Local shops, craft brews and waterfront views combine for the perfect setting for a friends’ getaway
NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA–JANUARY 2023–There is plenty of contemporary fun to be had in Louisiana’s oldest city. Just as it has for generations, Natchitoches, Louisiana, (pronounced Nack-a-tish) sits on the banks of Cane River Lake and welcomes visitors from across the region and beyond. Today, this multifaceted destination offers good times and unique experiences for those looking for a spot to get away with friends and explore.
Travel to Natchitoches is easy via I-49, which connects to I-20 in Shreveport to the north and I-10 in Lafayette, to the south. Commercial air service is just an hour away at the Alexandria International Airport and the Shreveport Regional Airport.
This is a destination known for its Southern hospitality and for the Louisiana culture that was born here, in the state’s oldest city, a crossroads that has been welcoming a variety of travelers for 300 years. Visitors come not only to experience that history but also to enjoy a diverse collection of things to see and do. Its that diversity that makes this an ideal spot for friends to come together for a variety of fun.
For outdoor adventure, taking to the Cane River is always popular. Exploring the river by kayak, hydro bike or paddleboard is a favorite way to spend the day and Cane River Paddle & Pedal Sports (Downtown Riverbank Beauport Station, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-527-0066) offers rentals from the downtown riverbank. For a more relaxing river excursion, a trip on the Cane River Queen (103 Beauport Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-663-7787) is a popular outing, with daily cruise schedules starting in March.
On land, there is something for everyone in the group. The beautifully landscaped riverfront is pedestrian-friendly and filled with seasonal flowers and welcoming spaces. Attractions focused on sports, shopping, movies and more are all nearby. Just steps from the riverfront, there’s the fascinating Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum (800 Front Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-357-2492). The building is home to an amazing Hall of Fame collection of portraits and memorabilia celebrating the achievements of legendary Louisiana athletes and sports figures. The museum, also within these walls, includes seven themed exhibits, and takes visitors on an exploration of the evolution of unique cultural traditions of the state, from early native-American civilizations to the present.
For film buffs, Natchitoches is a slice of heaven. “Steel Magnolias,” John Wayne’s “The Horse Soldiers,” “The Man in the Moon,” starring Reese Witherspoon, and “The Year Without Santa Claus,” starring John Goodman, are just some of the movies filmed here and featured on the Natchitoches Film Trail.
Unique shopping opportunities line the historic downtown streets, also. Local retailers and artists offer a variety of goods, from furniture and art to fashion and even hardware. Kaffie-Fredericks General Mercantile (758 Front Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-352-2525) is the oldest general store in Louisiana, opened in 1863 and an attraction in itself.
StoryBrew Coffee Café (780 Front Street, Suite 104, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-214-2387) is the perfect spot to rest and relax with a specialty coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. Just down the street, the Pioneer Restaurant & Pub (812 Washington Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-352-4884) is a traditional spot to chill with the locals and try one of the more than 19 draft beers on tap. For craft beer, a new local favorite is Flying Heart Brewing & Pub (108 Mill Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-238-2337). In addition to their own signature brews, the brewery serves up signature cocktails and mouthwatering “bar food” favorites.
For a day hike, the nearby Kisatchie National Forest is just a 20-minute drive from Natchitoches and encompasses hundreds of acres of breath-taking vistas and wilderness. There are miles of trails for hiking, biking and OHV adventure, as well as picnic and camping areas.
Of course, this region is rich with historical attractions, too. In downtown, Fort St. Jean Baptiste (155 Rue Jefferson, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-357-3101), established in 1714, tells the stories of Natchitoches’ settlement. A replica of the original fort, as well as a museum and interpretation from period-dressed docents, brings the history to life.
The Cane River Creole National Historical Park (4386 Highway 494, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71456; 318-352-0383, ext. 316) documents and preserves a later era and is a national treasure. It includes Oakland Plantation, considered the most complete Creole plantation in the country. The buildings, equipment and personal items reveal much about the lives of early planters and enslaved workers. Melrose Plantation (3533 Highway 119, Melrose, Louisiana 71452; 318-379-0055) is also rich with stories of plantation life. The plantation, a National Historic Landmark, is home to nine historic buildings and a collection of work by world famous African American folk artist Clementine Hunter.
No trip is complete without enjoying the wonderful cuisine of Natchitoches. For the best combination of traditional menus and venues, these are favorite spots: Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen (622 Second Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-352-3363) is said to be home to the legendary Natchitoches Meat Pie. The recipes have been handed down through generations and illustrate the family’s deep Southern roots. And Cane River Commissary (4191 Highway 494, Natchez, Louisiana 71456; 318-238-6360) is a unique dining experience in the Cane River down river from Natchitoches. The restaurant, in an old commissary building, offers Creole favorites and is loved for its monthly first Saturday Zydeco Brunch.
For a combination of welcoming atmosphere and outstanding cuisine, these top the list: Maglieux’s Riverfront Restaurant (805 Washington Street Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-354-7767) is a downtown favorite with offerings that blend the family’s Italian traditions and Louisiana’s Creole favorites. Mariner’s (5948 Highway 1 Bypass, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-228-8056) sits on beautiful Sibley Lake and features one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Louisiana. The menu features seafood specialties along with casual favorites in an outstanding setting.
Where to stay
A stay in Natchitoches starts with choosing from among the unique lodging selections. In addition to a full slate of hotels, motels and inns, from national brands to local favorites, there is a host of bed and breakfasts, with choices to fit every need. Bed and Breakfast and vacation rental options range from river-side lodging like the rustic Horseshoe Hills Cabins (240 Bayou Pierre Cutoff Road, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-352-2920) to downtown antebellum homes like the Samuel Guy House Bed & Breakfast (309 Pine Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-354-1080). Hotels and inns offer variety, too, from well-known national brands to unique inns like the boutique hotel, Chateau St. Denis (751 2nd Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457; 318-951-4105).