8 Recommended Tourist Spots in Lafayette, Louisiana – A City of Gourmet Delights

Lafayette is a city in the heart of southern Louisiana that exudes an atmosphere reminiscent of New Orleans. With a lingering immigrant culture from the French-speaking world and many stylish cafés, Lafayette offers a unique tourist experience within the United States. Renowned as a gourmet city frequently featured in magazines, Lafayette is also famous as a food tour destination!

Lafayette is the birthplace of Zadikó music, a fusion of Cajun and R&B that emerged in a region where New Orleans is already well known as the cradle of jazz. The people of Lafayette love to celebrate with festivals, entertaining tourists with Cajun music and a festive atmosphere. Below, we introduce 8 recommended tourist spots in Lafayette, Louisiana.

1. Acadiana Village

Acadiana Village is a living history village located approximately 9 km from downtown Lafayette. In the early 17th century, people immigrated from France to Canada, and then, after being expelled when Canada became a British colony in the mid-18th century, they eventually reached Louisiana. These people are the Acadians.

Acadiana Village offers a place to learn about the unique culture of the Acadians—who have lived proudly through hardship—as preserved through 19th-century buildings, private residences, and churches that have been relocated and maintained. Stroll along the small stream running through the village and let yourself be transported back in time from the present tourist-commercialized scene to the mid-19th century.

2. Vermilionville Historic Village

Vermilionville Historic Village is an outdoor museum that reconstructs the lifestyle of the Acadians during their settlement in the 18th–19th centuries. Here you can see several homes preserved just as they once were in Lafayette.

Inside these houses, which retain the appearance of early 1800s furnishings, you can witness how the people of Lafayette lived in the past. All of the buildings are open to tourists, and the landscape evokes the spirit of the 1800s—an entryway to the past.

Vermilionville also hosts various events throughout the year, including cooking classes in Cajun cuisine and live Cajun music performances, as well as cultural days celebrating Creole traditions. Check the schedule and plan your visit accordingly.

3. Evangelist’s Cathedral of St. John

In downtown Lafayette, the stunning Evangelist’s Cathedral of St. John stands out as one of the most prominent and beautiful buildings. It is the oldest church in Lafayette and has become a landmark tourist attraction.

A majestic oak tree, believed to be over 500 years old and one of the world’s oldest, with a trunk diameter of about 2.7 meters, guards the cathedral. This oak, which has witnessed Lafayette’s history over centuries. Its presence feels empowering.

The cathedral’s grounds feature beautiful gardens that guide visitors to the interior, where the blue-hued stained glass captivates the eye. A gallery and gift shop are also available for those interested in learning more about the history of Lafayette and the cathedral.

4. Evangeline State Park

Located about 30 minutes south of Lafayette, Evangeline State Park is the oldest state park in Louisiana. The visitor center offers short films and historical exhibits for tourists to quickly learn about the region’s history before exploring the park.

Within the park, you will find a small house said to have belonged to Louis Arschno (referred to in epic literature as “Gabriele”), built entirely without nails—assembled solely with wooden pegs—an example of early Acadian architecture that characterizes Lafayette’s history.

Along the nearby Bayou Teke (a waterway that once traversed the Mississippi’s western bank), a replica of an 1800s Acadian farm is on display. Nearby stands a majestic oak called the “Longfellow Oak,” named for the American poet whose epic works are inspired by nature. Visitors can fully enjoy this atmospheric landscape.

5. The Acadiana Center for the Arts

The Acadiana Center for the Arts serves as a hub for the vibrant community of local artists in downtown Lafayette, where various performances take place every day.

This venue not only hosts music performances featuring Cajun and jazz but also stage comedies and various entertainment shows throughout the year. Once a month on Sundays, you can even enjoy opera imported from New York.

In addition to beautiful art exhibitions, there is a café and bar near the entrance. The center is a cultural cornerstone in Lafayette where both locals and tourists can fully immerse themselves in the artistic spirit that defines the city.

6. Martin Lake

Martin Lake is a nature tourism spot where you can appreciate the unique natural environment of Louisiana.

A popular activity here is renting a canoe to explore the forest that has grown within the lake’s boundaries. The sight of cypress trees rising from the water and the interplay of aquatic algae create a mysterious and enchanting landscape unique to Lafayette. Spanish moss draped from the trees adds an extra touch of enchantment, occasionally evoking the feeling of wandering through a fairytale haunted forest.

The lake is home to many turtles that bask peacefully in the sun. One of the highlights of nature tourism here is the American alligator! They are usually seen in a relaxed manner, but the timid ones will dive into the water if a canoe approaches. Interestingly, American alligators live in not just Florida, but in 10 states across the United States, including Lafayette’s region.

7. Lafayette Science Museum

The Lafayette Science Museum is located in downtown Lafayette. Though compact in size, the museum is packed with exhibits and is especially popular among children.

Exhibits include fossils, dinosaur bones, taxidermy, and mineral specimens, along with interactive displays such as a rocket simulator and various science experiments you can touch and try for yourself—an educational treat for kids. A designated play area is available so that children never grow bored. Additionally, the museum’s planetarium is popular among both children and adults. For the best view, sit near the center. There is even a Star Wars exhibit corner that has become a favorite.

The Lafayette Science Museum is a beloved spot not only among local residents but also among repeat visitors and tourists, offering a convenient stop during your visit to Lafayette.

8. Alexandre Mouton House

Alexandre Mouton House is the former home of Alexandre Mouton, considered the first Democratic governor of Louisiana and the founder of Lafayette. Built in 1816 as a Sunday home for family outings, the house has now been converted into a museum and stands as a popular tourist attraction in Lafayette.

At the entrance, staff welcome visitors and provide a brief overview of the history. A video presentation of about 15 minutes details the history of the Mouton House. After the video, you can freely explore the house and take photographs.

Each room—from the bedrooms to the children’s room—is furnished with antique furniture and historical artifacts, and old photographs are also displayed. Additionally, seasonal decorations add to the charm. There is even an exhibition of Mardi Gras costumes, making a visit to the Mouton House a must for those touring Lafayette!

There is a 200-year-old tree in the garden, so be sure to take a look. Trees that are several hundred years old somehow always feel especially precious, don’t they!

◎ Summary of Lafayette Tourist Spots

How did you find these recommended tourist spots in Lafayette? Lafayette is a city deeply influenced by the history of its immigrant roots, which is strongly reflected in its unique character. From music to local specialty cuisine—distinct from the typical American fare—these aspects contribute to the city’s individuality, making Lafayette an intriguing destination. Enjoy exploring the rich culture, history, and gourmet delights of Lafayette, Louisiana!

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

8 Recommended Tourist Spots in Lafayette, Louisiana – A City of Gourmet Delights