Mardi Gras in Lafayette is a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and, of course, incredible food. This year, we packed our weekend with classic Cajun experiences, delicious eats, and an unforgettable ending at a Dynamo vs. Inter Miami game.
Friday Night – Po’ Boys and a Cozy Stay
Our weekend started with a stop at Darrell’s, where we indulged in one of their legendary po’ boys. The roast beef with gravy was everything we hoped for—messy, flavorful, and the perfect way to kick off our Louisiana adventure. After stuffing ourselves, we checked into Hilton Parc Lafayette, our home base for the weekend. The hotel’s comfortable atmosphere gave us the perfect place to rest up for the festivities ahead.
Saturday – Exploring the Best of Cajun Country
We started our morning with a classic Lafayette breakfast, fueling up for a day of exploration. The first stop was Avery Island, the home of Tabasco. Walking through the pepper fields and learning about the history of this iconic hot sauce made us appreciate the spice even more. The lush jungle gardens and wildlife gave us a taste of Louisiana’s natural beauty.
Lunch was a treat at St. John Restaurant, where we enjoyed Cajun classics like crawfish étouffée and gumbo. Nothing beats the rich, comforting flavors of well-made Louisiana cuisine.
After lunch, we took a scenic drive to Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. The peaceful, swampy landscapes were a nice contrast to the lively Mardi Gras energy. It was the perfect spot to stretch our legs and soak in the natural side of Louisiana before heading back into town.
Back to Lafayette – Coffee, Parades, and More Food
No trip is complete without good coffee, so we stopped at Rêve Coffee Roasters in Lafayette. Their locally roasted beans and cozy vibe made for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up before heading to the highlight of the weekend—the Mardi Gras parade!
The streets of Lafayette were packed with energy. Floats rolled through, beads flew through the air, and the spirit of Mardi Gras was alive and well. The music, dancing, and festive atmosphere were exactly what we came for.
After the parade, we ended our night with a fantastic meal at Prejean’s. Their seafood gumbo and blackened redfish hit the spot, making for the ideal closing meal in Cajun country.
Sunday – Buc-ee’s and Soccer in Houston
Before heading home, we made a necessary pit stop at Buc-ee’s—because no road trip through the South is complete without one. Stocking up on snacks and souvenirs, we hit the road to Houston for the final highlight of the weekend: the Dynamo vs. Inter Miami game. Seeing some of the biggest stars in soccer and feeling the electric energy of the stadium was the perfect way to cap off an incredible trip.
From mouthwatering Cajun eats to scenic bayous and the thrilling spectacle of Mardi Gras, this weekend in Lafayette had it all. Until next time, Louisiana—Laissez les bons temps rouler!
thetravelingmanager.com 