The 10 Best Reasons to Visit Natchitoches, Louisiana: Louisiana’s Oldest Settlement – Part 1

If you’ve been looking for a destination steeped in Southern charm and tucked away in the pine and oak trees of Central Louisiana, then Natchitoches is the place for you. Natchitoches, Louisiana is the oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana. It was founded in 1714 and was named after the Native American Natchitoches tribe. It is a city full of heritage and history and has been quite a tourist destination because of its French and Creole architecture, food, and festivals. 

Natchitoches is home to Northwestern State University as well as the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site. It’s a wonderful place to spend a romantic weekend with a loved one or a quiet weekend with your family. My family and I have visited this great city many times over the years and that’s why I wanted to share 10 reasons I think you should visit Natchitoches too. In this post I’m going to share the first 5 reasons and then write a sequel post to give you the remaining 5 reasons – so stay tuned for that. 

And without further ado, let’s get into the first 5 reasons to visit Natchitoches, Louisiana.

You Can Check Out the Shops of Front Street

There are all kinds of unique shops and boutiques that line Front Street that sell all sorts of wares. From clothing and home decor to artwork and jewelry, you can find all kinds of souvenirs here. And even if you don’t buy anything, you’ll enjoy the window displays. 

You Can Admire Artwork from Local Artists

Clementine Hunter was a self-taught Folk Artist from the Cane River area of Louisiana. She painted more than five thousand pieces in her lifetime. You can see her beautiful artwork on display all over Natchitoches and the surrounding areas and you can even buy a piece to take home with you. 

You Can Enjoy a Meat Pie at Lasyone’s

Natchitoches is known for their famous meat pies and one of the best places you can try one is at Lasyone’s. Located at 622 Second Street, this restaurant has been featured and praised in magazines for their delicious dishes and has hosted more than a few celebrities over the years – celebs such as Vanna White and Darryl Hannah. If meat pies aren’t your thing, they also offer a well-rounded menu of Southern favorites like red beans and rice, Fried catfish, bread pudding, and so much more. 

You Can Take a Boat Ride down Cane River Lake

Cane River Queen Boat is a paddle wheeler boat that can hold up to 60 passengers. It’s located at 103 Rue Beauport Downtown and it’s the perfect thing to do in the summer months. You can take a leisurely cruise up and down the river and enjoy looking at the beautiful houses that line the riverbank. You can even book a private cruise. 

You Can Stroll & Take Pictures through Beau Jardin

Beau Jardin is a lovely garden found downtown on the riverbank. It has tranquil waterfalls and a stone staircase as well as small wooden bridges that are the perfect place to snap a picture in front of. The garden also has numerous flowers and plants local to Louisiana and is also the home of Roque House, where weddings and other outdoor events can be held. While the garden looks beautiful all year round, it is especially gorgeous in the spring and summer. 

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Verse of the Day: From the rising of the sun to its going down the Lord’s name is to be praised. – Psalms 113:3