Tank Trip: What to do in Shreveport, Louisiana

Everything’s coming up roses in Shreveport—red, white, yellow, pink, and even green ones—where the American Rose Society’s national headquarters is celebrating its 50th blooming season. During a visit to smell the flowers, you can also enjoy the art, history, and cuisine of this metropolitan area that extends across the Red River into Bossier City.

A stop at the American Rose Center, one of the nation’s largest rose parks, is a must. Late spring and early fall are prime times for roses, but you’ll see beautiful blossoms even in mid-summer. The trees, perennials, and an abundance of birds also make this a lovely place to stroll. $5 per person.

Architecture and history buffs will want to explore the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, which features majestic frescoes. Built in the late 1930s as a New Deal public works project, the classic art deco structure contains Civil War exhibits, regional art, Native American artifacts, and detailed dioramas depicting aspects of the state’s economic and industrial heritage.

At the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, works spanning more than 4,000 years include pieces by French sculptor Auguste Rodin and legendary Western artists Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell. Paths around the gallery wind through 40 acres of landscaped grounds and botanical gardens highlighted by a rippling stream, a pond, and wildlife sculptures. Free; open Thursday through Sunday.

Families will also find plenty of fun in the area. Feed stingrays or pop your head up in a plexiglass bubble to get a fish-eye view of creatures swimming around you at the Shreveport Aquarium. Adults, $15.95. Connect with hundreds of hands-on science exhibits at the Sci-Port Discovery Center, which also presents shows in a planetarium and an IMAX theater. $15 per person; some activities are additional.

If casinos are your thing, 15 regional options include Horseshoe Bossier City, which overlooks the Red River and features 6 diverse restaurants.

Find delights for all seasons in The Enchanted Garden, a boutique carrying gifts, clothing, toys, and jewelry. Check out the fantasy masks made by co-owner and artist Dennis Beckman. Peruse an eclectic mix of artworks and crafts produced by more than 75 Louisiana artists at 318 Art Company.

With an almost century-long history, funky Fertitta’s Delicatessen is a favorite for the Muffy, its interpretation of a New Orleans muffuletta. Sample Cajun comfort food at Herby-K’s, including the Shrimp Buster—fried butterflied shrimp on buttered, toasted French bread with coleslaw, fries, and Herby-K’s special sauce. Step into Marilynn’s Place for more Louisiana classics like po’boys, jambalaya, and gumbo. For a sweet treat, request a beignet filled with Biscoff cookie butter.

The boutique Remington Suite Hotel & Spa occupies a restored downtown building that was once a pharmacy. Each chic room is inspired by an iconic artist. Complete your relaxation with a massage or facial in the spa. Hotel rates start at $175.

Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to drink alcohol.