Exploring Louisiana’s small towns is one of the best ways to experience Louisiana on a local level. Major cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Louisiana are all fabulous cities, but there’s nothing that can compare to a small-town getaway. If you’re looking for the perfect small town to spend a few days in, visiting Ville Platte, Louisiana might be just what you need.
Ville Platte is a tiny little town in central Louisiana that’s home to about 6,300 residents.
It’s not really located in an area that you’d just ‘happen to drive by’. Since it’s not that close to any major cities, it feels like you’re a million miles away from everything. We love that.
Sitting pretty just outside of Cajun Country in the Bayou Teche Region, visiting Ville Platte is perfect for nature lovers.
It’s perfect for scenic drives, too. The Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway passes right through Ville Platte and will take you on a historic (and scenic) ride for 283 miles.
Chicot State Park is the crown jewel of this region.
Louisiana’s largest state park is overflowing with outdoor adventures. Much of the park’s amenities are centered around the lake, and it’s a perfect spot for fishing. I love renting a canoe from the park and setting off on the 8-mile paddle trail here.
There are a handful of hotels in Ville Platte, but I’d highly recommend staying in the cabins at Chicot State Park.
These floating cabins give you a front-row seat to the lake and they’re super spacious. You can dock your boat right outside your door, and each cabin has its own little pier to fish or lounge from.
The Louisiana State Arboretum is also located here, and it’s full of educational hiking trails that are family-friendly.
It’s the oldest state-supported arboretum in the country!
While you’re visiting, be sure to swing by Cafe Evangeline for a bite to eat.
Specializing in Cajun and Creole fare, this restaurant is actually housed in a former bank! The atmosphere is just as unique as the menu.
Are you planning on visiting Ville Platte, Louisiana any time soon? Fall is one of our favorite times to visit--the bugs are at bay and the temperatures are great for outdoor adventures.
Read on to discover even more of Louisiana's small towns:
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/louisiana/12-small-towns-to-visit-this-year-la/
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