Tucked into a quiet residential neighborhood, Samuel Guy House enjoys a secluded and stately setting made even more peaceful because it sits adjacent to American Cemetery. American Cemetery is the oldest in the Louisiana Purchase territory, with its beginning dating back to 1737. A famous scene from the movie “Steel Magnolias” was filmed in that cemetery.
Natchitoches (pronounced “nack-a-tish”), Louisiana, has the distinction of being the state’s Bed & Breakfast Capital, boasting at least 30 from which to choose. Samuel Guy House is consistently listed among the favorites with its highly sought-after accommodations. Originally constructed in 1850 in Mansfield, it deteriorated over the years until it was purchased and moved to its present location in 2002. It then underwent a two-year transformation.
Connie’s visit to Natchitoches was sponsored by the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, but all opinions are strictly her own.
A Stunning Property
Seven beautifully furnished guest rooms are available. Each includes a private bathroom, cable TV, spacious common areas, porches, gardens, and a full Southern breakfast. Even onsite parking and Wifi are complimentary.
Breakfast is served on the glass-enclosed back porch overlooking the lavishly landscaped gardens. Entrees range from stuffed French toast to vegetarian quiche, French pancakes, or blueberry French bread casserole.
Prints by famous Natchitoches primitive artist Clementine Hunter are displayed along the upper wall surrounding the dining table.
One of the most distinctive house features is the abundance of custom-made glass and wood cases housing the owner’s many collectibles. They line the wide front hall and outline the perimeter of the upstairs common area. The collections are grouped according to a theme, such as Christmas, Easter, vases, wildlife, or historical and movie figures.
Close Proximity to Other Attractions
Samuel Guy House is within an easy half-mile walk of historic, brick-paved Front Street beside Cane River Lake. From Front Street, you can view the fireworks during Natchitoches Christmas celebrations. You can also hear live performances in the amphitheater, board the Cane River Queen paddleboat for a leisurely, hour-long cruise, or tour the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum.
Front Street is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile was established in 1863. It has been serving customers in this location since 1893. You will find everything AND the kitchen sink downstairs and a beautiful gift emporium upstairs.
One night at Samuel Guy House will not be long enough to do justice to Natchitoches; plan to stay several days. Go by the Visitors Center (780 Front Street) to pick up the maps and information you need to make the most of your time in town. Here are some of my top suggestions:
- Visit Gator Country Louisiana, the largest alligator park in the state. In addition to 250 resident alligators, you’ll find a petting zoo, a bird sanctuary, and a tortoise exhibit.
- Drive out to Dark Woods Adventure Park and pan for gems in their Lost Treasure Mining Company. In the fall, there are haunted attractions. And at Christmastime, the park is ablaze with lights and their signature hot chocolate is served in the concessions area.
- Tour Fort St. Jean Baptiste, a replica of the fort built by the French in 1714, and hear stories of the area’s settlement.
- Tour Oakland and Magnolia Plantations are part of the Cane River Creole National Historical Park. Another fascinating plantation is Melrose, which became a writers’ and artists’ retreat encouraging people such as African American folk artist Clementine Hunter. Pick up brochures for self-guided tours of the Natchitoches Film Trail and for “Steel Magnolias” filming locations, especially.
Delicious Dining in Natchitoches
And my oh my, the food. Natchitoches is home to meat pies. The premier location to sample this dish is at Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen. The regular meat pies are fantastic, but once you try their crawfish pies, you’ll ship some home from Goldbelly.com. Ask me how I know.
Other favorite eateries I recommend are Cane River Commissary, Grayson’s Bar-B-Q, and Merci Beaucoup. Mariner’s Restaurant is worth the drive for its stunning location overlooking Sibley Lake.
Samuel Guy House and Natchitoches will combine to create a memorable experience. I loved my time there and feel confident in recommending it to others.
This article was written by Connie Pearson of There Goes Connie.
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