Vermilionville

Museum · Lafayette, Louisiana

Vermilionville

Historic village and open‑air museum on the banks of the Vermilion Bayou, with Acadian, Creole and indigenous houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, working artisans and dances with live music.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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About Vermilionville

Vermilionville bears Lafayette’s former name and recreates life in Acadiana from the late 18th century to the late 19th century. It occupies an area on the banks of the Vermilion Bayou, near the airport, with historic wooden houses brought from various points in the region and others reconstructed.

The houses show how Acadians, Creoles and the region’s indigenous peoples lived, with furniture, kitchens, tools and gardens. Artisans in period clothing weave, work wood and cook, and explain customs often in French and English.

There is a school, a chapel, a blacksmith shop and a music house, where musicians play Cajun and zydeco tunes. On some Sundays the venue hosts dances with a live band, open to visitors.

A short trail follows the bayou, with cypresses and waterfowl.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

Two to three hours.

Best time

On spring and fall mornings. On Sunday afternoons, when there is a dance, the village becomes livelier.

How to get there

It is on Fisher Road, near the airport, about 6 km by car from downtown Lafayette.

Tip

The village usually closes on Mondays. Check the website for the schedule of Sunday dances and workshops.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Vermilionville

What is Vermilionville?

A historic village and open-air museum in Lafayette that recreates the lives of Louisiana’s Acadian, Creole and Indigenous communities between the 18th and 19th centuries.

Does Vermilionville have live music?

Yes. Musicians perform during visits and on some Sundays there are dances with a live band. Check the calendar on the website.

How long does a visit to Vermilionville take?

Two to three hours, allowing time to see the houses and talk with the artisans.

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