The 33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Natchitoches, LA (Updated 2024)
Are you planning a trip to Natchitoches, Louisiana, and want to make it more memorable by doing fun things? Don’t look any further! This is the right place to find a long list of the best and most fun things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Natchitoches, LA, is a small city that is also the parish seat of Natchitoches Parish. The French Colonial architecture, the lively Creole culture, the famous Natchitoches meat pie, and Native American inspirations all show that this town has a rich multicultural history.
Northwestern State University, Louisiana Scholars’ College, and Louisiana Technical College are just a few of the schools in Natchitoches.
There are many interesting things for people of all ages and interests to do in this beautiful city. Natchitoches has something for everyone to make a memorable vacation, whether you want to go on an exciting water adventure, learn about history, or find new art.
33 Best And Fun Things To Do In Natchitoches, LA, (2024)
1. Pierson And Mallett Park
You can start your trip around Natchitoches by going to Pierson and Mallett Park. This park is just for kids and has a lot of different fun things for kids to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Different age groups can enjoy the park’s two picnic tables, two half-court basketball courts, two seats, and playground with swings, slides, and climbing walls.
Take a trip with your family while the kids have a great time. You can relax on the chairs, have a picnic on the grass, celebrate a birthday or play dates, or join in the fun with your kids.
Address: 701 E 5th Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
2. Natchitoches Art Guild-Gallery
Visit the Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery this weekend to find many things to do in Natchitoches, LA. This is a must-see for art lovers and anyone looking for a unique cultural experience.
The gallery has been around since 1992 and puts on many workshops, demonstrations, and other events where people can learn more about different types of art and the work of local artists.
Additionally, the Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery lets both tourists and locals look at a wide selection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, mixed media pieces, and other works from skilled local artists. Visitors can buy the artists’ work or directly support the artists.
Address: 584 Front Street, STE 102, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
3. Roque House And Gardens
One fun and interesting thing to do in Natchitoches, LA, is to explore the historic Roque House and Gardens. This is a haven that gives you a look at French colonial buildings and a peaceful garden retreat.
The complex has a beautifully preserved Roque House, a great example of Creole architecture with its unique cypress construction and bousillage walls. The gardens around the house add a unique touch to the landscape, making it a great place for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a quiet place to get away.
Roque House and Gardens also have brick paths and tall live oak trees that make the area feel calm and peaceful.
People can enjoy the Roque House’s unique style of architecture, stroll through the charming gardens, and learn about the city’s long past.
One fun and interesting thing to do in Natchitoches, LA is to explore the historic Roque House and Gardens. This is a haven that gives you a look at French colonial building and a peaceful garden retreat.
The complex has a beautifully preserved Roque House, a great example of Creole architecture with its unique cypress construction and bousillage walls. The gardens around the house add a unique touch to the landscape, making it a great place for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a quiet place to get away.
Roque House and Gardens also have brick paths and tall live oak trees that make the area feel calm and peaceful.
People can enjoy the Roque House’s unique style of architecture, stroll through the charming gardens, and learn about the city’s long past.
Address: 760 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
4. Natchitoches Parish Library
In Natchitoches, LA, the Natchitoches Parish Library is one of the best places to learn for everyone. It is a busy community center with lots of resources and activities for people of all ages.
There are a lot of books and media in the library, as well as free Wi-Fi and public computers, a children’s area, meeting and study rooms, and a helpful staff that can help you with your needs and hobbies.
You can apply for a job or learn a new language while going to events at the library, such as author talks, book clubs, and educational workshops.
Address: 450 2nd Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
5. Grand Ecore Visitor Center
The Grand Ecore Visitor Center is one of the most important places to go in Natchitoches, LA, if you want to learn more about the area and find things to do. The center has displays about history, natural beauty, and other interesting things.
The tourist center is 80 feet above the Red River and has great views of the waterway. Inside, there are displays about the history and culture of the area.
Check out the interesting displays to learn about the Red River’s importance, the past of the area, and the ongoing work to protect water resources. From the hill, you can see the river in a beautiful way.
You can find information at the tourist center about places to stay, eat, shop, trips, events, and other fun and educational things for people of all ages to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Address: 106 Tauzin Island Road, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
6. Los Adaes State Historic Site
Visit the Los Adaes State Historic Site to learn about Louisiana’s rich history. It is an open-air museum and archaeological treasure trove that takes tourists back to a key time in Louisiana’s colonial history.
