A group of people playing brass instruments while walking through the victory garden in the LaPlace neighborhood near downtown Lafayette.

Greater Downtown Living

Downtown Lafayette derives its residential culture from unique urban housing and the multiple communities that surround the Downtown core.

EXPLORE THE NEIGHBORHOODS
Downtown Lafayette graphic

Downtown Lafayette Core

Originally known as Vermilionville, the Downtown Lafayette core marks the historic start (heart) of the city’s beginnings. Once a bustling center for merchants, artisans, and government, its historic buildings now host a lively mix of apartments, lofts, and renovated homes, offering residents prime access to the city’s vibrant arts, dining, and music scene. From sunrise to last call, it’s where Lafayette’s energy never skips a beat.

  • Sidewalks
  • Parks
  • Restaurants
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Children play in the fountain in Parc Sans Souci
People visiting on a wide sidewalk in downtown Lafayette
A man holds a microphone on Jefferson street during an event, with artwork displayed behind him
A graphic that represents Freetown Port Rico neighborhood

Freetown - Port Rico

Known from its earliest days as Freetown or Mouton Addition and developed as a residential subdivision in the early 1880s, the historical area stood out as a richly multicultural area in which residents of diverse backgrounds found ways to support each other and establish a strong community. The district’s architecture, consisting mostly of late-nineteenth century and early-twentieth century side gable cottages and bungalows, are modest in size with buildings typically set close to the front of the lot.

  • Businesses
  • Restaurants
  • Community Garden
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3 small colorful houses side by side
A mural in the Freetown neighborhood of Lafayette
UL Lafayette Logo

UL Lafayette

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) is a public research university known for its vibrant campus culture and strong academic programs. Established in 1898, it’s one of the largest universities in the state of Louisiana and is recognized for its research contributions, especially in areas like engineering, computer science, and environmental studies.

  • Bike Friendly
  • Park
  • Sidewalks
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Students walk to class near large oak trees on UL campus
A college age girl smiles while writing in a notebook. She sits on a bench on UL campus
Hilliard museum and a statue of a man beside it
A Gazebo in Girard park. A pink flowered Azalea bush and park benches are seen in the foreground

Elmhurst Park

Located across from the campus of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the historic neighborhood is known for its early 20th-century architecture, including Craftsman bungalows and Queen Anne-style homes developed in the early 1900s.

  • Restaurants
  • Sidewalks
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Acadian style house with bushes lining the street in front
Modern styled house next to a large tree
Historic spanish styled house with arched windows and doorway
A graphic representing McComb Veazey featuring a bird perched on the letter M

McComb -Veazey

Deeply rooted in Creole culture and history, the area was originally established to house Southern Pacific railroad workers in the early 20th century. It has evolved into a vibrant community known for its rich traditions, Black Mardi Gras, and revitalization efforts focused on transforming blighted properties, fostering economic development, and preserving the neighborhood's unique heritage.

  • Parks
  • Sidewalks
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The Mccomb Veazey Community House
A public park with bicycle parking, a covered picnic area, and a playground
The side of Kirks-U-Need-A-Butcher with a large mural
A fleur de lis graphic representing Sterling Grove neighborhood

Sterling Grove

Sterling Grove is a charming historic district celebrated for its architectural beauty and cultural legacy. Spanning 25 acres and 59 distinctive buildings from 1848 to 1934, the area showcases styles like Greek Revival and Queen Anne. Anchored by landmarks such as the Acadian-style Charles H. Mouton House, Sterling Grove is a captivating blend of history and elegance, offering a unique glimpse into Lafayette’s past.

  • Golf Course
  • Parks
  • Sidewalk
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A large historic house in Sterling Grove
Historic home next to a large tree
A street sign for the Sterling Grove National Historic District
St. Genevieve Catholic Church with the sign in front of it
A graphic of an oak tree representing LaPlace neighborhood

La Place

Established in 1856, La Place is one of Lafayette, Louisiana's oldest neighborhoods, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Traditionally a hub for African American and Creole communities, it has been pivotal in the city's development and today is recognized for its vibrant community spirit and ongoing revitalization efforts.

  • Farmer's Market
  • Sidewalks
  • Pocket Parks
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The Monroe apartment building
The Evangeline Maid Bilboard which holds a large rotating loaf of bread
4 story apartment building with coffee shop "Black Cafe" at ground level.
Graphic for the Saint Streets

Saint Streets

The Saints Streets neighborhood in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a historic district renowned for its charming cottages and canopies of mature oaks. Developed during the early 20th century and offering a picture of Lafayette’s early suburbia, the area derives its name from the numerous streets named after saints, such as St. Mary, St. Joseph, and St. Patrick.

  • Family Focused
  • Mature Trees
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2 houses, one with an American flag and Acadiana flag hung near the entryway
Quaint light yellow house next to a cypress tree
Teal house with red trim

Oaklawn

Developed in the 1930s and 1940s, the sought-after subdivision is recognized for its diverse architectural styles, including Modernist and traditional designs. The area has a large supply of ranch-style houses from the 1960’s as well as a 7 acre park.

  • Mature Trees
  • Family Focused
  • Park
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Playground surrounded by large trees
View of a boulevard where a house and a historically styled lightpost can be seen
House surrounded by large oak trees