Located in the upper western part of Louisiana, the city of Shreveport is one of the best places to find genuine Southern hospitality. Founded in 1836, the city was known for its role in the Louisiana oil industry. However, since the 1980s, the city has become more focused on culture and academics—Shreveport is the home of five universities and colleges!
In the past thirty years, Shreveport has become known for its up-and-coming universities, its art galleries, and its traditional southern cooking. In this guide, visitors to Shreveport will find all the best things to do and see, from the American Rose Center to the many museums in this area.
Travelers will fall in love with all the wildlife in this region of Louisiana. In a state filled with so many beautiful towns, travelers should definitely stop by Shreveport and see its many attractions!
UPDATE: 2023/07/03 09:09 EST BY BARRY JUMA
Things To Do In Shreveport: Complete Guide To A Sliver Of Heaven In The South
When in the upper western part of Louisiana, visitors shouldn’t restrict themselves to just one city like Shreveport, the fun is in exploring the environs. Destinations like Bossier City, Greenwood, Blanchard, and Barksdale, among others, are a short drive away, each one with attractions of its own. This update factors in these nearby towns, expanding the list of things to do in Shreveport to include sites like the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets, the Barksdale Global Power Museum, and Gators and Friends Adventure Park.
Things To Do In Shreveport
Shreveport skyline with river and green trees on a sunny day
In this list, readers will see the many amazing things to do in Shreveport, Louisiana. From museums to aquariums to natural parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.
1 Delve Into History At The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum
Louisiana State Exhibit Museum front view on a summer day
The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is a great choice for history buffs and those interested in Louisiana’s natural environment. There is a natural history section, a wing of scale dioramas about life in the 1940s, and a full collection of Louisiana Native American artifacts.
-
Hours:
Monday-Friday 9am-4pm, closed Saturday-Sunday -
Address:
3015 Greenwood Road, Shreveport, LA 71109 -
Admission:
Free -
What to do here:
See scale dioramas about life in the 1940s, exhibit on Native American history, natural history exhibit
2 Drop By The Shreveport Aquarium
young girl in a shark tunnel at Shreveport Aquarium
When traveling to Shreveport, one of the most magical experiences a traveler can have is to see the incredible biodiversity at the Shreveport Aquarium. Going to an aquarium can be not only a fun experience, but an educational one, too—there are so many cool facts about marine life for visitors to find out.
This particular aquarium includes 1,000 animals, so visitors will definitely see a diverse range of aquatic life. Visitors can even get up close and personal with some of these animals through the intertidal exhibit that lets tourists touch stingrays and sea anemones.
-
Hours:
Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm -
Address:
601 Clyde Fant Parkway, Shreveport, Louisiana 71101 -
Admission:
Children $12.95, Adults $15.95 -
What to do here:
See over 1,000 animals, enjoy the intertidal exhibit, enjoy the underwater tunnel
3 Stroll Through The Gardens Of The American Rose Center
View of one of the gardens at the American Rose Center on a summer day
Any visitor to Shreveport will say that one of the most beautiful places in the area is the American Rose Center. Although peak rose season is from April until October, the gardens are open to visitors all year round.
Not only does this location have an abundance of roses to see and smell, but they also have a playground for children.
-
Hours:
April 1 – October 3: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm, October 4 – March 31: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm -
Address:
8877 Jefferson Paige Rd, Shreveport, LA 71119 -
Admission:
$5 per person, $10 per family, children under 3 are free -
What to do here:
See gorgeous roses, explore the gardens, playground for children
4 Take A Tour Of Sci-Port Discover Center
Downtown Shreveport Skyline on a clear day with green trees
For travelers with children, one of the best things to do in Shreveport is the Sci-Port Discovery Center. One highlight of this museum is the Sawyer Space Dome Planetarium, where children can learn more about the universe in which humanity lives.
This museum will encourage people of all ages to think critically about the world around them and to never stop learning.
-
Hours:
Wednesday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm, closed Monday and Tuesday
-
Address:
820 Clyde Fant Parkway Shreveport, LA 71101 -
Admission:
$10 per person -
What to do here:
Enjoy the many exhibits, see the Sawyer Space Dome Planetarium, and learn about science in a fun way
5 Admire The Pieces At RW Norton Art Gallery
Shreveport Street on a clear day with green trees
For those looking for a taste of art in Shreveport, the RW Norton Art Gallery will not disappoint. As one of Shreveport’s key attractions, this gallery is home to more than 400 paintings. The museum even has a botanical garden for visitors to explore, which is especially beautiful in the spring!
