Opelousas Travel Guide

This comprehensive Opelousas travel guide lists all the must-see attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Opelousas

Nestled in Cajun Prairie, in Acadiana, Louisiana, you’ll find Opelousas, a small town that packs a big punch. Often referred to as the “Creole Capital of Louisiana,” Opelousas is steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes that make it a beloved destination for travelers.

From hiking trails to historic sites, Cajun cuisine to local culture, there’s plenty to discover in Opelousas. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Opelousas, with all the must-see attractions, best things to do, and local tips you need to know.

List of Places to Visit in Opelousas

Here are some of the top places to visit in Opelousas:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Opelousas has a rich cultural history that you can experience in its various museums and historical landmarks. Some popular attractions include:

  • Le Vieux Village de Poste des Opelousas: A picturesque village that showcases the evolution of the town from its early beginnings to modern-day.
  • Opelousas Museum and Interpretive Center: The ideal place to learn about the history of the Creole culture and Opelousas.
  • Creole Heritage Folklife Center: A museum dedicated to preserving the Creole heritage and showcasing their art and crafts.

Natural Attractions of Opelousas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Opelousas has several options to enjoy the great outdoors:

  • Opelousas City Park: An expansive park with plenty of greenery, perfect for picnics, sports, and doing a morning walk.
  • Indian Hills Country Club: A serene golf course where you can play a round of golf while enjoying the beautiful views.
  • Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge: A paradise for nature admirers, this wildlife refuge is famous for bird watching, fishing, and hunting opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Opelousas

Opelousas has several hiking and biking trails for those who love to get some exercise in the great outdoors. Some popular trails include:

  • South City Park Walking Trail: A 0.8-mile paved path that circles around the South City Park baseball and football fields.
  • Opelousas Recreational Complex: A 5K course that includes a mix of paved and natural paths.
  • Cravens Nature Trail: A 0.4-mile trail covered with boardwalks, benches, and bridges, leading you through a forest of trees and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Opelousas: Activities and Tours

Opelousas has several unique activities that you can enjoy during your visit. Some popular ones include:

  • Eunice Farmers Market: The perfect place to get a taste of local produce and farm-fresh goods.
  • Zydeco Dance Lessons: A thrilling dance experience that showcases the area’s signature dance moves set to zydeco music.
  • Tour L’Acadie: A tour that takes you through the area and teaches you about the history of Cajun and Creole people and their roots.

Week-Long Itinerary for Opelousas

If you’re planning to stay for a week in Opelousas, here is an itinerary you can follow:

Day Activity
1 Get to know the town by visiting Le Vieux Village, the Opelousas Museum, and the Creole Heritage Folklife Center
2 Enjoy some outdoor activities by hitting the Indian Hills Country Club or the Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge
3 Head to the Cravens Nature Trail, and then take a Zydeco dance lesson in the evening
4 Go on a swamp tour, and then end the day with some live music at one of the town’s famous music venues
5 Take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes
6 Visit some of the historic churches in the town, like the Holy Ghost Catholic Church and the St. Landry Catholic Church
7 Check out the Eunice Farmers Market before heading home

Food and Drink Scene of Opelousas

Opelousas is famous for its Southern, Cajun, and Creole cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Boudin: A sausage made of pork meat, rice, and spices that’s a popular snack and breakfast food in the area.
  • Gumbo: A hearty soup that features chicken, sausage or seafood, onions, and celery in a roux-based sauce.
  • Étouffée: A stew made typically with crawfish and served over rice.

Local Beverages

  • Sazerac: A famous cocktail made from rye whiskey, Herbsaint, and a sugar cube.
  • Daiquiri: A favorite amongst the locals, this frozen drink is made with rum, sugar, and citrus juice.

Where to Stay in Opelousas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Opelousas has several great options for lodging, including:

  • Comfort Inn: A respected chain hotel that offers all the regular amenities plus a complimentary breakfast buffet.
  • Opelousas Inn & Suites: A pared-down option that still delivers everything you need, including a fitness center and complimentary breakfast.
  • Cajun Campground: An RV park located on the outskirts of town, offering large shaded spaces with full hookups.

What to Buy in Opelousas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Popular souvenirs to bring back from Opelousas are:

  • Local Hot Sauce: Made from sea salt and vinegar, this hot and spicy sauce is the perfect condiment for any food.
  • Pepper Jelly: Made with hot peppers and sugar, this condiment is a great addition to cream cheese or served on crackers.
  • Cajun Spices: Perfect for those who love to cook or grill, Cajun spices can enliven any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of Opelousas

Opelousas is known for its friendly people, Cajun and Creole cultural heritage, and passion for music and dance.

Best Time to Visit Opelousas

The best time to visit Opelousas is between September and November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. However, the town is also bustling in the summer months when various festivals and events are happening.

Do’s and Don’ts of Opelousas

Here are some key things to keep in mind when visiting Opelousas:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine
  • Attend a live music event
  • Immerse yourself in the Cajun and Creole culture

Don’t:

  • Ignore the great outdoors
  • Forget to bring sunscreen and bug spray
  • Skip the local festivals if you’re in town during one

Safety and Health

Safety in Opelousas

Opelousas is considered a safe town to visit. However, it is always best to take general precautions while traveling, like keeping an eye on your belongings and sticking to well-lit areas at night.

Health in Opelousas

Be sure to have health insurance when visiting Opelousas. The town has excellent healthcare facilities and hospitals if you need them.

Getting to Opelousas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Opelousas

The nearest airport to Opelousas is the Lafayette Regional Airport, which is approximately 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Opelousas

The Greyhound Bus Station in Lafayette is the closest bus station to Opelousas, about 25 miles away.

Other Options

If you’re driving, then Opelousas is just off Interstate 49 (I-49) and US 190.

How to Get Around in Opelousas

Opelousas is a small town, and walking or biking is usually sufficient to get around. Taxis and car rentals are also available if you require.

Where to Go Next from Opelousas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Opelousas is surrounded by towns that are also worth visiting, like:

  • Baton Rouge: The state’s capital city, Baton Rouge, is located just over an hour away and has several attractions to offer, like the Louisiana State Capitol.
  • Lafayette: The largest city in Acadiana, Lafayette is 23 miles south of Opelousas and is known for its lively music and culinary scene.
  • St. Francisville: Located around 50 miles northeast, St. Francisville is an enchanting town known for its historic architecture and ghost tours.

Conclusion

Opelousas is a charming town that has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. By exploring its museums, historical sites, local cuisine, and more, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to this unique destination.