Have you ever wondered how life was for early Acadian settlers? Well, there's a fascinating little village over in Lafayette where you can learn all about the history of these early settlers in Cajun Country and get a glimpse of what their day-to-day lives were like. This unique village in Louisiana will show you firsthand what life was like for early Acadian settlers, so come with me, and let's take a stroll through LARC’s Acadian Village.

If you’ve never been to LARC’s Acadian Village before, you’re in for a real treat.

Located on 32 acres of land in Lafayette, Acadian Village is a wonderful place where time seems to stand still. Dedicated to preserving early Acadian heritage by replicating an authentic Cajun village in Louisiana, LARC's Acadian Village is right up a history lover's alley.

The Acadian Village is a replica of a typical 1800s Cajun village, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you arrive.

It’s quite a beautiful place, from the landscaping, to the meandering bayou that runs around the village, to the weather-beaten buildings.

When you arrive, you’ll head over to the General Store to purchase your tickets.

The General Store is a replica that was built in 1976 and immediately sets the tone for what you’re in store for. The exposed wiring in the store is typical of what you’d find in a typical store when electricity first came to Acadiana.

The self-guided tour can take as long as you'd like.

Spend your time casually strolling the grounds, popping into each building to learn more about each one.

You'll be able to get a glimpse of how early Acadians lived when you step inside some of the buildings.

You'll see bedrooms, a doctor's office, a schoolhouse, an outhouse and precious art by local artists, which you can purchase if you'd like.

Seven of the 11 buildings within the village are authentic homes from the 19th-century that were donated by the families whose ancestors once occupied them.

Each building was moved piece by piece and carefully restored. When you arrive at the village, you’ll be given a map that further explains the history of some of these buildings, including the church, blacksmith shop and schoolhouse.

This unique village in Louisiana is open Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

If you enjoy visiting the Acadian Village during warm weather, then you need to make sure you come back during the holiday season. Every December, the Acadian Village transforms into Noel Acadien Au Village where all of the buildings are decorated with thousands of lights for Christmas. There will be hot chocolate, carolers, and so much more!

While you're in the area, you're going to want to indulge in some delicious Cajun cuisine. You can't beat the boudin and cracklins at Chicken on the Bayou, they're the perfect road trip snack. If you're looking for a sit-down spot, I can't recommend the Little Big Cup enough!