This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Louisiana
In northwestern Louisiana, along the Cane River and Sibley Lake, Natchitoches has all kinds of cultural influences, ranging from Native American and Creole to Cajun. This blend has fostered a warm, inviting community that attracts countless visitors today. As travelers explore Cajun and Creole restaurants, embark on riverboat tours, and stay in charming 19th-century cottages, they’ll quickly discover what makes this town stand out, offering a special neighborly touch that sets it apart from the rest of Louisiana.
Natchitoches Tours
Established in 1714 as a trading post along the Red River, Natchitoches played a pivotal role in early Louisiana's development, blending French, Spanish, and Native American influences. As the oldest permanent settlement in the state, it offers plenty of history to explore. Instead of navigating this history alone, why not combine it with Southern hospitality on a guided tour led by a welcoming Natchitoches local? One of the best ways to learn about the historic district is on a tour with Cane River Carriage Company, which will take guests on a guided tour by horse-drawn carriage. For a different perspective, hop aboard the Cane River Queen River Boat, a vibrant red, white, and blue vessel that cruises the calm waters of Cane River Lake. If you are looking to experience the town through the eyes of a longtime local, Cruising Natchitoches with Chris provides personalized tours, covering everything from the town's architecture and history to the filming locations of Steel Magnolias.
Events and Festivals
The Natchitoches Parish celebrates its Native American, Creole, and Louisiana cultures throughout the year with various events and festivals. Mardi Gras is one of the town’s most important festivals, with events taking place between the beginning of January and mid-February. Four parades occur over the course of the festival, including the Krewe of Excellence Parade, Cloutierville Mardi Gras Parade, Krewe of Wag-uns Children & Pet Parade, and Krewe of Dionysos Parade. Lots of king cakes are eaten throughout as well!
The Jazz and R&B Festival is held on the riverbank each April, offering jazz, soul, country, and rock performances. The Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival is another significant event, taking place in September of each year. During this festival, visitors can savor meat pies from vendors along the riverbank in the Historic District while enjoying live music, balloon rides, arts and crafts, and a spectacular fireworks show. For a throwback, travelers can attend the annual Natchitoches Classic Car Show, held each year on the first weekend of October, where hundreds of vintage cars are on display.
Outdoor Recreation
It's no surprise that Natchitoches is such a friendly town, given its many gathering spots where locals come together to enjoy good company. On warm, sunny days, it’s not uncommon to see both residents and visitors paddling or kayaking on the Cane River Lake. For those needing equipment, Cane River Paddle & Pedal Sports offers rentals to get you on the water. The Northwestern Hills Golf Course offers an excellent way to spend the day as well, featuring an 18-hole course set on rolling hills. For a fun afternoon, visitors can enjoy roller skating at the Natchitoches Skating Center, which is ideal for skaters of all levels.
Restaurants
Each restaurant in Natchitoches represents a different part of the town’s heritage. For an authentic Creole meal or a classic meat pie, head to Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant, where dishes are crafted from family recipes passed down through generations. Those seeking seafood or Cajun cuisine can enjoy a meal at Mama's Oyster House. For a riverfront meal with patio seating overlooking the water, travelers can dine at T-Johnny's, a highly-rated seafood spot. After grabbing dinner, consider finishing off the evening with a drink or craft beer. Flying Heart Brewing & Pub is the perfect place to do so, offering both permanent and rotating drafts that visitors can enjoy in a cozy tasting room.
Bed and Breakfasts
The Steel Magnolia House in Natchitoches, now operating as a B&B. Editorial credit: VioletSkyAdventures / Shutterstock.com
The best way to experience the extent of Natchitoches’ southern hospitality is at one of its bed and breakfasts. The Creole Cottage Bed & Breakfast is a great way to immerse yourself in the town’s culture, housed in a residence that dates back over two centuries along the Cane River Lake. Because of its central location, it is also within walking distance of numerous shops and restaurants. At Green Gables Bed & Breakfast and Camellia Cottage, visitors can stay at the longest-operating bed and breakfast in town, which has been inviting guests since 1994. The cottage itself dates back to the 1890s, showcasing a Queen Anne Victorian style. For a waterfront lodging experience, travelers can consider spending the weekend at Jefferson House Bed & Breakfast, which is decorated with antique furnishings and offers gorgeous views of Cane River Lake.
A Warm Welcome in Northwestern Louisiana
While Natchitoches may not attract as much attention as cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge, its warmth and Southern hospitality are truly unmatched. From smiling tour guides on a carriage ride to energetic jazz musicians and sunny days spent kayaking on the river, visitors quickly come to appreciate the laid-back atmosphere of this northwestern Louisiana town. Whether you're traveling solo or with loved ones, don't miss the chance to discover the friendly spirit that makes Natchitoches so special.
