The Acadia Parish Tourism Office is proud to announce it has officially nominated the City of Rayne, Louisiana 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 United States 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 Leonards years of dedication to the City of Rayne and her service as Board Chairman of the Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission. This recognition reflects her commitment to uplifting local communities and strengthening tourism throughout the parish, while celebrating Rayne as one of the many unique destinations that make Acadia Parish special.
Showcasing Rayne’s Unique Charm
The City of Rayne, nestled in the heart of Acadia Parish, is known as the “Frog Capital of the World” and the “Louisiana City of Murals,” thanks to its colorful public art, rich cultural heritage and welcoming small-town atmosphere. Its downtown is lively, its annual events draw visitors from across the region, and its story reflects the blend of history, art and community that make it a memorable destination.
What This Nomination Means
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 for marketing purposes and increased tourism visibility.
How the Community Can Support
Voting for the contest opened on November 19, 2025 and will continue into early spring 2026. Residents, business owners, visitors and supporters of Rayne — and all of Acadia Parish — are encouraged to cast their daily vote online and spread the word through social media, local businesses and community organizations.
Using hashtags such as #RayneFavoriteTown, hosting local voting events, and encouraging friends and family to participate can help strengthen Rayne’s standing in the competition.
Why Rayne Is a Perfect Fit
- A population of approximately 7,000 residents, well below the contest limit
- Rich traditions reflected in murals, public art, festivals and cultural pride
- Strong agricultural roots and a unique local history
- A welcoming community committed to preserving its heritage and growing tourism
- Active support from Acadia Parish Tourism and local partners
Quote
“Rayne may be a small town, but it offers a big experience for visitors. 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.”
— Suzette Leonards, Federal Programs Coordinator, City of Rayne & Board Chairman, Acadia Parish Convention and Visitors Commission
Looking Ahead
The contest leaderboard will update regularly, and every vote will play a role in advancing Rayne’s position. Finalists will be announced in early spring, followed by state and national winners in June 2026. Regardless of the outcome, the nomination itself brings valuable attention to Rayne and to the diverse communities of Acadia Parish.
About Acadia Parish Tourism
Acadia Parish Tourism works to promote the rich culture, history, festivals and communities of Acadia Parish, Louisiana. Through partnerships, marketing initiatives and community engagement, the organization supports economic development by encouraging visitation and celebrating local identity.
About America’s Favorite Small Towns
Presented by Parade magazine and Steller, America’s Favorite Small Towns recognizes exceptional communities across the country that demonstrate charm, culture and community pride. The program creates national awareness and increased visitation for participating towns. The website to cast your vote can be found here: https://americasfavoritesmalltowns.parade.com/
