In the heart of central Louisiana (locally known as Cenla), Alexandria is a city that beats to its own drum. It’s not quite Cajun Country, the southern region known for its signature cuisine and lively music, nor is it part of the northern part of the state, known for its distinctly rural way of life. Instead, it strikes a balance between the two, blending homegrown charm with a merge of cultural identities. With a laid-back, small-town feel, Alexandria offers a slice of Louisiana life you can’t find anywhere else. 

Alexandria’s central location makes it a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the state, with Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and even New Orleans all within a few hours’ drive. But don’t be too quick to pass through—Alexandria is worth getting to know. From its ties to World War II history to the steady flow of the Red River that winds through downtown, there’s more to this place than meets the eye. Whether you’re in the mood for locally-loved restaurants, small-town festivals, or an abundance of outdoor activities, there’s something in the city that speaks to every sense of adventure. Here are 11 things to do in Alexandria for a refreshing take on Louisiana living.

What To Do In Alexandria, Louisiana

Explore Kisatchie National Forest

As the only national forest in the state, Kisatchie National Forest is a prime destination for nature lovers. This sprawling 600,000-acre forest is divided into five ranger districts, and the Evangeline Unit, part of the Calcasieu Ranger District, is right in Alexandria’s backyard. Embark on the Wild Azalea Trail—the longest continuous hiking trail in the state—or take a refreshing plunge in Kincaid Lake. You can also spend the day mountain biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, fishing, or hunting.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/kisatchie/recarea/?recid=34615; 9912 LA-28, Boyce, LA 71409; 318-793-9427

Admire Local Works At The Alexandria Museum Of Art

Located in the heart of downtown Alexandria, this museum, established in 1977, is set in the historic Rapides Bank and Trust Company Building. Its unique blend of historical elements and contemporary flair makes it a popular spot amongst locals, and it even serves as a downtown campus for Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA). For upcoming events and a lineup of rotating exhibits, check their calendar.

themuseum.org; 933 Second Street, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-443-3458

Experience The Joy Of The Holi Festival

Nothing says springtime like an eruption of vibrant colors and a crowd of smiling faces. Since 2014, people have flocked to downtown Alexandria for the annual Holi Festival, a Hindu tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring. Held each May, this family-friendly event combines the best of Cajun and South Asian cultures, starting with a 4k Color Walk/Run to benefit a local cause, followed by an afternoon of singing, dancing, and dousing others in free color powder.

facebook.com/holifestcenla; 4th Street, Downtown, Alexandria LA; 318-792-1147

Visit The Louisiana History Museum

This small building on the corner of Washington Street is actually a downtown treasure trove of local artifacts. Enjoy a comprehensive look at the past of central Louisiana—from Native American traditions to modern-day developments—while browsing one of the state’s most significant collections of historical objects. Upon arrival, be sure to ask about the rotating exhibits, which highlight unique aspects of Louisiana history and often showcase rare items from the collection.

louisianahistorymuseum.org/; 503 Washington St, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-487-8556

Take Your Little Ones On An Adventure

Alexandria is packed with fun activities for young children. Start your adventure at Play Cenla, an indoor amusement center featuring a climbing rock wall, cafe, arcade games, an elevated rope course with a zipline, and a toddler area with a mini ropes course and toys. For more hands-on fun, head to the T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum, where kids can immerse themselves in imaginative play at the small-scale grocery, bank, medical clinic, and more. Visit on the fourth Friday of every month for free admission from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

playcenla.com; 1008 Bayou Pl, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-613-5474

kidtreehouse.org; 1403 3rd St, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-619-9394

Go On A Safari

Located in the neighboring town of Pineville, the Gone Wild Safari lets you get up close—and even hands-on—with adorable critters as they roam freely in natural habitats. Feed animals from your car during a drive-through safari, or step outside at the interactive petting zoo. Before you go, be sure to check out the gemstones and fossil panning experience, where you can unearth a special souvenir. 

gonewildsafari.com; 805 Hooper Rd, Pineville, LA 71360; 318-787-6902

Where To Eat And Drink In Alexandria, Louisiana

Grab A Coffee And Treat From Tamp & Grind

One of the more vibrant and hip spots in historic downtown Alexandria, Tamp & Grind is known as “a place to be happy.” Locals and travellers alike come for the cozy, colorful atmosphere and stay for the wide selection of drinks, small plates, and live music. Don’t miss their beloved avocado toast, and pair it with your choice of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, chai lattes, or other smile–inducing beverages.

tampandgrind.com; 828 4th St, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-448-0111

Have Comfort Food At Pamela’s Bayou In A Bowl

Just like mom and grandma used to make, the meals at this counter-service spot are a true taste of Southern home cooking. Choose a main dish and three sides. Guests recommend the shrimp po’boys, crawfish etouffee, smothered pork chops, and mustard greens, among many more soul-soothing classics.

facebook.com/p/Pamelas-Bayou-In-A-Bowl; 2049 N Mall Dr, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-704-5679

Sip And Savor At A Local Whiskey Bar

There aren’t many spots where you can enjoy gourmet deviled eggs alongside a smoked Old Fashioned, but at the Tasting Room of Louisiana, the possibilities feel endless. Founded by the state’s first whiskey sommelier, Melissa Scarborough, this cozy downtown spot boasts the largest whiskey selection in the area, a wide range of local beers, an ever-expanding wine list, and a comprehensive craft cocktail menu. Pair your drinks with small plates from TroLa Kitchen, which specializes in charcuterie boards, deviled eggs, and a dark chocolate-bacon cheesecake you won’t want to miss.

tastingroomla.com; 812 3rd St, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-623-1935

Try Caribbean Cuisine At The Royal Onion

Once you’ve gotten your fix of Cajun food, head to this relaxed Caribbean eatery for a taste of Jamaican-inspired dishes, from jerk chicken tacos and oxtail to rasta pasta and more. The founders, Niesha and Corey Smith, make it their mission to transport their guests to the heart of the Caribbean through their  authentic cuisine. So, if you’re craving an island escape, this is the place to be.

royalonion.com; 1235 Texas Ave, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-704-0255

Where To Stay In Alexandria, Louisiana

Book A Room At The Historic Hotel Bentley

Built in 1908, this downtown hotel has historical luxury written all over it. The lobby is steeped in nostalgia, with soaring marble columns, intricate mosaic tile flooring, and a grand circular mural on the ceiling, while the 93 guest rooms offer comfortable beds and a blend of vintage charm with modern amenities. Enjoy lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch at The Bentley Room Dining, or unwind with a drink at the Mirror Room Tapas Lounge.

visithotelbentley.com; 200 Desoto St, Alexandria, LA 71301; 318-442-2226