7 Places Where You Can Still Experience Old Louisiana

The Cajun Village houses a number of specialty boutique shops that are located in restored and preserved Acadian buildings. Enjoy a nice hot cup of coffee while you meander around shopping for everything from art to souvenirs. Visitors can also check out the alligator pond or make a weekend out of it and stay at the bed & breakfast. The Cajun Village is located at 6490 Highway 22, Sorrento, LA 70778.

Comprised of an original city block, Zachary Historic Village includes an old town hall, train depot, barn, and several other houses. Come stroll through this fun little village filled with turn of the century houses decorated with period furniture, appliances, and more. The intricate attention to detail in these homes will leave you speechless. Zachary Historic Village is located at 4524 Virginia St., Zachary, LA 70791.

Vermilionville Historic Village is a living history museum and folklife park that the whole family will enjoy. You’ll get a first-hand look at what life was like for Acadians, Native Americans, and Creoles during 1765-1890. Located on the banks of Bayou Vermilion, there are 19 attractions scattered throughout the 23-acre site, including seven original homes that have been carefully restored. Vermilionville Historic Village is located at 300 Fisher Rd., Lafayette, LA 70508.

With over fifty original structures remaining, Laurel Valley Plantation is the largest surviving 19th- and 20th-century sugar plantation complex left in the country. Taking a stroll through this village will send you back in time, and be sure to stop by the store on your way out to pick up some local crafts and delicious treats. There are also animals roaming around and kids love getting to feed them. Laurel Valley is located at 595 LA-308, Thibodaux, LA 70301.

Dedicated to preserving and educating the public about the cultures of the 18th and 19th century Louisianians, everyone will love a day spent at this unique museum. Between the dozens of exhibits and live demonstrations, there’s history around every corner. The LSU Rural Life Museum is located at 4560 Essen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70809

The Acadian Village spans 32 acres and was created to preserve early Acadian heritage. As you wander about the village, you’ll notice that seven of the 11 buildings are authentic homes from the 19th century that have been donated by families whose ancestors once lived here. Acadian Village is located at 200 Greenleaf Dr., Lafayette, LA 70506.

Le Vieux Village offers a glimpse into the everyday life of early settlers of St. Landry Parish. Created in 1988, it’s truly time well spent to wander around and peek in all the different buildings, especially the schoolhouse and the doctor’s office. Le Vieux Village is located at 828 E Landry St., Opelousas, LA 70570.