SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Looking for a summertime adventure? Explore Louisiana has listed 50 things you can do in our state this summer.
Rather than bore you with a list you can peruse on your own, we will focus on a few fun locations for adventure-seeking adults and families looking to get out of the house or take a road trip.
Louisiana has award-winning breweries in every area of the boot, whether you prefer pilsners, lagers, stouts, or ambers or expanding your beer senses. Down south, you can check out NOLA Brewing Company, Crescent City Brewhouse, Adopted Dog, or the OG of Louisiana breweries, Abita (the kids can enjoy root beer while you savor a cold one.
Up north, The Flying Heart has locations in Shreveport, Natchitoches, and West Monroe. But don't skip a trip to Seventh Tap or Great Raft Brewing.
Louisiana has a rich history with beautiful French and Spanish-style homes that have been converted to bed and breakfast spots. A building that was originally a police patrol station and jail built in New Orleans in 1901 has been remodeled and restored to give visitors a room at the Inn at the Old Jail in New Orleans.
The most famous bed and breakfast in the state may be the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast in Natchitoches, popularized by the film Steel Magnolias.
Fairfield Place Bed and Breakfast in Shreveport features a New Orleans-style open courtyard. It is the oldest surviving home on Fairfield Avenue, built in the early 1870s by Louisiana Supreme Court Judge Thomas Thompson.
Blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries grow easily in Louisiana's climate. Pile the kids in the car for a berry-picking adventure, or choose from other treats made at the farm.
The tiny town of Ringgold is home to McCain's Family Farm. Visitors can grab a bucket and pick plump blueberries. They also sell fresh honey cultivated on the farm.
So you don't drink, no kids to share the joy of berry picking. Well, there's still something for everyone in Louisiana.
State parks throughout the Pelican State are filled with natural wonders and wildlife. Canoeing, paddle boats, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities are available to suit all levels of physical activity and personal interest. You can visit for a day or rent a cabin and spend the night.
Sci-Port Discovery in Shreveport has 92,000 square feet of interactive science exhibits and programs. It also features an IMAX Dome Theater and a laser Space Dome Planetarium that kids of all ages will love. Discounts for military, groups, and seniors are available.
Travel through the state and check out points on the African American Heritage Trail to learn the rich history of African American contributions to the state.
Art and history lovers are not forgotten on this list. They can take in the sights at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport or catch a live show at the historic Strand Theater. Just south of Shreveport, the Museum of West Louisiana in Leesville features art created by German WWII prisoners detained at Fort Polk.
If a deep dive into World War II is really what you seek, you will have to head to New Orleans, home of the National WWII Museum.
For a complete list of places or to learn more about the state, visit explorelouisiana.com.