Older than New Orleans, Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish) in north central Louisiana was founded as a French outpost in 1714. A passion for architectural conservancy has earned the city a designation as a “Most Romantic Main Street” community by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Two National Historic Districts–downtown Natchitoches and the campus of Northwestern State University–have preserved the early charm of the city. Downtown shops and restaurants with wrought iron balconies face the beautiful Cane River Lake. The brick-paved streets along the banks of the Cane are familiar on-screen scenes from “Steel Magnolias” and others featured on the Natchitoches Film Trail. Natchitoches is easy to access via I-49 which connects to I-20 to the north in Shreveport and to I-10 in Lafayette, to the south. Commercial air service is an hour away at the Alexandria International Airport and the Shreveport Regional Airport.
Proposal spots and romantic vistas are everywhere. Enjoy a free, guided Historic District Walking Tour or a carriage ride with the Cane River Carriage Company. Nestled at the north end of the downtown riverbank area, Beau Jardin features a waterfall flowing into Cane River Lake surrounded by greenery and flowers. Drive a leisurely four miles north of Natchitoches to the US Army Corps of Engineers’ Grand Ecore Visitor Center on an 80-foot bluff high above the Red River and gaze at panoramic views of the river and miles of landscape. Half an hour south, Longleaf Vista in Kisatchie National Forest is the second highest elevation in Louisiana. Take in views of the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area from a stone gazebo, or hike on the 1.5-mile interpretive loop trail.
Part of the appeal of a Natchitoches visit is its unique lodging options. Natchitoches is known as the Bed & Breakfast Capitol of Louisiana with more than 30 to choose from ranging from Creole style cottages to a lakeside oasis. Some are tucked away; others are part of the charm of downtown. Some have private entrances and balconies overlooking the lazy flow of Cane River or Sibley Lake. Film buffs are attracted to the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, shown in the 1989 award-winning Southern classic movie. Others are attracted to its Southern history, from the unique 1830s architecture to its involvement in the Civil War. A full slate of hotels, motels and inns, from nationally known brands to local gems make this a city of hospitality.
End the day with dinner and one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Louisiana at Mariner’s Restaurant overlooking Sibley Lake. The menu features seafood specialties along with casual favorites in an outstanding setting. Downtown on Front Street, Mayeaux’s Steak and Seafood offers fine and casual dining, aged steaks and Louisiana cuisine with a Cane River flair. Find more dining ideas at www.Natchitoches.com
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