20 Best Things to Do in Shreveport, LA

Situated in Louisiana's Northwest region, Shreveport is full of picturesque attractions and hums with activity all day long.

The city is all about unique delicacies, friendly people, and scenic green spaces.

Additionally, Shreveport is a leading commercial and industrial center renowned for its business-friendly economic atmosphere.

Interested to know more about this place?

Here are the 20 best things you can do in Shreveport, Louisiana:

See Pieces of Art at R.W. Norton Art Gallery

Located amid lush gardens, R.W. Norton Art Gallery boasts a large selection of American and European artworks.

Countless art enthusiasts from around the world visit Shreveport to explore this world-famous gallery.

The interior design of this gallery is so beautiful it will make you want to return.

Taking delight in the sight of stunning artworks will enliven your senses!

In addition to eye-catching works of art, the gallery also houses loads of knowledgeable books that can broaden your knowledge.

Its lively ambiance and accommodating staff make this place worth visiting.

Teaming up with like-minded art lovers is the best thing you can do during your visit to R.W Norton Art Gallery.

Once done exploring the gallery, you can stroll through the surrounding gardens to relish the idyllic scenery!

Pay a Visit to Shreveport Aquarium

Having a floor space of 21,000 square feet, Shreveport Aquarium is situated close to the Texas Street Bridge.

This aquarium is known for offering unmatched entertainment to kids and adults.

The aquarium opened in November 2017 and has quickly risen to fame.

The most astonishing thing about the Shreveport aquarium is that it is home to almost 300 species of fish.

Seven galleries feature 3,000 animals, including seahorses, sharks, paddlefish, stingrays, and snapping turtles.

The aquarium is open throughout the week, and you can visit it at any time of the year.

Moreover, birthday parties, summer camps, and other holiday events are also hosted in this aquarium.

Therefore, see to it you explore Shreveport Aquarium with your fish-loving buddies to pave the way for a unique outing filled with excitement.

Wander around Louisiana State Exhibit Museum

Deemed an architectural jewel, the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum was established in 1939.

The museum features a grand entrance and premium interiors that enthrall visitors.

This circular building boasts neoclassical style and is home to 23 beautiful dioramas.

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum also features a vast collection of American native artifacts from the present and prehistoric periods.

The museum also displays frescoes and paintings of famous artists.

See the Animals at Jubilee Zoo

When you embark on a trip to Shreveport, you must explore Jubilee Zoo at least once to indulge in rural recreation.

This zoo is a huge favorite among animal enthusiasts.

The reason is that it is well-kept and the keepers take good care of animals.

People mostly come here with children thanks to the family-friendly atmosphere of this zoo.

The zoo boasts a vibrant atmosphere, and admission fees are pretty affordable.

Here, you will get the golden chance to get up close and personal with farm-friendly animals.

The zoo organizes weekday field trips where kids can feed animals, enjoy pony rides, and watch goat milking demos.

You can reserve picnic tables in advance if you plan to have your lunch in the zoo.

Make sure you bring a decent camera to capture pictures of your favorite animals and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the IMAX Dome Theatre at Sci-Port Discovery Center

Sci-Port Discovery Center is a 92,000-square-foot complex that draws many science enthusiasts yearly.

Here, you can discover interactive science exhibits and share your understanding with same-minded visitors to double the fun.

What's good about this science museum is that it houses a top-notch planetarium and an IMAX dome theatre.

The IMAX dome theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that will immerse visitors in award-winning films.

Students who have a keen interest in science can gain an unmatched educational experience by visiting the Sci-Port Discovery Center.

Check Out the Interior Designs at Meadows Museum Of Art

Tucked into the Centenary College of Louisiana, Meadows Museum of Art features a fantastic interior design.

This museum is perfect for people with a limited budget as it has no entry charges.

Artworks of renowned artists, like Mary Cassatt and Alfred Maurer, can be found in this museum.

Additionally, this place houses around 1,600 artworks and various other interesting exhibits.

There is also a unique gift shop within the Meadows Museum of Art.

Exhibitions that showcase human creativity are changed regularly so that long-time museum visitors do not get bored.

Grab Some Beers at Noble Savage Tavern

If you want to get high on potent drinks and chill out with your friends, you must stop by Noble Savage Tavern.

Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, this bar features over 30 different scotches and local beers for you to relish.

Here, you can sip on your favorite beverages and sway to live music that plays throughout the night.

Foodies will indeed love spending time in Noble Savage Tavern as it serves a large variety of dishes like pizzas, sandwiches, etc.

It is guaranteed that the relaxing ambiance of this bar will calm your mind and disconnect you from worldly worries.

Roam around Spring Street Museum

If you want to explore Shreveport's local history, you should not miss the Spring Street Museum.

Dating back to 1860, this museum is nothing less than a cultural crown jewel.

This building was a bank in the old times, and the original vault is still intact.

The museum was opened in 1976 by an official Shreveport committee to showcase the city's early history.

Over the years, this place has gained significant popularity among history enthusiasts.

It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and diverse exhibits that can take you back in time.

The good news is that you will not have to spend money, as entry to this museum is absolutely free of cost.

So, get ready to visit Spring Street Museum to gain insight into Shreveport's history and socialize with other history buffs!

Visit Shreveport Municipal Auditorium

Built between 1926 and 1929, Shreveport Municipal Auditorium covers an area of two acres and features stunning exteriors.

Seymour Van and Samuel G.Wiener are the two renowned architects who designed this historic performance venue.

In 1991, the auditorium made it to the list of the National Register of Historic Places.

Besides boasting the excellent Art Deco architectural style, Shreveport Municipal Auditorium features an uplifting ambiance.

Here, you can enjoy the performance of talented artists and feast on delicious fried food.

Having undergone renovations over the years, the auditorium is now fully air-conditioned and has well-kept restrooms.

Explore Walter B Jacobs Memorial Nature Park

When it comes to taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, there is nothing better than spending time with nature.

Walter B Jacobs Memorial Nature Park is a wonderland for people looking to disconnect from mundane concerns.

The park has an outdoor aviary that never fails to capture the attention of bird lovers.

If you are planning to bring kids along, they will not get bored as the park has a dedicated play area for children.

The park is ideal for walking holidays as it features seven short trails accessible throughout the year.

People willing to gain knowledge might be interested in educational programs offered by the park staff.

There is interpretive signage on the park's route, and its purpose is to assist first-time visitors in finding directions.

The park also features a covered picnic area where you can start conversations and enjoy tasty meals with your buddies.

Pay a Visit to Pioneer Heritage Center

Founded in 1977, Pioneer Heritage Center has made a huge name among international travelers.

The center offers a deep insight into the lives of legendary pioneers who once lived in Northwestern Louisiana.

A visit to this place will help you learn about the daily lives of early pioneers and the hardships they endured.

The staff will guide you through the center and acquaint you with the region's cultural history.

Pioneer Heritage Center is situated within the Louisiana State University campus.

The sight of plantation structures at the center will make it easier for you to imagine the situation of early pioneers.

See the Shreveport Railroad Museum

Made accessible to the masses in 2013, the Shreveport Railroad Museum has become a worldwide sensation in a brief time span.

This attraction sees a heavy influx of railroad enthusiasts throughout the year.

It gives visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the railroad industry.

The museum also sheds light on the historical use of steam in railway transportation.

Boasting a big collection of railroad memorabilia, this museum displays everything from essential artifacts to documents that can keep you engrossed.

While it is true that the Shreveport Railroad Museum is small in size, it has been beautifully maintained.

What's cool is that visitors can take pictures of various objects inside the museum.

Taste Red River Brewing Company's Beers

If you have a penchant for beer, you should include Red River Brewing Company on your travel bucket list.

Famous for solo dining, this attraction gives visitors the special opportunity to learn about the process of beer production.

Red River Brewing Company offers great city views, which you can enjoy alongside a beer-filled glass.

The place is incredibly spacious, and its interiors are a treat for the eyes of beholders.

You can get high with other visitors and make your trip even more enjoyable.

Also, there are numerous food trucks around this place that serve delicious appetizers and cater to hardcore foodies.

Once your thirst for local beer is quenched, you can try out flavorful food items to invigorate your taste buds.

See the Flowers at American Rose Center

A visit to Shreveport is incomplete without visiting the renowned American Rose Center with your loved ones.