-
Hours:
Museum: Monday-Wednesday closed, Thursday-Sunday 1pm-5pm, Botanical Gardens: Monday-Wednesday closed, Thursday-Sunday Sunrise-Sunset -
Address:
4747 Creswell Ave., Shreveport, Louisiana -
Admission:
Free -
What to do here:
explore the art museum that has over 400 paintings, walk through the botanical gardens, and enjoy artwork from all across history
6 Explore Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park
Park in Shreveport, Louisiana, on a winter day with a blue sky
When traveling to a state full of so much natural beauty, travelers to Louisiana should definitely check out the Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park. There are 160 acres of land for hikers to enjoy, and several different trails. The trails at this park are more leisurely—the longest trail is only 1.8 miles long.
While hiking, travelers should be on the lookout for some of Louisiana’s most unique—and possibly dangerous—creatures. These animals are great to see…just from a distance!
-
Hours:
Wednesday-Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm -
Address:
8012 Blanchard Furrh Rd. Shreveport, LA 71107 -
Admission:
Free -
What to do here:
hike the many trails, enjoy Louisiana’s natural environment, enjoy the sights and sounds of nature
7 Shop At The Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets
Located in Bossier City, Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets is a shopping haven that occupies a sprawling area, and it hosts a multitude of stores that feature both local and international brands. Found about a 5-minute drive from Shreveport, this is a shopper’s paradise with brands like Nike, Gap, and Banana Republic, among others.
In addition to shopping, visitors can savor a variety of cuisines at dining spots like Joe’s Crab Shack or Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro. There’s also a movie cinema to sweeten the experience.
-
Address
: 540 Boardwalk Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111, United States -
Hours
: Mon – Thu: 11 am – 8 pm; Fri & Sat: 11 am – 9 pm; Sun: 11 am – 7 pm
8 Learn About Aviation History At The Barksdale Global Power Museum
A view of the entrance to Barksdale Global Power Museum
The Barksdale Global Power Museum is a unique attraction in Shreveport, offering insights into the world of aviation history. This museum, located within Barksdale Air Force Base, is home to an extensive collection of aircraft and artifacts dating back to World War II.
Visitors can explore the exhibits, which include military aircraft, missiles, and engines, and learn about their significance in the evolution of aviation. The museum also offers guided tours that provide a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
-
Address
: 88 Shreveport Rd, Bossier City, LA 71112, United States -
Hours
: Mon – Fri: 9 am – 3 pm (closed on Sat & Sun) -
Cost
: Free
9 Catch A Performance At The Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
Exterior view of the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
The Shreveport Municipal Auditorium is a hub for performing arts in the city. This historic venue, known for its extraordinary acoustics, regularly hosts a variety of performances, from music concerts to theatrical shows.
Visitors can enjoy performances by popular artists or local community groups, creating a blend of cultural experiences. The auditorium’s 1920s Art Deco architecture is also a sight to behold. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate the performing arts and wish to experience the vibrant cultural scene of Shreveport.
-
Address
: 705 Grand Ave, Shreveport, LA 71101, United States
Show times and prices vary. Check the website to find out.
10 Visit The Animals At Gators and Friends Adventure Park
A street in downtown Shreveport, Louisiana
Gators and Friends Adventure Park is located just outside Shreveport, about a 25-minute drive away. The adventure park is home to a wide variety of animals, from alligators to kangaroos.
Visitors can view these animals in their natural habitats and learn about their behaviors and lifestyles. The park also offers exciting activities like zip-lining over the alligator swamp, making it a thrilling experience for both children and adults.
It’s a great place to spend a day, combining education and adventure in a unique setting.
-
Address
: 11441 US-80, Greenwood, LA 71033, United States -
Hours
: Wed – Sun: 10 am – 6 pm (closed on Mon & Tue) -
Cost
: $7.95 (Children 3-12), $9.95 (Youth and Adults 13-59), $8.95 (Seniors 60 and Older)
Feeding the animals, pony rides, and ziplining are charged separately. Season passes are also available.
11 Best Time To Go To Shreveport
Shreveport landscape with a sunrise in front of green trees
Located in the Ark-La-Tex region of the United States (the area where Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana intersect), Shreveport has a humid subtropical climate.
The area is known for its summer rain and thunderstorms, along with serious humidity in the summertime. Winter in Shreveport is usually chilly, but not exceedingly cold.
The best months to go to Shreveport are March and November.
Traveling to Shreveport in March is an ideal time because travelers will be able to enjoy warm temperatures without facing the hot and humid weather of the summer.
-
Month:
March -
Temperatures:
60s
Going to Shreveport in November is the ideal time to see the change of seasons. Peak leaf season is typically during mid-November in Louisiana.
-
Month:
November -
Temperatures:
50s
12 Best Ways To Get Around Shreveport
Shreveport has convenient public transportation, but there are alternative methods of getting around the city, too.
Public Transportation
Using public transportation in Shreveport is a great idea for those who want to see the many museums of this city. Public transportation was recently made completely free to the public, which is a great bonus.
Public transportation in Shreveport is completely free!
Rideshares
Rideshares in Shreveport are great for those who want to go to the city’s many natural parks on some days, while also wanting to use public transportation the majority of the time.
