Discover the charm of Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana's vibrant sister cities. Dive into southern culture, explore historic sites, enjoy riverfront casinos, and savor the local culinary delights in this guide.
Shreveport and Bossier City Travel Guide
Overview: Shreveport and Bossier City, together known as the "Sister Cities of the South," are located in the northwestern part of Louisiana. Nestled along the Red River, the twin cities offer a blend of Southern culture, entertainment, and rich history. From lively casinos and nightlife to family-friendly attractions and festivals, there's a wide range of experiences awaiting visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Shreveport-Bossier City, much like the rest of Louisiana, experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Here's a breakdown of the seasons to help determine the best time for your visit:
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most pleasant times to visit Shreveport-Bossier City. The temperatures are moderate, the humidity is lower than the summer months, and the area's greenery comes alive. Additionally, this is festival season, with events such as the Mudbug Madness, celebrating crawfish and Creole culture, taking place.
Summer (June to August): The summer months can be hot and humid. Temperatures often soar into the 90s, and there's a higher chance of rain. However, this is also peak tourist season, especially around major holidays. If you're okay with the heat, there are plenty of indoor and water-based activities to keep you entertained.
Fall (September to November): As with spring, fall offers milder temperatures and is a great time to explore outdoor attractions. The changing colors of the leaves provide a scenic backdrop, and there's a reduction in tourist crowds post-summer.
Winter (December to February): Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. While it's not the busiest season for tourism, it's an excellent time for those looking to avoid crowds and take advantage of potentially lower accommodation rates. Plus, you can experience holiday festivities in the area.
Getting to Shreveport and Bossier City
Shreveport and Bossier City, the prominent sister cities in northwest Louisiana, are conveniently accessible by various transportation methods. Here's a guide on how to reach them:
By Air:
Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV): This is the primary airport serving the area, located just off Interstate 20 and about 10 minutes from downtown Shreveport. It offers several daily non-stop flights to major U.S. cities, making it a convenient point of entry for travelers from around the country.
By Car:
Interstates: Shreveport and Bossier City are well-connected by major interstates. Interstate 20 runs east-west through the heart of the twin cities, connecting them to cities like Dallas and Jackson. Interstate 49 is another significant route, providing a north-south connection to Alexandria and further towards Lafayette.
Driving: If you're driving from major nearby cities, Shreveport is approximately 3 hours from Dallas, TX, 5 hours from Houston, TX, and about 4 hours from Little Rock, AR.
By Bus:
Greyhound: The Greyhound bus station in Shreveport serves as a hub for those traveling by bus, offering routes to and from various U.S. destinations.
River Access:
For a unique experience, some travelers might find themselves arriving in the area via boat or personal watercraft, thanks to the Red River that flows between the two cities. There are several marinas and docks in the area, though this is more for recreational purposes than regular transport.
Top Attractions
Louisiana Boardwalk: A bustling shopping, dining, and entertainment complex along the Red River in Bossier City.
Sci-Port Discovery Center: A 92,000 square-foot science and entertainment center in Shreveport offering interactive exhibits for kids and adults.
Shreveport Water Works Museum: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it showcases one of the country's oldest water treatment plants.
R.W. Norton Art Gallery: A remarkable museum with American and European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Barksdale Global Power Museum: Located at Barksdale Air Force Base, it displays historic aircraft and artifacts related to the history of flight and military aviation.
Red River Entertainment District: A hotspot for dining, entertainment, and nightlife.
Shreveport Aquarium: Dive into the wonders of marine life at this modern aquarium, which boasts a diverse range of aquatic species and interactive exhibits.
Robinson Film Center: A hub for independent films, this center also has a bistro offering dinner and movie options.
Louisiana State Exhibit Museum: Recognized for its unique circular layout, the museum offers a range of exhibits showcasing the state's culture and history, accompanied by beautiful dioramas.
