Apartments and Airbnb in Lafayette, Louisiana

From Cajun dance halls to crawfish boils, Lafayette immerses you in the culture of Acadiana. Visitors are welcomed with upbeat Zydeco music, spicy gumbos, and stories passed down through generations. The city pulses with community spirit, especially during festivals like Festival International de Louisiane. A visit here feels like stepping into a celebration of life, food, and heritage.

Top areas to stay at in Lafayette, Louisiana

Downtown Lafayette

Downtown Lafayette is the city’s cultural and entertainment hub, perfect for travelers who want to be close to music venues, art galleries, and restaurants. Airbnbs here often include charming apartments in historic buildings with easy access to local events and nightlife. Guests can walk to venues like the Acadiana Center for the Arts and enjoy farm-to-table dining.

Saint Streets

Named for its network of streets honoring saints, the Saint Streets neighborhood offers a cozy, artsy vibe close to downtown. This area features craftsman-style homes, tree-lined roads, and vacation rentals full of character and charm. Guests can stroll to local bakeries, boutiques, and nearby parks for a slower, more residential experience.

River Ranch

A planned community blending classic architecture with modern amenities, River Ranch is ideal for visitors seeking upscale comfort and convenience. Vacation rentals here include stylish condos, townhomes, and houses with access to shops, spas, and cafés. It’s a walkable area that combines leisure with luxury. River Ranch provides a refined, suburban atmosphere just minutes from downtown.

Freetown-Port Rico

Full of local history and youthful energy, Freetown-Port Rico is a vibrant neighborhood with deep roots in Creole culture. Travelers staying here enjoy access to eclectic cafés, bars with live music, and a growing arts scene. Airbnbs in the area often reflect the local flair, with colorful decor and relaxed vibes.

Broadmoor

Located just south of downtown, Broadmoor is a quiet residential area known for its large lots, mature trees, and welcoming atmosphere. Vacation homes here are spacious and ideal for families or groups looking for comfort and convenience. The area offers easy access to shopping centers, parks, and local eateries. Broadmoor is a peaceful retreat with suburban charm.

Must-visit places and attractions in Lafayette, Louisiana

Vermilionville Historic Village

Vermilionville is a living history museum and folklife park that showcases the region’s Cajun and Creole heritage. Visitors can explore restored homes, watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts, and listen to Zydeco performances. The village sits on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion, offering beautiful views and boat tours.

Acadian Village

Acadian Village is another open-air museum that brings 19th-century Cajun life to life through historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and cultural events. Visitors can walk through authentic homes and a chapel while learning about the daily lives of early settlers. The site often hosts seasonal festivals and holiday celebrations.

Cypress Lake

Located on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus, Cypress Lake is a small natural swamp teeming with native flora and fauna. Alligators, turtles, and birds are commonly seen from the surrounding walkways. It’s a unique and peaceful spot to enjoy a slice of the state’s natural environment without leaving the city. Visitors of all ages enjoy its accessibility and serene beauty.

Acadiana Center for the Arts

The Acadiana Center for the Arts is a cultural cornerstone in downtown Lafayette, hosting exhibits, concerts, and community events. It showcases regional and national artists across various disciplines, from painting to performance. Visitors can catch a concert or browse contemporary works during their stay.

LARC’s Acadian Village

Distinct from the main Acadian Village, LARC’s Acadian Village supports people with developmental disabilities through cultural programming and tourism. The village hosts Christmas lights displays, music events, and tours of 1800s homes. It blends history with community support in a meaningful way. The grounds are peaceful, informative, and full of southern charm.

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

This red brick Cathedral of St. John is one of Lafayette’s most iconic landmarks and an active place of worship. The church features stained-glass windows, Romanesque architecture, and a historic cemetery. Visitors are welcome to attend mass or admire the building and its centuries-old oak trees.

Heymann Performing Arts Center

The Heymann Performing Arts Center is Lafayette’s premier venue for large-scale performances, from symphonies to musicals. It attracts touring shows and regional productions throughout the year. The center’s elegant setting and excellent acoustics make it a top destination for entertainment.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve - Acadian Cultural Center

This site, part of the Jean Lafitte National Park system, highlights the history and culture of the Acadian people who settled in Louisiana. The Acadian Cultural Center features exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs that explore the region’s migration and resilience. Visitors can also enjoy guided boat tours and walking paths along the bayou. It’s a thoughtful and educational addition to any Lafayette itinerary.

Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near Lafayette, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana

Roughly two and a half hours east, New Orleans offers an iconic blend of music, cuisine, and French-influenced architecture. Guests can explore Bourbon Street, take a steamboat cruise, or sample world-famous beignets. New Orleans provides a high-energy contrast to Lafayette’s slower pace. Unwind in a vacation rental in New Orleans with wrought-iron balconies or tucked away in the Marigny.

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Located about an hour and a half west, Lake Charles is known for its casinos, Creole nature trails, and lakefront boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy Cajun cuisine, local festivals, and outdoor adventures. Lake Charles offers both excitement and relaxation close to Lafayette. Stay in a house in Lake Charles near the waterfront or within walking distance to downtown events.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Just an hour to the northeast, Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital and a center for politics, history, and education. Guests can tour the State Capitol, explore LSU’s campus, or enjoy riverfront dining. Baton Rouge combines cultural depth with southern tradition. Rest in an apartment in Baton Rouge close to museums, restaurants, and vibrant university life.

Avery Island, Louisiana

Famous for being the home of Tabasco sauce, Avery Island is a unique destination just 40 minutes south of Lafayette. Visitors can tour the Tabasco factory, explore Jungle Gardens, and observe native wildlife like snowy egrets. Avery Island makes for a flavorful and scenic side trip. Relax after a tour in a vacation rental in Avery Island surrounded by mossy oaks and tropical gardens.

Breaux Bridge, Louisiana

Just 15 minutes from Lafayette, Breaux Bridge is known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World.” This small town offers charming vacation rentals near the Bayou Teche, antique shops, and live Zydeco brunches. It’s a great place to experience Cajun traditions in a slower, more intimate setting. Spend a weekend in an airbnb in Breaux Bridge where local culture and bayou life meet in perfect harmony.