Lafayette
The heart of Cajun and Creole Louisiana, with zydeco, boudin and swamps
Browse Lafayette
Lafayette is the capital of Cajun Country in south Louisiana, a warm-hearted place where zydeco and Cajun music fill the dance halls, boudin and crawfish define the table, and the bayous and swamps spread just beyond town. Our local picks run from dance halls to gumbo and cracklins. More hand-picked recommendations are on the way – filter by category and budget below.
Lafayette at a glance
- Ideal stay: 1 to 2 days
- Best time to visit: March to May and October to November
- Highlights: the Cajun music halls, the food and the nearby swamps
- Where to stay: downtown Lafayette
- Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
- Getting around: a car is the easiest way around
Where to stay in Lafayette
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Before you go
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Find hotels in LafayetteBook tours and experiencesLafayette travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Lafayette?
One to two days covers the music, the food and a swamp tour, with the villages and bayous of Cajun Country an easy drive away.
Where is the best area to stay in Lafayette?
Downtown Lafayette keeps you near the music venues, restaurants and festivals.
What are the best things to do in Lafayette?
Browse the local picks above, from a Cajun or zydeco dance hall and a boudin trail to a swamp tour and the living-history Vermilionville.
What is the best time to visit Lafayette?
Spring and autumn bring warm weather and festival season; summers are hot and humid, and Mardi Gras and Festival International are the liveliest times.