Summer Travel

Down the bayou or just up the street, there’s something new and exciting for you to discover around every corner of Louisiana!
Shreveport-Bossier
Shreveport-Bossier is packed with family-friendly fun this summer! Visit Gators and Friends to race go-karts, feed alligators, explore the exotic petting zoo, and zip-line over the park. At Sci-Port Discovery Center, kids can unleash their curiosity with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome, planetarium shows, and interactive science galleries for all ages. Dive into aquatic adventures at the Shreveport Aquarium, where guests can touch stingrays, feed sea creatures, and explore shipwrecks, coral reefs, and deep-sea habitats. Laze down the lazy river at Wonder Oasis Waterpark or slide down the various slides for more adventure. Head to Cypress Zoo, nestled in the Black Bayou Recreation Area, where families can enjoy walking trails, petting zoos, and beach spots. Check out the brand-new Chasing Aces, a golf experience with a putting course, par-3 challenges, and a fun atmosphere perfect for beginners or pros. There’s no shortage of ways to make memories in Shreveport-Bossier this summer!
For more information, visit visitshreveportbossier.org.
West Baton Rouge
The West Baton Rouge Convention & Visitor Bureau grounds will be center stage, once again, for the Annual Smokin’ Oldies BBQ Cook-Off. This event is a BCA State Championship Cook-Off held on Saturday, September 13th. Come out and watch the competition while dancing to the music of Justin Cornett from noon to 4 p.m. Visit the local crafters and Louisiana food booths. Then on Sunday, September 14th, the Oldies But Goodies Fest begins at 11:00 a.m. with Waters Edge performing from noon to 4 p.m. Come out and enjoy the antique car show, local crafts, and Louisiana food booths.
For more information on these events, please visit westbatonrouge.net.
Avoyelles Parish
As you travel the roads of Louisiana this summer into fall, take a backroad trip to the center of Louisiana, yes, that is correct, Avoyelles Parish boasts the coordinates to CENTRE de la LOUISIANE, 31.0693876La, -91.9970055Lo. The physical address is 1860 Old River Road, Mansura, LA 71350. Come on out and take a selfie in Louisiana’s center and share your history-making photo with us on FB: TravelAvoyelles.
When you visit Avoyelles, you’ll get Louisiana your way. A laid-back stroll down a charming main street –it’s here! Cultural attractions in a beautiful natural setting –that’s us too! And the thrills of a Vegas-style casino with a bounty of entertainment and dining. When was the last time you visited a service station where an attendant pumped your gas and wiped your windshield sides along a historic highway? You’ll find it all and more when you find your center in Avoyelles!
Lafayette Travel
Known as the Happiest City in America, Lafayette is the lifeblood of Cajun & Creole Country, brimming with culture as unique as the sounds and flavors of its people. With the Summer sun shining, there’s no better place to visit for a festival, outdoor adventure, or just a great bite to eat than Acadiana.
If you’re looking for your next culinary obsession, Lafayette Travel has you covered with a Foodie’s Guide to Lafayette that will send your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re in the mood for some classic Creole fare (BJ’s Poorboy and Plate Lunches or Pop’s Poboys), some local brews (Adopted Dog Brewing), or sample a plate of international fare, Cajun style (Bailey’s Tandoori Grill, Agave Downtown, or Central Pizza & Bar), there’s a fit for every appetite down Lafayette way.
There’s always something new to taste and see in Acadiana, where Louisiana goes to party. Learn more by visiting lafayettetravel.com/food-drink/food-tours/foodies-guide/ or lafayettetravel.com/food-drink/local-restaurants/ today!
Big Cypress Lodge
This summer, camp inside one of the world’s largest pyramids at Big Cypress Lodge. Nestled inside the iconic Memphis Pyramid, this luxury hotel offers rustic rooms with inviting fireplaces, balconies overlooking Bass Pro Shops, and plush furnishings for a glamping-style retreat. Complete with dining options, spectacular shopping, and adventurous activities, Big Cypress Lodge is where your next family getaway begins. Plus, the convenient downtown location and complimentary shuttle give you access to the city’s best attractions and entertainment.
Join us this Summer for Yoga on the River every Tuesday by the Downtown Memphis Commission, the Ducks Unlimited Expo at the Renasant Convention Center August 1 – 3rd, and the Mississippi River Monster Tournament, and “The Home of the Blues” on Memphis’ Historic Beale Street. There’s always something new around every corner of Memphis, and Big Cypress Lodge is at the heart of it all.
Learn more at big-cypress.com.