Natchitoches Is Louisiana’s Most Charming and Historic College Town

Looking for a charming small-town getaway in Louisiana? Consider Natchitoches. Home to Northwestern State University, this northwestern Louisiana gem pairs the lively energy of a college town with the relaxed pace of small-town America. Read on to learn what makes this hidden Louisiana gem worth the trip.

Natchitoches has a population of just 18,000 residents, which means there are enough events and activities to keep visitors busy without ever feeling crowded. However, that number increases during the school year, when roughly 9,000 students attend Northwestern State University.

Natchitoches was established in 1714 by explorer Louis Juchereau de St. Denis as a trade outpost where the French could trade with Spanish-controlled Mexico. It was named for a group of Natchitoches Native Americans who lived nearby. The town became a part of the United States thanks to the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Over half a century later, the Louisiana State Normal School — now Northwestern State University of Louisiana — was founded in 1884. Today, the university offers over 50 degree programs and has 12 varsity athletic teams.

Downtown Natchitoches is a pleasure to explore on foot, with a historic shopping district full of French-and-Creole architecture, small shops, and restaurants serving local dishes.

Don't miss the popular Merci Beaucoup Restaurant, Lasyone's Meat Pie Kitchen, and Mayeaux's Steak & Seafood — all long-time favorites with locals and visitors alike. Once your belly is full and you're finished wandering downtown, there are still plenty of other things to see and do in this small town.

History enthusiasts might enjoy visits to Fort St. Jean Baptiste, a replica of an early 18th-century French fort, or a tour of the early-1800s French-Creole Prudhomme-Rouquier House. Sports lovers will love the 27,500 square-foot Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum; it's full of information and memorabilia from Louisiana sporting events and has hearty exhibits on general state history, too.

Natchitoches has a surprising Hollywood connection, too. The town served as the filming location for Steel Magnolias, the 1989 hit starring Sally Field, Dolly Parton, and Julia Roberts. Fans can walk a self-guided film trail through downtown, including the circa-1840 Steel Magnolia House, a bed-and-breakfast that served as the residence in the film.

People who love spending time outdoors can walk or drive along the Cane River National Heritage Trail Scenic Byway. The Cane River National Heritage Area is full of beauty overall; within it, you will find several plantations, historic sites, natural areas, and preserves — along with the city of Natchitoches itself. There's so much to explore here.

And if you have little ones along with you — or adults who are into reptiles — then don't miss out on Gator Country Louisiana Alligator Park in Natchitoches. You can learn all about alligators and other similar creatures there, and watch them get fed, too.

Natchitoches has plenty to fill a weekend or longer, especially if you're drawn to small-town charm or outdoor adventures. If you're looking for somewhere to stay in town, there are lots of options for accommodations, too. You can choose from waterfront cabins on the river, a historic homes in town, homes on the shores of Nantachie Lake, or various other options.