If you’re looking to experience a festive holiday season filled with unique activities, delightful eats, and warm Southern hospitality, you might want to consider Shreveport-Bossier City as your next holiday destination. My family and I were fortunate enough to be hosted by the Shreveport-Bossier City Tourism Bureau for a magical holiday weekend, and it exceeded all our expectations.
A Cozy Stay and Unique Experiences
Our adventure began with a luxurious stay at the Remington Suites Hotel & Spa. The hotel, with its charming ambiance and excellent service, provided the perfect base for our Christmas escapades.
After settling in, we headed to High Gravity Glassworks, where we had the chance to create our own family Christmas ornament and snowman. This hands-on experience was a highlight for us, and the ornament now holds a special place on our travel tree back home in Arkansas.
Shopping and Souvenirs
For those who love to shop, Shreveport-Bossier City offers a range of options. We visited Tubbs Hardware and Cajun Gifts, a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and Mardi Gras treasures. It’s the ideal spot to find something special to remember your trip.
Festive Nights and Fireworks
The evenings were truly magical. We spent our first night at Christmas in Roseland, an enchanting garden filled with twinkling lights and festive displays. The atmosphere was perfect for getting into the holiday spirit that even included roasting marshmallows.
The following evening, we were treated to a spectacular firework & drone show at Rockets Over the Red.
Family Fun and Discovery
Our son had an incredible time at the Sno-Port Sci-Port Discovery Center. It was packed with interactive exhibits and activities that kept him both entertained and engaged. This center is a fantastic destination for families, blending education with fun. During this holiday season, they have Sno-Port featuring exciting activities such as: a sock skating rink, the Xylophone Tree, Snowball Toss, Snow Globe, Ice Fishing Pond, and Igloo City. We had a “snowball” of a time competing in the snowball toss!
Just down the street from the Sci-Port Discovery Center, the Shreveport Aquarium is also a must-visit, offering a variety of attractions including shark tunnels and interactive exhibits where you can even feed stingrays. The Christmas season is the perfect time to visit, as it is beautifully adorned with lights and Christmas trees. They present “BELIEVE in the Magic of Christmas” during December, featuring a special motion-activated Christmas wand. As you explore the aquarium, use your wand to illuminate the festive decorations—turn on twinkling lights, play cheerful tunes, and even create reindeer footprints. Don’t forget to stroll through the enchanting Christmas Tree Lane and cast your vote for your favorite decorated tree.
Of course, no trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine, and Shreveport-Bossier City did not disappoint. We started our culinary journey at Ki-Mexico, where the flavors were vibrant and satisfying. Abby Singer’s Bistro, with its charming location, offered a delightful dining experience with great sunset views, while Ono’s Hawaiian Grill transported us back to Oahu with its authentic tastes.
For a unique dining atmosphere, Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, situated in an old fire station, served some of the best wings and pizza we’ve ever had, along with a giant German pretzel that was simply irresistible.
Sweet Mornings
Our mornings began perfectly with a visit to Rhino Coffee, where we savored delicious hot chocolate and freshly brewed coffee. We also couldn’t resist stopping by Southern Maid Donuts, the oldest donut shop in Shreveport, to indulge in their iconic treats.
Unique Gifts
Before leaving, we made sure to visit the Enchanted Garden. This whimsical shop is filled with unique gifts and souvenirs, allowing us to take a piece of the Pelican State back home.
Our trip to Shreveport-Bossier City during the Christmas season was filled with delightful surprises, warm memories, and festive joy. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, this Southern gem offers an unforgettable holiday experience. If you’re looking for a new holiday tradition, consider exploring all that Shreveport-Bossier City has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!