanent collection. They rotate their vast collection, and sometimes have travelling exhibitions. It’s a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon.

11. Children’s Museum of Acadiana

This non-profit organization in Lafayette has a hands-on approach to education and allows children to learn by doing. They have lots of themed rooms, where kids can try out different jobs and plan their future careers!

They can have a go at being a doctor, vet, scientist, dentist, chef, waiter, and just about anything else! The museum is great for families with young kids. There’s lots of other kids around they can socialize with, too.

The museum has a sensory area with an array of textures and colors little ones can explore. At the end of the trip, they can broadcast the day’s events from the museum’s make-shift TV station. The perfect place to spend a rainy day.

10. Rip Van Winkle Gardens

The Rip Van Winkle Gardens are just under a 40 minute drive away from the city. The property and gardens were built in 1870 by Joseph Jefferson, who played Rip Van Winkle in the silent black-and-white film.

He came to his home near Lafayette to hunt and paint, finding inspiration in his home’s silence and surrounding nature. Even now, you can see some of his paintings in the old mansion. The house is surrounded by beautifully landscaped semi-tropical gardens, full of exotic plants.

Once you’ve visited the mansion and gardens, head down to the lakeside and watch the sunset over Lake Pigneur. If you fancy it, you can also stay at one of the Rip Van Winkle accommodations and wake up in the colorful and exotic landscape that make up this unique property. There’s a café and gift shop on-site, too.

9. Take a Cajun Food Tour

Lafayette and the nearby towns are known for their delicious traditional food. The recipes brought into the area by French colonists are unique to Louisiana. You absolutely cannot visit without tasting at least three of the popular dishes!

There are many tours suited to a variety of budgets that you can do by foot or on board a tour bus. Along the way you’ll stop off at some of the most popular restaurants and diners in the area. Make sure you come hungry; you’ll need the extra space!

Sample a delicious pot of gumbo soup, try the famous boudin sausages and crawfish, then finish off with a sweet pecan pie. If you’re lucky you’ll get to try some alligator meat, one of the strangest dishes around.

8. Lafayette Science Museum

This educational museum is a perfect balance between learning and fun! They teach science, history, and technology to adults and kids in an engaging way, and there’s lots of interactive exhibits you can test out for yourself.

One of the most popular areas of the museum is the planetarium. Gaze up and find your favourite galaxies and constellations, then read all about the incredible planets in our solar system.

The Lafayette Science Museum is perfect for a family day trip, especially on a grey, rainy day when you can’t get out and about. There’s lots to keep kids and adults of all ages entertained.

7. Take a Swamp Tour

Lafayette is surrounded by bayou and swampland that make up the area’s unique landscape. The best way to explore this wet, boggy land is by boat. Once you’re in the water you can get deep into the bayou and explore the local flora.

You can take a thrilling airboat tour or opt for a bigger and slower boat. You’ll be guided by a friendly local who knows the waterways like the back of his hand. If you want to try something a bit different, there are kayaking and fishing tours on offer too!

Keep an eye out for native wildlife! The area is riddled with birds, alligators, turtles, and slithering snakes; if you’re lucky you’ll spot one from onboard. You’ll also get the opportunity to learn about crawfishing, which has been practiced for generations in Lafayette.

6. Acadian Cultural Center

On your visit you’ll find out about the history of the Acadian people, and how they found themselves in Lafayette and became Cajun after they were expelled from Nova Scotia in Canada and set up their homes in Louisiana.

The center has displays of old and new artifacts that illustrate the historical and contemporary ways of life of Acadians. The French colonists brought with them music, stories, and delicious recipes that are still an important part of Lafayette’s culture.

The half-hour long documentary at the center will tell you all you need to know about the hardship and prosperity of the Acadians. They also have a little gift shop, full of local crafts.

5. Lake Martin Rookery

Just twenty minutes away from Lafayette by car, there is a local wildlife hotspot, the Lake Martin Rookery. The destination has a lake and rookery and is famous for birdwatching. The ideal stop-off for an afternoon walk.

