Where to Live Next in Acadiana
One of life’s significant, yet fun, challenges is deciding what city and neighborhood to live. The region offers many places to build and grow, depending on where a person or family is in their life path. Here are three areas worth your time to research, visit and possibly move to.
WHERE TO LIVE NEXT | For Professionals
Walnut Grove
Located less than a quarter mile from Lake Charles (the actual lake) and bordered by Contraband Bayou, Walnut Grove is a traditional neighborhood development where
residents happily state they “feel at home.”
The neighborhood offers walkable sidewalks, manicured yards, parks, a town square and the best of southwest Louisiana’s natural assets, from swamp vegetation and trees to birds and other animals that are part of the local habitat.
Adam and Zoey Reed love living in Walnut Grove. They moved into the development five years ago after living in New Orleans.
“I was in New Orleans for 14 years, and my wife lived there for 21 years. We were pretty comfortable with the quality of the style of life we were living in New Orleans, as well as the French or Spanish-inspired smaller homes and friendly neighbors,” Adam, 47, said. “Here at Walnut Grove, we have the feel of New Orleans, yet we are back home with our families.”
Neither wanted to raise their daughter, 11-year-old Camille, in a neighborhood that did not provide a similar atmosphere to what they experienced in the Big Easy.
“We did not want to live in a community where you drive into the garage and don’t see your neighbors. It did not interest us to live somewhere you did not even know the people living beyond your backyard fence,” Adam said.
Adam works at a local community college, and Zoey works in the nonprofit sector. As professionals, the Reeds prioritize neighborhood amenities that help them relax at the end of the day.
“My wife works remotely. She likes working from home and looking out the window to see people and green space,” Adam said.
He noted that the neighborhood’s location was another positive.
“I commute to work in 10 minutes and there are no big traffic jams in the city,” he said.
The Contraband Bayou Extension Bridge is currently being constructed. It will give residents direct access to Interstate 210, the city’s main thoroughfare, providing east and west routing in Lake Charles.
Walnut Grove’s successful development encouraged businesspeople to open The Bekery and Calla, which are within walking distance of all neighborhood residents.
“If you come home from work and feel like you want to get on the golf cart or walk to get some coffee or something to eat, you can do it here,” Adam said.
The Reeds like having other service businesses, such as a bank, physical therapy office, medical clinic and others located in the neighborhood. “Coming from New Orleans, we’re used to living in corridors within the city. We lived in an area where you could shop, eat and experience life. Walnut Grove gives us those options. We don’t have to get in our car and drive somewhere to get something we want. When you walk, you see people. These are our neighbors, and we feel comfortable and welcome here,” Adam said.
Secret Treasures
Pirate’s booty
The pirate Jean Laffite is said to have buried treasure somewhere in Lake Charles. According to legend, Laffite’s stash is somewhere along Contraband Bayou.
Walnut Grove residents do not hold out hope that Laffite’s treasure will be found, but they benefit from possibly tripping over some outdoor gold as they enjoy Contraband Bayou.
Natural treasures
The neighborhood boasts one of the most scenic boardwalks in southwest Louisiana.
Residents enjoy natural treasures daily. Blue herons, great egrets, ducks and seagulls are just a few of the birds and other wildlife spotted along the boardwalk.
WHERE TO LIVE NEXT | For Families
Bendel Gardens
One of the most historic neighborhoods in Lafayette is also one of its most family-oriented.
Bendel Gardens’ (actual property) origins date back to 1775, when it was part of Spanish land grants. Eventually, the land was developed into Walnut Grove Plantation.
Henri Bendel bought the land in the 1920s and built his own home on the land with bigger development plans. Bendel Gardens eventually became a subdivision in 1950.
Locals and visitors alike love the different styles of homes in Bendel Gardens. Even more inspiring is that professionals, retirees and families share the neighborhood.
“Most of the people who choose to buy a home in Bendel Gardens do so in an attempt to get their forever home. They want to start and raise their family there,” said Wendy McCombie, a Lafayette realtor with Latter and Blum | Compass Acadiana.
Johnston Street, East University, South College Road, Bendel Road, West Pinhood Road and the Vermilion River border Bendel Gardens.
Residents have quick access to healthcare (Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center), boutique shops, dining (the Oil Center) and additional dining on West Pinhook.
Nature and all its grandeur within Bendel Gardens are assets that catch residents’ attention. Oak and magnolia trees are plentiful.
“For instance, there are hills in the community that homes have been built on. Some enjoy the river at the back of their homes. There is a real natural uniqueness in Bendel Gardens that you can’t find anywhere else in town,” said McCombie.
She noted that nature and the eclectic tastes of past and present homeowners inspired the neighborhood’s personality.
Home styles range from Acadian, contemporary and mid-20th century to ranch-style.
