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Natchitoches is the Perfect Destination for a Last-Minute Getaway!
Show up unannounced and we’ll be ready for you! Here are a few tips to make your visit to Natchitoches worry-free.
Our website offers the most comprehensive calendar and listings for visitors! Find great places to stay, the best restaurants, and explore the Landmark Historic District, Down River and the small communities of Natchitoches.
CHECK THE CALENDAR
There are events happening almost every weekend between March and December, so check the “Calendar” at Natchitoches. com and select a time that suits you best! Whether it’s a festival in our Landmark Historic District, our NSU Demon athletes in action, or a peaceful day on the Cane River Lake, Natchitoches can be as busy or as quiet as you choose!
BOOK YOUR STAY
Whether you love a branded hotel, a quaint Bed & Breakfast or a private property all to yourself, staying overnight in Natchitoches makes the trip all the more sweeter! Find your perfect overnight choice in our extensive “Stay” directory in this guide or at Natchitoches.com.
GET THE GO NATCHITOCHES APP
Already on your way to Natchitoches? NSU Student or Parent? Lucky enough to call Natchitoches home? Download the app for your iPhone or Android and take your plan with you! Just type “GoNatchitoches” in the search box of your app store. You can also VIEW the Go Natchitoches App online!.
PARKING
Parking in the Landmark Historic District is FREE in all public parking places, including Front Street and along the lower River Front in Downtown. Public parking can also be found at the Natchitoches City Utility Office, 806 2nd St, Natchitoches, LA 71457.
VISIT THE NATCHITOCHES WELCOME CENTER
Conveniently located at 780 Front Street, every trip should include a stop at the Natchitoches Welcome Center. Brochures, maps, and great recommendations are available Monday thru Saturday, 9am – 5pm.
In 1989, Natchitoches achieved national spotlight with the premiere of the classic southern movie Steel Magnolias. This movie was based on a true story about the citizens of Natchitoches.
Robert Harling, a native of Natchitoches, wrote about the bond among a group of women surrounding the family experience with the death of Harling’s sister, Susan Harling Robinson in 1985. The title suggests the main female characters can be both as delicate as the magnolia and as tough as steel. In 1988, filming began in Natchitoches with A-list actors such as Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis and Daryl Hannah.
Natchitoches has been the site for other movies such as the 1959 war film The Horse Soldiers starring John Wayne, Constance Towers and William Holden.
The movie was filmed on location at Oakland Plantation now a National Park along the historic Cane River region
In the early 90’s, Academy Award winning actress Reese Witherspoon made her acting debut in The Man In The Moon. For more information scan code, call (800) 259-1714, or visit www.Natchitoches. com. Pick up your film trail brochure at the Natchitoches Welcome Center on Front Street.
Natchitoches has been called the “City of Lights” since 1927, when the city’s chief electrician, Max Burgdof, decided to string Christmas lights along the brick Front Street. Natchitoches was recently named #8 in the world in travelawaits.com’s Top Ten Christmas Destinations and once named by Yahoo.com as the Third Best Holiday Light Show in America. To complement the lights, Burgdof and Charlie Solomon built the first set piece, an 8-foot-tall Christmas star. His gesture has evolved into six weeks of Christmas called the “Festival of Lights” in Natchitoches.
Each November, Natchitoches is transformed into a holiday wonderland with over 300,000 brightly-colored Christmas lights, more than 100 Christmas set pieces made by the City’s utility department. Fireworks and drone shows light up the skies along the riverbank every Saturday for six weeks beginning the weekend before Thanksgiving.
Join us on the first Saturday in December for the annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival and Parade. For more information visit NatchitochesChristmas.com
• 33-block downtown historic district
• 300 years of Louisiana French colonial history
• More than 50 historic homes, churches and buildings
• American Cemetery
• Shopping and Dining
• Stunning Riverfront with walking path along the Cane River
• Guided Walking Tour Natchitoches.com • (318) 362-8072
• Located on Cane River Lake
• Set up by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis in 1714
• Built with nearly 2,000 treated pine logs
• Approximately 250,000 board feet of treated lumber
• Self-guided tours (318) 357-3101
• Located in historic downtown Natchitoches.
• Collections of more than 400 Louisiana athletes, coaches and other sports figures.
• Historic interactive media of sports to life in Louisiana
• Explore the unique traditions from early NativeAmerican civilizations to the present.
• Internationally recognized and award winning building designed by Trahan Architects of New Orleans
• (318) 357-2492
• 30 minute tour of downtown Natchitoches
• Louisiana’s first electric carriage
• Enjoy the sights of the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase (318) 352-8072
• Established in 1863
• Oldest general store in Louisiana,
• Original freight elevator still works
• 1910 cash register is not only in great condition, it is still used!
• Classic Toys, Kitchenware, Home & Garden, Hardware & Tools
• Christmas Store on 2nd floor
• Grady Harper Art Gallery
OldHardwareStore.com • (318) 352-2525
• Established in 1728 and consecrated as a Cathedral 1854
• Many of the interior fixtures were imported from European Christendom
• French and German hand-painted Stations of the Cross
• Magnificent stained glass
• January 10, 2010, dedicated a Minor Basilica www.minorbasilica.org • (318) 352-3422
• American Cemetery Tour, the second Saturday of every month,
• Walking tour that lasts up to 90 minutes
Tour the cemetery of our history’s legends (318) 357-2492
• Natchitoches’ water feature and garden area
• Downtown riverbank overlooking Cane River Lake
• Outdoor setting perfect for weddings, family photos, and picnics www.natchitochesla.gov/community/beau-jardin-wedding • (318) 357-3822 Natchitoches.com - Louisiana’s Oldest City
• Take a leisurely cruise aboard the Cane River Queen
• Climb aboard the red, white and blue vessel
• Meander along the tranquil waters of Cane River Lake
• Groups/special events welcome
caneriverqueen.org • (318)663-7787
• Discover why Natchitoches has been a destination of travelers since 1714
• Take a FREE guided walking tour of historic downtown Natchitoches
• A family-friendly tour that will engage all ages!
