Northwestern State University is located in the small but charming city of Natchitoches, Louisiana. Natchitoches offers many great amenities for students when they are not in class, such as places for students to hang out and have a good time with friends. During school breaks, Natchitoches is a great place for students to bring their family and friends, as it truly has something for everyone.
DJ Ballard is a freshman accounting major who likes to hang out with friends and walk down Front Street in his free time. “For food, we have Mama’s, Papa’s, Nicky’s and Magee’s. For fun, we have Front Street, a roller skating rink and a walking trail here on campus,” Ballard said. “My favorite place in Natchitoches would have to be Sweet Fruit Delight. The woman who owns this shop is amazing!”
Hope Beason is a freshman business administration major who loves spending time with friends and hanging around the beautiful city of Natchitoches. “I love to go downtown to eat my lunch. Natchitoches offers wonderful restaurants,” Beason said. “Trail Boss Steakhouse is my favorite.”
Tinsley Rowell is a freshman nursing major who also likes going downtown to enjoy an assortment of restaurants. “Natchitoches has different varieties of food places such as sushi, seafood and steak, barbecue restaurants and bakeries,” Rowell said. “Right now, my favorite place to eat is Hana’s on Front Street.”
Natchitoches has many hidden gems, including an arcade and roller skating rink. For those who love shopping, there are numerous boutiques and shopping centers located right on Front Street. Dark Woods Adventure Park is another of Natchitoches’ main attractions, boasting a haunted trail during the fall and Christmas lights in the winter.
“I do think Natchitoches has something for everybody. During the holiday seasons, there are so many community involvement opportunities and events held for all ages,” Rowell said. “You can explore the historical landmarks, go to the movies, check out museums, paddle board and check out the bingo center.”
Natchitoches recently implemented rentable kayaks on the river, inviting residents of both the town and NSU’s campus to spend an afternoon on the water with their friends. Overall, Natchitoches is a beautiful city that offers many leisure activities for both the town and students alike.
