Benton

Benton, Louisiana

Source: Zillow

Benton offers an idyllic escape from the hectic urban lifestyle. With a population of just over 2,400 residents, this small community attracts those who seek a more relaxed environment and those who prefer being away from the bustle of big commercial areas.

There’s a palpable sense of belonging once you step foot in Benton, which occupies just 2.5 square miles. That community spirit goes a long way towards making the town a lovely place to live.

But looking beyond the rural facade and slower pace, you start to see that there’s more to the town than meets the eye. Benton has witnessed a few key moments in the country’s history, from the pivotal Louisiana Purchase to the Civil War. Benton was also an integral part of the Louisiana Hayride, a country music radio show that boosted the careers of Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and other notable musicians.

Blending history and a welcoming neighborly atmosphere, Benton is where you go to pursue your preferred lifestyle at your desired pace. If you’re considering exploring homes for sale in Benton or planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about this wonderful town.

WHERE IS BENTON, LOUISIANA?

Situated in northwest Louisiana, Benton is the parish seat of Bossier Parish. Louisiana is one of two US states that don’t conform to the county system. Due to its long heritage as a colony of France and Spain, the state still prefers to call its political subdivisions as parishes.

Benton is bisected by Louisiana Highway 3/Benton Road, which is the main thoroughfare connecting it to two major cities to the south: Shreveport and Bossier City, both of which are about 20-minute drive away. Additionally, Benton is less than an hour away from the borders of Arkansas (approximately 23 miles to the north) and Texas (approximately 40 miles to the west).

The climate

Benton’s humid subtropical climate brings in hot and humid summers, plenty of rain year-round, and fairly mild winters. Overall, the town receives over 200 days of sunshine and 51 inches of rain every year. Snowfall is usually around one inch annually.

There is less heat and humidity from March to May, and also in October. However, the summer months can get very hot in Benton, with average temperatures above 86 degrees.

The cooler months last from November to February. Although Benton is one of the few places in Louisiana that experiences winter, it never receives a significant amount of snowfall.

Nearby towns and cities

While you can pick up your essentials in Benton, LA, some of the extras you may want to have are close by. Check out what Benton’s nearby towns and cities have to offer:

• Plain Dealing is a smaller town to the north of Benton. Founded in the 1830s and home to just over 800 residents, the community is in close proximity to two natural lakes and the Oakland Plantation Country Club.
• Bossier City is just 21 minutes away from Benton. Here, you’ll find a range of family-friendly shopping and entertainment options, from indoor/outdoor malls and outlet centers to museums and art galleries.
• Shreveport is a vibrant and tourist-friendly city just 22 minutes south of Benton. As the third most populated city in Louisiana, Shreveport is replete with attractions and amusements. It’s particularly prominent for its casinos and luxury hotels, many of which operate riverboat casinos along the Red River.

A SHORT HISTORY OF BENTON, LA

Some of the earliest settlers in the area of present-day Benton arrived during the 1830s. The area’s close proximity to the Red River made it ideal for trade and commerce, which fueled the town’s growth.

This early community would later on be named after Thomas Hart Benton (US Senator from 1821-1851), who was an aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson during the War of 1812 and staunchly supported the annexation of the Republic of Texas. One of Benton’s significant contributions to the town was building major roads that ran through neighboring communities like Plain Dealing and all the way to the southern border of Arkansas.

In 1864, the young town of Benton was just a few miles away from one the biggest clashes of the Civil War, The Battle of Mansfield, which the Confederate soldier won. During the Reconstruction era, the expansion of railroads allowed the town to reap the benefits of the region’s economic development. The major cities of Bossier City and Shreveport also grew alongside Benton.

Although Benton still retains its small-town charm and focus on agriculture, it remains the seat of Bossier Parish and a key symbol of northwest Louisiana.

THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

Benton is ideal for homebuyers looking for property options. Some of the most sought-after homes for sale are located by the waterfront, near the Cypress Bayou Reservoir. There’s also plots of land available for those who are more inclined to build their homes from the ground up.

