The Rice Capital Of Louisiana Is One Of The Most Charming Small Towns You'll Ever Visit
By Jackie Ann|Updated on March 26, 2024(Originally published July 07, 2023)
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
While I love Louisiana’s big city (NOLA native here), I have a strong bond with so many of Louisiana’s small towns. Small towns are often the heartbeat of the state. Things just move a little bit slower, people tend to be a bit friendlier, and the overall vibe is just laid-back and welcoming. Crowley, Louisiana has a population just north of 11,000 residents, which is the perfect size. It’s also known as the “Rice Capital of the World.” As you’re exploring some of Louisiana’s most charming small towns, don’t forget to put this one at the top of your list.
Located in Acadia Parish about 25 miles west of Lafayette, Crowley, Louisiana has a unique claim to fame: it’s the Rice Capital of America.
It’s also known as the “Rice Capital of Louisiana” and the “Rice Capital of the World” due to its long history as a major center for rice harvesting and milling.
It's celebrated every year at the annual International Rice Festival, one of Louisiana's most popular festivals.
Built in 1901, The Grand Opera House was originally a popular venue for vaudeville and even for silent movies! Crowley’s ideal location on the railroad made the Opera House a popular venue for touring acts, too. It sat abandoned for nearly 70 years before new life was breathed into it and today it features all sorts of concerts, plays, and performances to look forward to. Peep the calendar and see what’s playing before you visit.
Crowley's Historic Downtown Area is full of local restaurants that would love to have you swing by.
Crowley, the Rice Capital of the World, is a great starting point for exploring Cajun Country, including other nearby small towns like Rayne, and Breaux Bridge. Or you might be inspired to take on the Creole Nature Trail for an epic road trip through Cajun Country!
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