This historic site has reconstructed buildings, archaeological trenches, and pieces of the Spanish colonial outpost Los Adaes that have been dug up. The exhibits and archaeological ditches tell us about the lives of Spanish soldiers, Native American tribes, and early European residents.
This attraction site goes back to the 1700s and is less than 25 minutes from Natchitoches. It is a great place for history buffs and people interested in Louisiana’s history and culture to visit while looking for things to do near Natchitoches.
At the Los Adaes State Historic Site, both visitors and people who live in Natchitoches can imagine what life was like in the long-gone town and be proud of the ongoing work to find out its secrets.
Address: 6354 LA-485, Robeline, LA 71469, United States.
7. Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University, which has been around since 1884, is a great place for tourists and locals looking for free things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Northwestern State University gives you a unique look into what college is really like. Since there are more than 9,000 students, the campus group is more active than at small schools.
Find out what fun things are happening on campus, like going to classes and cultural events, the library, or the university cafeteria for lunch. You can also just relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Address: 175 Sam Sibley Drive, Natchitoches, LA 71497, United States.
8. Arcade Natchitoches
Looking into Arcade The city of Natchitoches is a great place for gamers of all ages. Today, there are lots of fun things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
This fun center offers a thrilling day with its lively atmosphere and huge selection of classic and new arcade games that will keep you busy for hours.
This place has a lot to offer: arcade games, a virtual reality experience, flying duck duckpin bowling, modern video games like racing simulators, fighting games, first-person shooters, reward games, and a lively atmosphere that makes it great for a fun day trip with family or friends.
Take on game challenges with family and friends, win tickets by playing redemption games, and have birthday parties at the arcade. It’s a fun and cheap way for residents and guests to pass the time.
Address: 5129 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
9. Gator Country LA Alligator Park
You should include a visit to Gator Country LA Alligator Park in your list of fun and educational things to do with your family today in Natchitoches, LA. It is the biggest alligator park in Louisiana and gives you great chances to see these interesting animals up close.
There are over 250 alligators of different sizes in the park, as well as teaching displays about their ecology and importance, feeding shows with the alligators, and even chances to take pictures with them.To make things more interesting, they also have a petting zoo and other animals like turtles and snakes.
It’s fun and educational for people of all ages because they can learn about alligators, watch them eat, and even hold some of the smaller ones (with adult care).
Address: 380 Old Bayou Pierre Road, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
10. Brenda’s Clothing And Accessories
Brenda’s Clothing and Accessories is a clothing store for women in Natchitoches, LA. They have stylish clothes for both misses and kids.
They have dresses, shoes, purses, jewelry, and trendy tops, among other clothes and items, to fit a wide range of styles.
With personalized service from Brenda’s friendly staff, customers can look at the newest styles and find one-of-a-kind items to add to their wardrobe. Shopping at Brenda’s is an exciting experience that can be added to the list of fun things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Address: 584 Front Street #104, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
11. Natchitoches Skating Rink
Natchitoches Skating Rink is an old roller rink that is fun for people of all ages and offers other fun things to do in Natchitoches, LA, in the evenings.
This rink is great for the whole family because it has a smooth wooden surface that is great for gliding, twirling, and practicing your best moves. You can also rent skates, use the party room, and get snacks.
At Natchitoches Skating Rink, you can reach your full skating potential by going for a skate, practicing your skills, having birthdays and other special events, and going to themed night events.
Address: 1100 Keyser Avenue, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
12. Bayou Axe Throwing Co
The Bayou Axe Throwing Co is in Bossier City, which is only an hour’s drive from Natchitoches. It is a recreational axe-throwing hub with many exciting and unique things for people to do near Natchitoches, LA.
This place has lanes for axe throwing with lessons and directions given by knowledgeable staff, so it’s good for people of all skill levels, from those who have never thrown an axe before to those who have done it many times.
Challenge your friends or family to a friendly and safe axe-throwing competition to see how good you are at it. It’s a fun and different game that’s great for a night out, team building, or a birthday party.
Address: 509 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111, United States.
13. Cane River Lake
There are fun things to do in the water at Cane River Lake in Natchitoches, Louisiana. The lake is shaped like a horse and has lots of water activities.
This attraction lasts about 35 miles and covers less than 1,000 acres. It has many fun and interesting things to do, such as boat trips, fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding, swimming, bird watching, and canoeing.
Take a boat tour to learn about the lake’s history and culture while taking in the beautiful views. You can also fish, paddleboard, swim in marked areas, or look for resident and migratory birds in the varied habitat.