• Wednesday - Saturday at 10am from the Natchitoches Welcome Center on Front Street.
canerivernha.org • (318) 356-5555
• Views the winding Red River from an 80-foot-high bluff
• Stroll the grounds for a glimpse of native wildlife
• Explore Civil War entrenchments
• 4 miles north of Natchitoches
• Interactive displays & historic exhibits
• Pavilion, picnic area and hiking trails www.canerivernha.org/grand-ecore-visitor-center • (318) 352-2248
• Built by a freed slave named Yves in 1803
• Fine example of French Creole architecture
• Built with cypress half-timbers and bousillage infill which is a mixture of mud, Spanish moss, and deer hair
• Constructed on 91-acre farmstead about 22 miles south of Natchitoches
• Later the house was moved to historic district in downtown Natchitoches nhfla.com
• Capital of the province of Spanish Texas for more than 40 years
• Today the site outlines where the presidio once stood
• On the El Camino Real de las Tejas National Historic Trail
• Tours by appointment only in January and February.
www.crt.state.la.us/louisiana-state-parks/historic-sites/ los-adaes-state-historic-site/index • (318) 356-5555
- Louisiana’s Oldest City
• Made up more than 604,000 acres and spreads across seven parishes in Louisiana
• Louisiana’s only national forest
• 12 miles of wilderness hiking trails and 50 miles of multiple-use trails
• 17 mile National Scenic Byway
• Panoramic vistas and primitive camping areas
• Offers swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, picnicking, ATV trails
• National Red Dirt Wildlife Management Area www.fs.fed.us/r8/kisatchie • (318) 628-4664
• Located in Natchitoches Parish’s Kisatchie National Forest
• Named after Caroline Dormon, the first woman employed in forestry in the US
• Briarwood was recently named a National Historic Place www.Briarwoodnp.org • (318) 567-3379
Tip: April to May is a great time to visit the Nature Preserve when most of the wildflowers are in bloom.
• Family-friendly outdoor park featuring a variety of activities and attractions
• Lost Treasure Mining Company, an outdoor gem and fossil mining attraction
• Bear Factory at Timber Ridge Adventure Park
• Buccaneer Bayou Adventure Mini Golf
• Seasonal events like Happy Easter Hop Along, Dark Woods Haunted Attraction, and Timber Ridge Old Fashioned Christmas timberridge.fun • (318) 228-1725
A hands-on educational sanctuary for alligators, reptiles, and other animals. We offer daily educational shows and you even have the opportunity to feed these animals, especially the alligators.
• Largest alligator park in Louisiana
• Houses over 250 American Alligators
• Seven-acre park, complete with Cajun music
• Has a petting zoo, bird sanctuary, reptile house, jungle, tortoise exhibit, baby gator wading pool, feeding show, and more GatorCountryLA.com • (318) 354-0106
• Home of the Louisiana Country Music Museum
• Largest exhibits about the Louisiana Hayride and the history of country music in Louisiana outside of the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium itself. www.lastateparks.com/historic-sites/rebel-state-historic-site • (318) 472-6255
Cane River Queen River Boat (318) 663-7787
The Venue Carriages (318) 352-1579
• One of 69 Federal fish hatcheries located across the United States
• The only Federal fish hatchery located in Louisiana
• 16 tank Aquarium
• Replica Caddo Indian Village diorama and wood duck display
• Mock archaeology dig site exhibit
• Group tours available/call for special events fws.gov/natchitoches • (318) 352-5324
• The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1962
• Site in Downtown Natchitoches honors our service men and women
• Provides the community with a small gathering place to honor our fallen heros
• The cultural center of Cane River’s historic Creole community
• Founded in 1803 by freed slave Nicolas Augustin Metoyer
• The first church built by and for free people of color in Louisiana
• It is designated as a National Register Historic Property
• Located 20 miles south of Natchitoches staugustinecaneriver.com • (318) 379-2521
• Your one stop shop for birthday parties
• Offering pizza, drinks, cake and video game credits included in packages
• Bowling, batting cages and video games are all available
• Located just off I-49 under the huge American flag arcadenatchitoches.com • (318) 379-4046
Historic District Walking Tours (318) 356-5555
Tour de Natchitoches with Jeri & Chris tourdenatchitoches@gmail.com (318) 289-7406
Natchitoches.com - Louisiana’s Oldest City
Natchitoches Art Guild & Gallery
Created in 1980 as a non-profit organization designed to promote art and local artists within the historic community. In 1992, members of the Guild founded the Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery to display works by area artists. Call for hours. (318) 352-1626
Melrose on the Cane
Melrose was the home to renowned folk artists, Clementine Hunter. Her artwork is on display. Prints are for sale in the gift shop. melroseonthecane.com • (318) 379-0055
Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum
Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame features sports inductee, history and culture from Northwest Louisiana. Clementine Hunter artwork on display. LaSportsHall.com • (318) 357-2492
Orville Hanchey Gallery
Located at Northwestern State University, the gallery is a responsive, student-oriented institution serving the residents of Louisiana and visitors from around the world. In 2013, the world’s largest beaded mosaic was constructed at the gallery.
Get out and take it all in! Natchitoches is filled with beautiful places and great ways to truly experience this unique part of Louisiana.
Self-serve kayak kiosks are available 7am – 7pm at Sibley Lake, Cane River/Washington St. Launch and Chaplin’s Lake on the NSU campus.
www.timberridge.fun • (318) 228.1725
Natchitoches is home to one golf course and one tennis facility: Northwestern Hills golf course is open from 8 am to dusk. Call for information on tennis times at Demon Hills.
Northwestern Hills, located on Hwy. 1 Bypass, 18-hole golf course
Golf: (318) 357-6300
Tennis: (318) 357-6300
• 100 acre complex
• Youth baseball, softball, soccer and cross country running
• Public gathering area
• 5-plex baseball pavilion with artificial turf grass infields and natural grass outfields, 4 soccer fields, covered batting cages and concessions www.parcnatchitoches.com • (318) 357-3892
• Susan Harling Robinson Memorial Park – corner of Pine and Cypress.
• John Sibley Park – corner of Jefferson and Keyser Ave.
• NSU Park – corner of University Pkwy. and Second St.
• Roque House Park located along Cane River and Front St.
• Beau Jardin Park located along Cane River and Front St.
• Dr. Mildred H. Bailey Memorial Park – behind the headquarters for the Natchitoches Historic Foundation, 550 Second St.
• Jefferson Highway Park next to Fort St. Jean Baptiste SHS
• St. Mary’s First Baptist Park, behind First Baptist Church on Second Street and Rue Touline
- Louisiana’s Oldest City
Adventure awaits at Timber Ridge Adventure Park in Natchitoches. This family-friendly outdoor park features a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy, including Buccaneer Bayou Mini Golf, The Lost Treasure Mining Company, Louisiana’s only outdoor gem and fossil mining attraction, and Bear Factory at Timber Ridge Adventure Park. Additionally, special seasonal events like Happy Easter Hop Along, Dark Woods Haunted Attraction, and Timber Ridge Old Fashioned Christmas, retail shops, an ice cream shop, and great food make Timber Ridge Adventure Park a popular destination. timberridge.fun
Buccaneer Bayou Adventure Mini Golf
Try your hand at the newest mini golf course in the south! This 19-hole par-rated course features bayou pirates, special effects and water features. In a stunning setting with a large amusement park style, this is a must-do in Natchitoches.
Lost Treasure Mining Company
Louisiana’s one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure-themed mining sluice, perfect for school groups and families.
