Bossier City, Louisiana: 10 Easy Weekend Road Trips Nearby

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10 Easy Out‑of‑County Road Trips Near Bossier City, Louisiana

If you’re in Bossier City, Louisiana and itching to get out of town for the day, you’re in luck. Within about a 1 to 2‑hour drive, you’ll find quiet lakes, small‑town diners, historic sites, and even a few surprises you might not expect in northwest Louisiana and southwest Arkansas. This guide focuses on short road trips outside Bossier Parish, into nearby places like Caddo, Red River, Webster, Bienville (LA) and Lafayette and Miller Counties in Arkansas. No need for flights or fancy planning—just gas up the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road.

1. Stroll the Riverfront & History in Downtown Shreveport (Caddo Parish, LA)

Just across the Red River, Shreveport makes an easy first stop when you’re looking for things to do near Bossier City—and yes, it counts as out‑of‑parish since it’s in Caddo Parish. You can spend a whole day here without feeling rushed:
  • Walk along the Red River and enjoy river views.
  • Explore downtown murals and historic buildings.
  • Pop into local coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.
  • Browse boutiques and small businesses.
I like to park once and just wander. The downtown area is compact enough that you can easily cover a lot on foot. If you go in the evening, the city lights reflecting on the river give it a surprisingly big‑city vibe for a short drive from Bossier City.

2. Fishing, Picnics, and Pine Trees at Lake Bistineau (Webster & Bienville Parishes, LA)

If you’re craving fresh air and tall pines, Lake Bistineau is one of the best outdoor day trips near Bossier City. This long, narrow lake stretches across Webster and Bienville Parishes and feels like a classic Louisiana postcard. Things to do around the lake:
  • Cast a line for bass or crappie from a pier or boat.
  • Pack a picnic and relax under the shade of towering trees.
  • Walk or bike along park roads and trails.
  • Watch for birds and wildlife in the quiet coves.
If you’re not big on fishing, you can still just enjoy the calm. On weekday mornings, it’s often so still you can hear the birds and the soft splash of turtles slipping off logs into the water.

3. Step Back in Time in Minden’s Historic Downtown (Webster Parish, LA)

About 30–40 minutes east of Bossier City sits Minden, a small town in Webster Parish with one of the most charming historic downtowns in the region. Expect:
  • Brick streets and restored buildings.
  • Local cafés perfect for a slow brunch or coffee.
  • Antique and thrift stores where you can hunt for hidden treasures.
  • Seasonal festivals and parades that bring the town to life.
If you enjoy photography, this is a great spot to wander with a camera. Old signs, colorful storefronts, and classic Southern porches make for great shots. Tip: Plan your road trip around lunch, so you can try a local plate lunch or a homemade dessert. Small‑town diners here still feel like the kind of place where everybody knows everybody.

4. Red River Parish Backroads & Coushatta’s Small‑Town Charm (Red River Parish, LA)

Head south from Bossier City into Red River Parish, and life instantly seems to slow down. The town of Coushatta is the parish seat and a good base to explore nearby. Here’s what makes this drive special:
  • Scenic country roads lined with fields and woods.
  • The peaceful Red River, with access points for fishing or just watching the water roll by.
  • Local spots serving fried catfish, burgers, and sweet tea.
This is the kind of trip where the journey really is the experience. Roll the windows down, turn up the music, and enjoy that wide‑open Louisiana sky. If you like photography or just need a mental reset, those backroads can work wonders.

5. Quiet Country Churches & History in Bienville Parish, LA

Bienville Parish feels like classic rural Louisiana—sleepy roads, quiet communities, and a whole lot of history hidden in plain sight. What to look for on a scenic drive:
  • Historic country churches and old cemeteries.
  • Rolling hills and pine forests you might not expect in this part of Louisiana.
  • Roadside produce stands (depending on the season).
This isn’t a “check off five attractions” kind of day trip. It’s more about slowing down and noticing details: a weathered barn, a tiny post office, or a wooden bridge over a creek. Bring a cooler—you may find local fruits, veggies, or homemade jams along the way.

