Lafayette, Louisiana has the Cajun & Creole flavors you crave, along with the freshest in Louisiana Gulf seafood. New generations of chefs across South Louisiana are putting an inventive spin on time-honored recipes, making every bite of food a unique experience. Whether you’re dining at one of our local restaurants or laying newspaper down for a crawfish boil, we guarantee it’s going to taste incredible.
Every hour is happy here in Lafayette. While other areas might boast about their “2-for-1” cocktails or drink specials, we package all of our favorite things into our happy hours.
Almost every day of the week, you’ll find specials ranging from freshly caught oysters to some unique pizza creations, and yes, even those coveted 2 for 1 drink specials.
Some treat brewing as a craft. Here in Cajun Country, local businesses are transforming it into an art form. Acadiana already has three established breweries that locals and visitors know and love.
Bayou Teche Brewing and Cajun Brewing continue to expand production and distribution as more and more people clamor to get a taste of Lafayette.
Nothing seems more American than a good burger. A dish that has stood the test of time and can be reinvented in various ways, it's no wonder burgers are still a favorite among foodies. Lafayette has a variety of burger joints, from classic drive-thrus and historic restaurants to vegetarian and vegan
More
Glenn Murphree grew up in New Orleans, so he understood poorboys, a sandwich born in the Crescent City. When a small corner grocery store dating back to the mid-1900s came up for sale in Lafayette, Murphree bought the property and began serving poorboys to Acadiana residents. Over the years, Olde
More
The path to establishing Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant is a curvy country road. It originates in the days of the Olympic Grove pizza truck when Stephen Verret and Jeremy Conner brought games, chill vibes, and tasty pizza pies all over town. Stephen, while having little experience in
More
BJ’s Pizza, a Lafayette institution, opened in 1981. The name is based on card games, blackjack specifically. There are several items on the menu that have poker-inspired names, the Full House Pizza, Royal Flush, two of a kind, and the gambler poboy. It started as a franchise, and the owners
More
In addition to being known as the Cajun & Creole Country, Lafayette, LA is also known as the Heartbeat of Acadiana and with good reason. Our distinctive mix of Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco have people coming down from all over for a two-stepping good time. On any night of the week, you can listen to live music while sampling some authentic Cajun & Creole cuisine or kickback with a Sweet Crude Rouler that will have your taste buds dancing as much as your feet.
Kick your year off with a Mardi Gras celebration like no other. Right up the road from New Orleans, we’ve got all the excitement and revelry of carnival season in a family-friendly atmosphere. Or, if you’re looking for a more “traditional” experience the Courir de Mardi Gras (French for “Fat Tuesday Run”) is an experience you’ll only find in South Louisiana.
The good times keep on rolling through April when we celebrate the largest outdoor Francophone event in the world with Festival International de Louisiane. Hundreds of performing and visual artists from 17 countries, along with Lafayette’s own artists, converge on six stages across Downtown Lafayette for five days of world music.
The fall is even busier kicking off with Festival Acadiens et Creole, a Cajun and Creole experience like no other. Taking place the second full weekend of October, this free three-day festival welcomes locals and visitors alike to share in food, music, dancing as well as arts and crafts that make the region so unique.
Kick off your weekend starting Wednesday in Pelican Park with the Mercredi Concert Series.
The good times keep rolling on Thursday with Rhythms on the River, a free evening concert series held in River Ranch’s Town Square.
Friday's are a double header with Bach Lunch, a free popular lunchtime music series that takes place on Fridays in Downtown Lafayette coupling local food offerings with music for all ages.
The fun continues into the evening on Friday with Downtown Alive! another local favorite concert series offering free music from regional artists of all genres.
A relatively recent invention, the bellows-driven, vibrating reed squeezebox known as the accordion
More
The triangle is a simple, percussive, rhythm instrument central to Cajun music. Consisting of two
More
A bowed string instrument, the fiddle is central to the sound, culture, and history of Cajun music.
More
Give a kid from Georgia a piano, and he can change the world; a gay black kid from the segregated and strictly religious south, that is. Richard Pettiman yelled the soulful gospel singing he learned in church on top of R&B swing and the power of Fats Domino's rhythm section, conjuring a force that
More
Lafayette, LA is at the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country where you can truly feel the pulse of the distinct food, music, and culture we have to offer. This cultural oasis on the bayou blends contemporary sophistication of a cosmopolitan city with a unique heritage and culture hard to find anywhere this side of Europe.
Experience the history of Lafayette as you walk through the Downtown and Freetown areas of the Hub City. Learn about historic buildings, architecture, figures that shaped the city, and much more. Choose between the Downtown Tour (Lafayette Walking History Tour) or the Freetown Tour (Freetown Creole of Color Tour) in both English and French.
The Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette, Louisiana tells stories of the origins, migration, settlement, and contemporary culture of the Acadians (Cajuns) and other area groups. Ranger programs, films, exhibits, and events share a variety of local traditions including music, story-telling, dance, and food as well as exploring the mysteries of the Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana’s wildest place.
