About Lafayette
Lafayette is a city in Louisiana and the parish seat of Lafayette Parish. It is located along the Vermilion River. It is Louisiana's fourth-most populous city with a 2020 census population of 121,374; the consolidated city-parish's population was 241,753 in 2020. The Lafayette metropolitan area was Louisiana's third largest metropolitan statistical area with a population of 478,384 at the 2020 census. The Acadiana region containing Lafayette is the largest population and economic corridor between Houston, Texas and New Orleans.
Places to visit in Lafayette
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Vermilionville
Museum · 1 mi from centreA living history village along Bayou Vermilion with restored and reproduction homes depicting Acadian, Creole and Native American life. Costumed artisans, music and crafts bring local culture to life.
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Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
ReligiousA striking brick Romanesque cathedral downtown, with the massive St. John Oak on its grounds, a centuries-old live oak among the largest in the region. Its cemetery is also of historic interest.
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Acadian Village
MuseumA recreated nineteenth-century Cajun village of historic homes set around a bayou, with exhibits on Acadian furniture, tools and traditions. It is especially popular during its holiday light display.
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Lake Martin
NatureA cypress swamp lake near Breaux Bridge known for alligators and large wading bird rookeries. Swamp boat tours and roadside viewing make it an excellent place to see Louisiana wetlands.
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Avery Island
Landmark · 25 mi from centreA salt dome island south of Lafayette, home of the Tabasco pepper sauce factory and museum. The nearby Jungle Gardens offer moss-draped oaks, azaleas, a Buddha statue and a heron rookery.
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Downtown Lafayette
NeighborhoodLafayette's downtown hosts live Cajun and zydeco music, local restaurants and galleries. It is the setting for many of the city's outdoor festivals, offering a taste of Acadiana culture.
Where to stay in Lafayette
Popular hotels in Lafayette, out of 74 properties you can book.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette-Airport
From $110 per night
Maison Mouton Bed & Breakfast
From $175 per night
Courtyard Lafayette Airport
From $124 per night
Days Inn by Wyndham Near Lafayette Airport
From $63 per night
Hilton Garden Inn Lafayette/Cajundome
From $167 per night
Hampton Inn & Suites Jennings
From $142 per night
Residence Inn Lafayette Airport
From $142 per night
Staybridge Suites Lafayette Airport
From $106 per night
DoubleTree by Hilton Lafayette
From $120 per night
Holiday Inn Express Breaux Bridge/Henderson By IHG
From $102 per night
Days Inn By Wyndham Lafayette
From $64 per night
Comfort Suites Oil Center
From $95 per night
Best time to visit Lafayette
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lafayette is October, when average daytime highs are around 83°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Lafayette weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 80° 53° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 84° 57° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 85° 59° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 83° 58° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 83° 57° 0%
- Mon 26 Oct 84° 59° 1%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/ChicagoUTC−5
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Lafayette
These are the airports closest to central Lafayette. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- LFT Lafayette Regional Airport3 mi (5 km) from the city centre
Getting around Lafayette
While Lafayette does have a bus system that is accessible from most areas in town, driving by car is still the most popular way to get around the city. Most businesses have parking lots, and even in the Downtown area there is often plenty of parking on a normal day.
Lafayette travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Lafayette?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lafayette is October, when average daytime highs are around 83°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Lafayette?
August is usually the warmest month in Lafayette, with average highs of 93°F (34°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 40°F (4°C). The wettest month is typically September, with about 198 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Lafayette?
Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) is the closest airport, about 3 miles (5 km) from the centre of Lafayette.
What time zone is Lafayette in?
Lafayette uses the America/Chicago time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Lafayette?
While Lafayette does have a bus system that is accessible from most areas in town, driving by car is still the most popular way to get around the city. Most businesses have parking lots, and even in the Downtown area there is often plenty of parking on a normal day.
What are the best places to visit in Lafayette?
Top sights in Lafayette include Vermilionville, Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Acadian Village and Lake Martin. A living history village along Bayou Vermilion with restored and reproduction homes depicting Acadian, Creole and Native American life. Costumed artisans, music and crafts bring local culture to life.
Where should I stay in Lafayette?
Popular areas for hotels in Lafayette include Airport Area and Suburbs Area. Well-reviewed options include Homewood Suites by Hilton Lafayette-Airport and Maison Mouton Bed & Breakfast.
How many hotels can I book in Lafayette?
Destina Holidays currently lists 74 properties in and around Lafayette, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
