Things To Do
in DeRidder
DeRidder is a charming city located in western Louisiana, known for its small-town atmosphere and friendly community. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including picturesque forests and serene lakes perfect for outdoor activities. DeRidder has a rich history, with historic buildings and landmarks that offer a glimpse into its past.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy a variety of cultural events, local shops, and dining options in this welcoming Southern town.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Vernon Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline. Don’t forget to bring a picnic breakfast to savor in the serene surroundings.
Head to the DeRidder Cultural District to discover local shops and art galleries. Grab lunch at a nearby café that offers delicious Southern cuisine.
Wrap up your day at the Historic City Hall Theatre with a local performance or film screening. Enjoy dinner at one of the popular restaurants in town.
Get an early start with a hike at the nearby Kisatchie National Forest, where you can experience the stunning landscapes of Louisiana. Bring your water and camera to capture the scenic views.
Have a packed lunch during your hike or visit a local diner afterwards for a hearty meal. Explore some of the forest trails that cater to various skill levels.
Return to DeRidder and spend a relaxing evening at one of the local parks. Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities, including parks and lakes.
- Rich cultural history and local festivals.
- Low crime rates, contributing to a safer environment.
- Limited job opportunities in some industries.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable.
- Limited access to higher education institutions nearby.
Best Activities in DeRidder
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and diverse ecosystems of Kisatchie National Forest, which offers numerous hiking routes suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing at Anacoco Lake, where you can catch a variety of fish species while surrounded by scenic views.
Spend the night under the stars at DeRidder City Park, which provides camping facilities along with picnic areas and recreational activities.
Bike along the Sabine River Trail for a refreshing outdoor experience, featuring beautiful views of the river and wooded areas.
Visit the nearby Lake Charles Birding Trail for an opportunity to observe various bird species in their natural habitat.
Tours
Uncover the best of DeRidder with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in DeRidder
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene lake surrounded by nature, ideal for sunset photography and peaceful landscapes.
Featuring beautiful historic buildings, this area offers excellent opportunities for architectural photography.
An eye-catching structure known for its unique architecture, perfect for capturing creative shots.
A spacious park with open green areas, great for landscape photography and capturing local wildlife.
While primarily a military installation, areas surrounding the fort provide interesting scenery and unique landscapes.
Food in DeRidder
DeRidder Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Creole dish featuring a rich and flavorful stew with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, crawfish, andouille sausage, and okra. Best enjoyed at local restaurants such as Ronnie's Boudin & Cracklin or Pat's of DeRidder.
Must-Try!
A beloved local sausage dish made with a blend of pork, rice, and Cajun seasoning. Be sure to visit LeJeune's Boudin & Cracklin for an authentic taste of this regional specialty.
A Southern favorite, fried catfish ensures a crispy outer layer and tender, flaky fish inside. Head to The Crawfish House or Time Out for this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know DeRidder better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of fresh local produce, homemade goods, and snacks. Visitors can sample delicious street food such as crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and beignets.
This monthly event showcases a wide array of vendors selling crafts, antiques, and food. It's a great opportunity to savor local street food favorites like Cajun-spiced boiled peanuts and sweet potato pie.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In DeRidder, a friendly greeting is customary. A simple 'hello' or 'how are you?' is appreciated. It's common to greet people with a warm smile, and shaking hands is a standard practice when meeting someone new.
When dining out or invited to someone's home, it's respectful to wait for the host to begin the meal. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential, and it's customary to compliment the food if you enjoyed it.
DeRidder has a rich cultural background, and showing respect for local traditions and customs is important. Participating in community events and honoring local heritage can foster goodwill and mutual respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of DeRidder with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in DeRidder
Ensure a smooth experience
In DeRidder, Louisiana, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, particularly in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hair salons. The standard tip amount ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service provided. Tipping is seen as a way to reward service staff for their efforts, and employees in these sectors often rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.
Payment practices in DeRidder typically involve a mix of cash and electronic transactions. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options are becoming increasingly popular. Local businesses may also prefer cash transactions due to lower fees associated with electronic payments. Additionally, some services may have specific payment policies, such as requiring a deposit for reservations or service appointments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit DeRidder. The weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s°F. Expect blooming flowers and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting local parks.
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. This is the peak season for outdoor events, festivals, and swimming. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall (September to November) offers mild temperatures, ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the scenic views as the leaves change colors. Festivals celebrating the harvest are common during this season.
Winter (December to February) is generally mild, with temperatures averaging in the 40s to low 60s°F. While snow is rare, occasional cold snaps can occur. This season offers a quieter time to explore the area, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
DeRidder at Night
Hiking in DeRidder
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national forest offering numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife.
A popular trail located near DeRidder, perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Located slightly further away, this forest offers beautiful hiking trails and recreational opportunities.
Various trails available within the Fort Polk military reservation, offering a unique hiking experience.
Features trails around the lake for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenery.
Aiports
How to reach DeRidder by plane.
Located approximately 43 miles south of DeRidder, this airport serves the Lake Charles area with regional and some international flights.
Situated about 61 miles west of DeRidder, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located around 90 miles east of DeRidder, this is the main airport serving Baton Rouge with a variety of domestic and a few international flights.
Approximately 120 miles southeast of DeRidder, this major airport serves the New Orleans area with extensive domestic and international flight options.
About 120 miles north of DeRidder, this airport serves the Shreveport area with domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white population, representing a significant majority in the area.
A sizable African American community, contributing to the cultural diversity of DeRidder.
Includes individuals from various Hispanic backgrounds, adding to the multicultural fabric of the community.
Smaller population of Asian descent, including individuals from various nationalities.
This category includes Native American, Pacific Islander, and individuals identifying with two or more races, representing a minority in the demographic landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in DeRidder, with local high school teams and community leagues fostering strong fan support.
Basketball is a significant part of the local culture, with various youth leagues and high school competitions attracting many participants.
Baseball enjoys popularity in DeRidder, with local teams and youth leagues providing recreational opportunities for players of all ages.
Soccer has been growing in popularity in DeRidder, with increasing participation in youth leagues and community events.
Softball is a favored sport in DeRidder, particularly among women’s leagues and recreational teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting DeRidder.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While DeRidder's cuisine is heavily influenced by meat and seafood, cafes like The Cottage and Cady's offer vegetarian-friendly dishes such as salads, sandwiches, and sides. For vegan options, visitors can find custom plant-based dishes at these establishments.
Several restaurants in DeRidder are accommodating to gluten-free diets, providing menu items like grilled seafood, fresh salads, and rice-based dishes. It's advisable for individuals with gluten restrictions to inquire with the staff to ensure a suitable dining experience.