When it comes to living in Louisiana, you’ve got plenty of options. Northern Louisiana certainly has its perks. Both Shreveport and Monroe offer great schools and incredible communities, and the beautiful landscape of northern Louisiana is a hidden gem. Central Louisiana is a picturesque part of the state, too, especially if you’re an outdoor lover. This is where you’ll find some of Louisiana’s most beautiful areas like the Kisatchie National Forest, Chicot State Park, and the Louisiana State Arboretum. Of course, the southern half of the state is where you’ll find Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans, some of the most visited cities in Louisiana.  Located about 20 miles south of Lafayette, New Iberia is a great town to settle down in, and it might just be one of the most peaceful places to live in Louisiana. Let’s check out some of the best things to do in New Iberia.

The heartbeat of Cajun Country, New Iberia has a population that hovers between 25-30,000 residents.

It’s a bit of a little-big town. You still have all of the luxuries of city life, but you’ll still feel those charming small-town vibes that Cajun Country is known for. Plus, you’re just 20 miles away from Lafayette!

New Iberia's motto is "Joie de Vivre" which means the joy of life, and what a wonderful motto to live by!

You'll find plenty of attractions in New Iberia that will bring you joy, that's for sure. From the festivals to historic landmarks and scenic views, there's a lot to love about New Iberia.

The food in this part of the state is some of the best in the country, and there are plenty of locally-owned restaurants to try.

Our recommendation is Bon Creole Lunch Counter. This charmingly rustic joint is a popular spot for overstuffed po’boys and authentic Cajun dishes that you’ll love. Be sure to try the gumbo!

If you want to spice things up a little bit, head over to Avery Island where you can take a tour of the

Tabasco Factory, stroll through the Jungle Gardens, or even enjoy a meal at Restaurant 1868.

Don’t forget to swing by the country store to stock up on all your favorite Tabasco products.

Speaking of gardens, the Rip Van Winkle Gardens are a must-see.

The house was built in 1870 for Joseph Jefferson, a stage actor who also did silent films and was most known for his playing Rip Van Winkle. Visitors can take a tour of the house, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy a coffee in the cafe. There are also several peacocks that roam the grounds, which is certainly not something you see very often.

Check out the official Iberia Parish website for more information, including the events calendar where you can check out all of the upcoming festivals and special events coming up.