Following El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail

SEE ALSO: EL CAMINO REAL | NACOGDOCHES | SABINE

Developing from an exotic wilderness to become a thriving blend of culture and architecture over the past 300 years, Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Established in 1714 and known for its National Historic Landmark District, this original French settlement features Creole architecture, bed and breakfasts, a 35-mile long Cane River National Heritage Area, and historic homes such as the Oakland, Magnolia, and Melrose plantations. Natchitoches is recognized as one of the South's most charming small towns and is a great destination for a romantic weekend or fun girls' getaway.

See additional information below or visit:
Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site

155 Jefferson St. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-357-3101

Costumed interpreters demonstrate French Colonial life and guide visitors through a full-sized replica of an early fort which had been devised in 1714 as a trading and military outpost to counter any Spanish incursions into French territory.

Fort Jesup

32 Geoghagan Rd. | Many, LA 71449 | 318-256-4117

Although the kitchen is the only historic structure remaining of this garrison that brought law and order to neutral ground beginning in 1822, the reconstructed officer's quarters now houses visitor information and interpretive exhibits.

Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum

800 Front St. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-357-2492

Showcased exhibits and interactive media inside the architectural award-winning building celebrate more than 300 sports achievements and over 3,000 years of regional history from early Native-American civilizations to the present.

National Historic Landmark District

Natchitoches, LA

French Creole architecture overlooks Cane River Lake in an enchanting 33-block area at the heart of downtown Natchitoches where popular venues and activities include shopping, horse and carriage rides, boat tours, The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the French-built spiral staircase behind the Prudhomme Building, and Louisiana's oldest general store the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile.

Steel Magnolias Tour

320 Rue Jefferson | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-332-8780

Filming sites of the 1989 movie Steel Magnolias which was shot in Natchitoches are comprised of local churches, businesses, and private homes like the Steel Magnolia House which is currently a bed and breakfast.

Merci Beaucoup Restaurant

127 Church St. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-352-6634

Known for its signature Cajun baked potato, famous bread pudding, and lemonade-flavored tea served in a charming atmosphere, this local hot spot for lunch promises an original classic Cajun and American menu.

Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant

622 2nd St. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-352-3353

Famous for its Cajun Creole meat pies and tasty crawfish pies, this nationally-recognized restaurant is a local favorite for authentic soulful Louisiana cuisine and handed-down family recipes.

Mariner's Seafood and Steakhouse

5948 LA-1 | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-357-1220

A great place to relax at the end of the day, the restaurant features a classic bar area and tri-level outside dining while offering steaks, seafood, more than 50 wine selections, and live music on the weekends.

Hampton Inn

5300 University Pkwy. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-354-0010

A relaxed ambience with bright modern decor welcomes guests to this convenient hotel with pool, fitness room, and a free hot breakfast included in every stay.

Andrew Morris House Bed and Breakfast

422 Second St. | Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457 | 800-441-8343

The beautiful Louisiana antebellum planters cottage built around 1855 features beautifully appointed one- and two-bedroom suites, private and spacious bathrooms with one- or two-person Jacuzzis, and a multi-course breakfast each and every morning.

Samuel Guy House Bed and Breakfast

309 Pine St. | Natchitoches, LA 71457 | 318-354-1080

The Greek Revival home is handsomely appointed with antique and reproduction period furniture as well as spacious baths with Jacuzzi tubs; and their southern-style breakfast may include praline French toast casserole, hot coffee, and more.

Festival of Lights

Mid-November through December

At one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country, Natchitoches' elegant past meets a vibrant present as over 300,000 Christmas lights and 100+ riverbank set pieces are lighted up every night.

SEE ALSO: EL CAMINO REAL | NACOGDOCHES | SABINE