From its roots in oil and commerce to its arts and music scene, Shreveport has been shaping American culture for generations. Get your dancing shoes, a healthy appetite, and an open mind ready for some Southern hospitality that'll warm your soul like a plate of grandma's pecan pie.
Delve deeper than the rich history and mouthwatering cuisine, and you'll discover a vibrant tapestry woven with electrifying nightlife, booming casinos, and a thriving arts scene. Here are the best things to do in Shreveport.
1. R. W. Norton Art Gallery
When in Louisiana, specifically Shreveport, don't miss out on visiting the R.W. Norton Art Gallery. Home to an extensive collection spanning centuries, it boasts American and European sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts.
Set on 40 acres of landscaped beauty, the architecturally beautiful building offers more than just art. Plus, every spring, the Norton Art Gallery's gardens come alive with beautiful azaleas, adding even more beauty to your visit.
2. Shreveport Aquarium
Explore the fascinating underwater world at Shreveport Aquarium. Journey through coral reefs, ancient shipwrecks, mysterious ocean caves, and lush tropical lagoons. Be amazed by the wide range of marine life in its special exhibits and get hands-on with cool creatures in touch tanks.
You can feed stingrays by hand, touch moon jellies, watch shark feedings, and much more! Plus, you can search for treasures, gems, and fossils in Louisiana's only indoor mining experience.
3. Cathedral of St. John Berchmans
If you appreciate traditional and historic cathedrals, you should visit St. John Berchmans. This church is adorned with stunning stained glass windows and intricate details featuring saints and relics.
On Sundays, they have Mass at three different times, including a Latin Mass option. Occasionally, the Bishop himself celebrates Mass here. It's a perfect place to visit and attend Mass, especially if you're on vacation and looking for a spiritual experience.
4. Sci-Port Discovery Center
No matter your age, you'll be intrigued by the engaging exhibits at Sci-Port Discovery Center. This 92,000-square-foot complex features interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX dome theater.
This science museum spans two stories and offers a wealth of science-filled activities, from the Red River Gallery to the Space Center. The Red River Gallery is a spacious area showcasing alligators, snakes, fish, and educational exhibits on topics like river erosion and dams.
5. Gators and Friends
Bring your family to Gators and Friends for an exciting day out! You can pet a baby alligator, race high-speed go-karts, and play your favorite arcade games. Plus, there's ziplining throughout the park for added excitement.
Watch thrilling alligator wrestling shows and explore the exotic petting zoo with pony rides. This place is perfect for everyone, with setups that let you get up close to deer, kangaroos, gators, and more. Fun for all ages awaits!
6. Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
When you're in Shreveport, you might get the chance to attend a concert of your favorite band at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium. Located at 705 Elvis Presley Boulevard in Shreveport United States, this venue has a rich history of hosting performances and events.
The auditorium can accommodate around 3,200 people, so it tends to fill up quickly. The seating at the auditorium is quite tight with minimal legroom. Additionally, parking can be somewhat limited.
7. Walter B Jacobs Memorial Nature Park
Sprawling across 160 acres of pine-oak-hickory forest, Walter B Jacobs Memorial Nature Park offers 5 miles of hiking trails with interpretive signs. You can explore live animal exhibits, including a Bird of Prey aviary and a deer enclosure.
Inside the visitor center, you'll find hands-on exhibits, additional live animals, a children's play area, a classroom, and restrooms. There's also a covered picnic pavilion with restrooms available for groups and programs.
8. Spring Street Historical Museum
Come check out the Spring Street Museum—it won't cost you a thing! Discover the rich history of Shreveport's earliest days through interactive exhibits and ancient artifacts. Learn about the city's infamous Red Light District and its role in the Civil War.
With over 2,200 relics on display, you'll get a glimpse into different aspects of Shreveport's past. Housed in a building from the Civil War era, the museum's stunning New Orleans-style architecture will transport you back in time.
9. Louisiana State Exhibit Museum
Step into history at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, where you can explore over 20 fascinating dioramas. This building, known for its remarkable architecture, has been open since 1939.
