One-Day Must-Sees in Lafayette, LA

Looking for the perfect one-day getaway in Lafayette, LA? This vibrant city, located in the heart of Cajun & Creole Country, offers a mix of rich cultural history, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively music that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. From savoring a delicious breakfast at one of Lafayette’s top eateries to exploring local attractions, you’ll get a true taste of the region’s unique charm. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a history buff, or a live music lover, this itinerary highlights the best ways to spend your day in Lafayette.

Morning: Breakfast and Attractions in Lafayette, Louisiana

Start your day in Lafayette with a delicious breakfast at one of the city’s beloved local spots. Whether you’re craving a creative twist on classic dishes at The French Press, authentic Cajun comfort food at T-Coons Restaurant, or Southern-style biscuits at Edie’s, your morning meal is sure to be memorable. Once you're fueled up, it's time to explore! Take in the breathtaking views of the Atchafalaya Basin and immerse yourself in the beauty of America’s largest swamp, or dive into the rich cultural history of the region at Vermilionville. There's no better way to kick off your Lafayette adventure!

Breakfast

• The French Press, in downtown Lafayette, is an award-winning cafe renowned for its fresh ingredients, inventive menu, and inviting atmosphere.
• T-Coons Restaurant is as authentic as you can get for Cajun cooking and southern hospitality. They’ve been dishing out filling, homemade classics for years. Their daily lunch buffet is also a winner!
• Edie’s Biscuits have perfected legendary Southern staples. They’re huge and can be ordered “sweet” or “meat” depending on the pairing. Enjoy great food, prices, and service.

For a complete list of place to eat breakfast in Lafayette, LA click here.

Attractions

• Atchafalaya Basin Swamp Tour America’s largest swamp is a regional natural treasure. Its unique ecosystem is home to an impressive, wide-ranging display of vegetation and wildlife. Several sterling local outfits can take you on an unforgettable outing while teaching you about the area's ecology. 
• Vermilionville Living History Museum & Folklife Park is a living history museum that showcases the culture and history of the Acadian, Creole, and Native American communities from 1765 to 1890, with interpretive recreations and walking trails.

For even more things to do in Lafayette, LA click here.

Afternoon: Lunch and Attractions in Lafayette, Louisiana

After a morning of exploring, it’s time to refuel with a hearty lunch. Head to Olde Tyme Grocery for their famous po’ boys or Poche’s Market & Restaurant to enjoy daily Cajun specialties like boudin and smoked meats. If you're planning ahead, be sure to grab some of their specialty products to take home. Once you've satisfied your appetite, spend the afternoon discovering more of Lafayette's local culture. Visit the Science Museum for interactive exhibits and planetarium shows, or stroll through downtown to explore unique shops and galleries.

Lunch

• Johnson’s Boucanière (temporarily closed for maintenance) has perfected the craft of perfectly smoked meats, sausages, boudin, and other iconic dishes from the area for almost a century. Get some to go!
•  Olde Tyme Grocery does the venerable po’ boys and other Cajun/Creole staples in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
• Poche’s Market & Restaurant serves daily lunch specials that showcase regional fare at its finest. Don’t forget to stock up on some of their many specialty products to take home.

For a complete list of place to eat lunch in Lafayette, LA click here.

Attractions

• University of Louisiana at Lafayette Science Museum offers interactive exhibits that make for a fun and educational way to spend the afternoon. Their planetarium shows are very popular.
• Take a stroll downtown Lafayette’s bustling core streets are lined with unique shops and galleries featuring local arts, crafts, and other attractions.

For even more things to do in Lafayette, LA click here.

Night: Dinner and Nightlife in Lafayette, Louisiana

Wrap up your day in Lafayette with a fantastic dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants. For authentic Cajun cuisine and live music, Prejean’s is a must-visit local favorite. If you’re in the mood for upscale Louisiana fare, Charley G’s offers a refined menu featuring seasonal ingredients and craft cocktails. For a taste of Spain with a Cajun twist, head to Pamplona Tapas Bar & Restaurant for small plates and boutique wines. After dinner, enjoy Lafayette’s vibrant nightlife with live music at The Blue Moon Saloon, Rock n’ Bowl, or The Grouse Room.

Dinner

• Prejean’s is a local institution with a well-earned reputation as one of the best Cajun restaurants in Lafayette. The menu features all the classic dishes, and live music is played in a lovely environment.
• Charley G’s is fine, upscale, Louisiana-style dining with a seasonally rotating menu focused on local ingredients, great cocktails, and entertainment.
• Pamplona Tapas Bar & Restaurant brings Spain to Lafayette with a menu of small plates with local flavors, a boutique wine list, and craft drinks. 

For a complete list of place to eat lunch in Lafayette, LA click here.

Live Music

• The Blue Moon Saloon is a true local treasure and provides a stage for eclectic local music and touring acts in a vibrant setting.  
• Rock n’ Bowl de Lafayette is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Test your bowling skills while listening to some of the finest regional and touring acts. 
• The Grouse Room provides an upscale music, dining, and drinking establishment, featuring musical styles from jazz to rock.

For even more live music options in Lafayette, LA click here.

You’re sure to find many, many more worthy options for your own fun day trip itinerary to Lafayette so get out there and see what we have to offer!