The northwest corner of the state, in and around Shreveport-Bossier, is different from the rest of Louisiana. It’s a mixture of spicy Cajun attitude and wide-open Texas spirit. In Shreveport-Bossier, you’ll find a getaway that’s full of variety and offers a taste for life.

With five riverboat casinos and one horse-racing track/casino, the area offers its own brand of alluring bright lights and fast-paced gaming action. Let its exclusive boutiques fuel your shopping urge, or drown yourself in endless options at the Louisiana Boardwalk Promenade – the most popular and largest outlet mall, dining and entertainment destination in the state. Revel in family-oriented Mardi Gras celebrations as you reach for your share of more than 8 million beads and other throws.

Grab a movie ticket at the dynamic Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport after you’ve had dinner on the balcony at the Abby Singer’s Bistro.

Relive the area's rich history with a tour of Stage of Stars Museum and Municipal Auditorium, where Elvis Presley got his start on the Louisiana Hayride.

Engage in the stars through interactive exhibits at Sci-Port: Louisiana’s Science Center.

If you’re ready to head outdoors, view alligators in their natural habitat at Gators and Friends Alligator Park and Exotic Zoo, or take a short drive from the city and let Cypress Black Bayou help you relax with swimming, fishing or a stroll through its nature center.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, sink your teeth into savory Cajun and Creole traditions and full-flavored Southern cuisine at Herby K’s Restaurant or Ernest’s Orleans Restaurant. Or try the olive mix on the Muffy sandwiches at Fertitta’s Delicatessen & Catering. That’s just a sample of the many ingredients that make these cities a memorable getaway.

So go ahead – place your bets, dance to the beat, laugh the night away, and while you’re here visiting Louisiana’s Other Side – discover yours!

For more on events or for ticket information, visit www.ShreveportBossierFunGuide.com

Bask in A Shoppers' Paradise

Shopping in Shreveport-Bossier is an experience like no other. Full of unexpected surprises, it offers a range of options aimed at delivering to you the latest trends of the season as well as the unique options for the shopper who prefers something a bit more offbeat.

Find just what you need in time for the holidays here on Louisiana's Other Side. From boutiques and contemporary stores to outlet shopping and sporting goods, there's something for all shoppers.

On the banks of the Red River in Bossier City lies the Louisiana Boardwalk Promenade. It's the hottest and most popular and the largest outlet mall, dining and entertainment destination in Louisiana. Truly a city within a city, this lifestyle center has something to please everyone, including riverfront dining, a comedy club and seasonal events.

More than 60 outlet stores are at the Boardwalk, including Bass Pro Shops, Gap, Lane Bryant, Nine West and DKNY Jeans. Have a lot of bags? Hop on the Magnolia Belle trolley or ride on Louisiana Pedicabs.

Historic Line Avenue also offers the best in unique finds, with more than 75 specialty shops. This Shreveport shopping area is a haven for great signature items.

Southeast Shreveport is one of the fastest-growing shopping districts on Louisiana's Other Side, offering a spread of retail spaces like White House Black Market, Belk, World Market and so much more! While you're there, dine at local favorites such as Strawn's Eat Shop or Fairfield Grocery & Market Cafe.

Gaming on the Red River

Las Vegas-style 24-hour fun is the order of the day when you slip into one of five riverboat casinos on the Red River. Each has a distinctive flair, but all have one thing in common – excitement! Tell your friends and colleagues to come loaded down with money and fortified with daring, because they can spend hours here flirting with lady luck. Our roster includes Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino Shreveport, DiamondJack’s Casino & Resort, Eldorado Casino & Hotel, Horseshoe Casino & Hotel, Shreveport-Bossier, Boomtown Casino and Harrah’s Louisiana Downs – a “racino,” or horse track and casino.

Action includes slot machines – new ones are added all the time – roulette, Big Six, blackjack and other table games. Whether your group members want to wander off on their own and play or caravan over, they’ll find something to hit the spot. These casinos aren’t just for playing, though – several of these properties boast state-of-the art meeting facilities and amenities that can cater to groups of various sizes and needs.

Discover Our Spicy Side

Shreveport and Bossier City have some of the best food anywhere. The Youree Drive corridor features many of today’s popular chains, while home-grown eateries such as Fertitta’s Delicatessen, Ernest’s Orleans, Strawn’s Eat Shop – known for its strawberry pie – dot the local landscape.

Down-home Southern favorites can be had here, as can signature Creole and Cajun dishes. Tangy barbecue can light up the taste buds, while desserts beckon. Drop in for a casual lunch, order out for catering or arrange special reservations. With so many choices, you’ll have hard time deciding which option your group wants!

Staples include Fertitta’s Delicatessen, which sells a variety of sandwiches but is most famous for the Muffy – a type of muffuletta made with muffuletta bread. The world-renowned recipe is a closely guarded family secret that includes tasty mustard, a selection of cold cuts, a blend of Italian cheeses and a generous spread of Papa Fertitta’s famous olive mix. The sandwich is then toasted and served hot from the oven.