You’re on vacation to experience all the unique attractions and local culture, but let’s face it—sometimes the kids just want to play. Acadiana is known for its warm hospitality and family-centered community, so no matter what part of town you’re exploring, you’ll find a nearby park to keep energetic little ones content. Here is a guide to some of our favorite playgrounds in the area to ensure a fun-filled trip for everyone in the family.

Girard Park

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Girard Park
Image courtesy of Kelly Elston via Facebook.

In the heart of Lafayette adjacent to the University of Louisiana located at 500 Girard Park Drive is Girard Park, a 33-acre playground for adults and children alike. Athletes can take to the 1.5-mile jogging trail with fitness equipment, while families can play a game of basketball, racquet ball, tennis or disc golf. Meander around the pond to feed the ducks and let the children run free on multiple playgrounds. On hot days, the splash pad is a favorite spot among youngsters, so be sure to pack a change of clothes. Bring a picnic from Champagne’s grocery store in the nearby Oil Center.

Parc Sans Souci

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Parc Sans Souci
Image courtesy of Michael LeBlanc via Facebook

You can’t visit Downtown Lafayette without stopping at Parc Sans Souci located at 201 E. Vermillion Street. The ever-changing “LAFAYETTE” sign is painted in various themes by different community groups throughout the year—but the Y is missing, inviting you to be the Y. It’s the perfect photo op to commemorate your trip and share with friends on social media. Take in the downtown scene while the kids frolic around in the splash pad. Extend the run with a visit to the nearby Children’s Museum of Acadiana or the Lafayette Science Museum. Refuel with creative concoctions at Magnolia Pantry or opt for Mexican with sprawling outdoor seating at Agave across the street.

Ascension Episcopal School

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Ascension Episcopal School

Uptown in the charming community of River Ranch, Ascension Episcopal School located at 401 Silverstone Road opens the gates to its playground after school and on weekends. After play time, stroll the streets of this picturesque, new urbanism community and enjoy nearby kid-friendly food options at Mainstreet at River Ranch like Reve Coffee Lab and Another Broken Egg Cafe.

Parc Lafayette

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Parc Lafayette
Image courtesy of Facebook.com/ParcLafayette/

Near River Ranch and next to the Home2 Suites by Hilton is Parc Lafayette located at 1921 Kaliste Saloom, an upscale lifestyle center with restaurants, shops and a lovely colonnade. Children can enjoy the shaded playground under the oaks as well as the splash pad under inscribed white columns to signify Louisiana’s unique history. Five on-site restaurants include everything from gourmet burgers and shakes to popular Mexican fare, frothy cappuccinos and French-style crepes.

St. Julien Park

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Broussard Sports Complex at St. Julien Park
Image courtesy of Facebook.com/StJulienPark/

If you’re traveling to Acadiana for soccer or baseball tournaments, wonderful play structures are located at Youngsville Sports Complex and St. Julien Park located at 801 Savoy Road in Broussard, where there’s also a brand-new splash pad for cooling off after the game.

Moncus Park

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Moncus Park, Lafayette Louisiana

Opened in 2019, Moncus Park located at 2901 Johnson Street, a community-funded, 60-acre park two miles south of downtown Lafayette. Children can climb magnificent oak trees and delightful tree houses. Other park amenities will include walking trails, a dog park, colorful gardens and a weekly farmer's market held every Saturday morning.