Smack dab in the heart of Louisiana lies Alexandria, a charming city surrounded by winding rivers, state parks, and the Kisatchie National Forest. The city itself boasts a wide variety of museums, historical sites, and delicious restaurants. If you want to see the best attractions and eat the best food, you’ve got to ask a local. Well you’re in luck, because we had all the long-time locals put together their list of the must-see spots in Alexandria.

Local Lunch Spot:

Word of Mouth Cafe is a local’s favorite in the area. Owner John Gunter has lived in Alexandria his whole life and has always had a passion for Southern food. You’ll find tasty sandwiches and entrees crafted with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. Walk in the door, and you’ll be greeted like an old friend.

Delicious Dinner:

The Bentley Room Restaurant is an upscale restaurant right in the heart of downtown. If you like Southern food, then you’ll love the entrees made with the freshest ingredients and elevated to blend all the best flavors into one magical meal. This is the spot locals come to for special dinners, romantic evenings, and anytime someone starts craving some of their signature entrees.

Charming Church:

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral is a stunning brick church that was built in the late 1800’s. The clock tower is an iconic landmark on the Alexandria skyline. You can attend a service here or just revel in its beauty. The cathedral was added to the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the most impressive in the entire state.

Get Outside:

Kisatchie National Forest is one of the greatest treasures of Louisiana and just so happens to be right outside of Alexandria. You could spend hours in this park hiking or biking around while looking at the hardwood trees and wildlife. Take in the lush forests or find one of the only natural prairies left in Louisiana. Locals love heading out for the day to go fishing, horseback riding, or birding in this sportsman’s paradise.

View Louisiana Art:

The Alexandria Museum of Art is one of Alexandria’s most prized attractions. With innovative programs and culturally rich exhibits, the museum aims to foster a deep appreciation of art through engaging, enlightening, and inspiring experiences. View some of the local Louisiana art or check out one of their special events and be amazed.

See Native Animals:

The Alexandria Zoological Park hosts a wide range of animals from tigers and tarantulas to local species like black bear and alligators. See these fantastic animals in a controlled environment. This attraction is the best family activity, but people without kids still love seeing the wide variety of animals in the zoo.

Spend some time here, wander across the bridge into the sister city of Pineville and explore the main downtown, and check out the wildlife preserves and forests just minutes from the city. This little gem in the heart of Louisiana is the perfect place to stop for a day (or two) and soak in the culture!

Planning a trip to one of Louisiana? The Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association boasts several one-of-a-kind inns, bed & breakfasts, and historic homes located in all corners of the state.