Natchitoches, Louisiana, is a small town, but it is the home to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and the Northwest Louisiana History Museum. The modernly designed building by Trahan Architects is a stark difference from the Civil War era homes and structures nearby.
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What to See at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and the Northwest Louisiana History Museum
It houses two museums in one and is inspired by the motion of the river. The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the state’s rich history of athleticism, while the Northwest Louisiana History Museum talks about the town’s 3,000-year-old history from native tribes to the modern day.
Start your visit on the first floor, which has the actual hall of fame with names on the wall. There are artifacts from years of athletes’ jerseys, shoes, coaches’ trophies, and much more from names like Shaquille O’Neal, Pete Maravich, and Olympian Audrey “Mickey” Patterson.
On this floor, you’ll also find a unique car and an exhibit hall that changes regularly. It featured the work of a local folk artist, Clementine Hunte,r during my trip.
Upstairs is the Northwest Louisiana History Museum. It starts with displays on the Caddo Indians, who once called this area home before the French and Spanish settled here. There are additional sports exhibits and on plantation life.
Tips for Visiting the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum
The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum is located at 800 Front Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. Admission is $6 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, and active military. Children under 12 are free. Street parking is available nearby.
Where to Eat Near the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum
While in Natchitoches, you can’t miss the signature dish, the Natchitoches meat pie. The best place to have it is Lasyone’s, one of the oldest restaurants serving it. Maglieaux’s on the Cane is another place with Louisiana and Italian fare. Merci Beaucoup has decadent Cajun fare like crawfish étouffée.
Where to Stay Near the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum
Stay at one of the historic homes that are found throughout Natchitoches. Many are available for rent on Airbnb like the riverfront treehouse and a guesthouse in a historic home.
Chateau Saint-Denis Hotel is another option, named for the French explorer who settled Natchitoches. It has comfortable rooms and suites with free breakfast, WiFi, and a fitness center.
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My visit to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame was organized by Natchitoches Tourism and Louisiana Travel.
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