You can go kayaking or boating on the lake, another great way to explore the area. There are lots of oaks and tupelo trees around, these beautiful trees add to the fairy-tale appearance of the rookery.

Keep an eye out for blue herons, egrets, and ibis on your visit. The birdwatching is especially good in spring when the birds come to the rookery to nest. It’s estimated that 60% of the US bird species can be spotted here! It’s not rare to spot alligators either!

4. Acadian Village

The Acadian Village is on the outskirts of the city. This quaint neighborhood has many of the city’s oldest and most historically significant homes. The oldest house in the village is the Bernard House, that was built in 1800 and is full of art that depicts the journey of the Acadians from Canada to Louisiana.

You can also visit the home of Lafayette’s first resident dentist and explore the replicas of the old blacksmith and chapel. Once you’ve done that, head over to the Castille House that was pillaged during the Civil War, but is still in remarkable conditions.

This is the perfect destination for a short stroll that you can combine with getting to know about the Acadian way of life, architecture, and décor!

3. Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

The old cathedral was built in 1916 in the Dutch Romanesque Revival style. The exterior was constructed in red and white brick – it’s quite the large and spectacular structure. You can hardly walk past and not notice this unique building.

The cathedral is open to visitors and worshipers. Come in and learn about the building’s history and faith in the area. The colorful stained glass windows and life-like religious statues inside are just as impressive as the building’s exterior.

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is in downtown Lafayette and it’s a popular destination amongst tourists and locals alike. If you’re religious you should attend a mass, it’s a unique way to experience a community and city.

2. Visit Avery Island

Forty-five minutes’ drive away from Lafayette is the magnificent Avery Island. The island sits on a salt deposit that extends for thousands of miles into the Earth. The deposit is thought to be left over from an old sea that once would have covered this stretch of land.

Avery Island is still home to the Tabasco sauce factory, so if you’re a fan of nature, geography, and Tabasco this is a must-see for you! The island is covered in breathtaking subtropical gardens and moss-covered trees that you can take a gentle walk through.

Once you’ve seen the gardens and factory, head over to the island’s bird sanctuary and get up close to the local birds that are kept and looked after on the island.

1. Vermilionville

Hop in your car for a short ten-minute drive from the city center and you’ll be at the Vermilionville Historic Village. The name of the attraction is the same as the historical name of Lafayette, which gives you a pretty good idea of what to expect!

The village is full of period houses, decorated with traditional furnishings and brought to life by friendly staff in traditional clothing playing music and re-enacting the daily activities carried out in a typical 18th century day. You can watch them spinning, carving, and dancing.

The village has a little restaurant that serves delicious Creole and Cajun food, a trademark of Lafayette. Make sure you try the gumbo before you leave! Vermilionville takes you on a journey into the past of this city, when Native Americans and French colonists lived here.

Map of Things to do in Lafayette, Louisiana

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

How To Spend A Perfect Day In Historic Lafayette, Louisiana

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Certain things lend to a sense of happiness, and Lafayette, Louisiana, has just the right combination of friendly people, comforting food, mild weather, and an outdoor playground to earn its label as the happiest city in the U.S.

Any season is a great time to visit, with mild winters and sunny summers creating plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine.

The French culture will have you feeling as if you stepped outside the U.S. Feel like a true Acadian as you immerse yourself in the Cajun Zydeco and Swamp Pop music, visit historic cultural sites, or savor specialties such as boudin, gumbo, or other Cajun dishes.

With so much to be happy about, it’s easy to spend a perfect day in historic Lafayette.

Things To Do In Lafayette

Lafayette has an easy-going vibe mixed with a deep cultural influence. The best way to experience the Acadian lifestyle is through sampling the delicious foods, visiting museums and historic locations to learn about the area and its people, and taking in the outdoor scenery that’s so unique to southern Louisiana.

