Last month, Michael and I finally got the opportunity to take a long weekend in Natchitoches, Louisiana.  We had driven through this cute town once when coming home from Natchez, Mississippi.  One drive through town and we knew we wanted to visit again!

We stayed at the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast.  We had heard good things from folks who had stayed at the Church Street Inn, but it was totally booked when we were planning our trip.  Mike found the Queen Anne, and we loved it!  Our room was the Library, which was the only room on the first floor.  It had tons of books, a private bath, and lovely antique furniture.

The proprietors do not live on-site.  However, it was easy to get in, and a lovely welcome note gave us the rundown.  Free sodas, water, and hot tea were available all day in a kitchenette off the dining room.

Breakfast was included with the stay.  We stayed two nights and had sweet one day and savory the second day.

The sweet offering started with fresh fruit.  Once cleared, an apple streusel baked pancake served over warm syrup was presented with sausage and fresh blood orange slices.  The savory breakfast started with a  peach and pecan crumble served in individual compote bowls.  The second course includes an open face biscuit topped with Canadian bacon, egg and cheese.  On the side were grits and fresh tomato slices.

On both days we were served coffee, water and a delightful fruit drink.  It was the color of grapefruit juice, but tasted much sweeter.  Turns out it was a combination of orange juice and cranberry cocktail.  It was wonderful!

Natchitoches is quaint.  There are great shops, day trips and fun restaurants. There are several bed and breakfasts from which to choose.  Nearer the highway and the university, there are chain motels.  The downtown runs alongside the Cane River, which boasts a lighted Christmas parade and other seasonal festivities.

The downtown is enjoyable.  We spent hours in the Kaffie-Frederick, Inc. General Mercantile.  This is where I met my new friend and terrarian artist, Connie (for more information check out this earlier post).  There are gift shops, clothing stores, bars, restaurants, a fabulous visitor’s center all within walking distance.  Don’t forget this is where Steel Magnolias was filmed, so there are lots of associated gifts, tours and photo ops.  When we were there, the house that was in the opening scene was for sale.

While visiting, we discovered that many of the downtown businesses are open on Sunday, but closed on Monday.  So plan your shopping and excursions accordingly.

Only a three and a half hour drive from my neck of the woods, Natchitoches is a wonderful, relaxing place to visit.  Please check it our for yourself!

Bonus Information:  For all my north Texas neighbors, you will be interested to know that the Cane River is formed from the Red River.