Lafayette

Day Trips

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Louisiana dishes like beignets and café au lait. Afterward, stroll through Lafayette's Historic District, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the city's rich culture. Don't forget to pop into the local shops for unique crafts and souvenirs.

Visit the Acadian Cultural Center to immerse yourself in the history of the Cajun and Creole cultures. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can taste local favorites such as gumbo or jambalaya. After lunch, take a guided tour of the St. John Cathedral, which boasts stunning stained glass and interesting historical facts.

As the sun sets, enjoy a magical evening walk along the banks of the Bayou Vermilion. Dine at a renowned Cajun restaurant, where live music often accompanies your meal, allowing you to experience the local culture firsthand. Cap off the night with a visit to a local bar to experience Lafayette's vibrant nightlife.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local delicacies, then head over to the festival grounds to soak in the lively atmosphere. Take a moment to browse the artisan booths showcasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and Cajun memorabilia. Engage with local vendors who are eager to share the stories behind their crafts.

Indulge in an array of Cajun dishes from food stalls, sampling everything from boudin to crawfish étouffée. Gather around the main stage to enjoy live performances from local musicians, immersing yourself in the joyous rhythms of Cajun and Zydeco music. Participate in a dance workshop to learn some traditional steps and feel the local spirit.

As night falls, the festival comes alive with colorful lights and the sounds of music filling the air. Enjoy a final meal of your favorite festival foods while watching a featured band perform. Let the night wrap up with a local dance party, allowing you to mingle with the community and celebrate the vibrant culture of Lafayette.

Begin your day early with a nutritious breakfast before heading out to explore the stunning bayous surrounding Lafayette. Meet your guide and gear up for an exciting kayaking adventure through the lush waterways. Paddle through the serene environment, keeping your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as alligators and various bird species.

After a morning of kayaking, enjoy a picnic lunch along the bayou, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Spend your afternoon hiking the nearby trails, where you can learn about the unique ecosystems and plant life native to the area. Capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscapes and perhaps spot some local fauna.

Return to Lafayette and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Treat yourself to fresh seafood while enjoying views of the bayou at sunset. End the evening with a relaxing stroll along the water, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Kickstart your morning with a visit to the Lafayette Museum, where you can discover the fascinating history and art of the region. Enjoy a guided tour that highlights significant exhibits, from local artifacts to contemporary art pieces. After exploring the museum, head to the nearby art district to browse local galleries showcasing work from talented artists.

Lunch at a cozy café will provide you with a taste of Lafayette’s culinary arts, featuring dishes inspired by local ingredients. Spend the afternoon at the Acadiana Center for the Arts, where you can attend a workshop or watch a live performance. Engage with local artists and learn about their creative processes, gaining insight into the vibrant arts scene.

For dinner, select a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional Cajun flavors and modern culinary techniques. After your meal, head to a local theater for a performance, whether it be a play, concert, or dance show. Enjoy the electrifying atmosphere and the local talent showcased on stage, leaving you inspired.

Begin your day with breakfast, then set out for a visit to the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center, where you can learn about the unique ecosystems of the region. Embark on a guided nature walk through the wetlands, discovering diverse plant and animal life along the way. Capture beautiful photographs of the landscape and perhaps spot some rare bird species.

Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro before continuing your wildlife adventure at the nearby wildlife refuge. Spend the afternoon observing animals in their natural habitats, with opportunities for birdwatching and guided tours. Take in the serene beauty of the wetlands and participate in educational programs about local conservation efforts.

As the day winds down, return to Lafayette for a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Savor dishes that highlight local produce and seafood, enjoying the flavors of the region. End your evening with a peaceful walk in a nearby park, reflecting on the day's connection with nature.

Start your day with a filling breakfast, then travel to one of the historic plantations located near Lafayette. Take a guided tour of the plantation, where you’ll learn about its history, architecture, and the stories of those who lived and worked there. The picturesque grounds provide ample opportunities for stunning photographs.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café featuring Southern cuisine, allowing you to recharge before continuing your exploration. After lunch, visit the adjacent gardens or take part in any special events happening at the plantation, such as cooking demonstrations or craft workshops. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the area as you engage with knowledgeable staff.

Return to Lafayette and treat yourself to a dinner at a renowned local restaurant that specializes in Creole cuisine. Relish dishes that reflect the region's history, surrounded by beautiful decor that enhances your dining experience. Conclude your evening with a local ghost tour, exploring the haunted history of Lafayette and its plantations.

Kick off your day at the Festival International de Louisiane with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Stroll through the festival grounds, taking in the lively atmosphere as you peruse local crafts and food vendors. Enjoy the morning performances that showcase a mix of Cajun, Creole, and international music.

Savor a variety of international dishes for lunch, sampling flavors from different cultures represented at the festival. Participate in interactive workshops that teach traditional crafts, dance, or cooking techniques. Immerse yourself in the cultural exchange with locals and visitors alike, making new friends along the way.

As the sun sets, enjoy an evening filled with high-energy performances from headlining bands on multiple stages. Relish the vibrant atmosphere as you dance under the stars, surrounded by locals and fellow festival-goers. Cap off the night with a fireworks display that lights up the sky, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Lafayette.

Begin with breakfast at your hotel or a local café before embarking on a trip to the Atchafalaya Basin, one of the largest swamp areas in the United States. Meet your guide for a thrilling airboat tour, skimming across the waters while exploring the unique ecosystem. Keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species as you glide through the bayous.

After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of nature, surrounded by the beauty of the basin. Spend your afternoon hiking along the marked trails, where you can learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Capture breathtaking views and appreciate the tranquility of this natural wonder.

Return to Lafayette and enjoy dinner at a local eatery specializing in Cajun cuisine, sharing stories of your adventures with your dining companions. After dinner, consider visiting a local brewery for a tasting of craft beers made with regional ingredients. Wind down your day by relaxing at a nearby park, reflecting on the beauty of the Atchafalaya Basin.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market. Browse through fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal goods, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and engaging with local vendors. Sample delicious food items as you explore, soaking in the community spirit.

After the market, enjoy lunch at a popular local spot that highlights the flavors of Lafayette. Spend your afternoon exploring the unique shops in downtown Lafayette, ranging from boutiques to antique stores, finding treasures to take home. Engage with local artists and shop owners who are passionate about their crafts.

Cap off your day with a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its innovative take on Cajun cuisine. As the evening progresses, find a cozy spot to enjoy a nightcap and listen to live music, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Lafayette. Connect with locals and fellow visitors, celebrating the charm of this lively city.