Alexandria, Louisiana, “The Heart of Louisiana,” is across the Red River. It’s the central hub of diverse cultures along with Cajun bonhomie and the annual Mardi Gras event. Multiple boat tours are utilized to illustrate the river’s significance in Louisiana’s history. Being one of Louisiana’s most popular cities, you are certain to treasure what this city has to offer.
Wondering what to do in Alexandria, LA? Then here are some of the best things to do in Alexandria, Louisiana.
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1. Alexandria Holocaust Memorial
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Have you see this in #DowntownAlexandria near Rapides Regional Hospital? It's the new #Holocaust #Memorial. Site dedication will be Nov. 10th.
Posted by Alexandria/Pineville CVB on Monday, October 28, 2013
One of the most significant Alexandria, LA attractions is Alexandria Holocaust Memorial. This memorial was built to commemorate the six million Jews, one and one-half million children, and many non-Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Additionally, the Alexandria Holocaust Memorial acknowledges the brave attempts on account of the resisters and rescuers. The monument is 18 feet high (5.4 meters). If you’re in close proximity of the Alexandria Holocaust Memorial, stop by and pay your respects.
Alexandria Holocaust Memorial
Address: Corner of Fourth and Elliott Streets, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Alexandria Holocaust Memorial
2. Alexandria Zoological Park
Alexandria Zoological Park is the #1 attraction for families and is one of the best activities in Alexandria, LA. It has more than 500 animals! You may even get a chance to see the ultra-rare white tiger! You will see a variety of animals like elephants, bears, lions, and others. There’s a gift shop if you want to remember your visit by buying a couple of souvenirs for yourself or your friends. Also, Alexandria Zoological Park has a play area for the kids while feeding the fish. Talk about family fun!
Alexandria Zoological Park
Address: 3016 Masonic Drive, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Alexandria Zoological Park
3. Alexandria Museum of Art
As the centerpiece on Alexandria’s riverfront, Alexandria Museum of Art houses Louisiana’s largest collection of Louisiana Folk art! Art classes are offered for families and adults. The Muse is an art club for teens and young adults. Alexandria Museum of Art’s collection ranges from artist books, ceramics, drawings, watercolors, collages, and paintings. You and the family can understand art masterpieces hands on!
Alexandria Museum of Art
Address: 933 Second Street, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Alexandria Museum of Art
4. Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins
Frogmore is only an hour away from Alexandria; Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins is a historical working cotton and gin plantation. Take a tour to see furnished slave cabins, listen to the slaves’ lifestyle, and more. You will also learn the complete history of the Civil War between the Confederates and the Union affecting the slaves and their owners. I bet even the history books did not get all of this, but you can! Keep in mind that Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins is the ONLY tour of the South. Go and check it out!
Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins
Address: 11656 U.S. Highway 84, Frogmore, LA 71334, United States
Website: Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins
5. Forts Randolph/Buhlow State Historic Site
Only 4 minutes from Alexandria and on the banks of the Red River, Pineville has the historic Forts Randolph/Buhlow. These forts were named after Captain Christopher M. Randolph and Lieutenant Alphonse Buhlow. The forts were built by the Confederates during the Civil War. The visit center maintains the actual Civil War artifacts! There’s a boardwalk all around Forts Randolph/Buhlow to get a closer view. You can’t get any closer than that!
Forts Randolph/Buhlow State Historic Site
Address: 135 Riverfront Street, Pineville, LA 71360, United States
6. River Oaks Square Arts Center
Surprisingly, the River Oaks Square Arts Center is comprised of two facilities including the Bolton House. The Bolton’s donated their home to only be used for arts in 1979. The new studio annex building is the second facility. River Oaks Square Arts Center is the advocate for contemporary, visual arts and it’s artists. There are resident artists, workshops, exhibitions, and a gift shop here. Observe these masterpieces inside the Bolton House and the new studio annex building. You just may be inspired!
River Oaks Square Arts Center
Address: 1330 Second Street, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: River Oaks Square Arts Center
7. T.R.E.E. House Children's Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Come discover Nano Science with us Saturday 9-4!