The center comprises spectacular gardens across a scenic wooded tract measuring 118 acres.

Here, you will see a huge variety of roses and other companion plants!

You may come across scenic fountains and sculptures as well.

There are towering pines on all corners surrounding the gardens, which contribute to their overall appeal.

The tranquil environment of the garden attracts peace-seeking natural lovers from around the globe.

If you want to relax after a hard day at work, you must head to American Rose Center and relish the fragrance of beautiful flowers to calm your senses.

Celebrate with a Drink at Great Raft Brewing

Craft brewing company Great Raft Brewing, situated in Shreveport, Louisiana, is committed to producing distinctive, original beer and fostering a thriving beer culture in the places it serves.

People from the South like spicy, savory cuisine, and Great Raft beer not only can handle the strong tastes in their cooking but also enhances them.

Besides producing many signature beers, including a dry-hopped Pilsner and a golden lager, Great Raft Brewing also produces a variety of seasonal and limited-edition beers all year round.

The best hops and grains are used to make Raft brews, which provide their consumers with excellent beer round after round.

Their beer is made with innovation that pushes the limits of flavor, a desire for excellence, and real, premium ingredients.

Enjoy a Water Adventure at Splash Kingdom Oasis

Spend an adventurous and entertaining time at Splash Kingdom Waterpark with the entire family.

Each family member may enjoy various activities at this location, including the Wave Pool, Kids Castle, Lasy River, Airstream, and more.

The wave pool creates alternate wave patterns with a water level of six feet for children whenever the waves are off.

The Kid's Castle, which has a maximum depth of 10 inches, is a fun location for kids where they will enjoy splashing water and sliding down.

After you have likely worked up an appetite, grab a snack at one of the many restaurants, such as Smiley's Cool Down Cafe, Surfside Pizza, or Courtyard Grill!

Admire the Interiors of the Strand Theatre

The stunning Strand Theatre, located in the center of Shreveport, serves as the focal point of the West Edge Arts District.

The Strand Theatre is a cutting-edge classic that matches the best opera halls around the earth.

The Strand relaunched in 1984 after undergoing substantial renovations, and for more than 35 seasons, it has provided the best caliber entertainment.

The inside of The Strand has elaborate box seats, mirrors with gilded edges, and hues of burgundy and gold.

It also has a gorgeous ceiling and stunning chandeliers, notably the central chandelier, which is fourteen feet tall and hangs in the middle of the theater.

The shows The Strand presents are carefully chosen to appeal to various age groups, genders, and cultures.

Join an Educational Tour at Touchstone Wildlife and Art

Participate in an amazing tour of Touchstone Wildlife and Art, a contemporary educative museum.

All ages may learn and have fun with the enormous collection of animals, artwork, relics, and historical information.

Over a dozen stuffed and exhibited animals are on show at the Touchstone Wildlife and Art Museum amid hand-painted backgrounds replicating their natural habitats.

The museum has an intriguing fusion of taxidermy, Native American antiquities, exhibits, and dioramas with military mementos.

Among other showcases of animal skins from their natural habitats are a group of zebras and an exceptionally rare snow leopard.

Visitors are welcome to observe even when staff and artists construct new exhibits.

Explore the Halls of Barksdale Global Power Museum

The Barksdale Global Power Museum honors their years of preparation for conflict prevention and military victories.

The museum is situated on Barksdale Air Force Base, a military site used by service members on active service.

Barksdale Air Force Base's history during times of peace is just as important as during times of war.

Visit the Barksdale Global Power Museum to witness historic airplanes.

Observe the MACH 3+ SR-71 Blackbird, the highest overall and quickest jet aircraft ever flying, and several other exhibits at their airpark.

The 2nd Bomb Wing's home, the Barksdale Global Power Museum, invites all visitors to take a historical trip and learn about the fascinating history of strategic bombing!

Final Thoughts

The list of the best things to do in Shreveport, Louisiana, above will help you figure out where to go and what to do on your long-awaited vacation.

Many recreational attractions are available for people who enjoy having a great time outdoors, such as visiting parks, zoos, aquariums, museums, galleries, historic mansions, and many more!