Dark Woods Haunted Attraction
Fridays and Saturdays in October are the most haunted nights of the year in Natchitoches at one of Louisiana’s premier haunted attractions. An immersive experience in the woods with Hollywood-style special effects.
Dark Woods Christmas
Stroll through the woods to see over 300,000 holiday lights and displays, enjoy s’mores and Build-a-Bear. The perfect addition to the Natchitoches Christmas Experience.
Explore Louisiana’s only National Forest, with over 320 miles of hiking trails. Longleaf Vista Trail and the Caroline Dorman Trailhead offers interpretive hiking trails, picnic areas, biking and horseback trails.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/kisatchie/wilderness • (318) 628-4664
There so many wonderful options when it comes to fishing and boating in Natchitoches Parish. Make it a long weekend and hit them all!
More information and maps at Natchitoches.com/fishing/
Discover one of Louisiana’s largest Rivers, with easy access in several Natchitoches locations. www.redriverwaterway.
Grand Ecore Landing & RV Park
One of the best kept secrets in North Louisiana, this campground, RV park and boat launch is perfect for families and Red River fishing.
Grand Ecore Visitor Center
A must-see when visiting the region. Chart the course of the river and see interesting artifacts found in the area. One-of-a-kind view on a high bluff over the Red River. (318) 352-2248
Hampton Recreation Area
Follow the Red River “down river” for an additional boat launch area, 15 minutes south of Natchitoches.
Red Bayou Recreation Area
Located in Cloutierville, LA - Two-lane boat launch with easy access to the picnic area. redriverwaterway.com • (318) 352-7446
Sibley Lake covers approximately 2,000 acres and has a 38-mile shoreline. Recreational activities include fishing, hunting, boating, skiing, camping, and picnicking. Boat ramps are located on Hwy 1 Bypass and LA 504.
Black Lake is a reservoir located between Creston and Campti, a few minutes northeast of Natchitoches. This cypress-lined lake adjoins Clear Lake and is known for bass and crappie fishing.
Cane River Lake is a 35-mile oxbow lake formed from a portion of the Red River. It runs throughout the Natchitoches’ historic district to the south and is famous for it’s “downriver” area that includes Melrose and Oakland Plantations.
Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District
Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts
National Center for Preservation Technology and Training
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site
Grand Ecore Visitor Center U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery
Oaklawn Plantation
Cherokee Plantation
The Old Plauche Place Plantation
Cedar Bend Plantation
St. Charles Borromeo Chapel
Beau Fort Plantation
Cane River Creole NHP, Oakland Plantation Unit
Atahoe Plantation
St. Matthew High School
Carroll Jones House
Jones-Roque House
Badin-Roque House
Melrose on the Cane
St. Augustine Catholic Church
Lewis Jones House
Metoyer-Cohen Plantation
Magnolia Plantation Home
Cane River Creole NHP, Magnolia Plantation Unit
Kate Chopin Home Site
Chopin Plantation
Monett’s Ferry
Fort Jesup State Historic Site
Los Adaes State Historic Site
Adai Indian Nation Cultural Center
St. Anne Catholic Church
Cane River National Heritage Trail
Isle Brevelle Trail
El Camio Real National Heritage Trail
Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway
There’s just too much to do for just one, or even two days. Stay at one of our many hotel options or really get the Natchitoches feel while you stay in one of our fabulous Bed & Breakfasts, or maybe an Air BNB. Don’t rush off, stay and make a new friend.
We suggest that groups, conferences, etc. call the local telephone numbers to negotiate rates and reserve a room during the holiday season. Please note that local rates are very affordable; rates do increase during the busy Christmas season and there are some weekends when there is a 2-night minimum. Enjoy your visit.
Best Western
Conference facilities available. HBO, 5131 University Pkwy HC accessible. Adjacent to restaurants, (318) 352-6655 • (800) 528-1234 6 miles to downtown historic district. www.bestwestern.com Major credit cards accepted.
Chateau Saint Denis
Quaint hotel located in the Historic District 751 Second St. across from Natchitoches Event Center. (318) 951-4105 • (888) 900-9937 French Quarter style courtyard. www.chateausaintdenis.com
Church Street Inn
Located in Landmark Historic District: upscale 120 Church St. property with amenities offered; Suites (318) 238-8888 • (800) 668-9298 decorated with Louisiana themes; HBO, www.churchstinn.com HC accessible; New Orleans style patio; adjacent to restaurants and shopping.
Comfort Suites
Located off I-49, just minutes from 151 Hayes Ave. local businesses and attractions. Close (877) 424-6423 to Northwestern State University.
Days Inn
Showtime, HC accessible. 6 miles to 5135 University Pkwy. downtown historic district. Major (214) 280-8311 credit cards accepted.
Econo Lodge & Suites
HBO, HC accessible. Adjacent to restaurants, 5335 University Pkwy. 6 miles to downtown historic district. Fitness (800) 4-CHOICE rooms & complimentary bus and truck parking. www.econolodge.com/la163 Major credit cards accepted.
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Six miles to downtown historic district, with 150 Hayes Ave. complimentary wireless internet, complimentary (318) 354-8007 on-site parking, Fitness Center. Major credit www.Marriott.com/FairfieldInn cards accepted.
Hampton Inn
Conference facility, fitness facility. HBO, 5300 University Pkwy HC accessible. Adjacent to restaurants, (318) 354-0010 • (800) HAMPTON 6 miles to downtown historic district. www.hamptoninn.com Major credit cards accepted.
Holiday Inn
Conference facility. HBO, HC Express & Suites accessible. Adjacent to restaurants, 5137 University Pkwy 6 miles to downtown historic district. (318) 354-9911 • (800) HOLIDAY Major credit cards accepted. www.ichotelsgroup.com
Quality Inn
Cable TV. 6 miles to downtown Natchitoches. 5362 University Pkwy Major credit cards accepted. (318) 352-7500 • (800) 4 CHOICE www.choicehotels.com
Relax Inn
HBO, HC accessible. .5 mile to downtown 1316 Washington St. Historic District. Major credit cards accepted. (318) 357-0423 • (318) 352-9561
Super 8
HC accessible. Adjacent to restaurants, 5821 Hwy 1 Bypass 1.5 miles to downtown Historic District. (318) 352-1700 • (800) 800-8000 Major credit cards accepted. www.super8.com
PROPERTY NAME # OF ROOMS PETS
**Andre’s Riverview Bed & Breakfast 3 No 612 Williams Ave. (318) 581-0287 www.andresriverview.com
Andrew Morris House 4 No 422 Second St. (318) 352-9206 • 1(800) 441-8343 www.andrewmorrishouse.com
**Creole Cottage on Cane River 4 No 319 rue Jefferson (318) 413-0579 • (318) 352-7490 innkeeper@creolecottage.net
Elizabeth Lane Guesthouse 4 Yes 228 Henry Ave. (409) 489-9010
Green Gables & Camellia Cottage 3 No 201 Pine St. • (318) 352-5580 www.greengablesbedandbreakfast.com
H.A. Cook Guesthouse 3 No 128 St. Denis (225) 802-8720 www.vrbo.com/675761
**Jefferson House B&B 3 Yes 229 rue Jefferson (318) 332-8471 www.jeffersonhousebedandbreakfast.com
Jefferson Street Townhouse 5 No 230 rue Jefferson (318) 352-3957 • (318) 554-9074
Judge Porter House 5 No 321 Second St. (318) 352-9206 • (800) 441-8343
Maison Louisiane B&B 5 No 332 Jefferson St. (318) 581-3138 • (318) 332-8780
Opus House 2 No 219 Williams Ave. • (318) 332-8796
The Parsonage B&B
1 Yes (318) 214-9607 • (310) 704-5147 www.parsonagebedandbreakfast.com info@parsonagebedandbreakfast.com
Overlooking Cane River Lake across from the downtown historic district. Private entrance, balconies, whirlpool baths, not handicap accessible.
