Natchitoches-Winnfield Area

At-A-Glance

Known For: Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase; beautifully preserved historic districts; Creole culture; Cane River heritage and one of the country's most beloved holiday celebrations

Top Places to Explore: The National Historic Landmark District, the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, the Kisatchie National Forest

Top Things to Do: Walk along Cane River Lake, sample a Natchitoches meat pies, cruise the river aboard the Cane River Queen, tour Melrose on the Cane or Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site

Major Events: The legendary Natchitoches Christmas Festival, the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival and the Natchitoches Jazz & R&B Festival 

Cities & Towns in Natchitoches-Winnfield Area

Natchitoches is the heart of the region, welcoming visitors with historic charm, vibrant festivals and a walkable downtown. Winnfield offers a fascinating look at the state's political history and serves as a gateway to Kisatchie National Forest, while smaller communities including Robeline, Melrose, Marthaville and Cloutierville preserve the area's French, Spanish, Native American and Creole influences.

Things to Do in Natchitoches-Winnfield Area

History, culture and outdoor recreation come together throughout the region. Tour historic homes and plantations and visit filming locations from Steel Magnolias. Paddle Cane River Lake, explore scenic trails in Kisatchie National Forest or enjoy fishing, camping and wildlife viewing. In downtown Natchitoches, find boutique shopping, local galleries and waterfront dining.

Places to Stay in Natchitoches-Winnfield Area

Looking for places to stay during your trip? The Chateau St. Denis Hotel, located just steps from Front Street, is a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms. Church Street Inn is housed in a historic 1940s bank building, and Sweet Cane Inn is beloved for its stately architecture. 

Where to Eat in Natchitoches-Winnfield Area

In downtown Natchitoches, enjoy lunch at Merci Beaucoup Restaurant, whose Cajun baked potato and bread pudding receive rave reviews. The Cane River Commissary serves a wide array of tasty dishes with their signature Creole twist, including gumbo, jambalaya and creamy Creole pasta. You simply can’t visit Natchitoches without sampling a meat pie from Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant. While this beloved family-owned establishment may not have invented the dish, it certainly helped popularize the recipe, which you can try in beef and pork or crawfish varieties.

Natchitoches-Winnfield Area Events & Festivals

Love trying new cuisine? Don’t miss the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival, where this regional delicacy is served in dozens of unique ways. Music lovers should check out the Natchitoches Jazz & R&B Festival, while culture buffs will love experiencing folk traditions at Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival. The most lauded festival, however, is the ultra-enchanting Natchitoches Christmas Festival, often called a “Hallmark” city for its distinct, festive charm.

Plan Your Visit

The Natchitoches-Winnfield Area is an ideal home base for exploring Louisiana.The region is within easy driving distance of Alexandria, Pineville and Monroe, while Natchitoches Regional Airport provides convenient access for visitors arriving by air.