Fun Things to do in Lafayette, LA.
Looking for some fun things to do in Cajun Country? Well, there are plenty of ways to experience the “joie de vivre” or “joy of living” that we have to offer!
- Take a Cajun Food Tour! Enjoyed by thousands of visitors and locals, a Cajun Food Tour is the perfect way to experience everything Lafayette has to offer from its genuine hospitality to its delicious food!
- Visit Vermillionville! This outdoor living history museum is a wonderful way to learn about the cultures that shaped Lafayette into how it is today. Vermillionville also hosts free Cajun Jam Sessions every Saturday and a “Bal du Dimanche” (live music and dancing) every Sunday.
- Check out Rhythms on the River! On Thursdays during the fall and spring, River Ranch Town Square hosts a free concert where everyone is invited to dance or just sit back and enjoy.
- Kick your feet up at DTA! Downtown Alive, similar to Rhythms, is a free outdoor concert offered on Friday nights during the fall and spring held in one of Lafayette’s downtown parks.
- Tour Avery Island! Better known as “The Tabasco Plant,” Avery Island offers visitors the chance to tour their facility for free with the opportunity to view the bottling process. There is also a brand new visitors center and restaurant on the island!
- See some alligators! Book a swamp tour on the Atchafalaya basin like Couret’s or the Atchafalaya Experience. These tours will take you through the swamp on an excursion to find the native inhabitants.
- Taste some local beer! Parish Brewery in Broussard offers free tours on Saturdays from 12 to 2pm and a taproom featuring beer, pint glasses, and apparel throughout the week.
- Shop a Farmer’s Market! Every Saturday morning (and some Wednesday afternoons), local artisans and farmers gather to sell their products while visitors listen to live music and enjoy local food in the Lafayette Horse Farm Park and in Downtown’s Oil Center.
- Appreciate some art! Downtown Lafayette is home to 13 art galleries including the Acadiana Center for the Arts (ACA)which promotes community development, education performances, and exhibits. Also, every second Saturday evening of the month is “Art Walk,” where many downtown shops and art galleries open their doors and offer refreshments to viewers.
- See the 3rd oldest live oak tree in the US! Located next to the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, this humongous and beautiful oak is a must see. On the cathedral grounds, there is also a museum, gift shop, and religious art gallery.
By: Whitney Ross, Lafayette Native