About this city
Also known as: The Hub City, The Heart of Acadiana
Situated in southwestern Louisiana along the Vermilion River, Lafayette is universally celebrated as the unofficial cultural capital of French Louisiana, or Acadiana. Founded in 1821 as Vermilionville by Cajun settler Jean Mouton, the city was later renamed in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero of the American Revolutionary War. Following the exile of French-speaking Acadians from Canada in the 18th century, the city became the foundational melting pot for Cajun and Creole language, music, and gastronomy. In the 20th century, Lafayette boomed economically due to its strategic position at the center of the state's offshore oil and natural gas extraction industries. The modern city boasts a fierce cultural pride, blending a world-renowned culinary scene with legendary Zydeco music clubs and festive street carnivals.
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Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
Step back into the 19th century and view living history craft demonstrations at Vermilionville Historic Village. Sample authentic boudin sausage, crawfish étouffée, and boiled seafood at local culinary spots. Experience live foot-stomping Zydeco accordion music at the Blue Moon Saloon.
