Coushatta Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, the must-try food, and local customs of Coushatta, Louisiana. Learn how to get around, where to stay, and nearby destinations to explore in this comprehensive travel guide.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Coushatta, Louisiana

Are you planning a trip to Louisiana and looking for a small town with unique attractions? Coushatta, located in Northern Louisiana, offers an array of cultural and natural attractions for visitors. In this comprehensive travel guide, discover the best things to do, where to stay, and the local customs of Coushatta, Louisiana.

Introduction to Coushatta

Coushatta is a small town in Red River Parish, Louisiana, with a population of approximately 2,000 residents. It is known for its rich culture and history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty. The town is located about two hours north of Baton Rouge and three hours east of Dallas, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Coushatta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Coushatta Country Club and Golf Course
  • Coushatta Cultural Center
  • Coushatta Casino Resort
  • Dogwood Hills Golf Course
  • Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site

Natural Attractions of Coushatta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Red River Wildlife Refuge
  • Clear Lake Recreation Area
  • Grand Bayou Reservoir
  • Kisatchie National Forest
  • Red River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coushatta

  • Clear Lake Hiking Trail
  • Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area Hiking Trail
  • Uncle Earl’s Hog Dog Trials Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Coushatta: Activities and Tours

  • Coushatta Casino Resort
  • Bingo Palace
  • Red River ATV Park
  • Red River Escape Room
  • Red River National Wildlife Refuge

Week-Long Itinerary for Coushatta

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Coushatta Cultural Center and Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site
Day 2 Play golf at Coushatta Country Club or Dogwood Hills Golf Course
Day 3 Hike the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area Hiking Trail or Clear Lake Trail
Day 4 Visit Grand Bayou Reservoir or Red River Wildlife Refuge
Day 5 Take a tour of Red River Escape Room or Red River ATV Park
Day 6 Try your luck at Coushatta Casino Resort or Bingo Palace
Day 7 Explore the shops and restaurants of downtown Coushatta

Food and Drink Scene of Coushatta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Boudin
  • Crawfish Etouffee
  • Jambalaya
  • Po-Boy Sandwiches
  • Beignets

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea
  • Abita Beer
  • Southern Comfort

Where to Stay in Coushatta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Coushatta Casino Resort
  • Best Western Inn
  • Super 8 by Wyndham
  • Red River Inn

What to Buy in Coushatta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cajun spices and seasonings from Coushatta’s local stores
  • Handmade crafts from the Coushatta Cultural Center
  • Louisiana hot sauce

Local Culture and Customs of Coushatta

  • Mardi Gras is an important cultural festival in Coushatta that takes place each year. Visitors can experience parades, music, and traditional Louisiana food.
  • The Coushatta Tribe is a Native American tribe that has lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s history and culture at the Coushatta Cultural Center.
  • Music and dancing are an important part of Coushatta’s culture, with many local festivals and events featuring live music.

Best Time to Visit Coushatta

The best time to visit Coushatta is during the fall and winter months when temperatures are cooler and there are fewer crowds. The peak tourist season is in the summer months, when temperatures can reach over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coushatta

Do:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine, especially Cajun dishes and seafood.
  • Take the time to learn about the Coushatta Tribe and their rich history and culture.
  • Attend a local festival or event, such as Mardi Gras or the Hog Dog Trials.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
  • Ignore local customs and manners. Respect the local culture and be polite to residents and other visitors.
  • Engage in any illegal activities, such as gambling or drug use.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coushatta

Coushatta is generally a safe town for visitors. However, it is important to take normal safety precautions, such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables in plain sight. Visitors should also be cautious when exploring natural areas, such as hiking trails and watersports areas, and be aware of any wildlife in the area.

Health in Coushatta

Coushatta has a local medical center, Red River Hospital, for any medical emergencies. Visitors should also take normal precautions to avoid illness, such as washing hands regularly and staying hydrated.

Getting to Coushatta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coushatta

  • Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV)
  • Alexandria International Airport (AEX)

Bus Stations Near Coushatta

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Coushatta Station

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available at both airports and in downtown Coushatta.
  • Uber and Lyft ride-sharing services are also available in Coushatta.

How to Get Around in Coushatta

Car rental services, Uber, and Lyft are available in Coushatta for getting around town. Biking and walking are also good options in the downtown and natural areas of the town. Visitors can also take guided tours of local attractions if they prefer not to drive themselves.

Where to Go Next from Coushatta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Shreveport, Louisiana, is located about an hour and a half away from Coushatta and offers a range of cultural and outdoor attractions, including the Louisiana State Museum and the Red River National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Natchitoches, Louisiana, is located about an hour away from Coushatta and is known for its charming historic district and Cajun cuisine.
  • Alexandria, Louisiana, is located about an hour away from Coushatta and offers cultural and natural attractions, such as the Alexandria Museum of Art and the Kisatchie National Forest.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or local cuisine, Coushatta, Louisiana has something for everyone. Plan your trip carefully, follow local customs, and enjoy all that this unique town has to offer.