Your Favorite Interstate Exits: I-49 in Louisiana & Missouri

Sign marking the Future corridor of Interstate 49 in Lafayette, Louisiana, USA. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Interstate 49 is divided into two sections at the present time. The older section, located in Louisiana, begins at Shreveport where it joins Interstate 20. I-49 travels on a diagonal southwest through Natchitoches and Alexandria and ends at Lafayette where it meets I-10. Attractions near this highway include the Antebellum homes near Natchitoches. Also to the south and southwest of the end of this interstate is the Bayou country which contains numerous national wildlife refuges and state parks.

The newer section of Interstate 49 was opened on 12/12/12 in Missouri. This segment, which links Kansas City, Harrisonville, Butler, Nevada, Joplin and Pineville, runs east of the Missouri/Kansas border in a north to south line. Future construction on this interstate is planned in Arkansas to join the two sections of I-49.

Please share with other drivers your experiences as to which exits are best for single travelers or anyone for that matter. Reasons for the choice may include the safety of the surrounding area, the availability of good hotels and restaurants or proximity to the interstate. Please make sure to give the exit number or a description of the location. For example, when I discuss I-40, I would recommend Exit 145 in Oklahoma City. Many hotels and restaurants were located at this exit and felt safe in the area. This exit was very convenient for easily continuing west without the hassle of dealing with early morning rush hour traffic.

Related articles

• The Watchdog | Why is it called Interstate 49?

• Quicker and safer, Interstate 49 becomes official (kansascity.com)