Inside, you'll discover a wealth of exhibits, including Caddo Native American artifacts, a monumental fresco, and even a dugout canoe. Best of all, admission is free at this Shreveport Louisiana attractions, so you can delve into the heritage of Louisiana without spending a dime.
10. Splash Kingdom Waterpark
Bring your kids along for a fantastic water adventure in Shreveport's Splash Kingdom Waterpark. It is the place to be for a fun-filled summer adventure!
Dive into excitement with attractions and Shreveport activities like the Bonzai thrill slide, two kids' areas, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Plus, enjoy free tubes and life vests for added safety and convenience. This epic waterpark also offers cabana rentals, a volleyball court, lockers, showers, and picnic facilities.
11. American Rose Center
Uncover the beauty of the nation's largest park dedicated to roses at the American Rose Center. Spanning 118 acres, this picturesque beautiful place boasts an impressive collection of 20,000 rosebushes, along with companion plants, sculptures, and fountains.
Whether you're strolling through the gardens, capturing stunning photographs, practicing yoga, or simply unwinding in the serene surroundings, the American Rose Center offers something for everyone. Make sure to add this park on your list of things to do in Shreveport Louisiana.
12. Meadows Museum Of Art
For budget-friendly travelers, don't miss out on adding the Meadows Museum of Art to your itinerary. Nestled within the campus of Centenary College of Louisiana, this museum offers a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse exhibitions highlighting human creativity.
The best part is that admission to the Meadows Museum of Art is completely free! On opening nights, visitors can enjoy a lively cocktail reception with a cash bar, complimentary food, and talks by exhibit curators or lecturers.
13. The Agora Borealis
Entering The Agora Borealis feels like entering an artisan's paradise. It's filled with one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods from local artists and makers, offering a refreshing change from mass-produced items.
From stunning jewelry and home decor to trendy clothing and unique gadgets, you'll discover treasures you never knew you needed. There's something for everyone at The Agora Borealis! Their diverse selection of items suits nearly any budget.
14. Jubilee Zoo
Come visit Jubilee Zoo for fun-filled things to do Shreveport LA with your family! It offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy.
From petting and feeding farm and exotic animals to touring over 20 acres on a safari hayride, there's something for every animal lover. Kids can have a blast playing on the sand mountain and playground, while families can relax and enjoy a picnic in the designated area with barbecue grills.
15. Betty Virginia Park
Betty Virginia Park is a lovely 23-acre park nestled in the heart of Shreveport's South Highland neighborhood. Managed by the city, this park features a short trail perfect for biking or walking, along with picnic tables and a playground for the kids.
Feel free to bring along lawn chairs and blankets to relax on the grass. The park is also dog-friendly, so your furry friends are welcome to join in the fun! It's a wonderful spot for a relaxing and enjoyable day out in nature.
16. Shreveport Water Works Museum
Experience a true engineering marvel from the Victorian era at the Shreveport Water Works Museum. This rare gem is a National Historic Landmark that shows an intact steam-powered waterworks system.
There's plenty to explore at this museum, filled with old mechanical equipment, including pumps and boiler machinery. Best of all, admission is free! Take your time to soak in the fascinating history and craftsmanship of this remarkable site.
17. Red River District
Come check out why the Red River District is such a popular destination for visitors! This district offers a plethora of experiences and attractions to keep you entertained. Situated along the banks of the Red River, it's an uptempo entertainment hub featuring restaurants, bars, and galleries.
You'll find some unique history here too, with some of the casinos housed in old boats reminiscent of days gone by. While these boats no longer sail, you can still explore their outer decks.
18. Barksdale Global Power Museum
Marvel at vintage aircraft and explore fascinating memorabilia showcasing the Air Force's legacy at Barksdale. You can also view static aircraft displays, dioramas, and other exhibits.
You may even spot planes flying around, given the museum's proximity to Barksdale AFB. Don't forget to visit the gift shop inside, where you'll find a wide range of military, Air Force, and Barksdale AFB items, including mugs, blankets, stickers, toys, and more.
