Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Alexandria, LA

As a prominent center for culture, education, and commerce in Central Louisiana, Alexandria merges numerous elements that individuals typically associate with the southern regions of the state.

This includes a vibrant Mardi Gras tradition, featuring over 20 krewes parading through the city the Sunday preceding Fat Tuesday.

The city is situated across the Red River from its smaller counterpart, Pineville, and offers a pathway along the levee, along with abundant recreational opportunities in a broader landscape of bayous and lakes.

Alexandria boasts a lively arts district downtown, hosting various events throughout the year. The city is also home to a collection of high-caliber museums, a renowned zoo, and multiple large venues suitable for conventions, concerts, and more.

1. Kent Plantation House

The Kent Plantation House presents a window into pre-Civil War life in Central Louisiana, reflecting its complexity and historical significance.

Constructed around 1796 by individuals enslaved by Creole settler Pierre Baillio II, this remains the oldest extant structure in the region.

An exemplary illustration of French Colonial architecture, the house rests on the original land grant from the King of Spain to its proprietor. The property has undergone several transformations over the years, ultimately being restored and established as a museum in the 1970s.

Artifacts within the house illustrate the lifestyle of a prosperous Creole family and the enslaved individuals who contributed to this existence.

During a guided tour, one can observe that much of the construction utilizes local materials, from the clay in the underlying brick piers to the cypress in the beams and the deer and mud employed for the walls. Outbuildings encompass a milk house, blacksmith shop, kitchen, and slave quarters.

2. Alexandria Museum of Art

Located opposite City Hall in the downtown area, Alexandria’s esteemed art museum was established in 1977. The museum’s permanent collection highlights modern and contemporary art from Louisiana, the Southern United States, as well as artists influenced by the region.

This is an excellent destination for curated selections from this rich collection, along with traveling exhibitions worldwide and solo showcases for regional contemporary artists.

The Alexandria Museum of Art actively engages with the community through diverse programming, including camps, classes for various age groups, a teen art club, free admission on the second Saturday of each month, major annual events, and an array of other activities.

The museum is housed in the Renaissance Revival structure of the former Rapides Bank and Trust Company Building (1898), which borders the levee.

3. Alexandria Zoological Park

A premier zoo in Central Louisiana, Alexandria Zoological Park has been operational in various forms for over a century, focusing on conservation as a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). It actively participates in around 20 Species Survival Plans.

Set within a picturesque wooded setting of cypresses, oaks, and bamboo, the park is home to approximately 160 species.

Exhibits include the Louisiana Habitat, showcasing some of the state’s indigenous species such as American alligators and red wolves, the Latin American-themed Land of the Jaguar, the Australian Walkabout, and the African Experience, featuring an impressive lion habitat complete with a 17-foot waterfall.

Regular keeper talks offer additional insights into the animals’ lives, while children are sure to enjoy the train named Bayou Le Zoo Choo Choo, which departs throughout the day.

4. Louisiana History Museum

Another notable museum located downtown is dedicated to exploring Louisiana’s history, with a particular focus on Central Louisiana and Rapides Parish.

Housed in the former Alexandria Library Building, constructed in the Beaux Arts style in 1907 and recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, the museum boasts one of the state’s largest and most critical historical collections.

What began with a few display cases on the upper floor of the Alexandria Genealogical Library has grown to encompass over 50 displays and exhibits on the ground floor.

The collections provide insights into the history of Native Americans in Louisiana, the state’s Spanish and French colonial periods, the American Revolution, the Civil War, the WWI Camp Beauregard installation, significant politicians from Central Louisiana, and much more.

5. Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site

Pineville’s Pierson Lake is steeped in compelling Civil War history, featuring remnants of two Confederate earthwork fortifications erected in October 1864.

Built by 1,500 soldiers, civilian workers, and an additional 500 enslaved African Americans, Forts Randolph and Buhlow were constructed to deter further advances by Union General Nathaniel P. Banks after his expedition in the summer of 1864.

Although the anticipated assault never materialized, and no engagement occurred at this location, the state historic site preserves the remnants of the earthworks, alongside a visitor center, interpretive trails, an observation point overlooking the Red River, and an elevated boardwalk.

The remains of Bailey’s Dam, a makeshift timber dam renowned as a wartime engineering feat constructed in mere days in April and May 1864, can also be observed here.

This endeavor, orchestrated by Union Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Bailey, aimed to elevate the Red River’s level to enable Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter’s Mississippi River Squadron to navigate through treacherous waters, and it was subsequently breached to allow the vessels in its reservoir to advance downstream.

6. Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center

A prominent feature within the Cultural Arts District of downtown Alexandria, this proscenium arch theater is managed by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana.

Officially opened to the public in 2004, this modern venue is constructed on the site of the former Wellan’s Department Store. The state-of-the-art theater accommodates up to 615 individuals, ensuring fine views from every seat.

The center offers a rich and diverse lineup of programming, featuring performances from the Rapides Symphony Orchestra, visiting classical ensembles, plays, musicals, dance exhibitions, and much more.

7. Alexandria Levee Park

The park features a paved path along the entirety of downtown Alexandria’s riverfront, starting in the north near the Rapides Regional Medical Center.

