Lafayette, Louisiana is the heart of Cajun Country, located a little over two hours from New Orleans. Set on the outskirts of the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge, the area was inhabited by Native Americans before the Acadians settled it as Vermilionville in 1821. It was later named in honor of the French general. The French language remains a large part of life here, … [Read more...] about Weekend Guide to Lafayette, Louisiana
Lafayette
8 Places to Celebrate Mardi Gras (Beyond New Orleans)
Mardi Gras is one of America's most well-known celebrations, commonly associated with debauchery and Bourbon Street in New Orleans. But the Big Easy isn't the only place that has Mardi Gras! The History of Mardi Gras People use the term Mardi Gras to mean Fat Tuesday. But in actuality, it's a part of a month-long Carnival celebration that includes multiple parades. … [Read more...] about 8 Places to Celebrate Mardi Gras (Beyond New Orleans)
Film Friday: Secretariat
Housewife and mother Penny takes over her father's horse stables, even though she knows little about the industry. With the help of a trainer, her horse becomes the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years. Based on a true story, Secretariat stars Diane Lane and John Malkovich. True to the sport, specific scenes were filmed at Churchill Downs and Keeneland racetracks in Kentucky … [Read more...] about Film Friday: Secretariat
Film Friday: Easy Rider
The quintessential road trip movie, Easy Rider is about two bikers who ride from Los Angeles to New Orleans in search of the real America. The cult classic from 1969 stars Dennis Hopper, Jack Nicholson and Peter Fonda in their career defining roles. Characters Wyatt and Billy encounter all sorts of shenanigans on their way to Mardi Gras and specific scenes were filmed in New … [Read more...] about Film Friday: Easy Rider
The South’s Best Music Venues
The South is rich in musical culture and history, bringing us some of the most influential artists of the past hundred years. Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Gladys Knight, R.E.M., and more all shaped the way our music is today. So if you're visiting the region for the first or hundredth time, stop by one of the south's best music venues for the chance to see who's going to be the … [Read more...] about The South’s Best Music Venues