6. Cross the State Line to Texarkana (Miller County, AR)

Ready for something a little more unusual? Drive about 1.5–2 hours north from Bossier City and you’ll hit Texarkana, where Texas and Arkansas meet. The Arkansas side of the city sits in Miller County. What makes this road trip fun:
  • Stand on the state line where you can literally put one foot in Texas and one in Arkansas.
  • Browse shops and grab lunch in the downtown area.
  • Drive around to see how one city blends two different states.
It’s a great conversation starter with kids or visitors: “Have you ever been in two states at once?” Plus, the drive up gives you a nice mix of highway and small‑town scenery.

7. Outdoor Fun at Lafayette County’s Lakes (Lafayette County, AR)

About an hour and a half north of Bossier City, Lafayette County, Arkansas, is all about the outdoors. If you’re into boating, fishing, or just sitting by the water, this area is worth the drive. Depending on where you go, you can:
  • Launch a boat or kayak for a quiet morning on the water.
  • Fish for bass, crappie, or catfish.
  • Set up a picnic at a lakeside area and enjoy the breeze.
This is one of those day trips where you pack the cooler, sunscreen, and a good book. It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of simple day you remember later when life gets busy again.

8. Arts, Eats, and Neighborhoods in Shreveport’s Highland & South Highlands (Caddo Parish, LA)

Yes, Shreveport is close—but beyond the riverfront and downtown, Highland and South Highlands neighborhoods have their own flavor and are well worth a separate visit. Make a slow, relaxed day of it:
  • Drive tree‑lined streets with historic homes and colorful cottages.
  • Stop at local bakeries, coffee shops, or sandwich spots.
  • Check out small galleries or local art, depending on what’s open.
If you enjoy spotting unique architecture and older neighborhoods with character, this area is a nice change of pace from newer developments. It almost feels like stepping onto an old movie set in some blocks.

9. Bird‑Watching & Backroads by Caddo Lake (Caddo Parish, LA / Nearby TX Border)

While much of Caddo Lake stretches into Texas, the Louisiana side and nearby areas in Caddo Parish are an easy nature escape from Bossier City. What you can do nearby:
  • Drive scenic roads near the lake, enjoying moss‑draped cypress trees.
  • Look for bird‑watching spots and quiet pull‑offs.
  • Bring binoculars to spot herons, egrets, and other wildlife.
Even if you don’t get out on the water itself, the views alone make this a peaceful half‑ or full‑day trip. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be the most beautiful, with softer light and cooler temps.

10. Classic Small‑Town Louisiana in Springhill & Northern Webster Parish, LA

Head north from Bossier City into northern Webster Parish, and you’ll find towns like Springhill and quiet communities that feel like they’re frozen in time—in the best way. Here’s how to enjoy it:
  • Take a relaxed driving loop through farm country and pine forests.
  • Stop for lunch at a local café or grill—ask for the daily special.
  • Explore small main streets, old storefronts, and local parks.
If you grew up in a small town, this area might feel comfortingly familiar. If you didn’t, it’s a window into a slower pace of life that still exists just a short drive from the city.

Tips for Planning Your Road Trips from Bossier City

To make these short out‑of‑county (or out‑of‑parish) trips smooth and fun, keep a few basics in mind:
  • Check the weather: Summer heat, thunderstorms, or winter rain can change your plans fast.
  • Call ahead: For specific attractions, restaurants, or parks, check hours and any fees.
  • Bring a backup plan: Especially in small towns, some spots may close unexpectedly.
  • Pack a “day trip kit”: Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, phone charger, and a light jacket.
Think of Bossier City as your home base and these surrounding parishes and counties as your playground. You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve “gone somewhere.”

What’s Your Favorite Day Trip from Bossier City?

Have you explored any of these road trips near Bossier City? Maybe you’ve found a hidden diner, a quiet fishing spot, or a pretty backroad that deserves more attention.
  • Which out‑of‑county spot do you love most?
  • Did I miss a must‑see place in Caddo, Webster, Red River, Bienville, Lafayette County (AR), or Miller County (AR)?
Share your favorite day trips, tips, and memories in the comments—your ideas can help other travelers plan their next getaway. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for easy road trip ideas from Bossier City. Sometimes the best adventures are just an hour or two down the road.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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