Did you know that Lafayette, Louisiana, was proclaimed the Happiest City in America? This vibrant city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and adventure, making it the perfect destination for travelers seeking unique experiences. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, or dive into the region’s vibrant art and music scene, Lafayette has something for everyone. Discover the top 5 reasons to visit Lafayette and make your trip truly one-of-a-kind.

The Outdoors

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Group of Kayakers at Lake Martin

Vermilionville Historic Village is a top Lafayette attraction with peaceful walking trails and waterways inviting you to enjoy the region’s rich history and have a great meal afterward. Acadiana Park Nature Station provides a fun, educational experience amidst the verdant landscape. Lake Martin is an ecologically important waterway home to countless species of birds, alligators, and other interesting flora and fauna. Whatever your preference for nature appreciation, Lafayette has something to suit you.

Cajun & Creole Cuisine

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The Cajun Table

Eating is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in Lafayette, LA! Simply put, you will enjoy some of the tastiest dishes you’ve ever had anywhere. Regional dishes such as boudin, gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po’ boys rose from humble origins to become iconic staples. Visit Poche’s Market & Restaurant to taste the region’s offerings. Whether you’re looking for an upscale dining experience or a roadside snack, you’re in for a real treat!

Art & History

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Summer at the Hilliard: The Art of Staying Put

The Acadiana Center for the Arts has been a center for showcasing regional art and artists for almost five decades with various exhibitions and events. The Hilliard Art Museum highlights Louisiana’s artistic heritage with a wide-ranging collection. The Lafayette Museum also showcases the city’s history with exhibits and artifacts. Music is a big part of the city’s art scene. The Cajun French Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Eunice offers a glimpse into the history of one of the region’s original musical genres.

Annual Festivals

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Mardi Gras

Lafayette hosts a number of fantastic yearly festivals. Of course, there’s Mardi Gras. The Lafayette event rivals the others’ revelry, and there’s also the local tradition of Courir de Mardi Gras which ends in a communal gumbo feast. 

Music fans have so much to choose from here! Zydeco lovers will want to hit the dance floor for The Zydeco Extravaganza in May and the Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival each summer. 

Two of the biggest and best yearly events are free. The Festivals Acadiens et Créoles in October and Festival International de Louisiane in April are multi-day festivals celebrating food, music, dance, and everything else unique to the area. These non-ticket events are not to be missed!

The Acadiana Po-Boy Festival and the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival celebrate regional foods, while Cajun & Creole Christmas puts a local spin on the holiday season.

Guided Tours

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TABASCO

Sometimes, you need a local to lead the way. Here are a few of the many tours you can book to pack the most into your trip. Atchafalaya Basin Swamp Tours take you into the mysterious, inviting backwaters of America’s largest swamp for a closeup view of the rich flora and fauna of the area. Cajun Country Swamp Tours and McGee’s Swamp Tours are just a couple more of the trusted purveyors in the area.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy a Cajun food tour where a local expert guides you to the culinary hotspots. Try a walking tour to explore Lafayette’s vibrant street life. Nearby Avery Island is the home of the famous Tabasco hot sauce, where they open the doors to view the factory, home, museum, and lush botanical gardens.

Lafayette, Louisiana, offers endless opportunities for exploration, whether you're drawn to its immersive cultural festivals, rich history, or breathtaking natural beauty. From savoring authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine to experiencing the lively arts and music scene, Lafayette provides a truly unique experience. So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Lafayette is ready to welcome you with open arms and a warm laissez les bons temps rouler!