2022-03-03 04:15:53
Few have captured the essence of Central Louisiana like “Steel Magnolias” writer Robert Harling. The memory of these classy, sassy people – and their proud traditions – will stay with you always. Explore the Region! After a visit to Central Louisiana, you’ll long recall the simple yet meaningful images of folk artist Clementine Hunter, who once lived at Melrose Plantation near Natchitoches. You’ll imagine Generals Eisenhower and Patton planning World War II strategies at the Hotel Bentley in Alexandria. And you’ll dance a little, remembering rock-n-roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis, whom you got to know a little better at the Delta Music Museum in Ferriday. You’ll pause in memory of outlaw Leather Britches Smith, immortalized at Merryville Museum, and for two men hung for their crimes in the stairwell at The Gothic Jail in DeRidder. You’ll reflect on times past at Oakland Plantation, part of the Cane River National Heritage Area. You’ll swell up with pride, remembering the sac-á-lait you caught on Toledo Bend Lake. You’ll warm your heart at Chimp Haven, the world’s largest chimpanzee sanctuary, in Keithville. And last, but perhaps most, you’ll picture those epic sunrises from your cabin at Cypress Bend Resort. Explore more at LouisianaTravel.com/Cities-Regions Toledo Bend-Lake Country Area Toledo Bend Reservoir is the largest manmade lake in the South and this area is home to outstanding nature preserves and state parks. Area accommodations range from luxurious hotel suites to rustic lakeside cabins. Natchitoches Area As Louisiana’s oldest city and first French colony, Natchitoches retains its European charm, culture and architecture. Wander throughout its National Historic Landmark District, shop around, dine downtown overlooking the riverfront, then settle into a cozy B&B. Alexandria- Marksville Area As Central Louisiana’s largest city, Alexandria packs a ton of fun. Play at the Alexandria Zoo, get creative at River Oaks Square Arts Center and visit the state’s oldest standing structure at Kent Plantation House. In Marksville, pair local craft beer with Cajun fare at Broken Wheel Brewery and its Fresh Catch Bistreaux. A Sweet Treat Louisiana gets a lot of press for its zesty Cajun and Creole food – and rightly so. But those in the know won’t miss out on the homemade pies. Some say they ought to change the name of the town of Lecompte to “Lea”compte after Lea’s Lunchroom, where they famously bake nine delicious varieties of pie each and every morning. (Pecan is their bestseller, but try the bumbleberry, too.) Explore the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Find centuries of history, culture, and landscapes, ready to be explored by foot, car, or boat. 800-259-1714 • www.Natchitoches.com Fab Festivals Spice things up by celebrating the region’s rich Spanish and Indian heritage (and food!) at the Zwolle Tamale Festival, or revel in holiday charm at the Natchitoches Christmas Festival along the Cane River. There you’ll enjoy a parade, arts and crafts, local delicacies (pro tip: try a Natchitoches meat pie) and live entertainment, plus a laser show and rousing fireworks display. Afterwards, the lights along the Cane River are switched on and continue to twinkle into the new year. Delicious Dishes When you book a trip to Louisiana, be sure to pack your stretchy pants. Here are 10 great tastes you simply must try while you’re here! Gumbo with potato salad Roast beef po’boy A classic muffuletta Chargrilled oysters with French bread Crawfish bread Alligator bites Grillades and grits Jambalaya Shrimp Creole Boiled crawfish Only Louisiana Who’s almost as entertaining as a Louisiana musician? The state’s colorful politicians, of course! Join Huey P. Long, Edwin Edwards and others back “on the stump” at the Louisiana Political Museum and Hall of Fame in Winnfield’s historic L&A Railroad Depot. Our favorite souvenir? A lapel pin from the campaign of former governor Earl K. Long that reads, “I Ain’t Crazy – Vote for Uncle Earl.”
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