Are you planning a visit to Louisiana? Do you know what part of the state you want to visit? Louisiana is so diverse that you cannot really say you know the state until you see what it has to offer in various regions. You probably know about the New Orleans area and perhaps know a good bit about the south central and southwestern part of the state, more commonly known as Cajun Country. Somewhat different, the Crossroads Region is located north of the Cajun Country Region and is certainly worth getting to know.

Natchitoches can trace its history to a French colonial settlement which was established by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis in 1714 near the Natchitoches Indian village on the Red River, which was south of the current town center. It was the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Eventually, the Red River changed its course, which cut off its lucrative connection with the Mississippi River. This also slowed down the population boom of the town. As a result the shifting of the Red River, a 33-mile lake was left in the river’s previous location which became known as Cane River Lake. It runs through the city’s historic downtown along Front Street, a brick thoroughfare where wrought iron balconies, shops and restaurants face the lake. More recently, Natchitoches was the site of the 1973 plane crash that claimed the life of singer Jim Croce who had performed a concert on the campus of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. Oprah Winfrey once declared Natchitoches the “best little town in the USA”. Known for its meat pies and Christmas lights, the town is so much more. It’s a favorite for tourists, offering shopping, dining, festivals, nature trails and more. The Natchitoches Convention and Visitor’s Bureau offers suggestions so that you can plan your trip prior to arrival. Or just come and relax. Please consider staying at one of our fine B&Bs, which include these three, though there are many more: Sweet Cane Inn The Good House Bed and Breakfast Jefferson House Bed and Breakfast

Posted by: Mae Mayeux