Family-Friendly Activities This Summer in Maurice, LA
When the days get longer and the temperatures rise, there’s no better place to enjoy family time than Maurice, Louisiana. This friendly small town in the heart of Vermilion Parish may be quiet, but it’s full of summer fun for families who love the outdoors, live music, good food, and good company.
Whether you're a local looking to entertain the kids during school break or a visitor passing through on a road trip, there’s plenty to explore without venturing far. From shaded parks and splash-friendly stops to cultural activities and sweet summer treats, here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Maurice, LA to make the most of the season.
1. Palmetto Island State Park
📍 19501 Pleasant Dr, Abbeville, LA 70510
Just a short drive from Maurice, Palmetto Island State Park is a must-visit for families who love nature and want to enjoy the great outdoors without straying too far from home. Nestled along the Vermilion River, the park offers trails, picnic areas, wildlife viewing, and canoe rentals for a quiet float through the cypress trees.
What to Expect: There’s a modest day-use fee, and you’ll want to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and snacks. The visitor center splash pad is a hit with younger kids looking to cool off on a hot day.
Why It’s Great in Summer: The mix of shade and water access makes it an ideal place to enjoy nature while beating the heat.
2. Southside Park in Youngsville
📍 1610 Chemin Metairie Pkwy, Youngsville, LA 70592
Families in Maurice love to visit Southside Park, just a 15-minute drive away in neighboring Youngsville. It’s known for its well-kept playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas, all designed with families in mind.
What to Expect: Free admission, ample parking, shaded areas, and restroom access make this a stress-free outing for parents with toddlers or school-aged kids.
Summer Perks: There’s a splash pad open during summer months—perfect for cooling down while the kids run wild.
3. Vermilion Parish Library – Maurice Branch
📍 215 East Etienne Street, Maurice, LA 70555
For indoor fun that’s both educational and engaging, the Maurice Branch of the Vermilion Parish Library offers a full lineup of summer reading programs, craft days, and storytimes geared toward kids of all ages.
What to Expect: Free activities, air conditioning, and quiet time with books—what more could a parent ask for on a hot summer afternoon?
Why Families Love It: Their Summer Reading Challenge motivates kids to keep learning even when school’s out, and parents appreciate the relaxed, welcoming environment.
4. Local Farmers Markets and Events
📍 Various locations across Vermilion Parish
From the Abbeville Farmers Market to local summer festivals, there’s always something going on nearby. These events often feature live music, handmade crafts, kid-friendly games, and plenty of food vendors offering Cajun classics and icy treats.
What to Expect: Check local event calendars for dates, and plan for a low-cost day out. Bring cash for food and drinks and a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy the entertainment.
Summer Highlights: Look out for Fourth of July events, music in the park, or weekly market days that welcome families with open arms.
5. Snowballs & Sweet Treats Stops
📍 Pelican’s SnoBalls, Kona Ice, and local pop-ups
Nothing says South Louisiana summer like an icy, syrupy snowball. Luckily, Maurice is dotted with seasonal snowball stands and ice cream shops that make for the perfect mid-day break.
What to Expect: Flavors galore—from classic cherry to adventurous tiger’s blood—and most places offer child-size portions or allergy-conscious options.
Where to Go: Keep an eye out for Pelican’s SnoBalls or local mom-and-pop stands set up in nearby parking lots or at summer events.
6. Day Trips to Zoos & Aquariums
📍 Acadiana Park Nature Station (Lafayette), Zoosiana (Broussard)
For a change of scenery, take the kids on a short road trip to Zoosiana or Acadiana Park Nature Station—both less than an hour away. These attractions are packed with hands-on learning opportunities, animal encounters, and scenic walking trails.
What to Expect: Admission fees vary, and both locations offer shaded picnic spots and interactive exhibits.
Pro Tip: These day trips pair perfectly with a family-friendly ride from Sterling CDJR South—plenty of space for strollers, snacks, and sunscreen.
7. Family Dining & Ice Cream in Town
📍 Local favorites like The Cajun Table and Meche’s Donuts
Wrap up a day of fun with a meal at a kid-approved restaurant. The Cajun Table serves crowd-pleasing Southern classics, while Meche’s Donuts offers sweet rewards for early risers. Many spots in Maurice and nearby towns cater to kids with casual vibes, high chairs, and tasty menu options for even the pickiest eaters.
Why It’s Worth Mentioning: Sometimes the best summer memories are made around the table—no mess in your kitchen required.
Celebrate Summer the Maurice Way
In Maurice, summer isn’t about big city attractions or expensive getaways—it’s about making the most of the simple pleasures right here in South Louisiana. Whether you’re heading out on a trail, cooling off at a splash pad, or enjoying a snowball in the shade, these family-friendly activities are designed to help you reconnect, relax, and make the most of your time together.
And when you're ready to load up the kids and hit the road, don't forget to stop by Sterling CDJR South. With a lineup of spacious, reliable vehicles perfect for family life and summer fun, we’re just around the corner—ready to help you start your next adventure.
Visit us today and drive into summer with confidence—right here in Maurice, LA.