Romantic Things To Do In Lafayette

Sweeping Spanish moss, live oaks offering a warm hug, and musical wildlife paint the perfect backdrop to a romantic afternoon. A favorite spot for weddings, Rip Van Winkle Gardens can be an enchanting setting for a romantic daytime date. Have lunch overlooking Lake Peigneur at Café Jefferson, meander through semi-tropical gardens among colorful peacocks, and relax beside gurgling fountains.

Another captivating destination is Jungle Gardens on Avery Island, home of TABASCO. Stroll hand-in-hand through the lush landscapes, discovering hidden alcoves and scenic vistas that inspire romance.

Stay in the city limits for a kayaking adventure on Bayou Vermilion or a picnic by the pond at Moncus Park - both great for bird watching or lazy cuddling in the sun.  Or venture just outside the city limits to explore Lake Martin, where you can rent a canoe, take a swamp tour, or hike the trails around the lake.

No romantic outing would be complete without a trip to St. Martinville to visit the Evangeline Oak. An age-old folk story of two star-crossed lovers Evangeline and Gabriel, whose legends are enshrined in history under this towering oak tree nestled along the banks of the Bayou Teche.

After all those outdoor adventures, you are sure to work up an appetite. One thing Lafayette does well is food. Few things in life bring people together like sharing a meal, whether a communal feast or an intimate setting for two. Here are some choice date night ideas.

Celebrates the spirit of a jazz lounge with a casual 1920s ambiance at Whiskey & Vine, a modern gustatory flair, and live music. It's open for weekday dinner hours and features a weekend brunch with bottomless cocktails. Or get dressed up and dazzle at Vestal, a highly-rated restaurant where a wood-burning hearth serves as a functional centerpiece, preparing seafood and Wagyu steaks.

For those looking for a more interactive experience, test your tastebuds at Wild Child Wines, a small bottle shop offering natural and organic wines, tinned fish, funky sodas, and other eclectic goods. Finish off your night with dessert at Sunday's Soda Fountain, a fun ice cream shop with an old-school vibe featuring a traditional snack bar or walk-up service.

Experience romantic and relaxation with a few of Acadiana's lodging accommodations, where cozy rooms and personalized service create the perfect ambiance for couples seeking a memorable getaway. T'Frere's House is a beautifully restored late-1800s Acadian home. Guests are greeted upon arrival with a complimentary cocktail. Enjoy a delicious breakfast in the communal dining room, a drink on the sprawling porch, and local artisan crafts amid a lovely natural setting.

Get away from the hustle and bustle on the shores of Lake Martin at Maison Madeleine, a B&B listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The B&B offers live music, wine pairings, annual secret suppers, cooking classes, and a regional hot breakfast.

In the heart of Lafayette is Maison Mouton, a charming eight-room B&B with separate cottages. Although near downtown, its tranquil setting allows for maximum relaxation. Guests rave about the chef-prepared food at this cozy, casual spot.

For a stay on the water, rent a houseboat at Cypress Cove Landing in Henderson on the Atchafalaya Basin. Enjoy a full-sized kitchen, do some fishing, or just listen to the gators bellow.

For a hands-on experience, consider candle-making at The Bougie Bar. It's a fun, interactive way to bond and create a personalized souvenir of your romantic getaway. Down the street, stop in at the Grouse Room for live music by local talent.

Don't know how to Zydeco dance? No worries - Glide Studios offers dance lessons, including Cajun and Zydeco, Salsa, Ballroom and more. Find your romance inspiration at the Acadiana Center for the Arts, where you can explore several art galleries, grab a coffee, or see a show. Get lost in the romance section of a cozy, locally owned bookstore, Cavaliere Books, where you can compare notes on your favorite reads, get cozy on a couch, or people watch.