Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport pulses with a mix of blues, jazz, and gospel, echoing through its local music venues and historic streets. The city celebrates Mardi Gras with parades and flair while preserving Civil War history and Southern architecture. Art walks, live performances, and bayou adventures make it a diverse and accessible destination. In Shreveport, every visit is filled with flavor, sound, and soul.
Top areas to stay at in Shreveport, Louisiana
Downtown Shreveport
Downtown Shreveport is the city’s cultural and business hub, home to museums, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife. Vacation rentals in Downtown Shreveport include renovated lofts, stylish apartments, and Airbnbs with views of the Red River. Visitors can walk to art galleries, restaurants, and events at Festival Plaza. Downtown is perfect for those wanting an energetic and walkable experience.
Highland Historic District
Filled with oak trees and stately homes, the Highland Historic District offers a glimpse into Shreveport’s architectural past. Rentals in this area include colorful bungalows, vintage mansions, and charming apartments near local cafés. Travelers who value history, character, and a vibrant creative scene will find this an excellent option. Highland is both laid-back and visually rich.
Shreve Island
A suburban neighborhood with easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor parks, Shreve Island provides a peaceful setting within the city. Vacation rentals in Shreve Island range from family homes to cozy apartments in quiet streets. The area is ideal for longer stays or those seeking a slower pace. Shreve Island offers comfort, convenience, and space.
Broadmoor
Located southeast of downtown, Broadmoor is a residential neighborhood known for its local charm, well-kept homes, and community feel. Guests can stay in mid-century houses, updated cottages, or pet-friendly Airbnbs. The location is near supermarkets, parks, and Shreveport's shopping district. Broadmoor balances neighborhood quiet with accessibility.
Riverfront / Red River District
Along the Red River, the Riverfront District includes casinos, the aquarium, and a boardwalk filled with shops and restaurants. Rentals inRiverfront include modern condos, luxury apartments, and Airbnbs overlooking the water. The district is perfect for nightlife lovers and those wanting entertainment just steps away. Riverfront living in Shreveport is scenic, fun, and centrally located.
Must-visit places and attractions in Shreveport, Louisiana
Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets
Located across the river in Bossier City, the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets offer shopping, dining, and views of the Red River. Visitors can stroll past retail favorites, enjoy riverfront dining, or catch a movie. The boardwalk also connects to pedestrian-friendly walking trails.
Shreveport Aquarium
Just steps from the boardwalk, the Shreveport Aquarium houses more than 3,000 animals including sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays. Interactive exhibits make it a favorite among families and curious visitors. The aquarium offers a hands-on look at aquatic ecosystems in a scenic setting.
R.W. Norton Art Gallery
Set on beautifully landscaped grounds, the R.W. Norton Art Gallery features European and American artwork, sculptures, and seasonal gardens. Visitors can explore galleries filled with masterworks or stroll the azalea-lined walking paths outside. The museum is free to enter and a peaceful cultural gem.
Sci-Port Discovery Center
A hands-on science museum, the Sci-Port Discovery Center offers exhibits on physics, space, and technology, plus an IMAX dome theater. Made for hands-on learning, it's a big hit with children and families. Visitors can explore math games, biology labs, and space simulations. Sci-Port blends education with fun in the heart of the city.
Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park
Located just north of the city, the Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park spans over 160 acres of pine forest with trails, a nature center, and wildlife exhibits. The park hosts events and programs for visitors of all ages.
Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
A National Historic Landmark, the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium is best known as the home of the Louisiana Hayride radio show. Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and many country legends once graced its stage. Visitors can attend concerts or take guided tours of the historic venue.
Asian Gardens of Shreveport
A tranquil oasis in the city, the Asian Gardens of Shreveport features themed sections representing various Asian cultures through landscaping, sculptures, and architecture. Open for walking tours and seasonal events, the gardens offer a peaceful escape. Visitors enjoy the blend of nature and cultural artistry.
American Rose Center
Home to the nation’s largest park dedicated to roses, the American Rose Center spans 118 acres with over 20,000 rose bushes. Guests can enjoy guided tours, events, and seasonal blooms in a fragrant and colorful landscape. The center is also a venue for weddings and educational programs.
Where to find a vacation rental near Shreveport
Lafayette, Louisiana
Roughly three hours southeast, Lafayette is a vibrant hub of Cajun culture with music, festivals, and flavorful cuisine. Vacation rentals include colorful cottages, downtown lofts, and family-friendly homes. Visitors can explore Vermilionville Historic Village, attend Zydeco concerts, or sample gumbo and crawfish. To stay close to the action and flavor, book a house in Lafayette, where bold rhythms and warm hospitality create a memorable experience.
Mansfield, Louisiana
Just 40 minutes south, Mansfield is a quiet town rich in Civil War history and natural beauty. Rentals here include rustic cabins, guesthouses, and homes near the Mansfield State Historic Site. Visitors can tour battlefields, enjoy country drives, and connect with Louisiana’s past. For a peaceful and historical retreat, stay in a vacation rental in Mansfield, where stories of the past echo through pine-covered hills.
Natchitoches, Louisiana
About 90 minutes south, Natchitoches is Louisiana’s oldest settlement, famous for its historic district and charming riverfront. Vacation homes range from antebellum cottages to cozy townhomes along the Cane River. Guests can enjoy holiday light displays, explore Creole architecture, and dine on local meat pies. For timeless riverfront charm, unwind in an apartment in Natchitoches, where every corner feels like a step back in history.
Bossier City, Louisiana
Across the Red River, Bossier City is Shreveport’s lively twin offering casinos, shopping, and entertainment. Vacation rentals include riverfront apartments, modern condos, and homes near the Louisiana Boardwalk. Guests can enjoy gaming, live shows, and easy access to downtown Shreveport. For a dynamic and convenient base, stay in a house in Bossier City, where river views and nightlife come together.
Texarkana, Texas
Just over an hour northeast, Texarkana straddles two states and blends Texas hospitality with Southern culture. Rentals include classic homes, apartments, and vacation suites near parks and historic downtown. Visitors can explore museums, music venues, and State Line Avenue. To enjoy this unique border-town spirit, settle into a vacation rental in Texarkana, where state-line stories and Southern charm meet.
Explore a world of diverse urban experiences across North America.
As you contemplate the vibrant life and rich history of Shreveport, known for its robust cultural scene and historical significance, let your curiosity lead you to the urban charm of other notable cities. Experience the cinematic allure of Southern California by exploring Burbank airbnb locations, a city renowned for its prominent movie studios. In Texas, you can enjoy the coastal beauty and vibrant maritime legacy with accommodation in Corpus Christi, or delve into the thriving arts scene and musical heritage when you stay in Lubbock. Alternatively, head north to Canada and find rentals in Kitchener, a city noted for its technology hub and dynamic community vibe. Each city offers a distinctive urban adventure waiting to be discovered.