Award winning Antebellum Historic District Home offering: Early check-ins, WIFI, two person Jacuzzis. Offers complimentary beverages and two-course gourmet breakfast.
Located on Cane River in the historic district. Amenities galore, private entrances, private baths, king beds and continental breakfast. No children under 12. For more info visit www.creolecottage.net.
Rent the whole house with 4 suites with private baths, internet, TV-DVD player and Netflix, back screened in porch with wicker furniture and self-catering. Vacation home rental, 2 night minimum.
Queen Anne Victorian House. Camellia Cottage is a perfect romantic retreat. Large porches, full breakfast and other amenities. Walking distance to shops.
Two-story guesthouse with 3 bedroom suites with private baths, common living, kitchen, and dining area. Downstairs kitchen adjacent to courtyard and outdoor patio area.
Idyllic retreat located on Cane River Lake in the Historic District. Antique furnishings, king size beds, private baths, gourmet breakfast. Complimentary WIFI, cable, and parking.
1920s bungalow, gardens, Full breakfast, cable TV; walking distance to downtown. Pool is included. Call for info, small pets only. For more information visit www.jeffersontownhouse.com.
1912 B&B offering: Early check-ins, WIFI, cable TV, queen beds, Jacuzzis. Complimentary beverages, gourmet breakfast. For more information visit www.judgeporterhouse.com.
Built in the 1880’s in Queen Anne style architecture. Multi-course breakfast, cable TV, WIFI, antiques, private bath, private cottage sleeps up to 6. More information visit www.steelmagnoliahouse.net.
Large open common spaces, full breakfast, deep porchese, queen beds, luxury linens and toiletries, walking distance to downtown.
Located in the Historic District, within walking distance of Front Street shopping and Cane River Lake. Queen room, complimentary WI-FI, private bathroom, and parking. One night stays, pet friendly. Multiple rate options and breakfasts offered for 2 or more nights.
Queen Anne 5 No
125 Pine St. • (318) 352-9206 (800) 441-8343
Rusca House 4 Yes 124 rue Poete • (318) 356-7118 www.ruscahouse.com
Samuel Guy House 7 No 309 Pine St. (318) 354-1080 www.samuelguyhouse.com
Steamboat House 4 No
200 Jefferson St. (318) 470-6400 airbnb.com/h/thesteamboat.house
Steel Magnolia House 6 No 320 rue Jefferson (318) 238-2585 www.steelmagnoliahouse.net
Sweet Cane Inn 7 No 926 Washington St. (318) 352-5630 www.sweetcaneinn.com
**Violet Hill 5 No 917 Washington St. (318) 352-9206 1(800) 441-8343 www.violethillbandb.com
**Cane River Cottage & Guest House 6 No 228 Pratt Lane (318) 663-8239 www.canerivercottage.com
**Riverbend Bed & Breakfast 5 No 3141 Highway 494 (318) 581-6226 www.riverbendbedandbreakfast.com
**Starlight Plantation 2 Yes 2228 Highway 494 Cane River Rd. (318) 352-3775 www.starlightplantation.com
The Cabins of Horseshoe Hills Ranch 6 Yes 240 Bayou Pierre Cut Off Rd. Natchitoches, LA 71457 (318) 352-2920 www.horseshoehillscabins.com
Queen Anne style in Historic District: Early check-ins, WIFI, cable TV, king & queen beds, Jacuzzis. Free beverages, gourmet breakfast. For more information visit www.queenannebandb.com.
1920’s bungalow. Multi-course breakfast; gardens; courtyard with fountain; private entrances; cable TV; private baths; Jacuzzi tubs.
Greek Revival house circa 1850; cable; private baths with jacuzzi tubs; glassed in living & dining rooms; multi-course breakfast, collectibles, gardens tours available.
Luxury 4 bedroom historic home in the Natchitoches Historic District. Built in 1853 with lumber from a steamboat. Ideal for families, groups, and extended stays.
Historic home featured in movie Steel Magnolias; breakfast; amenities; WIFI; gardens; pool; antiques; private baths; TV/DVD player.
Victorian home, circa 1890s. Walking distance to downtown; pool; full breakfast; Suite available.
Elegantly furnished: Early check-ins. WIFI; cable TV; queen beds; 2 BR with Jacuzzis. Beverages & breakfast. Porch swing.
Located about nine miles south of downtown historic Natchitoches. Two unique well furnished homes with three bedrooms each and fully equipped kitchens, outdoor gazebo and grill area located on the Cane River Lake.
Overlooking Cane River Lake, 10 minutes from historic downtown, 5 BR, 3 baths, kitchen, den and sunroom. Outdoor Events.
On Cane River Lake; 2 suites with private hot tubs; plantation breakfast, boat pier; TV/DVD; 6.25 miles from downtown district.
Cajun style cabins with a queen BR and 2 twin loft. 10 minutes from downtown Natchitoches. Over 30 acres of beautiful scenery along Bayou Pierre with nature trails, boat launch, floating dock, fire pits.
A&A Lakehouse 4 Yes 187 Stevens Circle www.vrbo.com/2838840
A Frame on the Cane 1 No 504 Riverview Drive Natchez Louisiana. 71457 (318) 332-1058
Bella Vue Guesthouse 2 No 108 Whitfield Dr. (903) 331-7102
The Bird’s Nest on the Cane 1 No 1015 Parkway Drive (318) 581-7887
Candi on the Cane Guesthouse 3 No 1128 Williams Ave (310) 200-5782
Cedars House of Natchitoches 4 No 315 Williams Ave (318) 471-8837 www.vrbo.com/2922376
Clementine at The 403 2 No 403A Jefferson St (504)343-8238 www.vrbo.com/3129030
Cornfields and Cane 3 Yes 1091 Patrick Rd www.vrbo.com/2670707
Log Cabin Guest House 1 No 614 Williams Ave. (318) 228-5066
Mayfield House 3 No 911 Washington St (318) 352-2920 www.vrbo.com/3605321
Nakatosh House 4 No 210 Jefferson St www.nakatoshhouse.com
Perrault House 5 No
209 South Williams Ave. (214) 949-5419
The Tiny House 1 No 865 Second Street (318) 332-2241
Beautiful view of Sibley Lake with large deck. Close to Natchitoches’ tourist attractions, NSU and Parc Natchitoches. Enjoy a peaceful stay in Natchitoches.
