Side Trips from New Orleans Places

Lafayette

Lafayette (pronounced lah-fay-ette), the largest city in Cajun Country, is a major center of Cajun life and lore, the "big city" in the middle of the countryside. It's an interesting and enjoyable town, with some worthwhile historical and artistic sights. The simulated Cajun villages at Vermilionville and Acadian Village provide evocative introductions to the traditional Cajun way of life. Excellent restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts make Lafayette a good jumping-off point for exploring the region. The city has also had an infusion of new restaurants and nightclubs—particularly downtown.