Downtown Lafayette

It’s easy to explore the walkable downtown area with galleries, shopping, restaurants, and more. Designed in the 1800s, downtown Lafayette features culture and the arts as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Shop the hundreds of retail stores, or discover the arts scene and historic culture with stops at the Benoit Gallery , local art gallery Cite des Arts , the Alexandre Mouton House Museum , the Acadiana Center for the Arts , and much more.

Sittichai Sukreep / Shutterstock

Cypress Lake

The wildlife and scenery in Lafayette is unique to the South. At Cypress Lake, you can view not only alligators, turtles, and more, but the swampland and cypress trees that are unique to South Louisiana. For those who aren’t accustomed to seeing alligators, it’s an eerie feeling to see the swamp-like lake and its inhabitants at this prehistoric bison wallow located on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus.

Bayou Vermilion Paddle Trail

A boat, kayak, or canoe ride on the Bayou Vermilion Paddle Trail is an opportunity to see historical areas while enjoying a day on the water in Bayou Country. The trail is nearly 10 miles long and makes for a perfect day (or a few hours, depending on the route you pick) to see the natural beauty of the Vermilion River. Choose one of the two 9.6-mile routes, or go for the shorter option of a 6.6-mile roundtrip ride that takes about 3.5 hours.

Pro Tip. Download the Bayou Vermilion Paddle Trail app to navigate the route as well as learn more about the history and offerings of the area.

Ancient Oaks Tour

View the live oaks, part of southern Louisiana history and heritage, on an Ancient Oaks Tour . The Live Oak Society started in 1934, when Dr. Edwin Lewis Stephens, the first president of Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), proposed an organization dedicated to identifying and preserving the numerous ancient oaks in the state. Stephens “recognized the deeper truth of this Southern icon — the live oak symbolically reflects the most distinctive characteristics of the cultures and people that settled this rich alluvial area: strength of character, forbearance, longevity, and a hearty nature,” Lafayette Travel explains.

Today, more than a thousand oaks in the Lafayette area are listed on the Live Oak Society’s roster.

Denny Culbert

Vermilionville Historic Village

A truly immersive experience waits at the Vermilionville Historic Village . The village contains homes, gardens, and collections that represent the cultures of the majority of the Atakapa region until the end of the 1800s. This group includes Native Americans, Acadians, Creoles, and people of African descent.

The houses you’ll see represent the people, each from a different time period and socio-economic class. Visit the Broussard house, built in 1790, which is the largest and oldest house to see how a wealthy Acadian rancher lived. Other homes represent various trades. For example, the Beau Bassin house showcases the home of a textile artist and has demonstrations of cotton spinning and weaving. You’ll see costumed actors recreating everyday living throughout the village.

While there, visit the Healer’s Garden to see the plants used for medicinal purposes in Acadiana.

The homes are filled with artifacts and furnishings, allowing a peek into the 1765-1890 lifestyles. Plus view the natural history collection at the science exhibit, located in a watershed near the banks of the Bayou Vermilion. You can really immerse yourself while listening to live music, taking a cooking class, dance lesson, or boat tour.

Pro Tip: For more about Lafayette’s history, visit Lafayette’s historic landmarks .

Biking And Hiking

BikeLafayette is a non-profit organization designed to educate and create community through events. While you can always rent a bike and explore on your own, joining one of their events, such as Women Crush Wednesdays, gives women a chance to explore as a group and get something to eat after.

Or if you visit in April, take a Cycle Zydeco tour. This four-day festival on wheels tours for four days to experience bicycling flat roads with stops for live music and great food. It’s a way to experience Zydeco each night, whether camping or staying in a hotel, and traveling by bike during the day.

Learn about Lafayette’s Historic Azalea Trail here .

Then, of course, there’s Mardi Gras . The Lafayette version is tamer compared to what you might find in New Orleans, making it a perfect celebration for families.