The area’s schools are Lafayette High School, L.J. Alleman Fine Arts Magnet Academy, Woodvale Elementary School, Teurlings Catholic High School, John Paul the Great Academy and Cathedral- Carmel School.
The area has parks, including Beaver Park, Heymann Park, Lafayette Parks & Recreation, Girard Park and Moncus Park.
McCombie explained that residents living in Bendel Gardens are a close-knit lot.
“Neighbors are good to each other there. A Facebook page exists. If they see something out of the ordinary, the neighbors will let each other know,” she said. “It is very safe for families.”
The neighborhood shares its beauty during Christmas when many homeowners decorate to showcase the area.
“People from all over will visit to see the Christmas style on display,” McCombie said. “Homeowners are proud during Christmas. Some take it up a wonderful level.”
Homeowners have been known to purchase a home, tear it down and build new or get it to the studs.
“Some homes are demanding, and those who buy want that with the older homes. Many renovations have been done to update the homes to keep their value in Bendel Gardens,” McCombie said.
Natural Amenities
River life
People who live in historic Bendel Gardens enjoy their proximity to the Vermilion River, which provides a soul-soothing atmosphere and recreational outlets.
A bounty of trees
Trees are the backbone of the Bendel Gardens community. Large ancient oaks and big vibrant magnolias boldly bear their deep-rooted strength in the neighborhood. The subdivision’s namesake, Henri Bendel, is responsible for the magnolias that line Marguerite Street. Whether you walk, run or casually drive through Bendel Gardens, you cannot help but appreciate the trees.
WHERE TO LIVE NEXT | For Retirees
Opelousas
Retirees look forward to a new phase in life. Spending time with friends and family, experiencing new adventures and taking the time to tamp down their stress. All of those can be done in Louisiana’s third-oldest city, Opelousas.
In St. Landry Parish, Opelousas (founded in 1720) is a prime spot for retirees to access their needs: health care, banking, groceries and value for their retirement dollars.
The city, especially the downtown area, also boasts culinary, cultural and historic assets rivaling those in larger urban areas.
“I view Opelousas as at the crossroads of Acadiana and northern Louisiana,” said St. Landry Parish Economic Development CEO Bill Rodier. “From this city, you are close to Grand Coteau, Sunset, Arnaudville and other historic and culturally significant towns.”
From a financial vantage point, a home or other form of housing in Opelousas makes sense.
“A retiree is somewhat conscious about where their dollars are going. You can sell a house in Lafayette and have enough equity to jump into a home here,” he said.
From an architectural perspective, Rodier said homes in Opelousas are appealing.
“There are many really nice historical properties, which appeal to many people who have moved here.”
Interstate highwways 49 and 90 are the major roadways that provide north, south, east and west access. State highways and country roads support these roadways and allow for day or weekend trips to Evangeline, Acadia, Lafayette, Avoyelles, and other Acadiana parishes.
Cajun, Creole and African American cultures and folkways enhance the quality of life in Opelousas and all surrounding cities and parishes.
Antique shops, thrift stores, flea markets and art galleries thrive in Opelousas.
Museums and cultural centers like the Louisiana Orphan Train Museum, the Opelousas Museum, Le Vieux Village Historical Park and Museum, and the Creole Heritage & Folklife Center provide retirees a peek into the heritage of Opelousas.
Music lovers can enjoy live Cajun-French and zydeco music during concerts and jam sessions. Jammin’ on the Bayou is held in the St. Landry Parish Visitor Center in Opelousas.
French classes are scheduled in Opelousas during community events.
Many festivals are held in Opelousas and the surrounding areas. The premier event is the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival held at the Yambilee Ag Arena.
“There are so many things that a retiree can get involved in. Volunteering to assist with these festivals and events is so much fun,” Rodier said.
Foodwise, Opelousas residents and restaurant owners love sharing their creations. The city is known for boudin, butchers/markets, gumbo, Cajun/Creole/soul food and plate lunches.
Rodier spends his days sharing the best about Opelousas and believes the city is a special place.
“A retiree will want to come in and see for themselves. Come in with an open mind. You will end up saying ‘Wow, where was this place all my life?’” he said.
Cultural Connection
A relaxed approach to life is celebrated along the Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway, which can be accessed in Opelousas via U.S. 1-90 or Interstate 49.
Different parts of the byway are located in Acadia, Evangeline and St. Landry parishes.
Heritage, art, food, music and dance inspired by Cajun and Creole culture are highlighted in different cities, towns and villages along the byway.
The St. Landry roadways provide peaceful and low-stress roadways and attractions like: Le Vieux Village Historical Park, Heritage Museum and Tourist Center (Opelousas), Buddens General Store (opened since 1934, Palmetto), Liberty Theatre (Eunice), and Bayou Teche Brewing (Arnaudville).