This is an inviting location for relaxation by the Red River, equipped with shelter, grills, over 20 picnic tables, a playground, a three-lane boat launch, a wharf, and a scenic overlook to appreciate the river.

The Alexandria Riverfront Amphitheater is also located here, making it a popular venue for outdoor events, particularly fireworks displays.

The trail proceeds southward, traversing the grassy wooded riverbank, beneath the Gillis William Long Bridge before veering inland at the Pineville area under U.S. Route 167.

8. Lake Buhlow

Situated north of the state historic site, this manmade lake was developed in 1956 and spans over 280 acres. Partly constructed on former pasture land that previously served the Central Louisiana State Hospital’s dairy, Lake Buhlow offers picturesque scenery.

If you prefer a serene atmosphere, sunsets from the eastern and southern shores near the public boat ramp are particularly stunning. The lake is a popular fishing location, with abundant populations of largemouth bass, white crappie, and black crappie available both from the banks and by boat.

Additionally, it is a hotspot for water sports, holding a history of outboard speed records that has earned it the title of “Fastest Lake in the USA.”

Perhaps the year’s most significant event occurs in early May when the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races take place. This fundraiser for the Alexandria Museum of Art attracts teams from across the state to compete.

9. Randolph Riverfront Center

Positioned on the levee adjacent to the Gillis William Long Bridge, this center is Central Louisiana’s premier convention and meeting facility, proving to be a vital resource for Alexandria.

The Main Exhibit Hall at the Randolph Riverfront Center can accommodate 2,600 attendees, hosting an extensive array of events throughout the region.

Such events may include trade shows, conventions, dog shows, markets, sports competitions, concerts, festivals, traveling exhibitions, and graduation ceremonies. Despite its central downtown location, free parking is readily available.

10. Rapides Parish Coliseum

Completed in 1965, this arena located along Louisiana Highway 28 in the western part of Alexandria underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2017.

This revitalization rejuvenated a facility that was becoming dated, introducing a striking new lobby, expanding seating capacity, and enhancing all amenities within the Coliseum.

The Rapides Parish Coliseum showcases an impressive dome, and serves as the premier venue in the region for arena events, ranging from WWE shows to circus performances and concerts by notable artists.

The list of prominent personalities and performers who have graced the arena is extensive, featuring figures such as President Ronald Reagan, Martin Luther King Jr., Elvis Presley, and Willie Nelson.

11. River Oaks Square Arts Center

The River Oaks Square Arts Center reinforces downtown Alexandria’s role as a cultural hub, providing a platform for artistic talent from Central Louisiana.

The primary modern building on 3rd Street features three galleries for diverse exhibitions along with an arts academy and 25 studios, including a full-scale ceramics studio complete with four kilns.

Adjacent on 2nd Street lies the James Wade Bolton House, constructed in 1899. With Ionic capitals gracing its porch, this historic residence accommodates additional studios and the center’s exceptional gift shop.

12. T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum

The Rapides Exploratory Education House (T.R.E.E.) Museum caters to children up to the age of 12, offering a stimulating environment that fosters a lasting passion for learning.

Here, young visitors can explore topics such as science, social studies, math, and the humanities through interactive exhibits that engage all senses.

Children under two can enjoy free admission, and there is a designated Toddler Corner to ensure an enjoyable experience for the youngest attendees.

Other exhibits include the Kid TV Studio, Junior League Mini Mart, Listening Center, Illumination Station, and Construction Tables, alongside wildlife displays featuring turtles and bald eagles.

13. Alex River Fête

Alexandria demonstrates a rich cultural vibrancy, exemplified by events that draw thousands of visitors downtown.

The highlight is the annual three-day Alex River Fête, typically held in late April or early May. Featuring a main stage adjacent to City Hall, the festival showcases live music, local cuisine vendors, a classic car show, and the ArtFête organized by the Central Louisiana Arts Council.

Additionally, the Alexandria Museum of Art conducts a procession on Friday night as a precursor to the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races.

Earlier in the spring, attendees can enjoy the Downtown Rocks concert series, which takes place on Friday evenings over several weeks.

14. Mardi Gras

Situated just north of Cajun country, Alexandria embraces Mardi Gras as a significant local tradition, recognized as an official holiday that attracts up to 150,000 attendees.

The city hosts over 20 krewes, many of which have longstanding histories. These groups parade through the streets on the Sunday preceding Mardi Gras, featuring New Orleans-style floats, marching bands, and appearances by local celebrities, frequently serving as Grand Marshals.

In 2022, the Grand Marshal of the Krewe Parade was NFL defensive tackle Ed Oliver. A children’s parade is held on Saturday, followed by the College Cheerleaders & Classic Cars Parade on Friday.

15. AlexWinterFête

Every December, Alexandria hosts a complimentary four-day festival that has garnered statewide recognition, showcasing winter activities unique to Louisiana.

A key feature is a large outdoor skating rink that remains open throughout the event. The festival commences with a traditional tree-lighting ceremony and the arrival of Santa at Santa’s Village located at Alexander Fulton Mini Park on 3rd Street.

This event ushers in a schedule filled with entertaining activities, including food vendors, a parade, caroling karaoke, face painting, movie nights, live music, cook-offs, a 5K fun run, and much more, culminating with fireworks over the levee.