There aren’t many states in the U.S. that can claim to have a town that dates back before the American Revolution, but Natchitoches is one of those places. Established in 1714, this settlement has remained despite all of the myriad changes this region endured throughout the 18th and 19th-century. If you haven’t visited this place yet, you’ll definitely want to explore it.

When you make a visit to Natchitoches, your first stop will probably be the 33-block Landmark district.
Flickr.com / Kent Kanouse
Front Street, pictured here, features some amazing rustic buildings and of course the famous Natchitoches meat pies, served up by the classic restaurant Lasyone's.
As you wander the historic streets, you'll come upon a number of notable buildings, as well as antique shops and old time stores.
Flickr.com / anthonyturducken
There are daily guided tours of this area as well as carriage rides. Fort St. Jean Baptiste, a replica of a colonial fort, is also open daily with information about colonial French marines who called this rea home.
Natchitoches is also known as the "city of lights" for their annual Christmas celebration, which lights up the town.
facebook.com/NatchitochesChristmas
It's really an amazing time for all who come to visit.
While you explore the downtown area, you'll be following along the Cane River Lake, which isn't really a lake at all.
Flickr.com / Kent Kanouse
There are gorgeous oak trees all along the way, and this body of water connects Natchitoches to an entire historic region that is well worth exploring.

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The Cane River National Heritage Area Trail includes numerous plantations open daily.
Flickr.com / Kimberly Vardeman
These plantations include the Oakland Plantation, pictured here, which was recently named the newest National Park. The entire nearby complex is the Cane River Creole National Historical Park and is well worth the trip.
The unique architecture at the Melrose Plantation gives people the opportunity to explore the complex history here.
Flickr.com / anthonyturducken
There is also the work of the noted African American folk artist Clementine Hunter available for viewing here.
Another awesome attraction in the area that is sure to bring a smile to everyone's face is a visit to Alligator Park.
Flickr.com / Kent Kanouse
This 8-acre park offers the opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with the American Alligator, and learn quiet a bit about its habits as well. You can find the park at 380 Old Bayou Pierre Road.
So if you haven't made a trip to this amazing and historic Louisiana town, you'll want to plan one soon.
Flickr.com / Jim Dollar
Walking the same streets that have been around for more than 200 years just gives you an amazing sense of perspective on your life.

When is the last time you visited this beautiful town? Do you have a favorite place to stop? Let us know. We love to hear your personal stories!

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