Some time in 1960s, businessmen with the Japanese electronics company Hitachi flew to southwest Louisiana, specifically, we are told, to Ville Platte. Of interest to them were the curiously high sales marks of their rice-cookers across a region otherwise alien to their products. At the time,
More
The Cajuns' Love of Rice Some time in the 1960s, businessmen with the Japanese electronics company Hitachi flew to southwest Louisiana, specifically, we are told, to Ville Platte. Of interest to them were the curiously high sales marks of their rice-cookers across a region otherwise alien to their
More
GRAMMY award-winning and nominated musicians from Acadiana Music has been the soul of Acadiana since the area's humble beginnings, with a melting pot of Cajuns, Creoles, European and Native American cultures inspiring fresh new sounds. South Louisiana has fostered folk music, country, rock, and
More
You can go ahead and tell the kids that Santa Claus is real. According to the History channel, St. Nicholas was an actual person—a Turkish monk in the year 280 AD, known as the patron saint of children. Over the millennia, various cultures and countries have created their versions of the man in red.
More
Lafayette’s an area known for its swampland dotted with moss-draped cypress trees teeming with wildlife, which makes it the perfect destination for bird watching, paddling, fishing, and numerous other outdoor activities.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or you’re looking for that perfect Instagram photo, Bayou Vermilion is the perfect backdrop for your getaway. The Vermilion runs 70-miles through Lafayette and Vermilion Parish. The Vermilion is also home to plenty of wildlife including a variety of birds and the occasional alligator in the northern portion. There are many access points in Lafayette Parish as well as many routes you can take. Rentals are available at Bayou Vermilion District as well as guided tours.
Opened in 1978, the Acadiana Park Nature Station is located on a 150-acre facility complete with a 6-mile trail system. The trail system will introduce you to some of the native flora and fauna of the area and the Nature Station staff is on hand to answer any questions. In addition, they also offer plenty of programming for all ages including excursions and night hikes. Surrounding the Nature Station is a public park complete with playgrounds, tennis courts, soccer fields, pavilions, and a 36-hole frisbee golf course that’s perfect for a long afternoon walk or a picnic.
Click here for more information on Acadiana Park and the Nature Station.
These days capturing the perfect photo for your Instagram feed is almost a necessity. Whether you're from Lafayette or just visiting, many places in the area serve as the perfect backdrop! We have gathered some "hidden" and not-so-hidden spots that will surely take your Insta-game to the next level!
More
Southern hospitality is a draw for travelers. The charm of Lafayette is evident in its visual,
More
While much of the country is still covered in snow and frost, spring bursts forth in Lafayette with millions of azalea blossoms in spectacular shades of pinks, purples, corals, and white. Azaleas were brought to the Gulf Coast over two centuries ago from East Asia. In Chinese culture, azaleas are
More
Areas surrounding Lafayette offer camping options unlike any other. While the camping season can be
More
If you have a passion for discovering local works of art, souvenir shopping, antique shopping or just enjoy window shopping from store to store we have a great selection of locally owned shops waiting for you. Just kick back, relax and let us help plan your shopping escape to the Happiest City in America.
Lafayette is a town of culture, food, music, festivals, and history. There is plenty to do no matter the time of year, but shopping is a nice, cool, option. Here in Lafayette, there are plenty of places to shop, but if you prefer a bit of a treasure hunt be sure to check out some of our antique shops and perhaps even take a piece of history home with you.
Click here for the complete Antique Shopping Trail guide and accompanying map.
Experience the beauty of one of the largest green space parks in Lafayette while shopping and supporting local farmers and artisans. With local food vendors, artisans, jam sessions, park tours, and educational seminars it’s a great way to spend a Saturday. The park and farmer’s market is open every Saturday rain or shine from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., but you can remain in the park to stroll about or plan a family picnic.
Click here for more information about the Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market at the Horse Farm.