I remember, during a visit to Lafayette, getting up early to visit a bar at 6 a.m. There was live music, children and adults dancing, and pure joy like I’ve never seen before — especially at that hour of the morning. My sister Mary and her husband, Jerry, lived in Louisiana for years. Mary says of Lafayette, “It was my favorite place to see the Mardi Gras Children’s Parade. All children’s parades are wonderful, but there was something about the way their streets are laid out that make it a happy place. We considered retiring there because of its location to the coast, but also because it’s such a culturally rich place.”

Best Restaurants In Lafayette

Southern Louisiana cuisine is distinct to the culture of the area, reckoning back to the late 1700s. The food reflects the joi de vivre — joy of life — that the area is known for. Get ready to imbibe in gumbo, boudin, po’boys, crawfish, BBQ and smoked meats, and fried chicken. The food is rich and hearty, and many dishes, such as boudin or crawfish, can be messy, but oh so much fun to try. Snoballs are another local favorite, so be sure and grab a grown-up version with alcohol at one of the drive-thru daiquiri shacks.

Hideaway On Lee

Dine inside a home that was converted into a restaurant and music venue to give visitors the feel of a Louisiana house dance. The Hideaway on Lee opened in 2020 with a spacious outdoor patio, live music, and plenty of nostalgia, such as the ice cream floats, egg cream seltzers, and even a spiked seltzer.

Try the poutine with hand-cut fries topped with cheddar cheese curds and homemade gravy.

Don’s Seafood

For dinner in a historic restaurant, try Don’s Seafood , open since 1934. Enjoy traditional Cajun dishes such as chicken and sausage gumbo or even blackened alligator. As a seafood lover, there are so many local catches to try, but I’d have to say my favorite is the Half Catfish and Half Red Beans, a fried catfish served with red beans and rice and hushpuppies. Still, it’s a tough decision between the crawfish etouffee, the charbroiled oysters, or the shrimp and grits. Or try it all with the seafood platter, which includes stuffed crab, stuffed shrimp, fried catfish, fried oysters, shrimp etouffee, french fries, and coleslaw. Mon Dieu .

Poor Boy Riverside Inn

Another historic location is the Poor Boy Riverside Inn , open since 1932 and still family owned and operated. Enjoy Cajun specialties, their homemade bread pudding, and Louisiana’s official sandwich, the po’boy. For a rich and savory meal, try the Redfish Extravaganza, a choice of redfish, tilapia, flounder, or catfish stuffed with crabmeat stuffing and then topped with more crab meat, crawfish, and mushrooms sauteed in sweet cream butter.

Multiple Selections On The Cajun Boudin Trail

If you’ve never tried boudin — a meat and rice concoction that’s stuffed into casings — try the Cajun Boudin Trail . There you can sample it in various incarnations, whether held in hand and sucked straight from the casing, sliced, or breaded and deep-fried as boudin balls.

These stops along the Cajun Boudin Trail will give you a taste of this unique Acadian food specialty.

Pro Tip: If you’d like to stay a night or more, stay at Clarion Pointe , a charming hotel located amongst some of Louisiana’s oldest oak trees. It’s an upscale hotel that’s close to the downtown area. Enjoy an outdoor heated pool and a hot tub. The rooms have refrigerators and microwaves, making it convenient to save all the scrumptious Cajun leftovers to eat later.

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

Discover Lafayette, Louisiana: 13 Must-See Attractions in 2024

From diving into the Cajun and Creole food, music, and culture, to exploring the swamps, Lafayette, Louisiana offers a rich cultural experience that’s bound to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, this city has something for everyone. With so many amazing things to do, it can be difficult to choose which activities to fit into your itinerary. To make things easier, we’ve created a guide of the 13 best things to do in Lafayette in 2024. So if you’re ready to explore all Lafayette has to offer, keep reading!

13 Things to Do in Lafayette, Louisiana

Swamps: a national treasure in lafayette, la.