Renovated tiny home 15 minutes south of Natchitoches. Located near the Cane River Creole National Historical Park. Home sits on the bank of Cane River.
Located in the Historic District. The entire upstairs unit will become your new home away from home. Recently renovated with two bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious sunroom.
Enjoy wrap around porch, fishing, paddle boat. Accommodate up to 4-5 guests. Master with king bed and loft with twin bed. Queen pull-out couch in living room.
Less than a mile from Natchitoches on the Cane River. Two of the three cozy guesthouses are poolside. The Master Suite has a large open concept En-Suite. Swim, fish, wander and relax.
Newly renovated 1930’s cottage. 4 BR, 2 bath downtown, near Front Street and Cane River. This historical cottage is the perfect landing spot for just about anyone looking to spend time in Natchitoches.
Renovated apartment in Natchitoches Historic District. Design inspiration coming from the Folk Art of the late Clementine Hunter. Home built in the early 1900s. This is a private apartment and not a shared space.
Watch the sun rise over the cornfield on the front porch and beautiful sunsets in the evenings overlooking the lake. There’s nothing fancy here, but peacefulness is found in the simplicity of the tranquility of the water.
Log cabin house. Equipped kitchen and accommodations for three with one bath. On the banks of the Cane River Lake - downtown historic district.
Original 1930s Sears and Roebuck “Mayfield” kit house. It retains original doors, crystal door knobs, original tile, and beautiful wood floors. Deck with river views and access. Explore history and savor local cuisine. Hot tub and fully stocked kitchen.
Remodeled 1923 house located on historic Jefferson Street. Ideal for walking Front Street to shop and dine. Horse-drawn carriage tours and riverboat rides are favorites, or take a stroll along Cane River.
Built in 1911, recently renovated, swimming pool, brick oven, full kitchen, porch with rocking chairs.
Accommodates 4 guests. 2 single beds and 1 king, Full kitchen, hair dryer, refrigerator, keurig, microwave, electric kettle, toaster, rice maker and small oven. 3 TVs. Private parking for 2 cars. Just steps to downtown.
Ajax Country Livin’ RV Park
28 Yes Located on a site surrounded by woods with a private lake. It’s the 1115 Hwy 174, Marthaville, LA perfect stopping off point or base of operations to explore the historic (318) 796-2543 surrounds of Natchitoches, LA.
Black Lake Haven RV 23 Yes RV park and (4) cabin rentals, on picturesque Black Lake in Creston, 5780 LA-9, Saline, LA Louisiana. Boat launch, great fishing. (318) 875-2288
Chandlers Camp RV
10 Yes Located on Black Lake. Includes a motel camping, RV sites, and a lodge 5779 HWY 9, Creston, LA for groups. (318) 875-2222
Christel Park, LLC
60 Yes Full hookups. Bath house and washer and dryers. Boat launch on site Black Lake, at 172 Jim Bell Rd. at Black Lake. Campti, LA • (318) 617-4964
Dogwood Ridge RV/Camper Park
35 Yes Quiet, shaded park. Full hookups. 30 to 50 amp sites, bathhouse, 5060 Hwy 3278 and washer-dryer. Daily, weekly, and monthly rates. (318) 352-8619
El Camino RV Park
40 Yes WIFI, coin laundromat, showers, water, sewage, fire areas and picnic 6832 Hwy. 6, Natchitoches tables. For more information visit www.elcaminorealrvpark.com. (318) 332-8712
Grand Ecore RV Park
59 Yes Water, sewer, electric hookups, playground, pavilion, fire rings/grills, 1071 Tauzin Island Rd. laundry, free WIFI, bathouse; Activity Center; Next to Red River boat Natchitoches, LA • (318) 238-7446 launch. www.grandecorervpark.com
Kisatchie National Forest Campground
5 Yes Scenic overlooks, 12 miles of hiking trails 17-mile National Scenic 229 Dogwood Park Rd. • (318) 472-1840 Byway. Primitive camping, tent sites, restrooms, picnic areas, trash www.fs.fed.us/r8/kisatchie disposal. Call for details and rates.
Lakeview Mobile Home & RV Park 60 Yes Premium lots, deluxe fishing on Black Lake, much needed relaxation. 172 Jim Bell Rd. Campti, LA (615) 351-3120
Magnolia Hill RV Park
22 Yes Lots of shade, private and secluded, daily, weekly, and monthly rates. 143 Bills Rd. (1.5 miles west of I-49) Washer/dryer, showers and bathrooms. WIFI included. (318) 471-3010 www.magnoliahillrvpark.com
Morgan’s Landing & RV Park
50 Yes Private launch. Quiet, clean and spacious, 4 miles to downtown 909 Tauzin Island Rd. historic district. Water, electricity, and sewage hookups. (318) 663-8350
Nakatosh RV Park & Campground #1
44 Yes Good Sam Park. Tent sites. Recreation building at campground #1, bath 5428 Hwy 6 house with washer/dryer. Adjacent to truck stop with restaurant, free (318) 352-0911 • (318) 471-3174 RV dump, 4.5 miles to historic district. www.nakatoshcampgrounds.com
Nakatosh Campground #2
18 Yes Located on Sibley Lake next to Mariner’s Restaurant. 5906 Hwy. 1 Bypass • (318) 352-0911
Pecan Orchard RV Park
51 Yes Located in a pecan orchard with lots of shade. 30/50 amp sites 140 Hwy. 120, Natchitoches Bathhouse, laundry, putt putt golf, pool, batting cages and (318) 471-7147 enclosed pavilion.
Plantation RV
25 Yes Full hookups. Bath house with washer-dryers and bath. Quiet, 2588 Old King Hill Rd. clean, wooded area. Offer daily, weekly and monthly rates. (I-49 @ Allen Exit) • (318) 315-1449
St. Luke RV Park
181 St. Luke Church Rd. Located off Posey Rd. Exit (318) 332-0164 • (318) 352-1481
24 Yes 30 to 50 amp sites, full hookups, bath house, washer-dryer.
Whether your searching for our signature Louisiana Meat Pie, classic creole cuisine, or even a Zydeco brunch, Natchitoches has a perfect “Nak-a-DISH” to suit everyone’s taste! Arrive hungry.
All historic district restaurants are locally owned and operated serving authentic Creole, Cajun and Southern dishes. All restaurants in Louisiana are smoke free.