American Rose Center: Home to the nation's largest park dedicated to roses, it features thousands of rose bushes spread across beautifully landscaped gardens.
Top Activities
Casino Hopping: Try your luck at some of the area's premier casinos, including Bally's Casino & Hotel Shreveport, Margaritaville Resort Casino, and Horseshoe Bossier City.
Red River Cruising: Embark on a leisurely cruise along the Red River, soaking in the scenic views and enjoying onboard entertainment.
Live Music & Entertainment: Experience the vibrant music scene at various local venues, with everything from jazz and blues to country and rock.
Downtown Artwalk: Held monthly, this event showcases local artists, musicians, and performers throughout the downtown area.
Fishing & Boating: Spend a day fishing or boating on Cross Lake or the Red River, with plenty of local spots to rent equipment or charter a trip.
Attend Local Festivals: From the Red River Revel Arts Festival to the Mudbug Madness Festival, there's almost always a cultural, music, or food event to enjoy.
Explore the Gardens: Wander through the beautiful R.W. Norton Art Gallery's gardens or visit the American Rose Center for a tranquil and visually rewarding experience.
Golfing: Tee off at one of the area's golf courses, such as the Huntington Park Golf Course or the Golf Club at StoneBridge.
Visit Farmers' Markets: Explore local farmers' markets like the Shreveport Farmers' Market to savor regional produce, crafts, and foods.
Historic Tours: Delve into the area's rich history by taking a guided tour of its historic districts and notable landmarks.
Outdoor Adventure: Head to the Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park for hiking, bird watching, and nature exploration.
Culinary Exploration: Join a culinary tour or cooking class to learn about and savor the local flavors, especially Creole and Southern cuisines.
Spa Day: Indulge in a day of relaxation at one of the local spas or wellness centers, rejuvenating the body and mind.
Culinary Scene
Shreveport-Bossier City is a treasure trove of culinary delights, blending traditional Southern comfort, Creole flavors, and modern gastronomy. The cities' geographical location, along with their rich history, has contributed to a vibrant and diverse food landscape. Here's a glimpse into their culinary world:
Southern and Creole Classics: Shreveport-Bossier City is known for its authentic Southern and Creole dishes. Staples include gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, fried catfish, and po' boys. These dishes resonate with the history and heritage of Louisiana and are a must-try for any visitor.
BBQ Delights: No trip to the South is complete without indulging in barbecued meats. The area boasts several BBQ joints, each with its unique flavors and smoking methods, offering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and more.
Seafood Galore: Given its proximity to the freshwater of Red River and Gulf Coast, seafood dishes are prevalent. Fresh crawfish boils, shrimp dishes, and oysters are commonly found in local eateries.
International Cuisine: Reflecting the cities' diverse population, you'll find an array of international cuisines. From authentic Mexican taquerias to Asian eateries offering Vietnamese pho and sushi, there's a world of flavors waiting to be explored.
Breweries and Distilleries: The craft beverage scene in Shreveport-Bossier City is burgeoning. Places like Great Raft Brewing produce local craft beers, while distilleries offer regional spirits.
Upscale Dining: Alongside traditional eateries, Shreveport-Bossier City is home to several fine-dining establishments that offer gourmet experiences, with chefs often merging global techniques with local ingredients.
Street Food and Night Markets: Various night markets and food truck events provide a casual dining experience, offering everything from soul food to fusion dishes.
Best Areas to Stay
Downtown Shreveport: Central and close to major attractions, dining, and entertainment.
Bossier City: Particularly near the Louisiana Boardwalk, offering proximity to shopping, dining, and casinos.
East Shreveport: A quieter residential area with convenient access to shopping and dining.
Shreveport-Bossier City offers a unique blend of Louisiana's rich culture, exciting entertainment, and southern hospitality. Whether you're enjoying the thrilling atmosphere of a casino, delving into the region's history, or indulging in culinary delights, these twin cities ensure a memorable visit.
