The Alexandria center is approximately the area of Alexandria Art Museum and the area of Randolph Riverfront Center.
Typical of Louisiana, Alexandria is hot and humid during the late spring through early fall. The late fall and early spring are a beautiful time to visit Alexandria when the temperature is milder. With its site right in the center of the state, you will see some freezing temperatures during the winter although it's much milder than northern states. Thunderstorms occur all year, but visitors to Alexandria don't have to worry about hurricane season as much as they would if they were in one of Louisiana's coastal cities.
Avoid the crowds and high prices of New Orleans and head to Alexandria for the spring to enjoy the many festivals during this time of the year. Summer is also a fun time to visit Alexandria. There is plenty to do inside and out during the summer, including heading to the zoo or visiting one of the casinos. Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Louisiana, so there will be something for you and your family to do all year. When there are events, hotels book fast, so don't hesitate to book a room if you're considering a trip to The Pelican State.
For a hotel that accepts AAA, Military, and Senior Citizen discounts, try the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Alexandria. Start your day right when the complimentary hot breakfast with omelets and cinnamon rolls. Every room also offers coffee and tea makers with 100 percent Arabica Smart Roast Coffee. Free internet is also available throughout the hotel. Enjoy the putting green on the premises or take a dip in the outdoor pool. If you're traveling for work, you will appreciate the fax and photocopy services.
The Comfort Inn Alexandria Bolton Avenue also honors discounts, including group discounts. This property is equipped with a fitness center and an outdoor pool. With its prime location near the Kent Plantation House and the Alexandria Art Museum, it places you near the local sites. The Comfort Inn also offers a complimentary hot breakfast for its guests to enjoy.
You may also want to consider a stay at the Candlewood Suites to take advantage of discounts. This hotel is geared toward extended stay travelers, but it also comfortably accommodates short-term stays as well. Each room offers a kitchenette with stove top burners, a refrigerator, and microwave. Stop by the lending locker to snag a book, board game, or movie to enjoy during your stay. Health-conscious guests can also take advantage of the fitness and health center.
If you want to get the most out of your money, America's Best Value Inn lives up to its name. This hotel provides complimentary microwaves and refrigerators in every room. Start your day by brewing your coffee or tea in your room or head down to the enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast. Free internet is available throughout the hotel. Guests can enjoy the miniature golf course, racquetball and squash, and the on-site picnic area as well.
The Baymont Inn & Suites also offers plenty of value for your money. This hotel, located near Kisatchie National Forest, offers guests coffee and tea makers in every room along with refrigerators. There is an outdoor pool available for guests to enjoy, and a fitness center for those who want to stay active during their trip. If you're traveling for business, the hotel has dry cleaning services, a 24-hour business center, and ample conference space and meeting rooms.
Although Alexandria is not as famous as New Orleans, it's popular in its own right. If you are an outdoorsy type, head to Kisatchie National Forest to enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping. If you're brave, you can also visit one of three bat caves in the forest. Enjoy the longest hike in Louisiana near Alexandria; the Wild Azalia Trail measures 31 miles long. If you love to fish, you have countless places to drop your line. Bird watching is also a favorite pastime for those in the area.
If you love to shop, you can get your fill in Alexandria as well. Alexandria/Pineville boasts over 50 shops, so whether you're stocking up on your summer wardrobe or looking for souvenirs for friends and family, you can find it. Many of the local attractions also offer gift shops so you can pick up something to remember your trip. For those who enjoy the arts, check out one of the many museums, galleries, and venues in the area. Try out Red Door Art or Bayou Ceramics if you're feeling particularly creative.
Everyone knows about Mardi Gras, but that's not the only festival worth visiting during your stay in Louisiana. In June check out Cenla Pride, a celebration of diversity. In October, Funktoberfest is a fun festival to experience. The Rapides Parish Fair is also something to experience in October. Late October also hosts the Zombie Walk in Alexandria. In May, the Littler Walter Music Festival takes over. Of course, in February, Mardi Gras takes over, and Alexandria throws an impressive festival.
Alexandrian is a Southern gem. Why not explore it?
Below are reviews of the city of Alexandria, LA from an actual visitor's perspective.
Very friendly and clean!
FOOD
I have always liked Alexandria. I was stationed there with the air force from 1972 to 1974.
Great baseball parks!
Bayou Haven wedding venue was awesome!
It's a nice, quaint town.
Nice area!
Do not miss eating at Swamp Daddys! That stuffed baked potato is awesome! Go to “The Peach Cobbler” for dessert!! It is amazing ! These two places made our trip even more enjoyable.
Fun and Organized!
Central to the state.
We broke our journey at Alexandra. We were going to Texas from NW of Atlanta, GA, for Thanksgiving. We didn't see much of Alexandria but enjoyed our one night stay.
Tood the Kent House Plantation Tour and visited Fort Randolph.
Easy and convenient to get around.
The staff was awesome and professional! They made my stay!
Plenty of restaurants and fast food!
The hotel is close to everything: the zoo, food and lots of museums!
MacArthur Street had everything we needed for our three day weekend, from gas to food and incidentals!
The staff was excellent! The room was clean, and the beds are very comfortable.ST Francis Cabrini hospital ICU staff have been excellent.
Right off Highway I-49 just north of Alexandria at the airport.
There were so many restaurants to choose from!
Everything was good!!!
Lots of restaurants from which to choose near the hotel.
The proximity of the hotel to my meeting venue was excellent. The two places that we ate for lunch both days (Southern Creations and PoBoy Express) had delicious food and fast service.
I visit Alexandria often and the local merchants are a joy to shop with on all of my visits. It's like home away from home!
Loved it!
Loved it!
Restaurant options. Easy travel around town.
Very clean