The local housing stock is mostly composed of ranch and cabin-style homes, with an increasing number of Contemporary-style residences. Homes built in the 1950s and 1960s have been meticulously maintained and updated through the years.

Homes for sale in Benton, LA, are typically situated on generously sized lots Thus, you’ll have plenty of leeway to add a slew of outdoor amenities.

A few tips when finding homes for sale in Benton, LA

The timing of a real estate purchase often determines how good of a deal you’ll be getting. And depending on the specific goals you have in mind, you’ll need to consider the season you’ll be getting in on the action.

• As a whole, Louisiansa has more residential options during the months of March and April. So if you’re looking to see a broader range of what the market has to offer, take that fact into account.
• If budget is a top priority, consider buying during late summer (when prices start to fall) to early autumn or winter (when prices are at their lowest).
• If you’re seriously exploring what the market has to offer, the best way to find a suitable home in Benton is through a trusted real estate agent. With professional guidance, you’ll learn more about the community and establish key connections that will ensure a hassle-free real estate experience. Osborn Hays Real Estate can help make the process as smooth as possible and get you settled in.

LIVING IN BENTON, LA

Easy-going Benton allows you to enjoy quality time with family and explore interesting cultural and historical attractions. Essentials are within easy reach. The tight-knit community means it’s easier to get acquainted with neighbors down the street. Additionally, you’re just 22 minutes away from enjoying a night out in the city or if you want to go sightseeing with the family in nearby Shreveport and Bossier City.

From good schools to several outdoor activities and bustling shopping districts, here’s what you can expect if you buy any of the homes for sale in Benton, LA:

Schools in the area

Benton, LA is served by the highly-ranked Bossier Parish Public Schools. Households with school-age children typically send their kids to schools like Benton Elementary, Kingston Elementary, Benton Intermediate, Benton High School, and Bossier High School.

Outdoor recreation

• Parks and sports fields. The open spaces in and around town include Benton Park, which has a small playground for youngsters and is the venue for the Benton Farmers Market. Head south to verdant North Bossier Park, where you’ll find miles of walking trails, picnic areas, and tennis courts. The Benton Sports Complex is the stomping grounds for the town’s youth baseball and softball leagues.
• Cypress Black Bayou Recreation and Water Conservation District. This expansive nature reserve and flood control system features a man-made bayou that’s connected to the Red River. Since the completion of the Cypress Black Bayou Damn, the area has become a popular outdoor spot for trekking, camping, boating, swimming, as well as fishing. Exploring the waters requires a boat permit and overnight trips should secure reservations ahead of time.
• Cross Lake in nearby Shreveport. Another great spot for water activities is Cross Lake. Covering over 8,500 acres, this man-made reservoir boasts a cypress-lined shoreline, calm waters, several wildlife sightings, and picturesque sunsets. You’ll also find parks, boat clubs, and excellent restaurants by the water. The dam on Twelve Mile Bayou, a Red River Tributary, was integral to the creation of Cross Lake and supplying Shreveport with a reliable source of water.
• Bodcau Wildlife Management Area. This well-preserved stretch of nature is a haven for backcountry enthusiasts. Bodcau contains a diverse mix of habitats (forests, grasslands, and swamps) that are open to the public. Hunting, trapping, camping,  birdwatching, and wildlife viewing are some of the activities that are possible in the area.
• Golf courses. Avid golfers and those looking to explore a new hobby will love spending time at the many courses and driving ranges in neighboring Bossier City and Shreveport. Whether you’re polishing your form at The Practice Tee Driving Range or   looking for a more upscale setting and premium amenities at The Golf Club at Stonebridge, there’s plenty of facilities to choose from.

