While I love Louisiana’s big city (NOLA native here), I have a strong bond with so many of Louisiana’s small towns. Small towns are often the heartbeat of the state. Things just move a little bit slower, people tend to be a bit friendlier, and the overall vibe is just laid-back and welcoming. Crowley, Louisiana has a population just north of 11,000 residents, which is the perfect size. It's also known as the "Rice Capital of the World." As you’re exploring some of Louisiana’s most charming small towns, don’t forget to put this one at the top of your list.
Located in Acadia Parish about 25 miles west of Lafayette, Crowley, Louisiana has a unique claim to fame: it’s the Rice Capital of America.
It’s also known as the “Rice Capital of Louisiana” and the “Rice Capital of the World” due to its long history as a major center for rice harvesting and milling.
It's celebrated every year at the annual International Rice Festival, one of Louisiana's most popular festivals.
The International Rice Festival takes place on the third weekend of October every year. It started back in 1937 and has been a popular event since.
There's always something going on in Crowley.
If you fall in love with the town's charm and want to make a weekend out of it, this Vrbo is the perfect place to call home while you explore Crowley.
The downtown scene is perfect for a day of window shopping and dining. One must-see spot here is the Grand Opera House of the South
Built in 1901, The Grand Opera House was originally a popular venue for vaudeville and even for silent movies! Crowley’s ideal location on the railroad made the Opera House a popular venue for touring acts, too. It sat abandoned for nearly 70 years before new life was breathed into it and today it features all sorts of concerts, plays, and performances to look forward to. Peep the calendar and see what’s playing before you visit.
Crowley's Historic Downtown Area is full of local restaurants that would love to have you swing by.
The Vanilla Bean is my go-to spot for coffee, but they also serve breakfast and lunch, too!
No visit to Crowley, Louisiana is complete without enjoying a meal at the Rice Palace.
Of course, you're going to want to get something with rice, and you can't go wrong with the gumbo.
Visit the Rice Palace Facebook page for more.
Crowley, the Rice Capital of the World, is a great starting point for exploring Cajun Country, including other nearby small towns like Rayne, and Breaux Bridge. Or you might be inspired to take on the Creole Nature Trail for an epic road trip through Cajun Country!
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