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North Louisiana - The Undiscovered Country

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North Louisiana - The Undiscovered Country
A Look at Four Cities: Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, and West Monroe

By Rochelle Caviness - December 9, 2002

When you think of Louisiana, what comes to mind: New Orleans, Creole food, Cajun Music, and Mardi Gras? While all of these items are integral elements of Louisiana culture and history, there is much, much more to Louisiana than these stereotypes. One of the more overlooked areas of Louisiana is North Louisiana which is aptly nicked named, the Sportsman's Paradise.

One third of the Ark-La-Tex region, Northern Louisiana has it all; including fine food, great music, friendly natives, exciting outdoor adventure opportunities, shopping, gaming, and yes, even Mardi Gras. The only thing they seem to lack is New Orleans. However Northern Louisiana has so much to offer, you'll soon forget that you once even considered New Orleans to be part of Louisiana!.

Northern Louisiana can be divided into to distinct sections. The Western section is centered around the cities of Shreveport and Bossier City, and at the center of the Eastern section you'll find the cities of West Monroe and Monroe.

Shreveport and Bossier City

The cities of Shreveport and Bossier City are so close together that you can pass back and forth between the two cities without ever noticing that you have left one city for the other. You will find that many activities, in both cities, take place along the banks of the Red River, that flows between the two municipalities.

Both cities host a plethora of festivals throughout the year. Events include: A vibrant and exciting region, Shreveport and Bossier City offers visitors something for everyone, ranging from gaming and fine dining to antiquing and museums. In addition to 'city' pursuits, this area also offers a wealth of opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, water skiing, and a whole host of outdoor activities - including a variety of gardens that can be visited.

This area can be easily navigated by car or city bus. If you will be on foot, I'd recommend that you stay somewhere in the downtown area of Shreveport. There are many fine hotels in the area, or, if you want to treat yourself to some pampering you can stay at one of the casino hotels, such as the Hollywood Casino Resort Hotel. This hotel has a "golden era of Hollywood" art deco look, the staff is friendly, and best of all the, hotel is conveniently located so that you can easily walk to most of the attractions located in Shreveport. This hotel is also located directly across the street from the new Red River District.

While touring this area, keep an eye out for the public art murals. You cannot miss them, as they appear on everything - including the city busses. The most prominent of all these murals is the 25,000 square-foot Once in a Millennium Moon mural by Meg Saligman. This phenomenal public arts project covers two sides of the A T & T building and is located in downtown Shreveport. It is interesting to note that all the people portrayed in the mural live in the surrounding area and much of the actual painting was done by local residents.

Here is a short list of the varied attractions that you will find the Shreveport and Bossier City area: Want to learn more? Check out the Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau website, located at: http://www.shreveport-bossier.org/

They can also be reached by phone at: 1-888-45-VISIT.


Monroe and West Monroe

Like Shreveport and Bossier City, Monroe and West Monroe are sister cities that are divided only by the Ouachita River. And as with Shreveport and Bossier City, many events and festivals easily cross from one city to the other.

This region is especially noted for its outdoor recreational opportunities and its numerous art museums and galleries. West Monroe also boasts of the their famed Antique Alley, were one can easily spend an entire day antiquing.

The only drawback to this area is that it does not have an extensive public transportation system, so you will need access to a car in order to visit the many attractions in the area. Many splendid hotels, such as the new Jameson Inn of West Monroe, are scattered throughout the area. No matter which hotel you choose as your 'home base' you will find that you can easily drive to all the attractions in the area.

Featured attractions in this area include: Looking for more information on Monroe and West Monroe? Then check out the website of the Monroe and West Monroe Convention & Visitors Bureau, located at: http://www.monroe-westmonroe.org/

They can also be reaced by phone at: 1-800-843-1872


North Louisiana

This article can, by its very nature, only give you a small taste of what you can expect to find when you visit North Louisiana. This area offers all travels, including those with visual impairments, a host of entertainment and recreational opportunities. To learn more about this region, check out the following articles on North Louisiana: Back to top

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