Rayne, La Nominated for “America’s Favorite Small Towns” Contest
Photo from City of Rayne Facebook
RAYNE, La (press release) — The Acadia Parish Tourism Office nominated the City of Rayne to participate in the nationwide contest “America’s Favorite Small Towns,” presented by Parade magazine and travel platform Steller.
The contest honors towns across the U.S. with populations under 250,000 that embody unique character, strong community spirit and memorable visitor experiences.
Rayne was selected as the community to represent Acadia Parish in this nomination as a tribute to Suzette Leonard’s years of service to the city and as board chairman of the Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission.
This recognition reflects her commitment, while celebrating Rayne as one of the many unique destinations in Acadia Parish.
“Rayne may be a small town, but it offers a big experience for visitors,” said Suzette Leonards, federal programs coordinator for the City of Rayne and board chairman of Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission. “From our murals and festivals to the people who greet you with a smile, there’s a genuine sense of pride here that travelers can feel. Serving as Board Chairman of the Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission, I see how each of our communities contributes something special to the region, and I’m honored that Rayne is helping represent us on the national stage.”
According to the Acadia Parish Tourism Office, Rayne is known as the “Frog Capital of the World” and the “Louisiana City of Murals,” thanks to its public art, rich cultural heritage and welcoming small-town atmosphere.
By nominating Rayne, Acadia Parish Tourism aims to shine a national spotlight on the parish and the many communities that contribute to its charm. If selected as a finalist, and potentially a state or national winner, Rayne could benefit from national media exposure, special recognition, inclusion in a print feature, a “Favorite Small Town” badge and increased tourism visibility.
Voting for the contest opened on Nov. 19 and will continue into early spring 2026. Residents and supporters of Acadia Parish can cast their vote daily online and spread the word through social media, local businesses and community organizations.
Finalists will be announced in early spring, followed by state and national winners in June 2026.