Posted by TREE House Children's Museum on Thursday, October 4, 2018
If there was ever a time to enjoy being a kid, the time is now! Witness a child’s imagination, 3-D style! Not only is this place a museum, but it’s a watchful learning environment. The programs are some of the best kid-friendly entertainment in Alexandria LA, as they keep the kids engaged with fun activities and exhibits. T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum is a lively, entertaining, safe haven for children. Even parents can appreciate a little downtime from their kids.
T.R.E.E. House Children's Museum
Address: 1403 Third Street, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum
8. Kent Plantation
Built in the 1800s, the Kent Plantation House is the oldest building structure in Louisiana, still standing strong. The Kent Plantation is of French Creole descent. Prepare yourself for a tour of the house and the grounds. A tour of the house includes the master bedroom, stranger room, artifact room, and other rooms. The tour of the grounds contains the open hearth kitchen, slave cabins, cemetery, and more. This house is the embodiment of French, Spanish, and American cultures. Attend and plunge in the colonial infrastructure at the Kent Plantation!
Kent Plantation House
Address: 3601 Bayou Rapides Road, Alexandria, LA 71303, United States
Website: Kent Plantation
9. Louisiana History Museum
The Louisiana History Museum is not just dedicated to Alexandria but to all of Louisiana’s history. From the French and Spanish dealings with the Louisiana Purchase, Civil War, Jim Bowie and the Frontier, you are guaranteed to partake in history from a different perspective! The Louisiana History Museum has several diverse exhibits and archives just waiting to be seen. Admission is free too!
Louisiana History Museum
Address: 503 Washington Street, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Louisiana History Museum
10. Arna Bontemps African American Museum & Cultural Arts Center
This museum is actually the home of Arna Bontemps which was built in 1890; he was involved in the literary movement known as the Harlem Renaissance. Arna Bontemps African American Museum preserves his literary works and provides the history behind the man. A gift shop has African American Memorabilia, pamphlets, books, and artifacts are at your disposal. Visit, take, and experience the legacy of Arna Bontemps! Admission is free!
Arna Bontemps African American Museum & Cultural Arts Center
Address: 1327 3rd Street, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Arna Bontemps African American Museum & Cultural Arts Center
11. Alexander Art Studio in Lake Charles
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re one to experience something a little more different than the usual outdoor activities, check out the Alexander Art Studio in Lake Charles and immerse yourself in some art appreciation and art workshops. Alexander Art Studio is just downtown of Lake Charles and is a Tree of Life Landmark attraction of Louisiana, an art studio and gallery owned by the talented Candice Dawn Alexander, who has been pursuing a career in art for 20 years now. She is known for her piece “Fler De Lis” which is a mixed-media design piece that boasts original engravings and 3D features which made her a success in Louisiana overnight. Bask in the beauty of her sculptures, drawings, paintings, engravings, 3D models, and many more impressive pieces in this underrated attraction in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Alexander Art Studio in Lake Charles
Address: 900 Ryan St., Lake Chales, LA 70601
Website: Alexander Art Studio
Opening hours: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Mondays to Fridays; 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturdays (closed on Sundays)
Contact: (337) 433 2299
12. Wildwood Pizza
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Visit this much raved-about pizza restaurant that boasts wood-fired pizza and fresh salads. They also serve beer and wine by request. Wildwood Pizza does their best to deliver an authentic-tasting pizza with just the right twist to keep you coming back for more. This unique joint is perfect for those looking to have a casual yet exceptional meal. You’ll also get the chance to build your own pizza and choose whatever goes on it. Moreover, they are a pillar to the community, as they are partnered with a local charity that prides itself on providing meals for those in need. Make sure to stop by this highly rated restaurant if you find yourself in Alexandria, Louisianna.
Wildwood Pizza
Address: Texas Plaza, 1260 Texas Ave #H, Alexandria, LA 71301, United States
Website: Wildwood Pizza
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm
Don't miss out on the fun!
With all the cultural diversify and historical sites, Alexandria is a city full of enjoyable facts and knowledgeable backgrounds! Alexandria is great for tourists - family and friends included. What are you waiting for! Visit Alexandria; it is waiting to open your eyes to endless possibilities. Alexandria, a city you will never forget!
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