8 Most Charming Town Squares In Louisiana
Louisiana’s town squares are lively hubs of culture and history, each offering something special. From local festivals to timeless architecture, these spaces reflect the stories and traditions of their communities. Whether it’s the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival or a walk through West Monroe’s Antique Alley, there’s something for everyone to appreciate. This guide spotlights 8 remarkable town squares across Louisiana. Each destination features its own character, attractions, and reasons to visit. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these places stand out!
Natchitoches
Natchitoches, Louisiana’s oldest settlement, is filled with history and character. The downtown area, located along Cane River Lake, features brick streets lined with historic buildings. Here, you’ll find boutique shops, cozy cafes, and wrought-iron balconies reminiscent of New Orleans.
The Natchitoches Historic District is a National Historic Landmark with over 50 restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings. You can take it all in with a horse-drawn carriage ride from Cane River Carriage Company. Nearby, the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum showcase the area’s athletic and cultural heritage.
For a relaxing afternoon, visit Beau Jardin, a charming waterfront garden complete with waterfalls. Don’t forget to stop by Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant to try their award-winning meat pies—a local classic. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, the annual Christmas Festival of Lights is a must-see with parades, fireworks, and dazzling displays.
Breaux Bridge
At the heart of Cajun Country, Breaux Bridge is known as the "Crawfish Capital of the World." Its town square is a gathering place for food, music, and community events. The annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival transforms the area into a lively celebration filled with crawfish dishes, live music, and dancing.
Day-to-day, the square is home to a mix of Cajun restaurants, antique shops, and local treasures. Tante Marie's is a standout dining spot, and the Teche Center for the Arts hosts performances, exhibits, and workshops celebrating Cajun heritage. For a quieter moment, take a walk along the Bayou Teche as it winds its way through town. End your evening at La Poussiere, a local dance hall where you can enjoy authentic Cajun music and experience the region’s lively spirit firsthand.
Abbeville
Abbeville, located in Vermilion Parish, blends history and community spirit in its downtown square. It's happening Magdalen Square serves as the heart of the town, surrounded by oak trees, fountains, and historic buildings. It’s a great spot for relaxing or enjoying community events.
The square is home to landmarks like St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, which dates back to the 1800s and reflects the town’s deep-rooted traditions. The Vermilion Parish Courthouse nearby showcases classic Louisiana architecture and adds to the area’s character. Magdalen Square hosts seasonal farmers' markets, live music, and the annual Giant Omelette Festival every November. This unique event celebrates the town’s culinary traditions with food, entertainment, and a giant omelet cooked right in the square!
Covington
On the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Covington blends art, culture, and small-town charm. The town square is surrounded by boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, all connected by cobblestone paths and tree-lined streets. Art enthusiasts will love the St. Tammany Art Association, which showcases local works and hosts the annual Covington Art Market. For a glimpse into the past, visit the H.J. Smith’s Son General Store and Museum, where artifacts from the 1800s highlight the town’s rich history.
Outdoor activities like the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile trail starting in Covington, offer opportunities to enjoy nature. The square also comes alive with events like Rockin' the Rails, a free concert series that brings music and energy to the community. Oh, and don't miss the world's largest Ronald Reagan statue!
New Iberia
Set along Bayou Teche, New Iberia is a town rich in Spanish and French heritage. The Main Street Historic District features architecture that honors the area’s cultural roots, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll. A visit to Church Alley, known for its intricate "crochet ceiling," is not to be missed.
Nearby, the Shadows-on-the-Teche plantation home offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s antebellum history, surrounded by manicured gardens. Dive deeper into the town’s story at the Bayou Teche Museum, which highlights local traditions and influences. New Iberia shines during its festivals. The Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival, the World Championship Gumbo Cookoff, and a lively Mardi Gras celebration all bring the community together with music, food, and parades. Visiting during one of these events is sure to leave a lasting impression.
West Monroe
Located on the Ouachita River, West Monroe’s downtown area is a blend of history, antiques, and small-town warmth. Known as "Antique Alley," this district is a favorite destination for antique enthusiasts and boutique shoppers. The town square serves as the central hub, where people gather to take in the area’s relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Antique Alley features over 40 antique shops, along with specialty stores and eclectic boutiques filled with one-of-a-kind finds. Whether you’re searching for vintage treasures or distinctive gifts, this downtown spot is a go-to for collectors and shoppers alike. History buffs can also visit the nearby Biedenharn Museum and Gardens, where vintage Coca-Cola memorabilia and manicured gardens make for a memorable visit.
West Monroe’s downtown isn’t just for shopping—it’s a lively community space (especially when the University of Louisiana Monroe is in session). Grab a bite and listen to live music at Trapp’s on the River, or join in for annual events like Ouachita Live, the Ouachita RiverFest, and Christmas on the River. There’s always something going on to bring people together and celebrate the local culture.
St. Martinville
Set along Bayou Teche, St. Martinville is a small town with a deep connection to Louisiana’s French heritage. Its historic town square, shaded by sprawling oak trees, is a peaceful gathering place steeped in the stories of the past. This area is home to Evangeline Oak Park, a site tied to the famous Longfellow poem “Evangeline,” adding to its historical significance.
The square is surrounded by landmarks such as the St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church, one of the oldest in the region, showcasing incredible architecture and centuries of history. A short walk away, the Acadian Memorial and Museum highlights the rich traditions of the area’s French-speaking settlers, offering insight into their lasting impact on Louisiana’s identity.
St. Martinville celebrates its heritage through unique events like the Acadian Memorial Heritage Festival and the St. Martin Creole Farmers Market Chariot Parade. The parade, a beloved local tradition, invites children to craft decorative cardboard chariots and parade them through the square in a lively, family-friendly celebration.
Ponchatoula
In southeastern Louisiana, Ponchatoula is a town full of personality and local flavor. Its downtown square is home to restored shops, colorful murals, and a lively atmosphere. Known as the "Strawberry Capital of the World," Ponchatoula embraces this title with pride, hosting events that bring the community together.
The Ponchatoula Country Market, located in a historic train depot, is filled with handmade crafts, antiques, and local goods, making it a top attraction for shoppers. Nearby, the Collinswood Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s history, showcasing artifacts and memorabilia that tell its story. Art lovers will also appreciate Revival Art House, which features pieces by gifted local artists in a creative space.
For those looking to kick back and relax, The District serves up cocktails and comforting Louisiana-style cuisine. Springtime brings the beloved Strawberry Festival, which transforms the square into a lively celebration with music, food, and fun for the whole family. It’s a season that perfectly captures what Ponchatoula is all about.
That’s All, Folks!
Louisiana’s town squares reflect the heart and soul of the state, offering something special for everyone. Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets of Natchitoches via horse-drawn carriage or walking the Tammany Trace in Covington, Louisiana’s squares are more than just places to visit. They’re communities to experience, filled with stories, history, and a whole lot of heart. Come visit and create your own story today!
