Enjoy fabulous Creole cuisine and a rollicking Cajun two-step in Louisiana’s Lafayette, and then let nature lift your spirits on a wetlands adventure just outside this vivacious city. We’re sharing some of the best ways to experience the unique joie de vivre of southwestern Louisiana in the spring.
1. Toe-tapping festivals and seasonal events abound.
Flower lovers will revel in the colorful blooms that are part of the town’s Historic Azalea Trail throughout spring. In April, music enthusiasts flock to the Festival International de Louisiane for local zydeco and multicultural sounds. And don’t miss the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival in early May.
2. Lively downtown Lafayette will delight the whole family.
From the Children’s Museum of Acadiana to shops galore, there’s plenty to entertain every age along the walkable streets of downtown. Regional art exhibits, hands-on experiences, and live performances make the Acadiana Center for the Arts (below, right) a must-stop. Specialty stores include Beausoleil Books, Wild Child wine shop for organic vintages and gifts, The Cajun Hatter for custom hats, and Kiki boutique for apparel, jewelry, and home décor. Browse antiques and seasonal accessories at Renaissance Market and Brasserie (below, left).
3. Spring flora and fantastic adventures await at Cypress Island Preserve.
Springtime bursts with new life in the nation’s biggest river swamp, making it the perfect time to explore the Cypress Island Preserve at Lake Martin. Take in the captivating cypress trees with their flared skirts and abundant wildlife—egrets to spoonbills to alligators—by canoe or on an exhilarating airboat tour.
4. The dining scene promises delicious diversity.
You won’t go hungry in Lafayette, where dozens of top-notch eateries satisfy any palate. Relish fried fare at Social Southern Table & Bar or open-fire favorites like grilled fish and inventive small plates at Vestal (above, right). Marcello’s serves up classic Italian dishes; Spoonbill Watering Hole & Restaurant offers a creative fusion menu in a converted gas station with neon lights. For morning coffee and pastries, stop by Rêve Coffee Roasters.
5. Beguiling history and architecture is on full display.
Perspectives of the past come alive at the Vermilionville historic village (above) and on walking tours that stop at such sites as the circa-1800 Alexandre Mouton House and the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist (below, right). Diverse permanent collections at the Hilliard Art Museum (below, left) on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus also tell stories of bygone eras.
Photography by John O’Hagan
Read more about Louisiana’s Lafayette and Lake Martin on pages 85–92 of our March/April 2022 issue.
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