The University of Louisiana at Lafayette has earned the city a spot among the nation’s Top 20 college towns, according to USA Today.
Lafayette is a finalist for the “Best College Town Weekend” designation as part of the newspaper’s “10Best Readers’ Choice” contest.
USA Today editors selected 20 of the nation’s best getaway college towns, places with “a fun, youthful vibe” and ample retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options, according to information on the contest page.
A description of UL Lafayette and the city states: “Home to the largest member of the University of Louisiana system, Lafayette sits at the heart of Cajun Country, making it a wonderful spot to settle in to a B&B and enjoy a weekend of hearty southern food, historical attractions, unique culture and heritage. Head any direction on a day trip and you'll be up to your neck in intriguing Acadiana culture.”
Other towns that made the USA Today list include Berkeley, Calif.; Boulder, Colo.; Eugene, Ore.; Ithaca, N.Y.; Lexington, Ky.; Oxford, Miss.; and St. Augustine, Fla.
Readers can vote online for their favorite college town once per day online until noon on Monday, Oct. 6.
USA Today’s choice of Lafayette as one of the nation’s best college town isn’t the first time in recent months that the University and Lafayette have been recognized.
In November 2013, Travel + Leisure magazine named Lafayette one of 20 America’s Best College Towns.
Lafayette ranked 17th; Burlington, Vt., was No. 1. Other notable college towns are Asheville, N.C.; San Luis Ibispo, Calif.; and Flagstaff, Ariz.
To cast your vote online, please visit the USA Today 10Best website: http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-college-town-weekend/lafayette-la/