Schools out and summer is finally here! But now that it is here “What is there to do in Lafayette?!” With the economy in the dumps and budgets stretched to the brink many people like me can not afford a vacation this summer. It looks like many of us will be having a “staycation” in Lafayette.

But what does Lafayette have to offer? Lafayette is a vibrant city that offers a ton of events and new experiences if you are willing to look hard enough. Fortunately for you I did the looking. Lafayette offers fun affairs in three main areas which include family events, historic areas, and nightlife.

Lafayette offers a wide range of family oriented activities. You can take advantage of the beautiful weather and enjoy a nice picnic with your loved ones at Parc Sans Souci on Vermilion Street. If it gets too hot, run through the water fountain, which is designed to be played in. Also, you can take a few minutes to visit the 9-11 sculpture. Another awesome place to have a picnic is Girard Park. This park offers a walking trail for exercise, playground equipment for the kids and a pond with hungry ducks and geese, so bring a stale loaf of bread and have some fun.

If its too hot to trot outside? Visit the Children's Museum of Acadiana for fun hands on and informative activities! The Children's Museum of Acadiana is a hands-on particpartory museum serving children and their families by providing interactive exhibits, special services, performances, and workshops. The Children's Museum of Acadiana is open Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and only cost $5!

Lafayette also offers a variety of cultural experiences.

There's no better way to start your weekend than Zydeco Breakfast at Cafe des Amis, a cultural mosaic of food, art, music and historic preservation. The breakfast menu features specialties to rival New Orlean's best brunch restaurants. The music starts at 8:30, but get there early.

Vermillionville is a Cajun/Creole folklife park that recreates life in the Acadiana area from 1765-1890. La Cuisine de Maman features Cajun/Creole dishes including their famous chicken & sausage gumbo. If you're there on a weekend, you may be treated to live Cajun or Zydeco music.

The Alexandre Mouton House/Lafayette Museum is a repository of Acadian history and culture. The original structure was built in early 1800s as the Sunday House of Lafayette's (formerly known as Vermlionville's) founder, Jean Mouton.

After hours Lafayette offers an exciting and vibrant night life.

The Blue Moon Saloon is a premier venue for America's roots and honky-tonk troubadours. It has become a meeting place where all kinds of people rub elbows, dance and thank their lucky stars they have the good fortune to spend an evening in Lafayette. 

Graham Central Station set the standard of Nightlife in the Acadiana area. Graham Central Station has 4 separate clubs all under one roof and a great location downtown. The four club themes are 80's dance room, karaoke singing, country dance hall, and a tropical hip-hop club. So no matter what your style is Graham Central Station has a place for you!

If you're older and looking for Cajun music and a great meal try Prejean's. Located in the heart of French Louisiana, Prejean's Restaurant captures the hearts of all who visit. A delight to all “six” senses, Prejean's Restaurant satisfies diners with some of the best cuisine available in the south. In a culture famous for delicious flavors, Prejean's leads the way.  Traditional music fills the air with the sounds of live Cajun bands entertaining nightly. Prejean's showcases the rich culture of our Cajun French heritage. Antique relics grace the walls and rafters.

Tags: Summer Vacation Lafayette