Highlights
- Lake Martin offers free alligator viewing 10 miles from Lafayette, with 400-500 gators
- Cypress Lake on UL Lafayette’s campus has gators right in the city – free admission
- Vermilionville includes alligator viewing along Bayou Vermilion with cultural attractions
- Best viewing: February through early November, early morning or late afternoon
- Swamp tour companies in Breaux Bridge run tours from $25, 15 minutes from Lafayette
Where to See Alligators Near Lafayette: Complete Safe Viewing Guide
Lafayette has multiple safe alligator viewing spots within 15 minutes of downtown. Free options at Lake Martin and Cypress Lake, plus guided swamp tours.
LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) — You don’t have to drive into remote swamps to see alligators around Lafayette. Several spots within 15 minutes of downtown let families watch these reptiles safely – most at no cost.
Louisiana has more than 2 million wild alligators, the world’s largest population, and Lafayette sits in prime gator territory. Options range from quick 30-minute stops to full swamp tours.
Lake Martin: Free Alligator Viewing East of Lafayette
Lake Martin sits 10 miles east of downtown Lafayette in Breaux Bridge. This 800-acre cypress swamp holds 400-500 alligators. You’ll spot gators on most visits…