Road Trip Guide
Cajun Country Byway: Louisiana Bayou Culture
Lafayette, LA to Houma, LA
Start Your Engine
Lafayette, LA
The Finish Line
Houma, LA
120 miles
Miles
3 days
Days
Start Stops End
Trip Essentials for Lafayette, LA
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Insider Driving Tips
Always carry a dedicated container for local boudin, as you will inevitably want to stock up at every roadside gas station you pass.
Schedule your driving during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the most intense heat and to capture the best lighting on the bayou for your photography.
Learn a few basic French phrases; while English is universal, locals appreciate the nod to their heritage and it often opens doors to deeper conversations.
Check the local festival calendar before you go, as the Cajun Country Byway is best experienced during a local crawfish boil or a weekend zydeco dance hall event.
Keep a pair of reliable, waterproof walking shoes in your trunk, as the best views of the bayou often require a short trek through damp, grassy terrain.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
Breaux Bridge
Cafe Sydnie Mae
“An elegant yet cozy spot serving up elevated Cajun classics like crawfish étouffée and fresh Gulf seafood in a historic building.”
Bridge Street Historic District
The row of colorful, historic storefronts that perfectly capture the aesthetic of old-world Louisiana.
Bayou Teche Bridge
A classic shot of the waterway reflecting the lush, green canopy of the surrounding trees.
The Bayou Teche Boardwalk
A quiet, wooden walkway tucked behind the main street that offers an intimate view of the river without the crowds.
St. Martinville
St. John Restaurant
“A legendary establishment known for its authentic, no-frills approach to Louisiana staples like gumbo and fried catfish.”
The Evangeline Oak
The majestic, historic tree that stands as a symbol of the Acadian journey and enduring love.
St. Martin de Tours Church
The stunning white facade and historic grounds of this iconic Catholic church.
Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site
A beautifully preserved plantation-style home that details the early lives of the Acadians and the Creoles.
Morgan City
Rita Mae’s Kitchen
“A local favorite serving up massive portions of home-cooked Cajun meals in a warm, inviting atmosphere.”
The Atchafalaya River Bridge
A dramatic shot of the bridge reflecting on the water, capturing the scale of the river.
Berwick Lighthouse
A charming, historic lighthouse that overlooks the river, providing a picturesque contrast to the industrial surroundings.
Lake Palourde
A serene, expansive lake nearby that offers some of the best bass fishing and sunset viewing in the entire state.
Houma
Cristiano Ristorante
“A surprising culinary gem in downtown Houma that blends Italian techniques with fresh, local Louisiana seafood.”
Bayou Terrebonne
The winding waterway that cuts through the heart of the city, lined with local fishing vessels.
Southdown Plantation House
A beautifully preserved, pink-hued mansion that showcases the history of the sugar cane industry in the region.
Dulac Fishing Village
A short drive south of Houma, this small community is where you can see the authentic, working side of the local fishing industry.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is very safe. The people in this region are known for their hospitality and are generally very helpful to visitors.
Spring and autumn are ideal, as the temperatures are milder and you avoid the peak of the summer heat and humidity.