The Atchafalaya Basin is an incredible example of the natural beauty of Louisiana. Found near Lafayette, this huge delta basin is the largest swamp in the US and provides a wealth of wildlife, flora and fauna to explore. To truly appreciate the area, it’s worth taking a tour of the Atchafalaya Basin with a local guide. You can cruise through the swamp by boat or kayak, or choose to explore on foot with one of the many walking trails available.

This vast expanse of wetland provides a rich source of insight into local culture and heritage. There are people who live on the swamp in houseboats, and a knowledgeable guide is essential to getting the most out of your experience. Learning about the history, culture and life of the locals adds so much to a tour of the swamp – it’s definitely not one to miss.

Enjoying the Rich History of Lafayette, Louisana

Going beyond the Atchafalayas, there are plenty of other interesting things to do in Lafayette related to history and culture. It’s a great place to learn more about the multicultural roots of the South and the traditional Cajun and Creole culture. As well as this, Lafayette offers visitors the chance to delve into its local history, with a range of museums, historic villages and monuments to explore.

At the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, visitors can explore art from the Baroque period to contemporary works from the South. Meanwhile at the Lafayette Science Museum, visitors can discover everything from fossilised sea creatures to WWII memorabilia. There is also the Acadian Memorial, dedicated to remembering and celebrating Acadian culture, as well as several historic churches, plantations and forts to explore.

Wildlife Sanctuaries and Nature Experiences in Lafayette

Louisiana is full of wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, bird colonies and botanical gardens that can be seen on any visit to Lafayette. These are great places to observe the state’s natural beauty and rich flora and fauna. Whether you choose to visit Avery Island – home to the original Tabasco Factory – or explore a nearby nature reserve, there are plenty of experiences to enjoy in the great outdoors.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, a range of guided tours are available, where you can discover the area by boat or kayak. For those who’d prefer to stay dry, there are lots of opportunities to go wildlife watching or simply wander through the marked trails. Whatever your interest, there’s something for everyone when it comes to enjoying the natural beauty of this part of Louisiana.

Eating Crawfish in Lafayette, Louisiana

Travelling to Lafayette wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the state’s famous food, and crawfish is a major part of the local diet. The boiled seafood is served up at bars and restaurants in huge quantities and an entire day of eating crawfish is a popular activity, especially among the locals.

Then there’s the original Tabasco Factory , located on Avery Island near Lafayette. This is the only place in the world where Tabasco sauce is made, and visitors can tour the factory and learn all about the 150 year-old recipe. Of course, there’s also the chance to sample one of the 28 varieties of Tabasco sauce for yourself.

Whether you’re looking for a cultural or culinary adventure, Lafayette, Louisiana is the perfect destination for a diverse trip that offers plenty to explore. From visiting the swamps to tasting local delicacies, there’s an array of Best Things to Do in Lafayette Louisiana you won’t want to miss.

Exploring the Lafayette Science Museum

If you’re into science and want to educate yourself during your visit to Lafayette, then the Lafayette Science Museum should be at the top of your must-visit list. Here, you can find exhibits related to art, math, science and technology, all presented in an interactive way.

The museum is home to historic artifacts, specimens and replicas of larger items, as well as stunning murals and artwork. You can learn about the physics of motion, explore the world of dinosaurs and sea creatures, and even climb inside a real helicopter!

The museum also features cultural artifacts such as traditional masks, paintings and sculptures that help visitors better understand the many cultures that have shaped the local area. Visiting the Lafayette Science Museum is a great way to immerse yourself in the local history and discoveries.

Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum

In Lafayette, Louisiana, art lovers can experience world-class exhibitions of art and artifacts at the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum. This gorgeous museum houses collections from around the globe, as well as pieces from local artists.

It features several sculptures, paintings, and photographs for visitors to take in. Special programs such as artist talks, concerts, and curator discussions are also offered. Whether you’re looking for art from the past or something new, the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum offers the perfect opportunity to explore the world of art.

