7 Must-See Historic Towns in Louisiana
Culture, art, and community events passed down through generations of Cajun locals are some of the main historical elements that differentiate Louisiana from other American states. Louisiana, infused with diverse global influences, serves as a vibrant melting pot of international cultures, prominently reflecting French, African, American, and French-Canadian heritages. The state attracted Acadians, also known as French Canadians, who sailed across borders after the Treaty of Paris in 1763 that allowed for 18 months of unrestricted emigration, captivating a large population of Nova Scotia locals. The Bayou State is also differentiated by its diverse natural rolling hills, vast farmlands, and waterfront coastal communities. From the musically gifted towns like Eunice to the artistic colony of Covington, plan your travel back in time when visiting Louisiana's seven must-see historic towns.
Natchitoches
The oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana, Natchitoches, was founded in 1714 and is the best destination in Louisiana to experience the founding history of the state. A visit to Natchitoches is highlighted by the well-preserved National Historic Landmark District. This district is dotted with 33 blocks featuring many Queen Anne and Victorian buildings, like the Taylor House/Steel Magnolia House, which is frequented for being the filming spot of the classic film Steel Magnolias. The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, which commemorates athletic legends of Louisiana, and the 1863 Kaffie-Frederick general store are other must-visit historic attractions in town. Complementing the town’s historic appeal are nature-centric tourist destinations like the Gator Country Alligator Park and Beau Jardin Garden that qualify Natchitoches as a family-friendly weekend
St. Francisville
Known for its many gardens and plantations, St. Francisville also played a dominant role in the American Civil War and served as the capital of the Independent Republic of West Florida under Spanish rule. Some of the town’s main attractions include its six plantation homes, including Myrtles Plantation and the Rosedown Plantation, along with The West Feliciana Historical Society Museum, located in the old hardware store. St. Francisville also stands out as one of the best small towns to enjoy authentic southern cuisine, with locally renowned dining options like Restaurant 1796, which is centered around a wood-fired hearth, and South of the Border Grill, which was established in 1947. Visitors can experience life as a local by visiting the weekly farmers’ market held every Thursday and catch live events at the Tunica Hills Music Hall. Located 31 mi from the capital city of Baton Rouge and 112 mi from New Orleans, St. Francisville is a convenient small-town escape for city dwellers.
Alexandria
Renowned for its many community events, Alexandria is the parish seat of Rapides Parish. Alexandria is also one of the best destinations to enjoy an immersive historical experience with its experience and museums like the Arna Bontemps African American Heritage Museum and the Louisiana History Museum in downtown Alexandria. Events like the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races, The Louisiana Elvis Festival, and the annual Mardi Gras Festival are a few of the many events that enhance the small-town experience in Alexandria. Additionally, Alexandria Zoological Park, River Oaks Square Art Center, and the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral are some other attractions to add to your list when visiting Alexandria. The Hotel Bentley of Alexandria, Candlewood Suites Alexandria, and the budget-friendly Studio 6 Alexandria are some of the top-rated lodging options in town.
Eunice
Nicknamed the prairie cajun capital of Louisiana, Eunice is an entertainment-centric historic escape with its Liberty Theater, Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, The Cajun Music Hall of Fame, and the 1966 Savoy Music Center, where visitors can catch live local performances. A visit to Eunice is enriched with natural attractions like the Lakeview Park & Beach, Eunice City Lake, and the Eunice Recreation Complex, which accommodates a broad range of courts and fields to keep active during your stay in the historic town. Quirky events like the World Championship Crawfish Etouffee Cook-Off and the Cajun Mardi Gras Festival are great. The Cajun Mardi Gras Festival stands out as the largest event in Eunice. Visitors can also embrace local hospitality with markets and historic stays like the Eunice Farmer’s Market and book a night at the 1800s historic Keller house.
Covington
Covington adds an eclectic artistic element to the historic escape experience in Louisiana with a downtown dotted with galleries and displays along with events like the annual Three Rivers Art Festival held every November. Like many of the historic small towns in Louisiana, Covington also enjoys a thriving musical scene with events like the Rockin’ the Rails and the Bogue Falaya Boogie, which hosts traditional music. History in Covington is also depicted through architectural remnants of Spanish and French rule like The Covington Bank and Trust Building, The Old Railroad Depot built in 1888, the Southern Hotel, and H.J. Smith & Sons General Store & Museum. A few art galleries to check out during your visit to Covington include Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery, Abby Sembera Art, and The Rutland Street Gallery.
Opelousas
Opelousas, known as the third oldest town in Louisiana, was founded by the French in 1720 as a trading post town and served temporarily as the capital of Confederate Louisiana in 1862 after the defeat of Baton Rouge. Nicknamed the Zydeco Music Capital of the World for its musical heritage and the annual Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival commemorating Zydeco and Creole culture, attracting visitors from all over the state. Complementing the historical experience in Opelousas is the town’s diverse culinary excellence, which is a testament to its slogan, “Perfectly Seasoned.” Crawfish Corner, Toby’s Downtown Bar and Grill, Eddie’s Seafood Market, and Back In Time sandwich shop are a few of the popular dining options in Opelousas. A few other historic destinations to visit when in Opelousas include The Rural African American Museum, Opelousas City Hall, and historically significant houses like the Labyche-Estorge House and the John Lewis Home.
Abbeville
Finally, Abbeville is a harmonious balance of historical remnants and natural attractions, from lush parks like Palmetto Island State Park to buildings of the town’s industrial past, like the Depot at Magdalen Place. Well-preserved architecture like the Vermilion Parish Courthouse and the Gothic style St. Mary Magdalen Church built in 1842 are some of the town’s most notable highlights. Cultural events are also a significant part of the small-town escape experience in Abbeville, with exclusive festivals like the Daylily Festival that showcases the town’s agricultural vibrancy, the Jambalaya Cook-off, and the famous Giant Omelet Festival. Additionally, the Abbeville Cultural and Historical Alliance hosts a range of rotating art displays like the Religious Themed Art Exhibit and Talented and Gifted Visual Students Art Exhibit.
Ultimately, Louisiana offers a completely different experience from any other American state and is enriched with well-preserved historic attractions and local efforts to commemorate its past with events and gatherings. With influences from places such as Europe and Canada, the must-see historic towns of Louisiana are cultural hubs emphasized by music, hospitable locals, and delicious cuisine, from Covington's artistic flair to Opelousas' musical heritage. These towns are sure to provide a unique and enriching experience.