The Donut Hole
400 Second St. • (318) 521-5924
» Enjoy pastries and coffee at this local establishment.
Hana Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill
750 Front St. • (318) 356-0989
» Features traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi. Open lunch and dinner.
Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen
622 Second St. • (318) 352-3353
» Home of the Famous Lasyone’s Meat Pie and Cane River Cream Pie; open for breakfast and lunch. Catering available, groups and private parties welcome. www.lasyones.com
Legacy Cafe
441 North St. • (318) 657-0300
» Made from scratch menu is locally sourced when available. Transforming Lives & Building Community through food.
Mama’s Oyster House
608 Front St. • (318) 356-7874
» Country Cajun Cuisine; groups and private parties welcome; live music Fri. & Sat. nights. Patio dining available. www.mamasoysterhouse.com
Mayeaux’s Nakatosh Deli & Pub
584 Front St. • (318) 228-8006
» Open Monday-Saturday serving pizzas and sandwiches, bar.
Mayeaux’s Steak & Seafood
512 Front St. • (318) 521-8080
» Offering fine and casual dining with a bar that serves “fine dining”, aged steaks and Louisiana cuisine with a Cane River flair.
Merci Beaucoup
127 Church St. • (318) 352-6634
» Known for their Cajun Baked Potato and bread pudding; casual dining; catering, groups and private parties welcome. www.mercibeaucouprestaurant.com
Natchitoches Picnic Company
524 Front Street • 318-228-8520
» Helping make entertaining effortless with high quality, small batch, made from scratch foods. Pick-up, delivery or catering.
Papa’s Bar & Grill
604 Front St. • (318) 356-5850
» Casual dining offers a wide variety of sandwiches, poboys, and steaks. www.papasbarandgrill.com
Patio Cantina
805 Front Street 318-238-4388
» Casual dining with indoor and riverfront seating, full bar and great menu of Mexican favorites, or a chips-n-salsa with a margarita stop after shopping Front Street.
StoryBrew Coffee Café
780 Front St. Suite 104 • (318) 214-2387
» Full service coffee shop specializing in a wide variety of espresso based drinks, pour overs, teas and pastries
Sweet Fruit Delights
628 Front St. • (318) 352-5910
» A variety of chocolate cover fruits and other goodies, edible fruit bouquets & arrangements
Almost Home
5820 Hwy. 1 Bypass • (318) 352-2431
» Overlooking Sibley Lake; home-style buffet dining, Open Sunday through Friday 10:30a - 2p. Groups/private parties welcome.
Bayou Soul
510 Texas St. • (318) 228-8421
» A soul food restaurant with a New Orleans twist.
Breadhouse-Nakatosh Restaurant
1202 Texas St. • (318) 214-2400
» Weekly menu, BBQ, sandwiches
Cane River Commissary
4191 Hwy 494, Bermuda, LA • (318) 238-6361
» Local Cane River Cuisine
Chef Wok
311 South Dr. • (318) 356-0006
» Casual dine in or take out available; oriental favorites, drive through window.
Counter Culture
620A South Drive (318) 238-3208
» Frozen Yogurt with topping choices, healthy drinks, soups and sandwiches provides a fresh, delicious and healthy eating option.
Crawfish Hole
119 South Dr. • (318) 352-2379
» Sit down & enjoy some of the best crawfish around plus other seafood dishes, casual dining.
Chili’s Bar & Grill
932 Keyser Ave. • (318) 357-0972
El Nopal
110 South Dr. • (318) 238-4009
» South of the border favorites. Groups and private parties welcome.
El Patio
5412 University Parkway (Hwy 6) • (318) 602-9251
» Mexican food brought to you by the owners of El Nopal and other restaurants in the Cenla region.
Flying Heart Brewing & Pub
108 Mill Street • (318) 238-2337
» Our local brewery, serve mouthwatering food, signature cocktails and unique craft beers that are a must-try.
French Market Express
5109 University Parkway, Natchitoches • (318) 357-9002
» More than a convenient store! Cajun restaurant, bakery, and offers fine wines and souvenirs.
Grayson’s Barbeque
– Located in Clarence (7.5 miles east of downtown Natchitoches) 5849 Hwy. 71 • (318) 357-0166
» Has been open for more than 60 years and for good reason - Named one of Southern Living Magazine’s Pit Stops for the best Southern barbecue.
Hana Seafood & Hibachi Grill
814 Keyser Ave. • (318) 352-6658
» Casual dining with hibachi grill and seafood menu.
Huddle House
5306 University Pkwy Hwy 6 • (318) 352-7711
» Casual dining. Any meal, any time.
I’ve Got the Recipe Soul Food Diner
109 South Dr. • (318) 228-8187
» Weekly menu featuring different classic Louisiana recipes.
IHOP
5119 University Pkwy Hwy 6 • (318) 228-8860
» Open 24 hours.
Lakewood Inn Restaurant
– Creston, LA (17.3 miles east of downtown Natchitoches)
5675 Hwy. 9 • (318) 875-2263
» Casual dining serving southern specialties, catfish, steaks, expanded salad bar. Groups and private parties welcome. Karaoke Fri & Sat nights.
Lucky Village
929 Keyser Ave. • (318) 352-8588
» Super buffet serving Chinese and oriental cuisine. Groups and private parties welcome.
Marie’s Old Fashion Hamburgers
500 Texas St. • (318) 352-5735
» Serving old fashion hamburgers and cheeseburgers.
Magee’s Patio Café
536 University Pkwy. • (318) 352-7200
» Natchitoches Meat Pies, hamburgers, steak & chicken baskets, ice cream treats and more. Convenient drive through.
Mariner’s Restaurant
5948 Hwy 1 Bypass, Natchitoches • (318) 228-8056
» Overlooking Sibley Lake, seafood, steaks, and house made pasta, with a more casual menu on The Docks, and brunch on Sundays.
Natty Southern Nutrition
808 1/2 Keyser Ave. • (318) 238-3622
» Nutritional shake and tea bar that provides delicious refreshments without guilt. All of the products are low calorie, full of vitamins and nutrients, and are very refreshing.
Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant
4108 University Pkwy. • (318) 352-1538
» Casual dining. Open lunch and dinner. Groups welcome.
Peggy’s Homemade Pizza
4116 University Parkway • (318) 356-9200
» Pizza, calzones, salads and pasta. Private parties welcome. Delivery available.
Rio Roho
801 Keyser Ave. • (318) 228-8136
» Family owned and operated authentic Mexican restaurant.
Sam’s Southern Eatery
303 South Dr. • (318) 352-6213
» Seafood of all kinds, burgers, poboys. Parties and groups welcome. Carry-out available.
Smoothie King
801 University Pkwy.
» Smoothies, shakes and nutritious snacks.
Sonny’s Donuts
236 Keyser Ave. • (318) 352-4772
» Hot fresh donuts and kolaches daily.