Address: Natchitoches, LA, United States.
14. Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc
For history buffs, one of the unique things to do in Natchitoches, LA is to explore the Cane River National Heritage Area Inc., a big area full of history and culture.
The treasure is spread out over 116,000 acres and includes historic farms with beautiful Creole buildings, colonial fortresses and backgrounds, and a path through Louisiana’s oldest colony.
By going to Cane River National Heritage Area Inc., you can learn about Natchitoches’ past, show appreciation for the area’s architectural beauty, and connect with the area’s history.
Address: 4115 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
15. Louisiana Sports Hall Of Fame
The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame is a big museum building that honors the achievements of Louisiana athletes, coaches, and other sports figures. It’s a fun and educational place to visit in Natchitoches for everyone who likes sports.
The Sports Hall of Fame opened in 2013 and is a 27,500-square-foot building with interactive exhibits that show the history of sports in Louisiana through high-definition videos, touchscreens, and displays of players, coaches, and sports figures’ accomplishments.
This location also has memorabilia and biographical information on people who have been inducted, such as famous people like Archie Manning, Shaquille O’Neal, and Mickey Patterson.
People can learn about Louisiana’s rich sports history and how it has affected the state’s culture. They can also check out interactive exhibits and see how much they know about sports. They can also learn about the dedication and accomplishments of famous Louisiana athletes and see their memorabilia and other items.
Address: 800 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
16. Escape Natchitoches
For families looking for fun things to do in Natchitoches, LA, Escape Natchitoches is a great choice. This escape room has lots of surprises that will test your brains and teamwork.
There are different themed rooms at this attraction that take you to different places and times with puzzles, riddles, and clues that you and your team must answer within a certain amount of time.
Challenge yourself to solve problems while enjoying the thrill of a race against the clock, work together with your friends to make an amazing trip.
Address: 4278 University Pkwy Suite 6, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
17. Maglieaux’s Riverfront Restaurant
The family-owned Maglieaux’s Riverfront Restaurant in Natchitoches serves simple food with a Natchitoches flair. It’s a great place for both locals and tourists to get a refill while they’re exploring things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
There are nice, casual seats inside, as well as a patio with views of the Cane River and deck seats where you can enjoy the view. The menu is very long and includes desserts, lunch, and the famous Natchitoches meat pie. There is something on their menu for everyone.
You can eat a tasty meal outside with family or friends in a casual setting while taking in the beautiful views of the Cane River.
Address: 805 Washington Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
18. Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery
Visit the Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, one of the many interesting and educational things to do in Natchitoches, LA. It is a warm water hatchery that uses extensive and intensive ways to spawn, hatch, and raise young fish, turtles, and mussels.
This farm has been around since 1931 and has many different kinds of fish, such as largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, redear sunfish, alligator gar, paddlefish, Louisiana pearl-shell mussel, and alligator snapping turtle.
The Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery has educational programs for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. The hatchery is open to the public for walks that show how it works and how fish are raised, making it a great place for families and nature lovers to visit in Natchitoches.
Address: 615 South Drive, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
19. Dark Woods Adventure Park
Going to Dark Woods Adventure Park in Natchitoches is a fun thing to do with the whole family. It’s an outdoor park with lots of exciting things to do.
This park opened in 2014 and is mostly about haunted attractions. It has scary experiences for horror fans based on folktales, legends, and stories from Louisiana and other places. From October 1 to Halloween Night, it’s a unique place to have fun while playing on your worst fears.
With over 250,000 LED lights and displays that bring the woods to life, this 17-acre outdoor park turns into a magical winter scene during the holiday season.
When you visit this park, you can do other things besides try something exciting. In the winter, you can grab a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.
Address: 4343 University Pkwy, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States
20. Briarwood Nature Preserve
In Natchitoches, Louisiana, the Briarwood Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve is a hidden gem with historical importance that offers a beautiful natural escape. There are many fun and educational things to do there.
An important naturalist, author, artist, and the first woman hired by the US Forest Service was born and raised in this nature preserve. Its goals are to protect southern native plants and teach people about natural forest ecosystems.
In addition to the pine and hardwood forest, there is a beautiful wildflower field that blooms in the spring and stands out against the nearby woods. There are also historical sites, such as Caroline Dormon’s ancestral log cabin home.
On top of that, you can go on a guided walk of the preserves and learn more about the plants and animals that live there.
Address: 216 Caroline Dorman Road, Saline, LA 71070, United States.
21. Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site
History buffs and people who want to see a model of a French colonial fort from the 18th century should go to Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site.
This site has a palisade (a wooden fence), blockhouses, barracks, a blacksmith shop, a bakery, and a commandant’s house. It also has hands-on displays that show how the soldiers, colonists, and Native Americans who lived in the fort lived their daily lives.
The fort was built in 1716 and now displays colonial crafts like candle making, blacksmithing, and woodworking. These show how people lived and worked in the 18th century.
If you are a tourist in Natchitoches looking for fun and educational things to do, the Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site has many interesting things for you to do.
Address: 155 Jefferson Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
22. Beau Jardin, Natchitoches Riverbank
Beau Jardin, which is on the shore of Cane River Lake, is a beautiful and peaceful place for nature fans and outdoor enthusiasts looking for free family activities in Natchitoches, LA.
This site is great for a walk, a family trip, or a quiet moment in nature. It would also make a beautiful and romantic setting for your wedding.
Beau Jardin, Natchitoches Riverbank has waterfalls that run down a brick staircase. The gardens have a walking path, a wooden bridge, and well-kept landscaping with many different kinds of plants, flowers, and trees.
You can bring a picnic and eat outside, relax in the shade on a bench and take in the peaceful atmosphere, hold events with family or friends, or enjoy the beautiful views of Cane River Lake and the nearby area.
Address: 760 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
23. Mayeaux’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant
Take it easy at Mayeaux’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant, which has both a formal and a casual setting that makes your meal more enjoyable.
The restaurant’s menu has a lot of fresh seafood options for people who like seafood, as well as Louisiana-style meals and good steaks.
Mayeaux’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant is a great place to eat whether you like steak, seafood, or just want to have a delicious and memorable meal while you’re looking for things to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Address: 512 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
24. Natchitoches Christmas Festival
One of the fun things to do in Natchitoches at Christmas is to check out the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, which happens every year and has shows of bright lights, a festive atmosphere, and a sense of community spirit.
Over 300,000 twinkling lights and over 100 lighted set pieces along the Cane River turn downtown into a winter wonderland. There is also a grand Christmas parade with lit floats, marching bands, and holiday characters.
Spend Christmas in style in Natchitoches, where you can see live music and shows with holiday themes all through the festival. Take the kids on rides at the carnival, make projects with them, and see Santa Claus.
Address: 781 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
25. Downtown Natchitoches
You can go back in time by walking through the cute streets of old Downtown Natchitoches. This is a free thing to do in Natchitoches, LA.
The center area is interesting because it combines a lot of history, beautiful architecture, and a lively vibe all at once. These buildings, from the 18th and 19th centuries, have been beautifully maintained and are part of a National Historic Landmark District.
You can enjoy live music at local bars or see a show at the Northwestern State University Theatre as you walk through the historic downtown area. You can also take a walk or ride your bike along the banks of the Cane River for a beautiful view, or you can visit the art galleries and museums for more educational experiences.
Look around the small shops that sell one-of-a-kind gifts, clothes, and handmade items. In the downtown area, you can visit art shops that show off local talent and enjoy the tastes of Natchitoches at cozy cafes and restaurants.
Address: 701-799 4th Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
26. Cane River Carriage Company
One of the most interesting, charming, and fun things for families to do in Natchitoches, LA is to take a carriage ride through the city’s historic area on the Cane River Carriage Company.
A knowledgeable guide talks about the complex past and interesting facts about the landmarks during the carriage ride at this attraction.
It also has a romantic atmosphere, which makes it a great choice for a romantic date or a special event for two. Get a different view of Natchitoches’s beautiful scenery.
Address: 746 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
27. The Minor Basilica Of Immaculate Conception Church
The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Church is a beautiful and famous landmark in Natchitoches that lets you enter the world of faith. It also has a list of fun things for everyone to do in Natchitoches, LA.
Established in 1728, this church has a unique Romanesque Revival style of architecture with rounded arches, thick walls, a sense of stability, beautiful stained-glass windows, statues, and a large altar.
On top of that, the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Church is a peaceful, beautiful, and spiritual space that shows some of Natchitoches’s Catholic past. People who are interested in building, religion, or local history should go there.
Address: 145 Church Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
28. Kaffie-Frederick Inc
In Natchitoches, LA, one fun thing for the whole family to do today is to go shopping at Frederick Inc., which is Louisiana’s largest general store.
