Nestled in the heart of Louisiana, Natchitoches shines as a gem of southern charm and historical richness. Awarded the title of Best Small Town in Louisiana by Southern Living Magazine in 2023, this enchanting locale invites you to celebrate life’s special moments, delve into centuries of captivating history, and explore its picturesque streets and landscapes. Discover why Natchitoches, with its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and year-round festivities, is more than just a destination—it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
Come celebrate, discover and explore Natchitoches, Louisiana. Named 2023 Best Small Town in Louisiana by Southern Living Magazine, Natchitoches is the perfect place to celebrate anything from a special event to a quaint weekend getaway. Whether it is a wedding in our beautiful Beau Jardin or a quiet weekend in one of cozy bed and breakfasts; celebrating the big and the small happens right here in the historic downtown Natchitoches. The original French Colony in Louisiana was founded in 1714. It is the oldest city in the Louisiana Purchase Territory and home to the Cane River Creole National Historical Park. Natchitoches was named one of ‘The 30 Most Beautiful Main Streets Across America’ by Architectural Digest and provides a scenic stroll with waterfront views as you take in shopping and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum. The Natchitoches Film Trail will place you in the middle of scenes from acclaimed movies like Steel Magnolias, The Man in the Moon and The Horse Soldiers. The Natchitoches Christmas festivities began in 1926 and were crowned one of “The 10 Greatest Christmas Towns” in the world by travelawaits.com. The annual event transforms Natchitoches into a holiday wonderland with over 300,000 lights, which can be seen for six weeks beginning the weekend before Thanksgiving. With over three centuries of history and culture, Natchitoches, along with the Cane River area abounds with opportunities to explore. From the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Melrose Plantation’s 200 year old history, the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Church to Kaffie Frederick
General Mercantile, which was established in 1863; our history will tell a story of the way of life in Louisiana came to be. Join us to celebrate, discover and explore Natchitoches.
Natchitoches may be world famous for Christmas festivities, but the beautiful, downtown historic district provides a perfect backdrop year round. Spring brings in the tulips that line the cobblestone Front Street and welcome visitors to events such as Bloomin’ on the Bricks and the annual Pub Crawl. Summertime fun brings with the El Camino Sale on the Trail, Jazz/R&B Festival, weekly Farmer’s Market and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Weekend featuring sports superstars Drew Brees and Simone Augustus; plus many more. Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor has designated 2024 as the Year of Music and Natchitoches has the perfect line ups with the Jazz/R&B Festival, the Zydeco Festival and Tappedtober. Learn more and start planning your visit today at www.natchitoches.com
