7 Close-Knit Towns to Visit in Louisiana

Louisiana is known as a cultural melting pot in the southeastern US with African, French, and American influences. This diverse yet symbiotic atmosphere lends authenticity to the communities that make up the state, especially the smaller towns. Though they have a small population, the small towns are filled with history, art, points of interest, and fabulous cuisine.

Louisiana is also famous for its many swampy outdoor adventures, and this lifestyle is reflected in almost every aspect of the smaller communities. The sites, restaurants, and live events reflect the traditional attitude of joie de vivre, or joy of living. Here are seven close-knit towns to visit in Louisiana.

Breaux Bridge

Breaux Bridge is a quaint and picturesque town adoringly dubbed "the crawfish capital of the world." Local restaurants were the first to serve the crustacean, and this is where crawfish etouffee was created. The sense of Cajun pride throughout the community makes Breaux Bridge one of the most outstanding towns to visit in Louisiana.

The vibrant downtown area is warm and inviting, with Zydeco music. It is also home to many annual festivals, like the Crawfish Festival. The three-day event features 30 bands on three stages, a cookoff, and many other Cajun activities. Breaux Bridge is a fun town that embraces and exudes the best of the Louisiana lifestyle.

Natchitoches

Historic Natchichoces is one of the best small towns in Louisiana and features a historic district and French architecture. The Downtown Historic District features French Creole townhouses and commercial buildings like the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, the oldest store in town. The downtown runs along the Cane River Lake, an idyllic backdrop for the compact downtown.

Carriage rides are available and pass notable sites like Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site and the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception church. It is easy to see why parts of the iconic movie Steel Magnolias were filmed in this bucolic town. The natural settings, towering magnolia trees, and stunning architecture make it feel like a different time and place in the best way possible.

St. Francisville

St. Francisville is renowned for its natural beauty, southern atmosphere, and small-town feel. The historic district, part of the Main Street Program, features 19th-century architecture and historic sites like the Julius Freyhan School and the Old Benevolent Society Building.

Live events and festivals showcase the best of this town. Two community events are Sundresses, Shrimp Boots, and Live Like a Local in the Fall. Another ideal way to meet the community is at local eateries like El Mejor or the Audobon Cafe. The historic Myrtles is a quaint bed and breakfast near downtown that holds much of the town's diverse history and is one of the best places to get an authentic feeling of St. Francisville.

Abita Springs

Scenic Abita Springs is famous for its artesian water, natural surroundings, and the Abita Brewery. The landmark brewery is one of Louisiana's first, part of the Louisiana Libations Trail and other local breweries. Natural attractions include the Tammany Trace Bike Trail, a 31-mile trail connecting five communities in the Northshore region.

Along the bike trail, stop at the Trailhead Museum, which chronicles the town's unique history and culture with exhibits and a farmer's market. The community gathers for several live events like Abita Springs Opry and the Art and Farmer's Market. The town is known for its slower pace of life, outdoor activities, and a warm and inviting community atmosphere.

Minden

Settled by German immigrants, Minden derived its name from a German community in 1835. Today, the historically German town is part of the Louisiana Main Street Program because of its carefully preserved downtown district. The Historic Residential District comprises 71 homes and churches with varying architectural styles from Greek Revival to Georgian.

This close community is united by a sense of history and preservation, which can be seen by embarking on a walking town tour. Broadway Street, near downtown, is home to two historic commercial buildings: Minden Presbyterian Church, ca. 1923, and St. John's Episcopal Church, ca. 1950. Community events include the Jambin' on Main and Main to Main Trade Days, which showcase the community's spirit.

Covington

Covington features a historic downtown district and several community events highlighting its friendly community. The Onstage series is a collection of live drama performed at the Furhmann Auditorium, and many events are held at the Covington Trailhead, also home to a museum and amphitheater.

The compact and historic downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and has an energetic culinary scene, primarily at LOLA. This popular restaurant's chefs serve the best contemporary Louisiana cuisine, including in-house bread, comfort food, and craft cocktails. A complete stay in Covington means booking a room at the famous Southern Hotel. The 1907 hotel is considered a physical and spiritual retreat with tranquil settings and historic charm and is among the best hotels in the region.

Eunice

Eunice has a reputation for exemplary musicianship and is popularly known for its version of Mardi Gras. The Courir de Mardi Gras features some of the state's best cuisine, performances, and music. It is also home to the World Championship Crawfish Etouffee Cook-Off, which showcases local chefs and techniques. Both events are must-see events that capture the community soul of Eunice.

The Cajun Music Hall of Fame and Museum is here, and there is a live Cajun radio broadcast every Saturday night. The museum is an excellent place to learn about this unique musical style, which incorporates the Louisiana lifestyle into lively musical notes. As one would expect, several restaurants in town offer traditional delicious food, like Cajun Station and The New Ronnie's.

Louisiana’s Intimate Communities Await

Louisiana has been shaped for centuries by many cultures and nationalities. This melting pot of cultures can be heard, seen, and tasted throughout the small communities in the state. One only has to visit Eunice to learn about the unique musical style or Breaux Bridge to experience the crawfish craze. Another Louisiana signature is the communities living by the joie de vivre motto.

Several Cajun events are held yearly, making it an excellent time to visit. The highlights of these festivals are vibrant music, delicious food, and friendly people. This potent combination makes these towns the best close-knit communities to visit in Louisiana.