It's not much of a gamble to bet that paying a visit to Marksville will net you some sort of gain, whether memories of swamp tours, an education in (relatively) ancient history or winnings at the slick casino. Located in the rural region southeast of Alexandria, Marksville, with a population pushing past 11,000, isn't overwhelming in size, but in terms of big bayou sights, merits a stop-over for a day or two (but not long enough to sink your travel budget at the slots).
Start out your visit with an educational trip through the Tunica-Biloxi Indian Museum and the Marksville State Historic Site to learn more about Native Americans in the deep south. Fort De Russy, an important Civil War stronghold, is about three miles north of town, offering a glimpse of bygone battles.
Golfers can enjoy an afternoon on the green with a round at Tamahka Trails Golf Course, while nature enthusiasts can get away from it all in the Spring Bayou Wildlife Management Area, with boating, fishing and hunting opportunities. Take a swamp tour for a chance at snapping a round off (with your camera of course), watching for eagles, alligators, and other kinds of indigenous wildlife.
Historic railroad town, Bunkie, is only a short drive away, boasting a veritable treasure trove of antiques on sale and charming little shops downtown. Check out works by local artists on display in Bunkie's galleries and get more on old locomotives at the Bunkie Depot Museum.
Marksville is 18 miles northeast of Bunkie and 30 miles south of Alexandria.
