Culture

Lafayette is at the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country, an area known as the Happiest City in America and it’s no mystery why. The region’s history dates back to the 18th century, when Canada’s Acadians were expelled in the late 1700s and settled in Louisiana. More than two centuries later tourists come to Lafayette to get a rare taste of the genuine Acadian experience, from traditional food fixings and music to the warm hospitality that greets you at every turn.

Alexandre Mouton House

1800s historic home with period furnishings, memorabilia and seasonal collections

Martin Accordions

Accordion building with Cajun and Zydeco music played by the Martin family.

Acadiana Center for the Arts

Art gallery with touring exhibits as well as a performance theatre with concert series and cafe.

Shadows-on-the-Teche Plantation

Historic plantation home located just outside of Lafayette with unique and group programs.

Acadian Village

Museum of authentic Acadian homes and guided group tours available in French.

St. Martinville

Located just outside of Lafayette the city is home of the Evangeline Oak and St. Martin de Tours Church.

Lafayette Science Museum & Planetarium

Permanent and rotating exhibits with digital planetarium and hands on activities.

Acadiana Byways

Authentic house dance, Cajun Christmas and rural Mardi Gras with mask making.

Vermilionville

Living history museum, restaurant, cooking school, boat tours, dance lessons and live music on weekends.

Summer at the Hilliard: The Art of Staying Put

Hilliard University Art Museum

Art museum with rotating exhibits, liberal arts and science education as well as a gift shop.