Experiencing Live Music Events

Louisiana is well known for its live music scene and the lively downtown of Lafayette is a great place to enjoy some great tunes.Whether you’re into jazz, country, blues, or traditional Cajun music, you will find something to enjoy as there are plenty of live music venues in Lafayette that cater to all styles.

We recently attended a traditional Cajun music festival and we had the time of our life. The atmosphere was electric and the live music performances were absolutely stellar. Everyone was dancing and it was an amazing way to get introduced to the Cajun culture.

Make sure to attend a live music event when in Louisiana as it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a great time.

Going on a Local Food Tour

No trip to Lafayette would be complete without indulging in the delectable local food. The city has the perfect blend of Cajun and Creole cuisine, and food tours are one of the best ways to sample the array of flavors. Led by expert guides, these tours allow travelers to gain insight into the unique dishes native to the area, including crawfish, gumbo, and alligator. The tours also provide fantastic opportunities for people to interact with the locals and get a true sense of the city.

Admiring the Local Historical Sites

Lafayette is home to a number of historical sites that are worth visiting. From ancient burial mounds to historic plantations, Lafayette has something to offer to history buffs.

One of the highlights of exploring Lafayette is a visit to the Acadian Village which is a living history museum that provides a glimpse into the day to day lives of the earliest settlers in Louisiana. There are plenty of interactive activities and cultural demonstrations which bring history to life.

Another great historical attraction is Vermilionville, a recreation of an early 1800s Cajun and Creole settlement. Here you can explore a variety of interesting cultural attractions and craft shops, enjoy traditional Cajun food, and even take part in a dance class.

Visiting these historical sites is a great way to learn more about the fascinating Cajun and Creole culture of Lafayette.

Experiencing the Nationally – Recognized Festivals of Lafayette

One of the major highlights of visiting Lafayette is the host of amazing festivals that take place throughout the year. These festivals are renowned for their incredible music, delicious Cajun food, and vibrant atmosphere.

The Festivals Acadiens et Créoles is one of the most popular ones and is held for three days each year in Lafayette. This unique festival celebrates the unique Cajun and Creole culture of the region and features some terrific musical performances.

The Bayou Vermilion District Festival is another great event that showcases the beauty and culture of the region. This two-day festival offers fun activities for the entire family and gives you a great insight into the city’s vibrant culture and heritage. If you want to experience the fascinating culture of Lafayette then attending one of these amazing festivals is a must-do.

Exploring the Local Wildlife on an Atchafalaya Basin Tour

When travelling to Lafayette, Louisiana, exploring the local wildlife through an Atchafalaya Basin Tour is a must-do experience. The largest river swamp in the United States awaits those who are looking to get lost in nature and discover hidden gems in the area.

Our personal tour was arranged with a family-owned eco business that offered us a 90-minute slow boat tour to discover the stunning landscape. Boats are the perfect way to witness the stunning delta basin while keeping your feet dry.

We were lucky enough to have our very own Skip, who was a local and grew up around the swamp his whole life, which made the experience even more special. He provided us with endless knowledge about the history, culture and the local people living on the swamp, which we wouldn’t have been able to find out any other way!

No matter what your interests are, make sure to add a swamp tour to your bucket list when visiting Southern USA.

Touring the Tabasco Factory

Visiting the Tabasco Factory on Avery Island is a must-do activity for everyone looking to explore the Lafayette area. Located near Lafayette, you can take a deep dive into the history of the famous hot sauce brand that has been around since 1868.

A one-of-a-kind tour awaits visitors to the factory, who can learn all about the production process and the ingredients used, which have not changed much in over 150 years! The chili mash ferments in whiskey barrels for three years, then it is mixed with vinegar for a month and finally bottled and distributed.

Not only do visitors learn about the history, but they can also wander the beautiful grounds and take gorgeous photos. Whether you love hot sauce or simply curious to find out more, the Tabasco Factory tour is definitely one of the best things to do in this part of Louisiana.

