Lafayette and the surrounding area is home to the most diverse cultures in the nation. If you’re visiting, you find signs of it everywhere — we love to celebrate our history. Choosing where to start your adventure is the hardest part of a trip here. If you’re looking for a little guidance, here’s a list of our favorite must-see attractions in Lafayette:
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Jean Lafitte National Historical Park
This attraction is the ultimate destination for those who want a crash course in the area’s culture, history, and ecology. Experience the bayou in its natural glory at the Barataria Preserve, where you’ll get the chance to see alligators, birds, examples of the different types of wetlands, and more.
From there, dive into the people’s history at the Acadian Cultural Center, the Chalmette Battlefield, the French Quarter Visitor Center, and more. Listen to Cajun music, eat some great food, and explore unforgettably interesting exhibits throughout the park.
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Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park
For a fantastic cultural experience, head over to Vermilionville. Spend the day exploring the area’s past with their living history park, which spreads across 23 acres. Get a chance to see seven original homes, and take part in 19 attractions that showcase how the area’s early settlers lived every day.
Admission to the park is $10 for adults 19 and up and $6 for kids. Vermilionville Park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Blue Moon Saloon
If you’ve never been to a zydeco show, you’re missing out on a great time. One of the best places to see one in Lafayette is the Blue Moon Saloon. Good times abound at the Blue Moon, where you can have a drink and listen to great Cajun music.
Located in the heart of downtown, Blue Moon is a must-stop for people visiting the city. You can even stay at the Blue Moon’s guesthouse, so you’ll never miss out on the good times and libations.
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Downtown Lafayette
If you want to experience the soul of what makes Lafayette the great city it is, then visit the downtown district. You’ll find fantastic restaurants, great shopping, and exciting sights that all speak of our culture and style.
Coordinate your visit with one of the great events that are held throughout every month. Listen to a Cajun music jam session, take an art walk, or attend a festival — the possibilities are endless.
Whether you’re looking for a great day with the kids or an exciting nightlife, downtown has it all. Have a classic Cajun dinner before heading out for a night of dancing to live music. Visit an art gallery and watch master craftsmen create their works. Your adventure can be as big as your creativity allows it.
Lafayette is one of the most interesting and fun places to visit in the nation if you ask us. With such a rich culture and history, as well as its vibrant community, it’s impossible to experience everything the area has to offer in one weekend.
Image via Flickr by Ken Lund used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original
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