Local attractions

Just 16 miles from Benton, LA, Shreveport offers big-city delights

• Bossier Parish Library (Benton Branch). Drop by in one of Bossier Parish’s well-maintained libraries. As the parish seat, the Benton library opened its doors to the public in 1940, the year when the parish library system was founded. Over the years, the facilities have undergone various renovations to accommodate a growing population. What’s more, the library regularly hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, from anime clubs and music jams to storytime sessions for children.
• Party Central Family Fun Center. Families love spending quality time in this popular amusement park. With an assortment of attractions like go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games, kids and adults alike are bound to have a blast. Party Central is also open to full-service private events.
• Barksdale Global Power Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is a must-visit for military history enthusiasts. Here, you’ll learn about the history of aerial bombardment and get to see well-preserved B-17 and B-24 bombers from World War II and a handful of Cold War-era bombers. Curious to see if it’s worth the trip? Check out this virtual tour.
• Sci-Port Discovery Center. This is arguably the largest science-themed amusement in northwest Louisiana, a 92,000-square-foot complex in Shreveport. Sci-Port prides itself on sparking curiosity and fostering a passion for lifelong learning through various interactive exhibits and galleries and educational activities/events – from the IMAX Dome and children’s museum to innovative science camps and the nail-biting escape room.
• Elvis Presley Statue. A visit to Shreveport isn’t complete without a photo with The King himself at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium. Aside from Elvis, the likes of blues legend Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, andB.B. King have graced this iconic performing arts venue. If you fancy seeing a show while you’re here, check the auditorium’s calendar of events.
• The Logan Mansion. Just a block away from the Elvis’s statue is the historic Logan Mansion, one of the last remaining Queen Anne Victorians in the area. Completed in 1897, the house is famous for its haunted house tours and murder mystery-themed activities. Lafayette R. Logan (a successful ice and beer distributor) and his wife, Lavenia were the original owners of the property.
• Casinos and luxury hotels. Shreveport and Bossier City are known for their top-tier casinos and accommodations. From the occasional game of black jack and roulette to sampling each establishment’s top notch entertainment and dining, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Horseshoe Casino & Hotel, Bally’s Shreveport, Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino are some recommendations to consider.

Shopping

As part of the Shreveport-Bossier City metro, Benton has convenient access to a slew of shopping destinations offering essential goods to big-name brands and luxury items.

Some of the top retail areas and malls in Bossier City:

• Belk Outlet
• Live Oak Village
• Pierre Bossier Mall

Some of the top retail areas and malls in Bossier City:

• Mall St. Vincent
• Shreve City Shopping Center
• Lakeshore Shopping Center

Dining scene

• Sam’s Southern Eatery. This regional chain is beloved for serving authentic Southern cuisine at great prices.  The Sam’s Special 25 Baby Shrimp (with their signature sauce) and Southern Double Burger are some of the crowd favorites.
• Los Compas. If you’re craving for tostadas, tacos, and other Mexican favorites, check out Los Compas. Patrons love coming back, not only for the great food, but also for the family-friendly ambiance and cozy vibe.
• 2Johns Restaurant. Founded by a father and son duo (both named John), this local outfit is known for serving some of the best steak in Bossier City, with an extensive wine selection to match.
• Notini’s. Since opening in the 1980s, Notini’s has delighted customers with its heartfelt Italian cooking and dedication to using only the freshest ingredients. You can order pizzas to take home or dine in and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
• Monjunis of Bossier City. Serving the community for well over 18 years, this mom and pop restaurant also has an extensive catering menu and offers special grocery items for Italian-style cooking at home.

EXPLORE BENTON AND THE REST OF NORTHWEST LOUISIANA

If you’d like to know more about charming Benton and its surrounding communities, there’s no better guide than our team at Osborn Hays Real Estate. When it comes to helping people find the best homes for sale in Benton and the rest of northwest Louisiana, we are proven experts. Our thoughtful approach to client service combined with our decades of experience in the industry will empower you to make better informed real estate decisions.

The Osborn Hays Real Estate Team’s extensive array of services are at your disposal.

Get in touch with us to learn what we can do for you. Call 318.603.3641 or by send us an email to get started.