Lafayette, Louisiana is a city known for its vibrant culture and eclectic charm. The people who live here are passionate about their history and heritage, celebrating it through music, dance, visual arts, and theater. If youre looking to explore the citys cultural sites beyond the typical tourist destinations, there are plenty of quirky and unusual spots that reveal its true character.
Start your journey at Cit des Arts (109 Vine St), a community arts center housed in an old fire station. It hosts local art exhibits and performances from emerging musicians throughout the year. For something truly unique, head to Franks Casket Store (1550 Verot School Rd), where youll find a bizarre collection of handmade caskets decorated with everything from sports team logos to religious symbols.
If youre interested in Cajun music, check out Blue Moon Saloon (215 E Convent St) for nightly concerts featuring local bands playing traditional tunes. For a more upscale experience head over to Acadiana Center for the Arts (101 W Vermilion St) which showcases national touring acts as well as regional bands performing everything from jazz to classical music.
The cultural fabric also includes museums such as The Hilliard University Art Museum(710 East Saint Mary Boulevard). This museum has permanent collections include over 1,400 works including paintings drawings sculptures photographs prints videos new media art films books manuscripts documentary materials decorative arts furniture tools weapons musical instruments textiles costumes jewelry ceramics glassware tribal art folk art Newcomb pottery studio pottery contemporary sculpture installation pieces acrylics oils watercolors enamels on metal wood block prints collages mixed media constructions silkscreen prints linocuts serigraphs lithographs etchings drypoints aquatints mezzotints liftground etchings photogravures engraving champlev enamel cloisonn enamel cast alloy different techniques by world renowned artists.
For lovers of the theatrical arts, check out Cite des Arts (109 Vine Street), Grouse Room(1919 Kaliste Saloom Rd Suite 303) for live music or Silverbacks Improv Theatre (210 North Blvd). Their shows are hilarious and totally unscripted which makes every show unique and entertaining.
Finally, take a stroll through Downtown Lafayette on Second Saturday Artwalk. On this day every month, galleries open their doors to showcase local artists work in various mediums from painting to sculpture. The event is free to attend and youll get plenty of opportunities to meet the artists themselves while enjoying complimentary wine and cheese.
In short, Lafayettes cultural landscape is rich with hidden gems that highlight its uniqueness and authenticity. Take the time to explore these spots during your visit here for an experience like no other!
Websites:
https://acadianacenterforthearts.org/
Twitter Handles:
109 Vine St
La, LA
United States
1550 Verot School Rd La
Lafayette, LA
United States
215 E Convent St
La, LA
United States
101 W Vermilion St
La, LA
United States
710 East Saint Mary Boulevard
La, LA
United States
109 Vine Street
La, LA
United States
1919 Kaliste Saloom Rd
La, LA
United States
210 North Blvd
La, LA
United States