You can experience the Cajun culture first-hand in friendly and lively little towns like Broussard, LA. Hunting and fishing are a big part of the way of life down here, but there’s so much to see and do. For starters, this area is a great place for sampling spicy cuisine or learning to dance to a lilting waltz.
Let’s head down to southern Louisiana to find out what else is in store. Maybe you’ve never heard of Broussard, so let’s get to know this charming little place before we hit the road. Are you ready? Let’s go!
What Is Broussard LA Close To?
Broussard isn’t as famous as some of its neighbors down in Cajun Country. Lafayette is the closest city, and it’s just 8 miles up the road. Baton Rouge is an hour’s drive to the east, and New Orleans is another hour beyond that. Lake Charles is 82 miles west.
How to Get to Broussard LA
The easiest way to get to Broussard isn’t the most scenic, but it’s a pretty direct shot. Broussard, LA, is just a few miles from the crossroads of two major interstates, 10 and 49. Heading east or west on Interstate 10, look for exit 103A to reach Broussard.
Before I-10 crisscrossed the South, U.S. Highway 90 was the way to go. That two-lane highway cuts right through Broussard to this day. Also known as the Evangeline Thruway, it’s the scenic route through many picturesque towns along the beautiful bayous.
Traveler’s Tip: After exploring Broussard, check out the 7 best small towns in Louisiana for more authentic southern vibes.
What Is There to Do in Broussard, LA?
The great outdoors is a big draw, but there’s a range of activities inside and out for the whole family. We’ll start by surveying the animal population. And don’t worry; we wouldn’t dream of leaving town without indulging in those incredible local flavors.
Visit Zoosiana
Alligators might be the first animal that comes to mind when you think of South Louisiana. Yes, there are gators here, but the more exotic critters include a white tiger, giraffes, ring-tailed lemurs, and a scimitar-horned oryx to see at Zoosiana. The larger animals are in a wilder, free-range setting while the more cuddly ones are available for personal contact.
You can also try your hand at gem mining during your visit.
Disc Golf at Arceneaux Park
The fun and laid-back sport of disc golf is one of the top attractions at Arceneaux Park right on Main Street. The challenging 18-hole course is set among the wooded grounds around the park’s walking path and even has some water hazards. The massive oaks provide lots of shade, too. It’s a great place to walk the dogs, and kids will love the playground.
Drinks at Parish Brewing
Quench your thirst with the bold creations of Broussard’s craft brewers at Parish Brewing. The founder, Andrew Godley, is a Pittsburgh transplant who fell in love with this town. Popular choices include the amber ale called South Coast and the Canebrake wheat ale, whose name honors Broussard’s sugarcane heritage. If you’re more adventurous you can find out what’s haunting about the double IPA they call Ghost in the Machine.
Photo courtesy of Travel South USA
Games at All the Rage
The break room here is more than a place to relax with a quick snack or to check email. It’s where you can actually smash things to bits with a hammer to release some aggression. Maybe you’d rather do some ax-throwing or splatter some paint. Either way, All the Rage provides a fun, supportive, and safe environment for relieving stress. There’s even a “couples therapy” option.
Jump Around at Elevation Station Trampoline Park
Here’s a chance to work on your jump shot. A gravity-defying game of basketball is just one of many possibilities at this 37,000-square-foot indoor trampoline park. Besides simply jumping up and down, over and over, the Elevation Station takes trampolining to new heights. You might want to engage in extreme dodgeball, brave the gladiator pit, or retreat into a private party room.
Dinner at Fezzos Seafood, Steakhouse, & Oyster Bar
It’s almost impossible to come and go in this part of the world without a bite or two of seafood. This is a spacious modern restaurant that grew from a humble location inside a supermarket. Fezzos is where you’ll find those world-famous Cajun flavors like shrimp gumbo and crawfish etouffee. There are crab cakes and pasta dishes, too, and some folks rave about the marinated steaks.
Is Broussard LA Worth a Visit?
You can spend your life zipping along the highways and interstates without knowing what magic awaits just a few miles off course. Or you can make time to discover these enchanting towns that are just a little off the beaten path.
In this case, Broussard, LA awaits with open arms just 15 minutes from busy I-10. There’s really no excuse not to make time to discover this friendly community that celebrates its Cajun heritage every day. What are your favorite small cities in Louisiana?
