Natchitoches Main Street

Established in 1714, Natchitoches is the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase — even older than New Orleans! Once the main trading post for French and Spanish colonists and Native Americans, Natchitoches still remains a popular hub of culture and activity in central Louisiana.

The scenic Front Street is the heart of the Main Street district in Natchitoches and features plenty of dining and shops – including Louisiana’s oldest general store, Kaffie Frederick General Mercantile. For a bit of adventure, hop on the Cane River Queen for a leisurely ride or partake in some paddling with Cane River Paddle & Pedal Sports. After working up an appetite, ordering up a traditional Natchitoches meat pie at Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant is a must. Or for something less casual, Mayeaux’s Steak & Seafood has high-quality steaks and seafood, plus a great wine menu. 

At the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum, you’ll discover two fantastic exhibits in one location displaying two big facets of Louisiana's culture and history. For an even deeper dive into the area’s history, explore the Cane River National Heritage Area.

Enjoying a whole weekend in Natchitoches and never getting in your car is easy to do, as the historic district is very walkable and has much to see and do. Rest your head at Chateau St. Denis – just a block from Front Street – or the famous Steel Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast that’s a 10-minute stroll away. 

Of course, Natchitoches seems to celebrate year-round with spring concerts held on Cane River Lake. The town also hosts the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival celebrating its favorite regional dish, as well as the highly-anticipated Natchitoches Christmas Festival – a six-week-long celebration featuring hundreds of thousands of lights and displays.