Lafayette, Louisiana
Two hours west of New Orleans, Lafayette is a splendid southern Louisiana city where beautiful natural marshland meets down-home Cajun cuisine and toe-tapping tunes played seven days a week. With lots to discover, see, and eat, there’s no better place for a long autumn weekend than Lafayette, Louisiana.
Start your day downtown at one of the city’s most popular spots for caffeine lovers—Rêve Coffee Roasters. If the bright yet cozy interior doesn’t spark your energy, then their delicious java certainly will. Owner Nathanael Johnson is the talent behind this local favorite, his second coffee shop venture to open after founding Cafe Mosaic just 45 minutes away in Eunice, Louisiana. Every coffee bean is roasted in their micro-roaster located right in Acadiana, so you can expect freshness with every sip. Can’t decide what to order? Ask for advice from one of their knowledgeable baristas, who are always happy to help. We’ll tell you that you can’t go wrong with the classics, but we also love their seasonal fall drinks spiced with warm, cozy flavors. For a quick treat, be sure not to overlook their baked goods where freshly baked breads and other confections all but steal the show.
If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, head before breakfast to check out some locally grown produce and handmade goods. Set beneath the canopy of massive shady oak trees, this gorgeous market hosts artisans and farmers within 100 miles who sell everything from juicy autumn persimmons to woodcrafts and even freshly baked sweet and savory hand pies from local favorite . You’re sure to find a treasure here.
