Looking for things to do in Bossier City with your kids? You’ve got more options than you might think. Bossier sits right across the Red River from Shreveport, and it’s packed with riverfront trails, family events, animals to visit and plenty of spots to grab a treat. Whether you live here or you’re just visiting, this guide covers the places local families actually go.
We’ve also added notes on cost, timing and what to know before you go, so you can plan a fun day without any surprises. And when the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ve got a backup plan for that, too.
Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets
The Louisiana Boardwalk is an easy place to spend an afternoon with kids. It sits right on the Red River, and the local tourism bureau recommends it for families, pointing out the carousel and the caramel apples. You can also walk through the giant Bass Pro Shops store, catch a movie, and stroll along the water between stops.
Kids love picking out a chocolate-covered apple at The Chocolate Crocodile, a local candy shop right on the property. Parking is free, which makes it a low-cost outing if you skip the shopping bags.
One thing to know: the Boardwalk has a curfew for younger visitors. Anyone under 16 isn’t allowed on the property after 8 p.m. unless a parent or guardian is with them. That’s not a problem for most family trips, but it’s good to know if your teens want to meet friends there in the evening.
Arthur Ray Teague Parkway Trail
If your kids have energy to burn, head to the riverfront trail. The Arthur Ray Teague Parkway Trail is a 6.4-mile paved path that’s 8 feet wide and runs along the Red River in south Bossier. It’s flat and smooth, so it works for bikes, scooters, strollers and little legs.
The main trailhead, with parking and picnic space, sits across the parkway from Brookshire Grocery Arena. You don’t have to do the whole trail. A short walk out and back, with a snack break by the river, is plenty for younger kids. Bring water and sunscreen, since parts of the trail have very little shade.
East Bank District and Plaza
The East Bank District is Bossier City’s revived downtown area. In the middle of it is the East Bank Plaza, which hosts community events, live music and parties. The Bossier Arts Council is right in the district, too.
The plaza is at its best during seasonal markets and festivals. For example, the East Bank holiday market in December has featured photos with Santa, local vendors, food trucks and live music. Keep in mind that the district is also an open-container area with bars and breweries, so it’s best for families during daytime and event hours rather than late at night.
Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area and Cypress Zoo
For a nature day, drive a little north to Cypress Black Bayou in Benton, still in Bossier Parish. The park has a beach, fishing piers, cabins, hiking trails and a small zoo. Inside the park, Cypress Zoo covers seven acres and costs $5 per person, with free entry for kids 5 and under.
The nature area also has 4.5 miles of trails and a picnic area. Bird lovers will be happy here, too, since nearly 140 bird species have been spotted at the site. Pack a lunch and plan for a half day. Just note that the indoor nature center building is open to schools and daycares by appointment, so call ahead if that’s on your list.
Barksdale Global Power Museum
Kids who love planes will want to see the Barksdale Global Power Museum. It sits on Barksdale Air Force Base and shows off historic aircraft along with exhibits on the base’s history. Admission has long been free, but because the museum is on an active military base, there are extra steps to visit.
According to the museum’s website, U.S. citizens who don’t already have base access need to fill out a Visitor Request Form for a museum pass, and every visitor 18 or older must show a valid photo ID at the gate. The museum is also closed on weekends. Plan this one for a school break or a weekday off, and send in the form well ahead of your visit.
Bossier City Farmers’ Market
Saturday mornings are a great time to take the kids to the farmers’ market. The Bossier City Farmers’ Market sets up on the east side of Pierre Bossier Mall and runs every Saturday from April through November. Let your kids pick out a fresh fruit or veggie to try at home. It’s a simple way to make healthy food feel like a fun choice instead of a chore.
Shows and Events at Brookshire Grocery Arena
Bossier’s big arena hosts everything from concerts to rodeos to family shows. Brookshire Grocery Arena holds up to 14,000 people, so it draws touring shows you might not expect in a city this size. Check the arena’s event calendar a few weeks out. Family shows and holiday events tend to sell the best seats early.
Holiday Things to Do in Bossier City
The holidays are one of the best times for family things to do in Bossier City. The area’s Holidays on the Red celebration runs from late November through the New Year, with light displays, markets and family events across Shreveport-Bossier. The Rockets Over the Red fireworks show has been viewable from the Louisiana Boardwalk, which makes for an easy night out with kids.
Another local tradition is the low-cost BPCC Christmas Show, put on by Bossier Parish Community College with the City of Bossier City. Last year’s show had a $2 ticket and a visit with Santa after one of the performances. Dates and prices can change each year, so check the college’s theatre page in November before you plan around it.
What to Do in Bossier City When It’s Cold or Rainy
Louisiana weather can flip fast. A sunny trail day can turn into a rainy one, and winter afternoons get chilly. When that happens, an indoor play spot saves the day, and you don’t have to go far.
The Bounce House Shreveport is a short drive across the river at 111 Dalton St. It’s Louisiana’s largest indoor bounce house, with slides, obstacle courses, open bounce areas and a safe toddler zone. Open Bounce passes start at $10 for one hour, $15 for two hours, or $30 for an all-day pass, and grip socks are included. Open Bounce hours are Friday 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m., and private parties can be booked other days by appointment.
If you want more indoor ideas, our guide on what to do with kids when it’s raining is full of them. And if you have little ones, check out the indoor playground details before you visit.
Bonus: Family Fun Just Across the River
Since Shreveport is right next door, a lot of Bossier families split the day between both cities. The Shreveport Aquarium, Sci-Port Discovery Center and Gators and Friends Adventure Park are all local favorites for kids. For more ideas, see our lists of the top family activities in Shreveport and the best things to do with toddlers in Shreveport.
Bossier City Family Fun FAQs
What is there for kids to do in Bossier City?
Popular picks include the Louisiana Boardwalk’s carousel and treats, the riverfront Arthur Ray Teague Parkway Trail, Cypress Zoo at Cypress Black Bayou, the Barksdale Global Power Museum, and seasonal events at the East Bank Plaza. Family shows at Brookshire Grocery Arena are another fun option.
What are some free things to do in Bossier City with kids?
The riverfront trail, the Louisiana Boardwalk (if you skip the shopping), the farmers’ market and many East Bank Plaza events cost nothing to enjoy. The Barksdale Global Power Museum has also been free, but you’ll need to request a visitor pass ahead of time.
What can kids do in Bossier City on a rainy day?
Indoor options include a movie at the Boardwalk, browsing Bass Pro Shops, or heading across the river to an indoor play park. An indoor bounce park lets kids run and jump no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Is Bossier City good for families?
Yes. Bossier City has easy riverfront access, family events all year and quick access to Shreveport’s museums and attractions. Most spots are close together, so you can fit several stops into one day without a lot of driving.
Plan Your Next Family Day
From river walks to plane museums to holiday fireworks, there are plenty of things to do in Bossier City with kids all year long. Mix a couple of outdoor stops with one indoor backup, and you’ll have a day the whole family enjoys. When you need that indoor backup, book a bounce session or call (318) 550-7131, and come jump with us just across the river.