Lafayette is a town of culture, food, music, festivals and history. There is plenty to do no matter the time of year, but with the weather heating up, shopping is a nice, cool, option. Here in Lafayette there are plenty of places to shop, but if you prefer a bit of a treasure hunt be sure to check
More
With a unique style and culture and warm Cajun hospitality, Lafayette is a hot spot for shopping,
More
Cajun Country is home to one of the most authentic cultures in the country. After visiting, you don’t just have to tell your friends and family about it, you can let them experience it for themselves, thanks to artful, unique and tasty local souvenirs you can order online and ship right to their
More
Your Guide to High-End Shopping & Dining in Acadiana Thanks to its lucrative oil and gas industry,
More
Sick Ride frontman Johnny Silver kicks off this month of music with his weekly cover night at Blue Moon this Monday. The Lafayette-based multi-instrumentalist will pull from his large repertoire of classics and fulfill special requests during this intimate night of piano and voice. If you can’t
More
Nothing seems more American than a good burger. A dish that has stood the test of time and can be reinvented in various ways, it's no wonder burgers are still a favorite among foodies. Lafayette has a variety of burger joints, from classic drive-thrus and historic restaurants to vegetarian and vegan
More
Thursday night will see the Has Beans host a fais do do at the Blue Moon Saloon. The group led by ex-Filé accordionist Ward Lormand will keep the dancers on the floor with their brand of South Louisiana dance music. If you’re looking for more locally rooted sounds, the traditional Trio Kreyol and
More
Louisiana Crossroads will be presenting Nashville songwriters Jim Lauderdale and Sara Douga. Lauderdale made a name for himself through the years, having penned songs for the likes of George Strait, Elvis Costello, and Patty Loveless. Douga, a native to South Louisiana, recently moved to the Country
More
Swamp pop torchbearers, the Foret Tradition, take the stage Thursday at Rock n’ Bowl. The South Louisiana R&B band led by singer Ryan Foret will play their mix of oldies and local jukebox favorites. Friday night will see modern outlaw country crooner Dustin Sonnier and his band, The Wanted, on the
More
Jazz musician and composer Billy Childs is set to perform at the Acadiana Center for the Arts on Tuesday evening. Childs has performed through the years with an impressive list of artists, including Sting, Wynton Marsalis, and Chick Corea. Zydeco accordionist Jeffery Broussard will host a dance at
More
Ray Boudreaux and his band will kick off this Independence Day weekend with a performance at Rock n’ Bowl Friday night. Local news reporter and Zydeco accordionist Gerald Gurenig will share the stage at the Blue Moon Saloon with Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. that same night. On July 3, you'll see the return
More
The Hideaway on Lee will host the release of two much-anticipated debut solo albums by two of our area’s most unique singer/songwriters. Formerly of Shrugs, Renée Reed’s new record effortlessly weaves out of spacey psychedelia and folk tunes, sung in English and our local French language. Reed’s
More
Live music is back in full swing this week in Lafayette. The Blue Monday Blues Jam will return to its new location at the Grouse Room on June 14, starting at 6:00 pm. In addition, Blue Moon will host its weekly Cajun Jam on Wednesday night, and accordionist Kevin Naquin will kick the weekend off at
More
Local pop singer and keyboardist Hunter DeBlanc will continue his Janky Piano Night this Wednesday at the Grouse Room. DeBlanc will be singing top 40 hits at the piano and acting as a game show host for this interactive performance featuring song requests and prizes. The Hideaway will celebrate
More
Why reserve tacos just for Tuesdays? Lafayette has a hidden street taco scene, and all you have to do is look just beyond the horizon. Staring at us in plain sight are a mix of authentic, affordable, and delicious tacos from families with origins in Mexico, Honduras, Venezuela, and El Salvador.
More
Louisiana Crossroads is celebrating 20 years this Friday with a special concert curated by multi-instrumentalist Roddie Romero. Lafayette’s legendary concert series has famously brought renowned musicians from all backgrounds on stage with our area’s finest talent for unique, genre-bending musical
More
If you're ready to dance this Memorial Day Weekend, Lafayette's got you covered. The Cajun Table is revamping their Crawdown Alive series with the Cajun Power man, Richard LeBeouf, on Friday evening. Later that night, accordionist Forest Huval will supply classic waltzes and two steps at the
More
Live music returns to a downtown staple this week. Artmosphere will start back up on Thursday evening with a performance by the Nouveau String Band. Downtown Alive! will wrap up their virtual spring series with piano man Eric Adcock and blues-rocker Michael Juan Nunez. The duo will collaborate on a
More
Glenn Murphree grew up in New Orleans, so he understood poorboys, a sandwich born in the Crescent City. When a small corner grocery store dating back to the mid-1900s came up for sale in Lafayette, Murphree bought the property and began serving poorboys to Acadiana residents. Over the years, Olde
More
The path to establishing Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant is a curvy country road. It originates in the days of the Olympic Grove pizza truck when Stephen Verret and Jeremy Conner brought games, chill vibes, and tasty pizza pies all over town. Stephen, while having little experience in
More
BJ’s Pizza, a Lafayette institution, opened in 1981. The name is based on card games, blackjack specifically. There are several items on the menu that have poker-inspired names, the Full House Pizza, Royal Flush, two of a kind, and the gambler poboy. It started as a franchise, and the owners
More
Hot style deli sandwiches, toasted wraps, salads, and a daily soup selection are all available at family-friendly Super Taters in Scott. All in all, there are over 100+ unique baked potato offerings ranging from classic combinations served with a twist to Cajun hometown favorites. No matter which
More
Givers vocalist and percussionist Tiffany Lamson teams up with local chanteuse and pianist Julie Williams for a set at the Acadian Superette this week. The new duo dubbed the Sha Hearts will be this week’s guests for the Hawk’s Boil Up music series on Thursday evening. This weekend sees the new
More
Louisiana’s prime location in the South means the weather can be hot and humid, but plenty of places around town provide a refreshing splash of fun. And even though Lafayette’s balmy winters, families can dive right into swimming pools and splash pads open year-round. Toddlers to tweens can’t
More