- Rideshares, like Uber, in Shreveport usually cost around $16-26 per ride, depending on time and location.
Rent a Car
When traveling to Shreveport, renting a car can be a great option, especially for those who are traveling with small children or who are traveling on business.
- Renting a car in Shreveport usually costs around $41 per day.
13 Where To Eat In Shreveport
No matter the meal, Shreveport has eats to satisfy every appetite.
Breakfast: Another Broken Egg Café
For a hearty American breakfast in Shreveport, travelers should look no further than Another Broken Egg Café. Here, travelers can get ready for their big day of sightseeing ahead with Louisiana favorites like chicken and waffles, bourbon pancakes, and shrimp and grits. They also serve traditional classics, like biscuits and gravy, omelets, and breakfast sandwiches.
-
Price:
$$ -
Address:
855 Pierremont Road, Suite 132 Shreveport, LA 71106 -
Hours:
Monday-Sunday 7am-2pm
Lunch: Marilynn’s Place
Louisiana is known for its unique southern gastronomic palette. Even though Shreveport isn’t located in the Cajun region of Louisiana, the famous Cajun cuisine is still readily available. For authentic Cajun food, a great choice would be Marilynn’s Place. Try entrées like Southern Louisiana red beans and rice, crawfish etouffee, and gumbo.
-
Price
: $$ -
Address:
4041 Fern Ave. Shreveport, LA 71105 -
Hours:
Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 9am-10pm, Sunday brunch 10am-2pm
Dinner: The Vintage
For dinner, one great place to try is The Vintage. This gourmet restaurant serves steaks, seafood, and chicken. The beef is proudly noted to be 100% raised in the United States. This location also has a great bar, as well, with a wine list that features wines from all over the world.
-
Price:
$$$ -
Address:
451 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101 -
Hours:
Wednesday 5:30pm-10pm, Thursday 5:30pm-10pm, Friday – Saturday 5:30pm-11pm, Sunday 5:30pm-10:00pm
Drinks: Bourbon Bar
One of the newest bars in Shreveport is Bourbon Bar, which just opened in 2020. While this location boasts over 70 bourbon options, they also serve other drinks, as well, such as craft beer, cocktails, and wines.
-
Price:
$$ -
Address:
8620 Youree Drive, Suite D Shreveport, LA 71115 -
Hours:
Monday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday-Saturday 2pm-2am, Sunday 11am-11pm
14 Where To Stay In Shreveport
Shreveport offers plenty of cozy accommodations for travelers, at a range of price points.
Budget Locations
Economy Inn & Suites Shreveport
Mid-Tier Price Locations
Holiday Inn Express Shreveport
Courtyard by Marriott Shreveport
Luxury Hotels
Hampton Inn & Suites Shreveport
Bed and Breakfasts
Fairfield Manor Bed and Breakfast
Only guests 15 years and older may stay here.
15 Tips To Know When Visiting Shreveport
Woman graduating from Louisiana State University at Shreveport
Shreveport is the third most populous city in the state of Louisiana, only beat by New Orleans and Baton Rouge. When traveling here, visitors should keep in mind the city’s rich history!
Shreveport is also known for its film industry. Many films have been shot in Shreveport, including the films Olympus Has Fallen, Battle: Los Angeles, and The Guardian. The city is even known locally as “Hollywood South.”
For a taste of southern hospitality in this Louisiana city, travelers should definitely check out one of their many bed and breakfast places, like Fairfield.
Visitors planning a trip for February or March should look forward to the Mardi Gras celebrations in the city. While the celebrations aren’t as big as those in other parts of Louisiana, the celebrations in Shreveport have their own unique charm.
16 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Shreveport, Louisiana
Panorama view of Downtown Shreveport on a cloudy day
The perfect day in Shreveport begins with a hearty American breakfast. After that, visitors should take a ride to the American Rose Center, where they can walk around the many serene gardens.
Afterward, a traditional Southern lunch is in order! Visitors should stop for some Louisiana specialties, like biscuits and gravy or red beans and rice.
Once their appetites are satiated, visitors can stop at the Shreveport Aquarium to see some beautiful marine life. They should be sure to enjoy the intertidal zone exhibit, where they can touch real stingrays and anemones.
Finally, travelers can finish the day with a US-raised steak and a gourmet wine at one of the many steakhouses in the area.
FAQ
Q: What is Shreveport known for?
Shreveport is known for its many attractions, like the American Rose Garden or the RW Norton Art Gallery, and for being the shooting location of many films.
Q: How far is Shreveport from Texas?
Shreveport is only 20 miles away from gorgeous small towns in Texas and only about 40 miles from Arkansas’ adventures.
Q: What is the coldest month in Shreveport?
The coldest month in Shreveport is usually January, with cold temperatures in the 30s. Travelers shouldn’t worry, though. Louisiana is very affordable and beautiful in the winter!
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
.jpg){kind=link}
