Shreveport, Louisiana: Where Southern Charm Meets Cajun Spice

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Shreveport, Louisiana, where Southern charm meets Cajun spice, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and unique culinary experiences.

Nestled along the Red River in northwest Louisiana, Shreveport is a city that knows how to show visitors a good time. From its lively downtown riverfront to its tranquil gardens and fascinating museums, Shreveport, Louisiana offers a diverse range of things to do for travelers of all stripes. Whether you’re a culture vulture, an outdoor enthusiast, or a fan of down-home Southern cooking, you’ll find plenty to love in this historic city on the border of Texas and Arkansas.

Top 10 Things To Do In Shreveport

1. Get Up Close With Aquatic Life at the Shreveport Aquarium

• Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm (Closed Tuesdays)

• Admission: $15.95 for adults, $12.95 for children

• Highlight: Walk-through shark tunnel and stingray touch tank

One of Shreveport’s newest attractions, the Shreveport Aquarium is a must-visit for animal lovers. This state-of-the-art facility houses over 3,000 animals representing 270 species from around the world. Immerse yourself in colorful underwater worlds as you walk through a 30-foot shark tunnel, get hands-on at the touch tanks, and marvel at exotic creatures like flashlight fish and weedy seadragons. Educational programs and feedings throughout the day make this an engaging experience for all ages.

2. Step Back In Time at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery

• Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 1pm-5pm (Closed Monday-Wednesday)

• Admission: Free

• Highlight: Frederic Remington’s bronze sculpture “The Bronco Buster”

Housed in a beautiful Italianate mansion surrounded by 40 acres of lush gardens, the R.W. Norton Art Gallery is Shreveport’s premier fine arts museum. The gallery’s impressive collection spans 4,000 years of human creativity, with particular strengths in 19th and 20th century American and European art. Highlights include works by Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Mary Cassatt. Outside, stroll through the fragrant rose garden and admire the whimsical outdoor sculptures. Admission is always free.

3. Explore Hands-On Science at Sci-Port Discovery Center

Ignite your curiosity at Sci-Port Discovery Center, a sprawling science museum packed with over 200 hands-on exhibits. Climb inside a simulated space station, dig for fossils, learn about the human body, and experiment with light and sound in the interactive galleries. Be sure to catch a film in the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features a towering 60-foot screen. Sci-Port also hosts traveling exhibitions on topics ranging from dinosaurs to nanotechnology.

4. Tour a Historic Waterworks at the Shreveport Water Works Museum

Step into Shreveport’s industrial past at the Shreveport Water Works Museum, located in the historic McNeill Street Pumping Station. Built in 1887, this steam-powered waterworks is the only one of its kind still in existence in the United States. Take a guided tour to see the massive pumps, filters, and boilers that kept the city’s taps running for over a century. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

5. Stroll Through the Stunning Gardens of the American Rose Center

Stop and smell the roses—literally—at the American Rose Center, the national headquarters of the American Rose Society. Spanning 118 acres, the gardens showcase over 20,000 rosebushes in more than 400 varieties. Peak blooming season runs from late April through October, but there’s always something beautiful to see. Don’t miss the Dudley Watkins Reflection Pool, which creates a stunning mirror effect with its colorful blooms. Guided tours are available by reservation.

6. Embrace Asian Culture at the Asian Gardens of Shreveport

Find a moment of Zen at the Asian Gardens of Shreveport, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. This tranquil garden represents over 15 Asian countries through its plants, architecture, and sculptures. Cross the traditional moon bridge, feed the koi fish, and admire the intricate details of the Vietnamese pavilion and the Japanese torii gate. The garden is a popular spot for tai chi, yoga, and meditation classes.

7. Try Your Luck at Shreveport’s Riverboat Casinos

Feeling lucky? Head to one of Shreveport’s riverboat casinos for a glitzy night out on the Red River. These floating palaces offer all your favorite games, from slot machines and poker to blackjack and roulette. Many also feature live entertainment, restaurants, and hotels, making them a one-stop-shop for a fun-filled weekend. Popular spots include Sam’s Town, Eldorado Resort Casino, Horseshoe Bossier City, and Boomtown Casino & Hotel.

8. Savor Southern Flavors at Local Restaurants in Shreveport

One of the best ways to experience Shreveport’s unique culture is through its mouthwatering cuisine. The city’s restaurants blend Southern soul food, Cajun spices, and Creole influences to create unforgettable flavors. For a true taste of Shreveport, head to local institutions like Herby-K’s (famous for its “Shrimp Buster” po’boy), Orlandeaux’s Café (the first African-American family owned restaurant in the city), or Fertitta’s Delicatessen (a cozy spot serving legendary muffulettas since 1927). Be sure to save room for dessert—homemade peach cobbler and sweet potato pie are local favorites.

9. Discover Shreveport’s Wild Side at Gators & Friends

While Shreveport’s zoo may have closed, animal lovers can still get up close and personal with some of Louisiana’s most iconic creatures at Gators & Friends Adventure Park. This unique attraction is home to over 150 alligators, as well as a petting zoo, bird aviary, and zip line course. For a real thrill, take a guided swamp tour and feed the gators yourself (under close supervision, of course). The park also offers educational programs about alligator conservation and the importance of preserving Louisiana’s wetlands.

10. Find Inner Peace at the Asian Gardens of Shreveport

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the serene Asian Gardens of Shreveport. This beautiful public garden celebrates the art, architecture, and horticulture of Asia with winding paths, graceful statues, and colorful blooms. Feed the friendly koi swimming in the pond, admire the intricate Vietnamese pavilion, and snap a photo in front of the bright red Japanese torii gate. The garden hosts regular events like tea ceremonies, bonsai workshops, and tai chi classes. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic or a quiet moment of reflection.

Shreveport Travel Tips

• Getting Around: Shreveport is easiest to navigate by car. Major highways include I-20 and I-49. Uber and Lyft are available for ridesharing.

• When to Visit: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and colorful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid.

• Where to Stay: Downtown Shreveport and the Riverfront area offer the most walkable options, with a range of hotels for every budget. For a splurge, consider the historic Remington Suite Hotel & Spa.

Stay Connected in Shreveport with Airtel

As you explore all the incredible things to do in Shreveport, Louisiana, stay connected with Airtel’s convenient and affordable prepaid international roaming plans. Airtel ensures you can easily navigate the city, book tickets, and share your adventures with loved ones back home. Choose from flexible plans, with plenty of data to keep you connected throughout your trip. Airtel’s reliable network and 24/7 customer support provide peace of mind, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories in Shreveport.