The store has been around since 1893 and sells a lot of different things, such as hardware supplies, toys and gifts, home decor items, clothes and accessories, and housewares like cooking, kitchenware, cleaning supplies, and more.
People can look through the wide range of goods and find one-of-a-kind items. They can also find the perfect souvenir or gift with a local touch, or they can take a step back in time and look at the historic building’s architectural features.
Address: 758 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
29. Cane River Queen
The Cane River Queen Paddle Wheeler is a famous tourist attraction in Natchitoches that offers scenic river cruises along the Cane River. It should be on your list of fun things to do there.
This boat cruise has different times, such as morning, afternoon, and sunset trips. During the cruise, guided tour guides tell interesting facts and stories about the Cane River and Natchitoches.
That is a great choice for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to enjoy the area’s natural beauty in a fun and educational way.
Take a unique trip on an old paddlewheel boat, which is a beautiful way to see the Cane River. Relax and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Cane River, which is lined with cypress trees and antebellum homes.
Address: 530 Front Street Downtown Riverbank, Natchitoches, LA 71457
30. Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant
Everyone needs a place to unwind after work. Check out Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant, which is famous for its tasty meat pies and other Southern treats.
The restaurant has been around since 1967 and their signature food is the Natchitoches-style meat pie, which has a flaky pastry crust and is filled with a savory, spiced meat mixture. They serve both beef and pork versions of this pie. Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant serves more than just meat pie. They also serve fried chicken, shrimp and grits, gumbo, and other Southern favorites.
The fun place for the whole family is a great place to relax after a day of trying out Natchitoches’s attractions. The classic Natchitoches-style meat pie is a must-try for guests, and they also have other tasty Southern comfort food options on the menu.
Address: 622 2nd Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
31. Onyx Wine & Cigar Lounge
One romantic thing to do in Natchitoches, LA, at night is to go to Onyx Wine & Cigar Lounge. This is a famous spot for couples, wine lovers, and people looking for a humidor full of different types of premium cigars.
In the middle of Natchitoches, Onyx Wine & Cigar Lounge has a huge selection of wines for all tastes. They also have a humidor with a wide range of cigar brands, from the Alec Bradley Medalist and Drew Estate Liga Privada to Camacho Griollo and Rocky Patel Vintage.
The Onyx Wine & Cigar Lounge has a calm and friendly atmosphere that is great for looking at their wine list and having a drink with friends. They also have a separate smoking area for smokers to make sure that everyone is comfortable.
Address: 312 Texas Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
32. Seasons Christmas Tree Farm
One unique thing to do this Christmas in Natchitoches, LA is to visit Seasons Christmas Tree Farm, a local place where you can meet people who choose Christmas trees in the traditional way.
The holiday store has many kinds of Christmas trees, such as Virginia pines, Douglas firs, and Fraser firs, to remember and improve Christmas parties.
People are free to pick out their own trees and cut them down while enjoying tasty treats and cool drinks in a happy atmosphere.
Address: 155 Fulton Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
33. Brick And Row Merci Beaucoup Gifts
Brick and Row Merci Beaucoup Gifts is a one-stop gift shop with a carefully chosen collection of gifts, souvenirs, and local goods that you can bring back to Natchitoches for family and friends.
This gift shop sells a lot of different kinds of gifts, such as home goods, drinkware, home fragrances, gifts, bath and body products, items for kids, jewelry, men’s and women’s accessories, holiday items for Easter, Halloween, Christmas, and other holidays, as well as wedding registry and wishlist items.
People who go to Bricks and Row Gift Shop can look through the unique gifts and find the perfect souvenir or gift for someone special. You can also get your gifts beautifully wrapped for free, make a wish list, or buy a friend or family member a gift card.
Address: 584 Front Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.
34. Cane River Paddle And Pedal Sports
Cane River Paddle and Pedal Sports are the last fun and best thing to do in Natchitoches, Louisiana. They let you enjoy the beautiful views of Cane River Lake.
Cane River Paddle and Pedal Sport rents kayaks, paddleboards, stand-up paddleboards with wheels that look like bicycles, hydro bikes, life jackets, and other water sports gear.
People can take a slow paddle and enjoy the beauty of the cypress swamps, forests, and antebellum plantations nearby. They can also rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the beautiful Cane River Lake, go on a kayaking or canoeing trip with friends or family, and explore the hidden coves and waterways of Cane River Lake. For exercise, they can go on a stand-up paddleboard or hydro bike adventure.
Address: 101 Rue Beau Port, Natchitoches, LA 71457, United States.