Eating Traditional Cajun Cuisine

No trip to Louisiana would be complete without trying some Cajun cuisine. Cajun cooking has a unique flavor that combines traditional French, Spanish and Indigenous American recipes. Crawfish is easily the most popular dish and it’s an absolute must-try when in Lafayette.

We had the pleasure of joining a local for dinner who taught us how to eat the famous crawfish. It was a very special experience and we soon realized why this is so popular among locals. You first have to make sure you peel off the shell, tail section and antennae to get to the good stuff. It was quite a learning experience but definitely worth it.

We highly recommend trying traditional Cajun cuisine in Lafayette as it’s truly a unique experience.

The diversity of things to do in Lafayette truly opened our eyes about the culture and the natural beauty of the area. From learning about Cajun culture, to visiting the Tabasco Factory, to exploring the swamps, there is something for everyone here. We thoroughly enjoyed learning about the variety of activities on offer, and we’d love to hear what experience you have when you visit Lafayette!

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Lafayette

Things to do in lafayette, explore popular experiences, tours in and around lafayette.

Tour Historic Vermilionville

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Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in lafayette.

Other Top Attractions around Lafayette

What travellers are saying

• Vermilionville
• Lake Martin Rookery
• Cathedral of St John the Evangelist
• Acadian Village
• Lafayette Science Museum
• Evangeline State Park
• Acadiana Park Nature Station
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park
• Pack & Paddle

Top Things to Do in Lafayette, LA - Lafayette Must-See Attractions

Things to do in lafayette, explore popular experiences, tours in and around lafayette.

Tour Historic Vermilionville

Lafayette Scavenger Hunt: Lafayette In Full Bloom

Cajun Food Bus Tour in Lafayette

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Lafayette by Zombie Scavengers

Talking To The Dead On Tour

Lafayette Locomotion Scavenger Hunt

Guided Candle Pouring Soiree in Louisiana

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in lafayette.

Other Top Attractions around Lafayette

What travellers are saying

• Vermilionville
• Lake Martin Rookery
• Cathedral of St John the Evangelist
• Acadian Village
• Lafayette Science Museum
• Evangeline State Park
• Acadiana Park Nature Station
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park
• Pack & Paddle

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Search lafayette attractions, 604 attraction result s, more info 1231 lounge.

• 1231 Carmel Dr, Lafayette
• 337-261-0669

More Info 205 Tavern

• 205 S David St, Church Point
• 337-684-6456

More Info A Few Old Things

• 504 E Saint Victor St, Abbeville
• 337-893-8704

More Info A Gift Horse

• 1309 Jefferson St, Lafayette
• 337-261-2311

More Info A New U Cottage Spa & Salon

• 4599 Bridge Street Hwy, Saint Martinville
• 337-845-5225

More Info Abbeville Parks & Recreation

• 301 Veterans Memorial Dr, Abbeville
• 337-893-8550

More Info Abbey's Players

• 200 S State St, Abbeville
• 337-893-2442

More Info Acadia Skin Care

• 730 N Avenue K, Crowley
• 337-783-0039

More Info Acadian Cultural Center Lafayette

• 501 Fisher Road Lafayette, Baton Rouge
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• 318-232-0789

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• 8424 Roberts Cove Rd, Rayne
• 337-334-9955
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Top Things to Do in Lafayette, LA

Places to visit in lafayette, explore popular experiences, tours in and around lafayette.

Tour Historic Vermilionville

Lafayette Scavenger Hunt: Lafayette In Full Bloom

Cajun Food Bus Tour in Lafayette

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Lafayette by Zombie Scavengers

Talking To The Dead On Tour

Lafayette Locomotion Scavenger Hunt

Guided Candle Pouring Soiree in Louisiana

Tours & sightseeing, top attractions in lafayette.

Other Top Attractions around Lafayette

What travellers are saying

• Vermilionville
• Lake Martin Rookery
• Cathedral of St John the Evangelist
• Acadian Village
• Lafayette Science Museum
• Evangeline State Park
• Acadiana Park Nature Station
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park
• Pack & Paddle