The South is known for having its own special kind of charm, hence the term “Southern Hospitality.”
In fact, there’s one small town in Northwestern Louisiana that truly embodies the epitome of Southern hospitality.
When you visit this town, you’ll be greeted with a friendly smile and will surely find this community to be warm and welcoming.
Minden, Louisiana named the friendliest town in the South by Travel + Leisure
Travel + Leisure has dubbed Minden, Louisiana the “friendliest town in the South,” with its beautiful “lakes, bayous and charming antique shops.”
Minden is a Northwest Louisiana town that’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, with lakes and bayous perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking and hiking. There are also unique antique shops and boutiques that make for good shopping opportunities. Minden also has an interesting history, which can be explored at the Germantown Colony Museum and the Dorcheat Historical Museum.
Although, while the town has its attractions, locals and visitors alike agree that it’s the people that are the town’s best asset, and the city has even held the title of the “friendliest city in the South” since at least the ’80s, says Travel + Leisure.
Top 5 things in Minden that you can’t miss out on according to Travel + Leisure
Staying at at The Villas at Spanish Court, located near the edge of Minden’s historic downtown at 224 W Union St.
Exploring Dorcheat Bayou on a kayak rented from Dorcheat Bayou Rentals.
Ordering the crawfish cheese nachos at Seafood Empire LLC.
Shopping for locally-made products at Parish Design Co.
Grabbing a cup of coffee from Brick Street Coffee and going for a walk in the historic district.
Mural in Minden, La. on Thursday, May 13, 2021.
Best hotels and resorts in Minden according to Travel + Leisure
The Villas at Spanish Court: A collection of eight renovated rental units in downtown Minden, located at 224 W Union St., each equipped with a queen size bed, fully stocked kitchen, full bath, TV, high speed internet, outdoor patio and more.
Cottage on Fort: A cozy and artistic cottage, located at 519 Fort Ave., designed in the Mid-Century Modern style that will make your stay both welcoming and peaceful.
Fuller House Upper Room: A detached garage loft in the backyard of Minden’s historic Fuller-Polk House, located at 720 Main St., that’s full of character and personality.
Baird-Sanders House: A rentable historic home from 1917, located at 1103 Broadway St., that has a peaceful atmosphere and is within walking distance of Minden’s historic brick road found downtown.
Best things to do in Minden according to Travel + Leisure
Kayaking: Rent a kayak from Dorcheat Bayou Rentals or bring your own to explore Bayou Dorcheat, Caney Lake or Lake Bistineau.
Water Activities on and Around Caney Lake: Enjoy water sports, swimming or fishing in Caney Lake. Also, visitors can explore the scenic hiking trails in the surrounding woods.
Fishing: At various lakes, anglers can reel in bass, crappie or catfish. To increase your fishing odds, you can take a guided tour with Red River Guide Service.
Best shopping in Minden according to Travel + Leisure
Parish Design Co.: Local artisan market located at 727 Broadway St.
Hers Bridal: Bridal store located at 728 Main St.
A.J. Price Tire and Service Centers: Tire and automotive repair service shop located at 724 Main St.
Gray’s Jewelry: Jewelry store located at 709 Main St.
LaKait Boutique and Momma’s Little Corner: Shared storefront, located at 707 Main St., women’s clothing store.
Best restaurants in Minden according to Travel + Leisure
Seafood Empire LLC: Seafood restaurant located at 302 E Union St.
Under Dawgs Sports Grill: Sports bar located at 605 Main St.
Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery: Casual dining restaurant located at 801 Broadway St.
Neta’s Bar-B-Que: Barbecue joint located at 1433 Shreveport Rd.
Brick Street Coffee: Coffee shop located at 509 Main St.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@Gannett.com
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What’s the friendliest city in the South? This small Louisiana town