Main Street DORA: Lafayette’s Outdoor Refreshment Scene Just Got Bigger
If you’ve strolled through downtown Lafayette lately, you may have noticed something new (and pretty exciting): our Main Street DORA has expanded! But what exactly is a DORA, and why should you care? Let’s break it down and take a walking tour of this vibrant community feature.
What is a DORA?
DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. In short, it’s a special ordinance that allows adults to enjoy alcoholic beverages in open containers—legally—within a clearly marked district. The idea? Create more vibrancy, foster a lively atmosphere, and help support neighborhood businesses and events.
Lafayette’s Main Street DORA isn’t brand new; it’s been giving our downtown area a boost for a couple of years. But as of this past Friday, the DORA just got a whole lot bigger, adding more establishments to the mix and covering even more of our picturesque Main Street.
The Expanded DORA Map
The newly expanded DORA stretches from Riehle Plaza on the west, all the way through the heart of downtown, past Courthouse Square, and down to 13th Street on the east. It scoops up First Street and all the little alleys, ensuring you won’t accidentally step outside the lines with your drink in hand.
To keep everything clear (and within city rules), you’ll find signs posted at all entrances and exits reminding you: don’t leave the DORA border with your beverage!
The Main Street Line-Up
With the expansion, about 15 local establishments now participate in the DORA. That means more places to grab a drink and more flavors to enjoy while you take in all Main Street has to offer. Here’s a taste of who’s included, from west to east:
- Ritual
- Red 7
- The Black Sparrow – a beloved staple
- LaScala – classic Italian fare
- Digby’s
- The Nickerbocker Saloon – a piece of Lafayette history
- The Lobby by Greyhouse – a newer favorite
- Lafayette Brewing Co. – sample local brews at their source
- DT Kirby’s – classic bar grub and drinks
- Bert’s Place
- 648 Bourbon & Cigar Land – where bourbon lovers unite
- The Cellar Wine Bistro – sip wines from around the world
- East End Grill – modern eats and creative cocktails
- Ripple & Co. – a true local gem, right across from East End
Whether you’re feeling a craft beer, a glass of wine, or a bourbon cocktail, there’s something for everyone.
Why Try the DORA?
The DORA makes enjoying downtown even more fun and social. You can wander from venue to venue, strolling the bustling sidewalks, soaking up the scene, and supporting our brilliant local businesses—all with your favorite drink in hand.
So, next time you’re planning a Friday or Saturday outing, consider a “DORA crawl.” Grab a beverage, roam Main Street, and see for yourself how this expansion is bringing fresh energy to downtown Lafayette.
Cheers to good drinks, good company, and a downtown that just keeps getting better!