Downtown Lafayette Cajun History & Folklore Walking Tour
4.8 / 5 · 20 traveler reviews
The one and only walking tour of Downtown Lafayette is here! We'll go through our city's fascinating history, Cajun folklore and mythology, and current local culture (including restaurant and shop recommendations). I'm a local who was born and raised in Lafayette and I live downtown; I'm excited to show you around our unique city!
Your experience
Stop 1
We will meet here and discuss our first topic of the tour: Lafayette--the most catholic city in America! We'll discuss the history of how the Acadians made there way to Louisiana and how that translates into the modern term "Cajun" we know today.
Stop 2
Next to the Cathedral is the St. John Cathedral Live Oak. This 500 year oak tree is where we'll discuss the tale of Evangeline and Gabriel, the cajun Romeo and Juliet.
Stop 3
Here we will discuss the unique Louisiana burials and the mythical creature in cajun folklore known at the Rougarou.
Stop 4
At this historic cajun smoke house and grocery, we'll discuss the history and relevance of cajun cuisine. I'll make a few suggestions of what to buy.
Stop 5
At the historic Mouton House, we'll discuss the man who founded Lafayette and some of his sordid pre-civil war history.
Stop 6
We'll stop for 15 minutes for coffee, ice cream, or cocktails at this locally owned spot.
Stop 7
We'll pass by Pop's Poboys and Pamplona--both great restaurants--and I will give personal recommendations.
Stop 8
At this beautiful art gallery and music venue, we'll discuss the history and relevance of cajun and zydeco music.
Stop 9
We'll pass by Vestal and Sarrica's--both great restaurants--and I will give my personal recommendations.
Stop 10
We'll stop at Cocodrie, a local gift and art shop, and discuss the death and resurgence of the Cajun French language. Then we'll have 5 minutes to look around the cute shop.
Stop 11
We'll pass by The Flats, Central, and Tsunami--all great restaurants--and I'll give my personal recommendations.
Stop 12
We'll discuss the history of Festival International de Louisiane and some of Lafayette's best and most famous festivals, including Cajun Mardi Gras--also known as the Chicken Run.
What’s included
- Guided Tour
Not included
- Food or Purchases
Meeting and pickup
We will meet on the sidewalk right in front of the Cathedral. I suggest street parking on Vermillion St. or Jefferson Street.
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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