Episode 202: Christmas Magic and History in Natchitoches, Louisiana with Paige Alost

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, we continue our Christmas in the U.S. series with a visit to Natchitoches, Louisiana (pronounced Nack-a-tish). Known as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches blends French and Creole heritage, small-town charm, and one of America’s most beloved holiday traditions—the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, now in its 99th year.

Rob and Traci sit down with Paige Alost, Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau, to uncover the rich history, cultural diversity, and holiday magic that make this town a must-visit destination. From historic architecture and Creole cuisine to Mardi Gras parades, Steel Magnolias filming locations, and the famous Natchitoches meat pie, this episode is full of inspiration for families looking to create unforgettable holiday memories.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The fascinating history of Natchitoches as the oldest city in Louisiana (even older than New Orleans!)
• How the town’s French, Spanish, Creole, and Native American influences come alive for visitors
• Why the Natchitoches Christmas Festival is one of the most magical holiday events in the U.S.
• The best times to visit during the six-week holiday season
• Unique year-round family attractions, from historic forts to Dark Woods Adventure Park
• Where to taste the town’s signature dish—the Natchitoches meat pie
• How to explore Steel Magnolias filming locations (and even stay in the famous house)
• A perfect 48-hour itinerary for families visiting Natchitoches

About Our Guest

Paige Alost is the Director of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau. She is passionate about sharing the history, culture, and hospitality of Louisiana’s oldest city with visitors from near and far. Learn more and plan your trip at Natchitoches.com.

Resources & Links

• Plan your trip: Natchitoches.com
• Follow Visit Natchitoches on Facebook
• Connect with The Family Vacationer on Instagram and Substack

Don’t Miss

Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, releases this December! Packed with stories, strategies, and tips, it’s designed to help families make the most of every trip together.

Episode 201: Christmas in Red Lodge, Montana

Looking for a holiday getaway that feels straight out of a postcard? This week on The Family Vacationer, we’re taking you to Red Lodge, Montana, a small-town winter wonderland where Christmas magic comes alive.

Red Lodge, once a bustling coal-mining town in the 1800s, is now best known as the gateway to the Beartooth Highway. But come December, it transforms into a festive haven filled with twinkling lights, family traditions, and a community spirit that makes the holidays unforgettable.

Joining us is Sherry Weimer, director of the Red Lodge Chamber of Commerce, who shares why families should plan a Christmas trip to this hidden gem.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The Red Lodge Christmas Stroll — a Hallmark-worthy tradition with parades, fire pits, caroling, and Santa’s grand entrance.
• Family-friendly winter fun at Red Lodge Mountain, from skiing to skating in the town park.
• The best cozy stops for cocoa, pastries, and kid-approved treats (don’t miss the monster ice cream sandwich!).
• How local shops and restaurants keep the holiday spirit alive with decorated windows, late-night shopping, and tasty surprises.
• Unique Red Lodge holiday experiences, like Santa skiing on Christmas Day.
• Where to stay — from historic hotels to mom-and-pop motels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs.
• Insider tips for planning your family’s first Christmas trip to Red Lodge.

If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Christmas in a storybook setting, Red Lodge might just be the perfect destination for your family.

Plan your trip: redlodge.com

Don’t forget — we’ll be circling back to our special Episode 200 in December!

Plus, stay tuned for details on Rob’s upcoming book, The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel, coming soon.

Episode 199: The Best Family Thanksgiving Getaways in the U.S.

Hosts: Rob & Traci

Release Date: November 2025

When you think Thanksgiving, you probably picture turkey, football, and the Macy’s Parade—but what if your family celebrated somewhere new?

In Episode 199, Rob and Traci explore America’s best Thanksgiving destinations—from mountain towns and colonial villages to rivers lined with glowing holiday lights. Whether you want cozy, coastal, or full-on festive, this episode is stuffed with ideas for a holiday you’ll truly be thankful for (and yes, the dad jokes are fully baked).

🗺 Top Thanksgiving Destinations

Plymouth, Massachusetts – Where it all began! Enjoy parades, concerts, and a hands-on history experience at the Plymouth Patuxet Museums, complete with a traditional feast served 17th-century style.

Asheville, North Carolina – The Biltmore Estate sparkles with lights and decorations by Thanksgiving. Add Blue Ridge hikes and farm-to-table dining for the ultimate mountain holiday.

Williamsburg, Virginia – Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg. Dine in historic taverns by candlelight, then head to Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town for lights and thrills.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee – Cozy cabins, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, and mountain views for miles. Feast first, hike later!

San Antonio, Texas – Celebrate along the River Walk under glowing lights. Try Tex-Mex twists on the holiday meal—like turkey enchiladas—and don’t miss the Ford Holiday River Parade.

Santa Fe, New Mexico – Classic Thanksgiving meets Southwestern flair with green chile mashed potatoes and pumpkin empanadas. Explore art markets, museums, and the historic plaza.

Charleston, South Carolina – History, charm, and Southern cooking at its best. Feast on sweet potato pie and stroll the Battery afterward for “gravy steps.”

Mackinac Island, Michigan – No cars, just peace. Arrive by ferry, enjoy quiet island charm, and dine at historic inns before winter sets in.

Lake Tahoe, CA/NV – Ski if it’s snowing, hike if it’s not. Resorts serve full Thanksgiving dinners—perfect for families who love adventure and cozy evenings.

Branson, Missouri – Silver Dollar City’s Christmas lights, live holiday shows, and hearty meals make Branson a cheerful, family-friendly choice.

Bonus Picks: Stowe (VT) for a snowy New England vibe, Lancaster County (PA) for a slower pace, and St. Augustine (FL) for warm-weather lights.

✨ Thanksgiving Travel Tips

• Book early—popular spots fill fast.
• Leave early if you’re driving.
• Let someone else cook. Restaurant feasts taste better when you’re not washing dishes!
• Kids won’t remember perfect stuffing—they’ll remember the laughter and stories.

💬 Favorite Quotes

“Kids won’t remember if the stuffing was perfect. They’ll remember the trip, the laughter, and the stories.” — Rob

“It’s Thanksgiving and a mountain retreat all in one—just watch out for bears. They’re not great at sharing dessert.” — Traci

📚 Announcements

🎉 Rob’s New Book: The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel releases Nov. 11, 2025 — filled with stories and tips for travel that connects. Pre-orders open soon!

🎙 Episode 200 Live in Orlando!

Join Rob & Traci at Caribe Royale, Dec. 13–15, 2025, for a live recording of The Family Vacationer’s 200th episode!

🌍 Connect

Instagram & Facebook: @TheFamilyVacationer

Website: thefamilyvacationer.live

Email: thefamilyvacationerpodcast@gmail.com