Sweetie’s BBQ
203 Keyser Ave. • (318) 228-8592
» We are a take out restaurant serving award winning BBQ & sides. Outdoor and indoor seating.
T-Johnny’s on the River
1125 Washington St. • (318) 228-8582
» Boiled seafood, specialty drinks and a fun atmosphere. Outside dining overlooking the Cane River.
Tasty Boy Eats Food Truck
St. Denis St.
» Serving breakfast sandwiches and smash burgers.
Trail Boss Steakhouse
301 South Dr. • (318) 352-2080
» Casual dining serving lunch and dinner. Groups and private parties welcome.
“Visit Natchitoches and leave with something you love!” Over 20 locally -owned boutiques, clothing, antiques and gift shops are right at your feet on Front Street in the Landmark Historic District. Find something you can’t live without, along with lots of “little happies” to bring home to friends. Natchitoches definitely put the “Purchase” in the Louisiana Purchase!”
Brenda’s Clothing & Accessories
584 Front St., Ste. 104 • (318) 356-0422
» Fashionable clothes and accessories.
Brick & Row Merci Beaucoup Gifts
584 Front St., Suites 106-107 • (318) 352-6624
» Exclusive gifts and decorative accessories.
Cane River Kitchenware
732 Front St. • (318) 238-3600
» Kitchen gifts plus regional sauces, spices and mixes. Call for special cooking classes and baked goods.
The Freckled Fox
502 Front St. • (318) 238-3176
» Offers a wide array of clothing options for babies, toddlers, tweens, and even mom & me options.
Georgia’s Gift Shop
626 Front St. • (318) 352-5833
» Largest selection of Natchitoches and Louisiana gifts and souvenirs! www.georgiasgiftshop.com
Gigi’s Gifts Galore
113 rue St. Denis • (318) 214-2452
» Over 40 local artists and crafts under one roof.
Hall Tree
600 Front St. • (318) 352-4177
113 South Dr., Suite 1
» Fashionable clothing for men and women; gifts and accessories. Brighton jewelry.
Hello Dolly
780 Front St. Suite 102 • (318) 352-5828
» Lots of variety! In-style clothes and accessories for all ages along with candles & gifts.
Jeanne’s Country Garden
300 Jefferson St. • (318) 357-0102
» Floral arrangements and gifts.
Kaffie Frederick General Mercantile
758 Front St. • (318) 352-2525
» Louisiana’s oldest general store, hardware, housewares, gifts and nostalgic toys; Shop The Top for wedding and gift registry. Shipping available. www.oldhardwarestore.com
Laughing Sam’s Discs
124 St. Denis • (504) 722-8120
» Vintage & New Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s, Guitars, electronics, & musical curiosities.
Local Flavor
126 St. Denis • (318) 521-8001
» Local handmade, homemade crafts & farmer’s market on weekends.
Magnolia Spa Wellness & Boutique
520 Front St. • (318) 238-2843
» Day spa, boutique, weight loss, & spray tans. Magnoliaspaandwellness.com
Mary Lou’s Flowers & Gifts
117 rue St. Denis • (318) 357-1160
» Fresh flowers and silk arrangements, balloons and gifts.
Natchitoches Art Guild Heritage Gallery
584 Front St., Ste 102 • (318) 352-1626
» Local original paintings & sculptures for sale. www.natchitochesartguild.org
Olivier’s Creole Cypress Furniture
117 Second St. • (318) 352-1427
» High quality custom Louisiana cypress furniture since 1965. www.olivier-ww.com
Pied a Terre
746 Front St. • (318) 238-4373
» Open Tuesdays - Saturdays, 10a-6p. Candles gifts, tea towels, and Natchitoches items. facebook.com/piedeaterre/LA
Plantation Treasures
720 Front St. • (318) 354-1714
» Clementine Hunter prints; Lampe Berger lamps, and fine gifts. Historic staircase.
Simply Chic Boutique
516 Front St. • (318) 521-8009
» Women’s clothing boutique and accessories.
Tres Bien Antiques
132 St. Denis • (318) 228-8815
» Resale, art, & consignment shop. www.tresbienantiquesla.com
Natchitoches Pecans, LLC at Little Eva’s Plantation, Cloutierville, LA • (800) 572-5925
» Homemade pecan products and gifts. Open year round. Call for hours.www.natchitochespecans.com
Northwestern Market Place
912 University Pkwy. • (318) 238-3630
» Northwestern State University clothing, gifts, and educational items. www.nsushop.com
Beau Jardin Garden & Water Features
781 Front St. • (318) 357-3822 • www.natchitochesweddings.net
Outdoors, overlooking Cane River Lake. Email us at mainstreet@ natchitochesla.gov
Capacity up to 100.
Chateau St. Denis
751 Second St. • (318) 951-4105 • www.chateausaintdenis.com
4,000 sq. ft. of dividable, elegant meeting/ballroom space. Selection of audio visual and other meeting/banquet rental items available. On site catering available.
Church Street Inn
120 Church St. (318) 238-8888 • (800) 668-9298 • www.churchstinn.com
Landmark Historic District. Outside patio area included. Capacity up to 50.
Lasyone’s Restaurant
622 Second St. • (318) 352-3353 • www.lasyones.com
Capacity up to 115
Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame
800 Front St. • (318) 357-2492 • lasportshall.com
Several hundred reception style. Capacity 100 seated.
Melrose on the Cane 3533 Highway 119, Melrose, LA 71452 • (318)-379-0055
A stunning 1832 creole plantation home and grounds on the beautiful Cane River Lake.
Mama’s Oyster House & Blues Room
608 Front Street • (318) 356-5850
Merci Beaucoup
127 Church St. • (318) 352-6634
www.mercibeaucouprestaurant.com
Capacity up to 100.
Natchitoches Conference Center
5131 University Pkwy. • (318) 352-6655
Located beside Best Western & Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Capacity up to 250 with catering available.
Natchitoches Events Center
750 Second St. • (877) 238-7502 www.natchitocheseventscenter.com
Large exhibition hall and breakout rooms. Kitchen facilities and catering available. Capacity up to 1000.
Northwestern State University (318) 357-6511
Comprised of nearly 40,000 sq. ft. of space including a 15,000 sq foot exhibit hall, capable of being divided. Three 1,200 sq. ft. meeting rooms, and a 900 sq. ft. board room.
Prudhomme Rouquier House
446 rue Jefferson • (318) 352-6723
Landmark Historic District; circa 1790 home. Owned and operated by the Service League of Natchitoches. Capacity up to 300.
Riverside Reserve
104 Mill St. • (318) 238-1930
The ultimate destination for unforgettable moments and delightful concoctions.
