The Play List: Things to do for singles in Cajun Country

September 4, 2013

Bayou Teche Biere Brewery

Craving some suds a bit further out from your ZIP code? Pack up your pals and drive down to Arnaudville for a tour and tasting at the Bayou Teche Biere, a family-run brewery based on family recipes developed from Cajun upbringings and European experiences in WWII. Have a taste of LA-31 Bière Pâle, or Louisiana pale ale, or Passionné, their wheat beer—or anything in between. Tours start on the hour Monday-Thursday from 1 to 4 p.m., Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 1106 Bushville Hwy., Arnaudville, LA 70512. (337) 303-8000. bayoutechebrewing.com

Chicot State Park

If fishing’s your game, get over to Chicot State Park in Ville Platte, where bass and crappie are caught by the bucketful year-round. Don’t have your own boat, or don’t feel like towing it along for the ride? You can rent one once you arrive, plus life jackets for everyone in your party. 3469 Chicot Park Rd., Ville Platte, LA 70586. (337) 363-2403. crt.state.la.us

Evangeline Downs

Ready for a little action, but tired of the same old scene? Catch the races at Evangeline Downs in Opelousas, where you can watch the horses, play at the casino, eat in the restaurant or stay in the hotel. With almost 750 acres of racing ground and a new mile-long oval, it’s no wonder this track is known for having more horses per race than any other in the country. Dare your friends to come along—it makes for a great weekend trip. <strong>2235 Creswell Lane Extension, Opelousas, LA 70767. (225) 344-4456. evangelinedowns.com

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Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site

This site celebrates the way of life depicted in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem, Evangeline. Lovers of literature and culture can unite in their appreciation for this land, first used as a cattle farm then turned into a plantation, now preserved for the ages. 1200 N. Main St., St. Martinville, LA 70582. (337) 394-3754. crt.state.la.us/parks

Nu Nu Arts and Culture Collective

While you’re in Arnaudville, stop by Nu Nu Arts and Culture Collective, which encapsulates a cultural movement that started after Hurricane Katrina. The concept revolves around the inherent creativity of southern Louisiana and the existence of the French language and its associated music and art. Open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., this little slice of Acadiana offers a glimpse into our past. It’s a great way to introduce non-native Louisianans to the culture. Check the calendar for recurring events, such as immersion conversations (try quilting in French), potlucks and French cinema nights. 1510 Bayou Courtableau Hwy., Arnaudville, LA 70512. (337) 453-3307. nunucollective.org

Parish Brewing

If you’re a beer connoisseur and haven’t gotten your fill within the Capital City, pack up the gang, hit the road and head to Broussard to take a tour of Parish Brewing, home to some of the freshest beer in the South. Never pasteurized, their brews are made lovingly using time-tested—and time-consuming—processes perfected over the ages. Make sure you get to try the Envie or Canebrake, and, as they say, “Drink Dat!” 229 Jared Dr., Broussard, LA 70518. (337) 330-8601. parishbeer.com

Rök Haus Climbing Gym

While there are some rock-climbing facilities in the Red Stick, if you want the real deal, you’ll need to visit Lafayette’s cleverly named Rök Haus, an indoor facility with dozens of climbing options. There are beginner to advanced classes offered, and they’re scheduled on demand—so grab at least two friends and give Rök Haus a call for the ultimate rock-climbing experience. 109 Grand Ave., Lafayette, LA 70506. (337) 981-8116. rokhaus.com

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Want more things to do? Check out the lists below.