Eunice is one of 10 other communities - large and small - determined to be among American’s best-kept secret.

SmarterTravel.com rates the city as one of the nation’s best cities on the rise.

Eunice joins Brooklyn, N.Y., New London, Conn., Oakland, Calif., Seattle, Wash., Salida, Colo., Independence, Mo., Philadelphia, Pa., Topeka, Kan. and Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Mayor Rusty Moody said the citizens of Eunice are to be congratulated, and noted their city has a lot going for it, as demonstrated by its ranking with the other nine cities.

“This is really neat, and I’m very proud of the designation,” he said.

The web site notes, “What’s America’s best-kept secret? Some of the country’s most interesting, exceptional cities offer more than meets the eye. We’re talking exciting destinations where communities have rallied around local arts districts and developing downtowns, or historical meccas (big and small) where contemporary updates have revitalized old attractions. For a fresh take on your next U.S. vacation, visit one of these 10 up-and-coming American cities.”

An excerpt from the smartertravel.com said, “Billing itself as Louisiana’s “Prairie Cajun capital, Eunice is a hot spot of Acadian culture — the kind of place you should visit if you’re looking to indulge in a crawfish cook-off or to kick up your heels to homegrown Cajun and zydeco music.

“When not dancing or dining, visitors can learn about the unique history of the local people at the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, which features historical artifacts as well as cooking and craft demos.

“Moreover, a host of just-opened attractions are adding new allure to the old town, including new restaurants serving spicy Cajun dishes (try Ruby’s Cafe), trendy boutiques, and specialty shops.”