Posted in Louisiana Trips March 24, 2016 by

The Best City In America Is Actually Right Here In Louisiana

Have you ever wondered what the best city in Louisiana is? What about the best city in America? Well the facts are in: There’s such a city right here in our state. That’s right. Lafayette, LA, has been recognized time and again for the amazing array of features it offers. Find out what Lafayette is all about:

Lafayette, LA is an incredible place to live—there’s just no question about it.
facebook.com/downtownlafayette
From recreation to work and education, there's truly something for everyone in this town.
Lafayette is anchored by a vibrant downtown area, filled with cultural activities, bars, and restaurants.
facebook.com/downtownlafayette
Biking is a great way to get around these parts fairly quickly.
Lafayette has shown itself to be an economic powerhouse since the recession, with a low area unemployment rate and competitive wages.
facebook.com/downtownlafayette/
In a 2013 study, Lafayette was recognized as the #1 place in America for Economic and Job Growth in the entire country. It continues to be a leader in job growth, and was named the 5th best city in 2015.
Acadian/cajun cultural heritage and preservation is also a vital part of life in Lafayette.
flickr.com/photos/kkanouse
The Vermilionville Historic Village Acadian Cultural Center is just one of numerous places where visitors can explore the rich history of the people who settled this area.
There are also amazing architectural features in the town, including the St. John Cathedral, pictured here.
flickr.com/photos/harquail
Taking up a city block in downtown Lafayette, the Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist dates back to the very beginning of Vermilionville (today’s Lafayette). The present day church, built in 1916, occupies the same land donated for the first church in 1821. The oak tree on the right is more than 450 years old, making it the third oldest member of the Live Oak Society.
flickr.com/photos/bucketpostcards
Simply gorgeous.
And not to be forgotten, the food in Lafayette is just amazing.
flickr.com/photos/fredcamino
Like all good cajuns, people in Lafayette take making delicious meals very seriously.
Lafayette has also been recognized as a top place for students as well.
facebook.com/officialullafayette/
Travel & Leisure magazine ranked Lafayette the 17th best college town in America, topping in the list for being the "most well-rounded" with its wide array of cafes, bars, burgers, and of course, friendly people. University of Louisiana at Lafayette was ranked as the most affordable university in the state, with the lowest net price (balancing scholarships with external student expenses) to attend at $5,233 a semester.
Also known as the Hub City, Lafayette was also named the Happiest City In America by the a study put on by a group of professors using data from the CDC.
facebook.com/downtownlafayette
In fact, five Louisiana cities were named in the top ten according to this study, but it was Lafayette that took the top prize.
Perhaps it is because of the amazing array of festivals that dot the Lafayette calendar.
flickr.com/photos/weblogsky
The largest, Festival International, is one of the top ranked world music festivals in the country.
Or maybe it was because of the gorgeous nature that surrounds the city.
Facebook.com / Rocky Aurore Picture Show
Lake Martin, pictured here, is a favorite escape spot for Lafayette residents.
Or maybe, just maybe, it's the incredible spirit of people from Lafayette.
facebook.com/iheartacadiana
Even though Lafayette went through a lot after the shooting last year, the city has continued to show its brilliant, unshakable sparkle.

Are you convinced that Lafayette is the best city in Louisiana? Or even the best city in America? What do you guys think? Let us know your thoughts! We love hearing from you!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.