Lafayette is known as the happiest city in America – and for good reason! When you’re surrounded by some of the richest cultures in the country, you’re bound to be happy. The heartbeat of Cajun Country, Lafayette dates back to the 18th century when Canada’s Acadians settled in the area, and over the next few hundred years, the Greater Lafayette Area has grown into its own distinct, unique identity that draws tourists from all over the world.

Named after America’s most famous fighting Frenchmen, Lafayette is a wonderful city to spend a weekend exploring.

Jennifer Fite/Google With a population of just over 120,000, it’s certainly a big city, but it’s a bit of a college town too. There’s a little bit of everything here.

History lovers will thoroughly enjoy a visit to Vermilionville.

Running Sun/Google

Several of the buildings have been restored to their glory days.

Troy Mire/Google From schoolhouses to trapper’s cabins, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported through time walking through this historic village.

Once you’ve explored Vermilionville, head over to LARC’S Acadian Village for even more historic fun.

LARC’S Acadian Village/Google This Acadian Village features 32 acres to explore, including historic Acadian homes and churches.

All that walking is bound to work up an appetite, and Olde Tyme Grocery is just the ticket.

Avmccall/Trip Advisor It’s a local landmark of sorts, and it’s been a favorite pitstop since 1982.

Known for their poor-boys, you better come hungry when you visit this neighborhood eatery.

Management/Trip Advisor A shrimp poor-boy dressed to the nines and a stack of napkins? Yes, please.

After you’ve fueled up, maybe you’d like to explore the more natural side of Laffy.

Forrest Bernard/Google The Acadiana Park Nature Station offers more than 150 acres of some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Acadiana.

There are over six miles of trails to explore here.

Mrs. Denise Richard Lanclos/Google It’s great for a solo adventure or a family outing! These trails are easy enough that even the youngest nature lovers will enjoy this spot - and what a mesmerizing ending to a wonderful day!

What’s your favorite spot in Lafayette? Shout it out in the comments!

Jennifer Fite/Google

With a population of just over 120,000, it’s certainly a big city, but it’s a bit of a college town too. There’s a little bit of everything here.

Running Sun/Google

Troy Mire/Google

From schoolhouses to trapper’s cabins, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported through time walking through this historic village.

LARC’S Acadian Village/Google

This Acadian Village features 32 acres to explore, including historic Acadian homes and churches.

Avmccall/Trip Advisor

It’s a local landmark of sorts, and it’s been a favorite pitstop since 1982.

Management/Trip Advisor

A shrimp poor-boy dressed to the nines and a stack of napkins? Yes, please.

Forrest Bernard/Google

The Acadiana Park Nature Station offers more than 150 acres of some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Acadiana.

Mrs. Denise Richard Lanclos/Google

It’s great for a solo adventure or a family outing! These trails are easy enough that even the youngest nature lovers will enjoy this spot - and what a mesmerizing ending to a wonderful day!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Lafayette, LA, USA