Natchitoches, Louisiana

This small town is where the movie Steel Magnolias was filmed. Shop wonderful stores perched atop the banks of the Cane River. Houses and commercial establishments are generously adorned with wrought iron craftsmanship. In this small town, you can enjoy the charm of New Orleans without the headaches of a big city. The town was first incorporated in 1819, making it the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Natchitoches has long been known for its Christmas Festival of Lights, held the first Saturday in December. The lights continue to brighten the Cane River until after New Year's Day. In 2006 Natchitoches was awarded the Great American Main Street Award. Natchitoches is the home of Northwestern State University, a co-ed public institution with an enrollment of 9,500. EARNS OUR HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION.