"I had no idea!"
One visit to Natchitoches and you’ll be saying “I had no idea!” So, here’s a short list of things you might discover about Natchitoches when you explore our culture, history and favorite things.
Natchitoches is actually the oldest city in Louisiana, and in the entire Louisiana Purchase, founded in 1714. That’s right, we’re even older than New Orleans. Think of us as NOLA’s older sister – we share a striking resemblance to each other, but you know big sisters set the standard! Discover more about our early history at the Fort St. Jean Baptiste and Los Adaes Historical Site.
Louisiana’s oldest Creole community was founded in Natchitoches Parish, primarily in the area of the Melrose Community. Discover more about Cane River Creole Culture at the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Melrose on the Cane and the Cane River National Heritage Area. Don’t miss our favorite creole restaurant, Cane River Commissary and their legendary Zydeco Brunch.
The famous Louisiana Meat Pies were first made and served in Natchitoches. Today, Natchitoches Meat Pies are still a local favorite – so much so we dedicate an entire fall festival to it; the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival! Get handmade Natchitoches Meat Pies at Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen in the Landmark Historic District in downtown Natchitoches. It’s a must-eat experience when in our town.
The Cane River is actually a lake? That’s right – all 38 miles of it! Passing through the Landmark Historic District south to below Cloutierville, the Cane River Lake was once actually the Red River. In the 1830’s, Captain Shreve removed “the Great Raft” log jam, which altered the course of the Red River near Grand Ecore, just north of Natchitoches, thus bypassing the Natchitoches settlement and what is now the course of the Cane River Lake. Now a prime bass fishing experience, plus boating and water sports, you can stroll the banks of the “river” along the Downtown Riverfront. No boat of your own?
Enjoy a water cruise on the Cane River Queen paddleboat. Discover more at the Grand Ecore Visitors Center, The Red River Waterway Commission and the Cane River Waterway Commission.
Steel Magnolias was written by Natchitoches author Robert Harling and the movie was filmed in its entirety in Natchitoches. Take the movie sites self-guided tour to remember all your favorite scenes from Steel Magnolias. It’s no coincidence that the author chose “Chinquapin” as the fictitious name of the town in Steel Magnolias, given the historical translation of our name. Based on a true story, Steel Magnolias remains a movie classic, and the favorite movie of locals for sure!
The name “Natchitoches” actually means “place of the pawpaw or chinquapin”, chosen by the Caddo Tribe. Natchitoches is a cultural melting pot of French, Spanish, Native American, African, Creole and Anglo influences. Our architecture is decided French, with striking similarities to the French Quarter architecture in New Orleans. Our 33-block Landmark Historic District features well-restored French, Spanish, Creole and Victorian architecture. Take the free walking tour to see it all!
Natchitoches’ Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of only two Minor Basilicas in Louisiana. The other is located in New Orleans. Set on the corner of Church Street and 2nd Street in Natchitoches’ Landmark Historic District, the Minor Basilica was established in 1728, consecrated in 1854, and beautifully restored in 2010.
Natchitoches is home to Louisiana’ Oldest General Store – Kaffie Frederick General Mercantile Store is located on Front Street.
This is a must-shop experience when visiting Natchitoches! Established in 1863 by Jewish Prussian immigrants, the store boasts both classic merchandise and hardware items, along with the original freight elevator and cash register, still in use today.
Natchitoches is home to a pro-rated 19-hole miniature golf course. Buccaneer Bayou Mini Golf is part of the Dark Woods Outdoor Park, located on University Parkway. Dark Woods also offers seasonal experiences, including a Haunted Walk and a lighted Christmas experience. Buccaneer Bayou includes pirates, water features and even a mermaid!
Natchitoches is home to one of the most famous Christmas celebrations in the South — the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, now celebrating its 100th year. What began as a community tradition has grown into a nationally recognized holiday season featuring over 300,000 lights along the Downtown Riverfront, festive events, shopping in the Landmark Historic District, and the beloved Christmas Festival Parade and fireworks. From the twinkling riverbank to the charm of historic downtown, Christmas in Natchitoches is a bucket-list holiday experience.
