Things To Do
in Bossier City

Bossier City sits along the Red River in northwest Louisiana, just across from Shreveport. It blends riverfront entertainment, casinos, and family-friendly attractions with a growing dining and shopping scene. The city serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider Shreveport–Bossier metro, offering outdoor trails, cultural venues, and a lively riverfront district.

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll encounter Southern hospitality with a Cajun twist and easy access to nearby parks and museums.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bossier City Historical Museum, where you can learn about the rich heritage of the region through fascinating exhibits and artifacts. After soaking in the history, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with historic buildings, each with its own story to tell. Stop by a local café for a warm pastry and a cup of coffee to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head over to the nearby Bossier Arts Council for a dose of culture, where you can enjoy rotating art exhibits and participate in workshops. After indulging your creative side, make your way to the Shreveport Riverfront for a scenic walk along the Red River, taking in the views of the city skyline and the vibrant river life. For lunch, try a local favorite at one of the many eateries offering delicious Southern cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the river, where you can savor fresh seafood or classic Cajun dishes. After your meal, catch a live music performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the sounds of Louisiana’s vibrant music scene. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk, soaking in the serene atmosphere and twinkling lights.

day 2
Casino Excitement and Entertainment
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a fun-filled day ahead. After breakfast, visit the Horseshoe Casino, where you can explore various gaming options and perhaps try your luck at the slots or table games. Take some time to enjoy the casino's luxurious atmosphere and the exciting buzz of activity around you.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, continue the casino adventures by heading over to the nearby Eldorado Resort Casino. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of their upscale restaurants, followed by some more gaming or a relaxing spa treatment at the resort. If you're feeling adventurous, take a break from the casinos and explore the nearby Louisiana Boardwalk, filled with shops and entertainment options.

evening
:

As night falls, indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of the casino's fine dining establishments, featuring a menu of exquisite dishes. Afterward, catch a spectacular live show or concert happening at one of the casinos, where you can enjoy performances ranging from comedy to music. End the night with a drink at a lively bar, mingling with locals and other visitors in the heart of the entertainment district.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$3-5
🛏️Hotel (mid-range) per night$100-150
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-3.5
🛍️Groceries (weekly)$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Casual Southern charm and friendly locals
  • Riverfront recreation and casino entertainment
  • Proximity to Shreveport and other attractions
  • Good value for travelers
  • Spread-out city; some attractions require a car
  • Summer heat and humidity can be intense
  • Limited public transit options

Places to Visit in Bossier City

Visit one of these nice places.

Louisiana Boardwalk Riverfront

Wide river views and colorful boardwalk aesthetics ideal for golden-hour photos.

Riverfront Park and Walkway

Green spaces with water reflections and skyline silhouettes for composition variety.

Horseshoe Bossier City Skyline at Night

Illuminated towers and casino lights create dramatic cityscape photos after dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bossier City

Louisiana cuisine shines in Bossier City with Cajun and Creole flavors, seafood-forward dishes, and comforting Southern staples. Expect bold seasons, smoky grill flavors, and a mix of casual eateries and refined spots along the riverfront.

Bossier City Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gumbo

A hearty roux-based soup with seafood or chicken and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Jambalaya

Rice dish cooked with meats (often andouille or chicken) and vegetables.

Crawfish Boil

Seasoned crawfish boiled with corn and potatoes, often enjoyed in season.

Po’boy

French bread sandwich with fried meat or seafood, dressed with toppings.

Beignets

Deep-fried square pastries dusted with powdered sugar.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shreveport-Bossier Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, and prepared foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bossier City experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and high humidity most of the year; storms are possible in spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly greetings

A warm hello and a smile are appreciated; small talk is common in social settings.

Hospitality and politeness

Louisiana hospitality is valued; graciousness and patience go a long way when asking for recommendations or directions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware in crowded areas, secure valuables, and use well-lit routes at night. Be mindful of weather alerts during hurricane season, even inland areas can experience related rainfall.

Tipping in Bossier City

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurants typically expect 15-20% of the bill; hotel porters 1-2 dollars per bag; tip taxi or rideshares similarly.

Payment Methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many venues support mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming landscapes; perfect for outdoor promenades and markets.

Summer

Hot and humid; plan outdoor activities early or late in the day; stay hydrated and shade-seek.

Fall

Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for riverfront strolls and photography.

Winter

Generally mild; occasional cold fronts—layered clothing is practical for evening activities.

Nightlife Guide

Bossier City at Night

The nightlife centers around riverfront casinos with gaming, live music, and bars; downtown Bossier City offers casual lounges and dining venues with occasional live performances.

Hiking in Bossier City

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Red River National Wildlife Refuge trails

Flat, easy trails with opportunities for wildlife viewing along the river.

Cypress Black Bayou Park trails

Forested trails near Benton with lake views and wildlife sightings.

Airports

How to reach Bossier City by plane.

Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV)

Regional airport with domestic flights; about 15-20 minutes from central Bossier City.

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

Major international hub in New Orleans; approximately a 3-4 hour drive.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is strongest around the riverfront and Louisiana Boardwalk, but the broader city is largely car-dependent; some neighborhoods offer sidewalks and bike lanes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households with children; plenty of parks and family-friendly venues.

Retirees

A number of retirees enjoy riverfront strolls and a relaxed pace.

College students and young professionals

Proximity to universities and downtown amenities provides a youthful vibe.

Hispanic/Latino and other communities

A growing and increasingly diverse community with cross-cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American football

High school, college, and local leagues are deeply followed; Friday night games draw crowds.

Basketball

Strong community and school programs with local support.

Fishing

Red River and nearby lakes attract anglers year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate outside peak hours; I-20 and surrounding streets connect Bossier City to Shreveport. Public transportation is limited, so most visitors rely on cars or rideshares.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bossier City.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose veggie poboys, salads, and grain bowls; request stock and sauces prepared meat-free where possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Multiple healthcare facilities serving the region, including Willis-Knighton Health System and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier; access to emergency services is reliable, with several hospitals nearby.

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