Couldn't wait to drive 4.5 hours for the Festival of Lights in Natchitoches! Got last minute reservations - told we just got the only spot left at the double. The other side was NEVER occupied while we were there... Now I know why!
Proximity to Front street was the only truth. Building is in poor shape. Not charmingly quirky as others have attested to- dirty, peeling paint, spiders, dead flies, musty smelling, and in sketchy, depressed neighborhood. Mattress is ancient and lumpy. Had to change my socks after walking on the floors. No greeting or specialty for opening holiday weekend, however Christmas tree was found decorated in a closet. No maid service, put out your own garbage, clean out the frig, lots of do this, don't do that.... or else an extra charge may be incurred. An up front cleaning fee imposed, yet property was not clean. I rent low income housing - this would never have passed any inspections for any of our tenants. Overpriced, underwhelmed, and feel totally taken advantage of. Could be a really great place if owner or manager would take the time to clean the fans, blinds and window sills, update the mattress and sofa with rips on the arm edges, get the paint out of the tub, and fix the kitchen cabinets. Empty curtain rods in bedroom give an unfinished look. Oh - and if you don't want people to burn candles, why leave a previously used one on the mantle? Oh - and don't forget the train that passes across the street at 3:30 am...
Finally - We had to wash our clothing and outerwear when we got home because it all smelled so dank after just two days!
Just to let possible visitors know - Almost every shop and restaurant is closed on Sunday- even on the opening weekend of Festival of Lights. Many of the shops closed on Saturday evening before the fireworks! And don't look for a breakfast spot - these are few and far between unless you want fast food joints or IHOP. Monday morning was just as desolate in the breakfast field. The best food we had was at Roma's on the other side of the bridge off of Kayser. Delicious Italian food and outstanding service.
My recommendation - stay at one of the bed and breakfasts on Second Street or Front Street or the Chateau St Denis if you want to enjoy yourself and sleep well.