Best hotels in Alexandria
Courtyard by Marriott Alexandria
3830 Alexandria Mall Drive, LA, 71301
This modern Marriott hotel is conveniently located in Alexandria’s retail district, with free on-site parking for all guests. Those here for work will appreciate the business center, media pods and ergonomic workstations in every room. Meanwhile, the outdoor pool and fire pit are perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring.
The Hotel Bentley of Alexandria
200 Desoto Street, LA, 71301
Luxury meets history at this century-old hotel in Downtown. Rooms are elegantly designed with antiquated furnishings, while still offering modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and drink stations. For traditional Louisiana hospitality, look no further than the in-house restaurant and cocktail lounge.
Susan's Cottages
7107 Bayou Rapides Road, LA, 71303
Stay in the heart of Louisiana’s Bayou Rapides countryside at one of four unique cottages. Each accommodation has its own kitchenette, hot tub and premium bedding, plus furnished balconies ideal for taking in the views. The on-site art studio also provides the perfect opportunity to pick up a souvenir from your trip.
Best restaurants in Alexandria
Koal’s BBQ of Alexandria
5803 Coliseum Boulevard, LA, 71303
Discover what Louisiana soul food is all about at this award-winning barbeque and steakhouse west of the city. Take a seat and watch some local sports as you dig into loaded baked potatoes, brisket sandwiches and meat platters smoked to perfection.
Wildwood Pizza
1260 Texas Avenue, LA, 71301
Known as the only place to serve up authentic wood-fired pizza in central Louisiana, this family-friendly restaurant is a must for those craving a slice of the good stuff. Choose one of the specialty pizzas including ‘The Beast’ and ‘Porky’s Revenge’ or make your own from a wide selection of fresh ingredients.
Good People Kitchen
94 Versailles Boulevard, LA, 71303
This eatery proves that healthy food can taste great and be good for you, with a varied menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Create a fresh plate, piled up with a choice of meats and vegetables that have been expertly roasted and lightly seasoned to enhance their flavor. Their grass-fed Wagyu burgers also come highly recommended.
What to do in Alexandria
Alexandria Museum of Art
933 2nd Street, LA, 71301
Find inspiration at this local art gallery tucked inside a renovated bank along Red River. Its permanent collection features more than 800 original works, spanning two centuries of southern US artists. Visitors can also learn something new with both adult and children art classes and educational programs.
Kisatchie National Forest
229 Dogwood Park Road, LA, 71468
Just 30 minutes from downtown Alexandria sits this staggering 600,000-acre national forest. There are plenty of activities on offer here, including fishing, horseback riding and boating. For a quiet afternoon, lose yourself among the canopy of cypress and pine trees, with more than 100 miles of trails to discover.
T.R.E.E. House
1403 3rd Street, LA, 71301
If you’re visiting Alexandria as a family, this interactive children’s museum is a must-do. The hands-on exhibits will have your little ones exploring their imagination, whether they’re spending a day as a dentist, recording a TV show or running their own toy train village.
Photo credit: Louisiana Office of Tourism