Steel Magnolia House
320 rue Jefferson (318) 238-2585 • (888) 346-4095
www.steelmagnoliahouse.com
The Vault
129 St. Denis St., • (903) 960-3173
An upscale private event lounge designed for intimate refined celebrations. Ideal for showers, rehearsal dinners, and private events.
The Venue on Front Street
530 Front St. (318) 352-1579
Offers an alluring combination of high-drama glamour and natural splendor.
Capacity 300
Northwestern was established in 1884 in the old Bullard Mansion atop a hill overlooking the bustling river port city of Natchitoches. The campus grew as the school expanded from a two-year degree for teachers at Louisiana State Normal School to the four-year education degree at Louisiana Normal College in 1921. In 1944, the school became Northwestern State College and then Northwestern State University in 1970.
Today over 130 years later, three columns remain of the original structure on what is now called Normal Hill. Located in a National Historic District, this is the oldest continuously occupied site for higher education in Louisiana.
Northwestern State University (NSU) of Louisiana stands on ground that has been dedicated to learning for one hundred twenty-five years. Although, primarily a regional institution, NSU also offers an opportunity for education at other satellite locations. Specifically, distance learning is available in Leesville, Shreveport, Alexandria, and Jonesville.
Competing at the highest level of intercollegiate athletics, Northwestern State fields 14 NCAA Division I sports teams in the Southland Conference. The Demons and Lady Demons play football, women’s volleyball, women’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s indoor/outdoor track and field, and women’s tennis. NSU Athletics (NSUDemons.com)
The Louisiana Folk Life Center, an agency of Northwestern State University of Louisiana, was established in 1976. The center works closely with the Louisiana Folk Life program. (318) 357-4332 • www.nsula.edu/folklife
The Williamson Museum serves as a repository for archaeological collections for the region. (318) 357-4364 • Call for tours
Louisiana Creole Heritage Center was established to promote, foster and engage in activities and endeavors that relate to Louisiana Creoles and their culture. (318) 357-6685 • www.nsula.edu/creole
uses the motto “Great Tradition, Brighter Future” pointing to outstanding achievements including producing Olympic athletes, Academic All-Americans, dozens of pro football, basketball and baseball players, and a steady stream of NCAA postseason tournament and championship teams and athletes.
Event information: (318) 357-5251 • NSUDemons.com
Year round productions, symphonies, and seasonal dinner theatres. capa.nsula.edu
The Jefferson Highway was originally founded in 1915 and stretched from Winnipeg, Canada, to New Orleans, Louisiana. The Jefferson Highway, known as the “Pine to Palm Highway” for the trees found at either end, was the first intercontinental highway to run North to South. The highway is still being celebrated by the Jefferson Highway Association, a group working to identify, preserve, interpret and promote tourism along the Jefferson Highway and its associated sites. The Jefferson Highway runs through 17 Louisiana Parishes, including Natchitoches Parish. Jefferson Highway sites of interest include the Jefferson Street Pocket Park and Kaffie-Fredericks General Mercantile.
Other states included in the route were Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and Louisiana. Cities in Louisiana included Shreveport, Mansfield, Natchitoches, Montgomery, Colfax, Alexandria, Lecompte, Port Allen, Baton Rouge and New Orleans, to name a few.
www.jeffersonhighway.org
The “El Camino Real de los Tejas” has existed for more than 300 years. Take an adventure into the past and discover stories of trailblazers, explorers, missionaries, settlers, and how they shaped this land. From Natchitoches to Old Mexico, its easternmost beginning in Natchitoches and runs through Piney Woods, rolling hills and the arid lands of Old Mexico. Historic sites await visitors on the Texas stretch, tract the history of Texas and northwestern Louisiana along trail segments, river crossings, Historic sites await visitors and communities.
The annual Sale on the Trail is held the first Friday and Saturday in May. Hop in your car and travel all 111 miles along Hwy 6 in Louisiana starting at Natchitoches and then west across Toledo Bend Lake to Texas Hwy 21 into Milam, San Augustine, and Nacogdoches, TX, for a great adventure and great finds! TX Hwy 21 - LA Hwy 6
The Neutral Strip region, (a.k.a. No Man’s Land) draws its name from the area’s brief stint as an official buffer zone between Spain and the United States following the Louisiana Purchase. When the United States purchased the territory from France; Spain and the U.S. were in conflict over the boundary south of Natchitoches. The region’s use as an official buffer between Louisiana and Spanish Texas lasted roughly from 1806 until the 1819 Adams-Onis Treaty that established the Sabine River as the territory’s western boundary.
Sometimes described as a place filled with an outlaw culture or as a region with a reputation for a tough and isolated place, the region is better understood as a stronghold for those cultural groups who wished to find a home where they could preserve a way of life they cherished in Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. Today, No Man’s Land is the place where the pirate met the cowboy, and where Native Americans, French, Spanish, Africans, Creoles, Cajuns, and American pioneers from the South and West met to build communities and a culture like no other.
Download the No Man’s Land app on your cellular device by searching No Man’s Land Trip Planner in your app store. The No Man’s Land Trip Planner app will allow visitors to plan their trip along the western seven parishes in Louisiana while exploring the area’s history, culture, art, food and events. The seven parish area includes DeSoto, Natchitoches, Sabine, Vernon, Beauregard, Allen and Calcasieu Parishes.
This one-stop app includes a list of things to do, outdoor activities, dining, shopping, accommodations, events, and special tours, such as the Gas Station Eats trail and others.
Find out more about Louisiana’s No Man’s Land at VisitNoMansLand.com.
Ride or drive 5 thrilling routes around the Natchitoches region and discover great roads, fun places to eat and beautiful scenery. Perfect for motorcycles, jeeps or even the family van. All routes begin and end in Natchitoches.
Louisiana’s Oldest City
February
Mardi Gras
March
Bloomin’ on the Bricks & Art Along the Bricks
St. Patrick’s Pub Crawl
Cane River Film Fest
Reading on the River
April
Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
Melrose Arts, Crafts & Wine Festival
May
Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
Jazz / R&B Festival
Sale on the Trail
June
LA Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
Natchez Heritage Festival
Juneteenth
July
4th of July Celebration on The Cane
Natchitoches Farmer’s Market
Natchitoches/NSU Folk Festival
September
Cane River Zydeco Festival
Goldonna Saline Creek Festival
Meat Pie Festival
Marthaville Good Ole Days
October
Natchitoches Classic Car Show
Robeline Heritage Festival
Witch Way to Main Street
St. Augustine Creole Festival
Cane River Fall Festival
Top of the Boot Music Fest
Dark Woods Haunted Attraction
November
Turn on the Holidays
Festival of Lights Christmas Season
Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show
Provencal Fall Festival
Christmas in the Park
December
Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights
Holiday Tour of Homes
Fireworks every Saturday in December
Visit Santa Claus (Select nights)
Christmas on the Cane Celebration, Fort St. John Baptiste
Dark Woods Christmas
Christmas Down River at Melrose
