Natchitoches Parish Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana. This comprehensive travel guide includes tips on transportation, local culture, safety, and more.


Introduction to Natchitoches Parish

Natchitoches Parish is a charming area in Louisiana that offers visitors a taste of southern hospitality, a rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene. Located in Central Louisiana, the area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, quaint towns, and unique attractions.

There’s something for everyone in Natchitoches Parish, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a weekend getaway. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the area.

List of Places to Visit in Natchitoches Parish

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Historic Downtown Natchitoches: Step back in time and explore the historic district of Natchitoches, which features more than 100 historic buildings. Highlights include the Roque House, the Old Courthouse Museum, and the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

  • Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum: This museum is a must-visit for sports fans and history buffs alike. It features exhibits on Louisiana sports legends and the history of the region.

  • Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site: Learn about the French colonial history of the area at this state historic site, which features a replica of the original fort.

Natural Attractions of Natchitoches Parish: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cane River Creole National Historical Park: This park encompasses several historic plantations and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Creole people who lived and worked in the area.

  • Kisatchie National Forest: This expansive forest features hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and camping areas. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area.

  • Lakeview Regional Park: This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. It also features a swimming beach and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Natchitoches Parish

  • Wild Azalea Trail: This 26-mile trail is the longest continuous trail in Louisiana and offers hikers and bikers stunning views of the Kisatchie National Forest.

  • Red River Parish Mountain Bike Trail: This challenging trail is popular among experienced mountain bikers and features technical terrain and steep climbs.

Best Things to Do in Natchitoches Parish: Activities and Tours

  • Natchitoches Christmas Festival: This popular festival takes place every December and features more than 300,000 Christmas lights, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and more.

  • Alligator Park: Get up close and personal with Louisiana’s most notorious residents at this park, which features alligator feeding shows, swamp tours, and more.

  • Cane River Music Festival: This annual festival celebrates the rich musical heritage of the area and features live performances by local musicians.

Week-Long Itinerary for Natchitoches Parish

Day 1: Explore the historic district of Natchitoches and visit the Old Courthouse Museum.

Day 2: Hike the Wild Azalea Trail in Kisatchie National Forest and have a picnic at one of the park’s scenic overlooks.

Day 3: Take a plantations tour and learn about the history of the Creole people who lived and worked in the area.

Day 4: Go fishing and swimming at Lakeview Regional Park.

Day 5: Learn about Louisiana sports legends at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum.

Day 6: Take a swamp tour at Alligator Park and see Louisiana’s famous alligators up close.

Day 7: Attend the Cane River Music Festival and enjoy live performances by local musicians.

Food and Drink Scene of Natchitoches Parish

Must-Try Dishes

  • Natchitoches Meat Pie: This savory pie is a local specialty made with ground beef, pork, and spices.

  • Crawfish Etouffee: This spicy stew features crawfish, onions, peppers, and tomatoes and is served over rice.

  • King Cake: This sweet cake is a Louisiana tradition that’s typically served during Mardi Gras.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: This Southern classic is a popular drink in Natchitoches Parish.

  • Local Beer and Wine: Natchitoches Parish is home to several breweries and wineries, including the Cane River Brewery and the Landry Vineyards.

Where to Stay in Natchitoches Parish: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Chateau Saint Denis: This boutique hotel is located in historic downtown Natchitoches and features elegant rooms and suites.

  • Greenwood Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse is located on a working farm and offers guests a peaceful retreat in the countryside.

  • Comfort Suites: This budget-friendly hotel is located near Kisatchie National Forest and features spacious rooms and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Natchitoches Parish: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cane River Pecans: These gourmet pecans are a local favorite and make a great souvenir or gift.

  • Creole Cream Cheese: This tangy cheese is a specialty of the region and is typically used in sweet and savory dishes.

  • Local Artwork: Natchitoches Parish is home to many talented artists and craftsmen, and you can find unique artwork and handmade items at local boutiques and galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Natchitoches Parish

Natchitoches Parish has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its food, music, art, and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in local customs and learn about the history and culture of the area.

Best Time to Visit Natchitoches Parish

The best time to visit Natchitoches Parish is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most colorful. However, visitors can enjoy the area’s attractions year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Natchitoches Parish

Do:

  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.

  • Do attend festivals and events.

  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.

  • Don’t disrespect local residents.

  • Don’t ignore safety rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Natchitoches Parish

Natchitoches Parish is generally a safe area, but visitors should take common sense precautions to ensure their safety. This includes keeping valuables out of sight, locking car doors, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Natchitoches Parish

Visitors should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile virus and Zika virus, by wearing insect repellent and long sleeves and pants. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of heat exhaustion and dehydration and stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

Getting to Natchitoches Parish: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Natchitoches Parish

The closest airport to Natchitoches Parish is Alexandria International Airport, which is located about 40 miles away. Other nearby airports include Shreveport Regional Airport and Monroe Regional Airport.

Bus Stations Near Natchitoches Parish

Greyhound operates a bus station in nearby Alexandria.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Natchitoches Parish by driving or taking a taxi or rideshare service from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Natchitoches Parish

The best way to get around Natchitoches Parish is by car. Visitors can rent a car from one of the many rental companies in the area and explore at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Natchitoches Parish: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alexandria: This nearby city offers visitors a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries.

  • Toledo Bend Reservoir: This massive lake on the border of Louisiana and Texas is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water sports.

  • Shreveport: This bustling city is known for its casinos, live music, and cultural events.

Conclusion

Natchitoches Parish is a hidden gem in Louisiana that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, museums and historical sites, or delicious food and drink, there’s something for everyone in this charming area. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be ready to plan your trip and discover all that Natchitoches Parish has to offer.

List of Communities in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana List of Communities in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana


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