Founded in 1822, the home of lively music and a rich culture, Lafayette sits on the Bayou Vermilion located in the heart of French Louisiana. Originally called Vermilionville, the city was renamed Lafayette in 1844 to honor the Marquis de Lafayette. Along with its Cajun history and of course, Cajun food, the city is a good jumping off point for tourists wishing to explore the bayous, swamps, and dance halls that surround the region. Tourists should check out Vermilionville Historic Village and take the bayou tour to learn more of the area's history. Also of interest is the Lafayette Natural History Museum & Planetarium, the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve, which features six different areas to explore like the Acadian Cultural Center, and the Jean Lafitte Acadian Cultural Center.
