Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Shreveport, Louisiana

The city of Shreveport is situated along the vibrant Red River and offers an array of activities for those seeking adventure. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are abundant recreational opportunities including parks, zoos, and the largest rose garden in the United States. If indoor activities are more to your liking, there are numerous museums and art galleries to explore. Families will find plentiful entertainment options, including venues suitable for children, such as trampoline parks. As night falls, Shreveport’s lively nightlife reveals an impressive selection of southern dining and live music venues.

Let us delve into the premier attractions in Shreveport:

1. Call to Action Mural

Conveniently located at the intersection of Spring and Crockett Streets is the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

The bureau is renowned for its vibrant mural entitled ‘A Call to Action’, which features painted scenes that narrate the story of Shreveport.

This mural not only showcases artistic lighting features but also serves to promote local events as well as dining and entertainment options.

2. American Rose Center

Visitors to Shreveport may be unaware that the largest rose park in the United States is located at the American Rose Center.

The park encompasses an impressive 118 acres, showcasing up to 20,000 individual rosebushes.

In addition to these stunning blooms, visitors can also appreciate other botanical elements including sculptures and charming fountains.

3. Holiday in Dixie

If your visit to Shreveport occurs during the spring, do not miss Holiday in Dixie, one of the oldest and most significant festivals in the Southern region.

The festival serves to usher in the spring season as well as commemorate the historic Louisiana Purchase, a land transaction between the United States and France that took place in 1803. Holiday in Dixie spans 10 days and features a carnival and a colorful parade.

Additionally, there are enjoyable activities including a treasure hunt and live music events, complemented by family-friendly games and competitions.

4. Davis Homeplace

The Davis Homeplace, constructed in 1916, has been meticulously restored to provide a remarkable glimpse into historical living in Louisiana.

This historic residence is adorned with original furniture belonging to the Davis family and features period artifacts such as oil lamps, transoms, and pocket doors.

Prior arrangement for a guided tour with a docent is recommended.

5. Betty Virginia Park

Betty Virginia Park stands out as one of Shreveport’s premier green spaces, encompassing 23 acres of verdant landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy scenic picnic areas for leisurely lunches, or explore a walking trail that encircles the park for those seeking exercise.

Younger guests will be thrilled to discover playgrounds as well as softball and baseball diamonds, which might host an all-American game.

6. Air U Trampoline Park

Air U Trampoline Park offers enjoyable activities suitable for the entire family and presents an excellent indoor option for inclement weather in Shreveport.

This indoor trampoline facility features a variety of entertaining activities, including foam pits designed for safe bouncing experiences.

Open jump sessions enable visitors to engage freely, alongside organized group activities such as dodgeball games played on trampolines.

7. Elvis Presley Statue

Visitors may be surprised to encounter a statue of Elvis Presley in Shreveport; however, this monument commemorates his performance during the renowned Louisiana Hayride in October 1954.

The bronze statue is positioned in front of the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium to honor this historic performance.

8. Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport

The Eldorado Resort Casino Shreveport offers visitors a unique opportunity to engage in gaming activities while exploring the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

The casino boasts a 30,000 square foot gaming floor containing numerous table games, as well as over 1,500 slot and video poker machines available for play.

Additionally, the casino features dining options and live entertainment events throughout its premises.

9. Statue of Ledbetter

While in the downtown area of Shreveport, be sure to visit the statue of Huddie Ledbetter, widely known as Lead Belly.

Originally from Mooringsport, Louisiana, Huddie Ledbetter was an exceptionally talented musician whose influence resonates with contemporary artists.

His musicianship included instruments such as the guitar, mandolin, piano, and accordion, leaving a lasting impact on various music genres.

10. J. Bennett Johnston Waterway Regional Visitor Center

The J. Bennett Johnston Waterway Regional Visitor Center is dedicated to narrating the history of the Red River in Louisiana, taking visitors on a journey from its historical significance to its present-day context.

The center’s mission is to educate audiences on the river’s transformation for safe navigation and recreational use. It features over 8,000 square feet of exhibit space, including a theater and various static and rotating exhibits.

Guided tours with knowledgeable docents are also available to enhance the experience.

11. Holy Trinity Catholic Church

Holy Trinity Catholic Church holds the distinction of being the oldest church in Shreveport.

Designed in a Romanesque architectural style, the church features a noteworthy altar crafted entirely from Italian marble.

This structure resembles a European cathedral rather than a typical southern U.S. church, renowned for its exquisite stained glass windows.

With over 60 window panes adorned with beautiful motifs, the church is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Shreveport.

12. Barksdale Global Power Museum

Barksdale Global Power Museum, part of Barksdale Air Force Base, aims to preserve the history of those who have served in the U.S. Air Force.

Exhibits within the museum chronicle the rich heritage of the Air Force, showcasing aircraft and a variety of historical memorabilia.

Additionally, visitors can explore antique Air Force artwork and a gift shop offering souvenirs.

13. Jubilee Zoo

For animal lovers or families visiting Shreveport, Jubilee Zoo provides an excellent day out.

The facility contains a petting zoo where children can feed animals, along with interactive exhibits allowing close encounters with wildlife.

Carousel pony rides and safari rides enhance the experience, enabling comfortable exploration of the zoo.

After touring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy inflatable attractions such as a bouncy castle and playgrounds for children.

14. Logan Mansion

For a taste of Shreveport’s eerie history, visit Logan Mansion, which dates back to 1897. This Victorian-style home is reputed to be haunted.

Guided tours led by friendly and knowledgeable locals unveil ghost stories tied to the mansion.

Special holiday tours, particularly around Halloween and Christmas, offer unique experiences for those who enjoy the supernatural.

15. Louisiana State Exhibit Museum

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, which opened in 1939, is renowned for its displays about the Caddo Indians who inhabited the region.

Exhibits feature local historical artifacts, frescoes, and a historical dugout canoe.

The museum also showcases over 20 dioramas that depict the history of the state of Louisiana.

Notably, the building itself is celebrated as an architectural gem, constructed in a circular modern style that was groundbreaking for its time in the 1930s.