First Time in Lafayette
We are travelling from England and wanted to some advice. We were planning on spending about 4-5 days in the area next October and use Lafayette as a base.
1) I really hate to ask this question but how safe is Lafayette? Is it a case of just be sensible or do we need to be more aware? Should we take Ubers rather than walk?
2) I have found a nice place to stay in the Saint Street area. Is this an ok area? Or would it be better to stay further out?
3) Sport . I hope to coincide with a College football game. Do you know how easy it is to get tickets?
4) Micro Breweries. Does anyone have any suggestions on ones to visit?
5) Kayaking. Can any recommend any good trips
Thanks for your help
Bill
Hi Bill! It’s great that you’re planning a trip to Lafayette next October. It’s a wonderful city with a lot of unique culture, food, and outdoor activities to enjoy. I’ll answer your questions in detail below to help make your trip even better.
1) Safety in Lafayette: Lafayette is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any city, it’s always best to use common sense. The downtown area, including the Saint Street area where you’re considering staying, is considered safe for walking, especially during the day. However, as in any city, it’s always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, particularly after dark. It’s a good idea to avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less populated areas. For getting around, taking an Uber or Lyft in the evening or to get to areas further away from your accommodation is always a good choice. Public transportation options are limited, so ride-sharing services are very popular and safe. Just make sure to stay in well-lit, busy areas, and you should have a pleasant visit.
2) Saint Street Area: The Saint Street area is a good location for visitors. It’s centrally located and provides easy access to the best parts of Lafayette, including downtown, shops, and local restaurants. The neighborhood is generally safe and has a lively, local feel. That said, as with any urban area, it’s always good to be cautious at night and stick to more populated streets when possible. If you’re looking for something quieter or with more green space, you could consider staying further out in areas like River Ranch or near the University of Louisiana campus, which are also nice and family-friendly. However, Saint Street offers good proximity to everything Lafayette has to offer, so it should be a solid choice.
3) College Football: Lafayette is home to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette), and the Ragin' Cajuns football team is a big part of the local culture. College football games are a great way to experience local excitement. Tickets for UL Lafayette games can be easily obtained either online through the university’s athletics website or at the stadium on game day (though buying them in advance is often recommended for popular games). Football games are typically held at Cajun Field, which is just a short distance from the university campus. The atmosphere at these games is lively and full of local pride, so it’s definitely worth trying to coordinate your visit to catch a game!
4) Microbreweries: Lafayette is home to a growing craft beer scene, and you’re in for a treat! Here are a few breweries to check out:
- The Bayou Teche Brewing Company: Known for its Cajun-inspired brews, this brewery has a great selection of local beers. It’s a must-visit if you enjoy trying unique, regional craft beer.
- Parish Brewing Company: A bit outside of Lafayette, but worth the trip if you're into craft beer. They have a range of creative and high-quality brews, and the brewery often hosts events and food trucks.
- Cypress Coast Brewing: A newer brewery in the area with a variety of innovative and hoppy beers. Their taproom is a great spot to relax and sample different styles of beer.
- Acadiana’s Cajun Brewing: A small, locally-loved brewery with a range of beers that reflect the culture and flavors of the region. They often host tastings and events, so check out their schedule during your visit.
5) Kayaking: Lafayette is surrounded by beautiful swamps, bayous, and rivers, making it a perfect place for kayaking. There are several great options for guided trips or rentals:
- Atchafalaya Basin: The Atchafalaya Basin is a massive swamp, and kayaking there is an unforgettable experience. You can rent kayaks or join guided tours to explore the bayou and see unique wildlife.
- Cajun Swamp Tours: This company offers guided swamp tours by kayak, which can take you into some of the most scenic and remote areas of the bayou. It’s a great way to get close to nature and learn about the local ecosystem.
- Vermilionville: If you’re looking for something a little closer to town, you can rent kayaks at Vermilionville Historic Village and paddle along the Vermilion River. This is a nice, peaceful option for an afternoon of kayaking.
Overall, Lafayette offers a lot to do, and it’s a wonderful base for exploring the unique culture, food, and natural beauty of Louisiana. Whether you’re attending a football game, sampling craft beers, or exploring the bayou by kayak, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Enjoy your trip, and I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time!
