Bayou Road Trip

Empty outdoor shopping street lined with trees and storefronts at sunset, with string lights overhead and a colorful sky in the background.

Head east on I-20 out of Tyler and you’ll run smack into Shreveport, Louisiana. Founded in 1836, Shreveport is now a booming city of about 200,000 residents located on the state’s western border along the Red River. Today, Shreveport, Louisiana’s third-largest city (behind New Orleans and Baton Rouge), is known for its rich history, unique culture and, of course, its nightlife and casinos!

A bustling metropolis, Shreveport is an easy destination for East Texas residents and visitors who want to spice up their plans. Filled with great restaurants, exciting destinations and loads of entertainment options, Shreveport is a city you don’t want to miss. With or without kids, you will enjoy everything this southern city has to offer. Get ready for some creole food and cajun flavor in the Bayou, we’re heading to Louisiana.

Six can’t-miss activities in Shreveport 2026

  • Gators and Friends Adventure Park– Guests at this exotic animals petting zoo can walk on the wild side and get friendly with unique animals from around the world. Once you’ve had your fill of furry friends, feed your need for adventure by checking out the onsite zipline. Fun awaits! 
  • Shreveport Aquarium– Once you’ve visited with animals who live on land, check out all the animals that call the ocean home! The Shreveport Aquarium is home to dozens of fish, sharks and other sea creatures. This great spot offers up feeding experiences, hands-on learning and so much more. 
  • Boom or Bust Byway– Locals and visitors alike can enjoy the great outdoors as they explore the scenic Boom or Bust Byway. The byway runs along the Texas/Louisiana border on the west and takes guests through breathtaking countryside and fields of wildflowers, season-dependent. This scenic journey is sure to color you impressed by the simple beauty of Mother Nature and northwest Louisiana. 
  • American Rose Center– Known as America’s Rose Garden, the American Rose Center spans 118 acres of beautiful land right in Shreveport. Be prepared to be blown away by the stunning beauty that acres of roses presents. Bring your camera- you are going to want to take picture after beautiful picture at this elegant spot. 
  • Shreveport Water Works Museum– How much thought do you give to the water that you drink? Do you know about the purification process? Learn all about the water that gives us life at this intriguing museum. While you’re learning about water, you can also visit the railroad museum located in the same spot. It’s history come to life in the best way. 

East Texas lodging

Shreveport is the perfect day-trip from your Texas vacation. While you’re staying in the piney woods of East Texas you can simply escape to Louisiana for the day to soak up the ambiance and culture available across the eastern border of Texas. If you’re looking for a cozy spot in East Texas, look no further than Woodland Creek RV Park. Located in Tyler, Texas, Woodland Creek has everything you need for a dreamy getaway to East Texas (and Louisiana!). Guests to this East Texas paradise can enjoy the nature trails, dog park, fire pits and more. Happy trails!