Bossier City

Bossier City has seen inpredecented growth in the last 15 years. Wonderful neighborhood schools, well planned neighborhoods and a smaller town feel have long been the appeal of this sister city to Shreveport. Barksdale Air Force Base is housed here and many of Bossier’s residents are airmen and women. First responders and teachers also love the small town feel of this city. Stonebridge is the premier gated community in Bossier, boasting golf, tennis and an active clubhouse. Tiburon and Lakewood are other desirable Bossier subdivisions. Bossier City is a riverfront metropolis that offers a dynamic blend of family-friendly fun, cosmopolitan amenities, and Southern hospitality. Continue reading to learn more about this vibrant locale as well as homes for sale in Bossier, LA</a

ABOUT BOSSIER, LA

Sitting across the Red River from its sister city Shreveport, Bossier City is located in northwestern Louisiana and forms part of the Shreveport-Bossier City metropolitan area. It is positioned near major highways like Interstate 20, which makes traveling to cities such as Dallas, TX, New Orleans, LA, and Hot Springs, AR more convenient.

Exciting entertainment

Glittering casinos like Horseshoe Bossier City, Margaritaville Resort Casino, and Louisiana Downs dazzle both residents and visitors with slots, table games, and excellent entertainment. A quick five-minute drive over the Clyde Fant Memorial Parkway can also bring you to the heart of Shreveport’s bustling arts scene, historic architecture, and delectable cuisine.

Outdoor adventures

Who said that nature and retail can’t coexist? The scenic Louisiana Boardwalk, a 1.5-mile outdoor commercial district that hugs the Red River, is home to stunning views and a great lineup of outlet stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Just beyond the city limits, Walter B. Jacobs Nature Park provides 500 acres of wildlife for you and your family to explore. Want to practice that green thumb? The American Rose Center, with its 118-acre park full of rose gardens and variety of botanical events and resources, is only a 15-minute drive away.

A rich culture and community

From its humble beginnings as a cotton-exporting river landing to its role as a crucial Civil War stronghold, you can learn more about the city’s history at places like the Bossier Parish History Center and the Barksdale Global Power Museum. If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of today, you can drop by one of the Bossier Arts Council’s art exhibitions, sample authentic Cajun cuisine at one of Shreveport-Bossier’s homegrown eateries, or discover unique finds at the Bossier City Farmers Market.

A SHORT HISTORY OF BOSSIER, LA

• Elysian Groves Plantation. Bossier’s beginnings can be traced back to the 1830s, when the land was known as the Elysian Groves Plantation. Owned by James and Mary Cane, the plantation was known for its riverport “Cane’s Landing.” It served  as a commercial hub where steamboats ferried cotton, corn, and sweet potatoes to southern and eastern markets.
• The Civil War and the Wild West. Cane’s Landing became a departure point for local Confederate soldiers during the American Civil War. Fort Smith was also located here. By the late 1800s, it was a crucial stopover in the trail to the Wild West, with over 200 wagons passing through the region weekly. The plantation, strategically positioned at the convergence of Shed Road, the Red River steamboat waterway, and the Iron Horse railroad, set the stage for Bossier’s growth.
• The railroad era. In 1883, Anna B. – granddaughter of James and Mary Cane – and her husband J. J. Stockwell saw the potential of turning the area into a riverfront city, and began selling lots to eager settlers. When the golden spike was driven by Julia “Pansy” Rule on July 12, 1884 – symbolizing the completion of the Vicksburg, Shreveport and Pacific Railroad – it marked the beginning of the city’s prosperity.
• A city in flux. The discovery of petroleum crude oil in the south in 1908 initiated a nationwide oil boom, positioning Bossier City as a key player in the oil patch. While a devastating fire in 1925 destroyed half of the city’s downtown, it also prompted civic improvements, including a modern water system and the city’s first park. The establishment of Barksdale Air Force Base in 1933 also left an indelible mark on the city’s economy and community.

Today, Bossier City stands as a testament to adaptability and progress. Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful riverfront, and family-friendly communities, it offers residents with a diverse range of amenities and a high quality of life.

HOMES FOR SALE IN BOSSIER, LA

Buyers will find a diverse range of homes for sale in Bossier, LA, from cozy residential properties to lucrative investment opportunities and spacious land for development.

Market overview

Single-family detached homes dominate the local housing market; this property type makes up 70.18% of the housing units in Bossier City. You’ll also find a mix of large apartment complexes, duplexes, and other small apartment buildings. The majority of homes in Bossier City have three to four bedrooms, providing plenty of space for families and individuals. The ages of homes for sale in Bossier, LA also widely vary. More than half of the residential real estate was built between the 1940s and 1970s, giving you a good mix of both pre- and post-war homes. A good chunk of the market also features more recent builds from the 2000s and onwards. If you’re specifically in the market for historic properties, you might even find older houses– about 2.3% of the housing inventory dates back to the 1930s or older.

LIFE IN BOSSIER, LA

There are many reasons why Money Magazine listed Bossier, LA as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Here are some of them:

Bossier has an excellent school district

Bossier Parish Schools is a top-rated and fast-growing school district in Louisiana. With nearly 23,000 students, Bossier Schools provide a wide range of learning opportunities, including Honors classes, Gifted and Talented programs, Advanced Placement courses, Robotics, STEAM, and enrichment courses. Recognized by the Louisiana Department of Education, Bossier Schools consistently surpasses the state average in assessment scores and graduation rates. With a commitment to “WIN the Day; Every Student, Every Way,” the district prides itself on the caliber of its educators and the high achievements of its students in Advanced Placement courses, ACT scores, and Industry-Based Certifications. Some of the top-performing schools in the district include:

• Stockwell Place Elementary School
• Legacy Elementary School
• Benton Intermediate School
• Benton High School
• Airline High School

Bossier hosts colorful events and festivities

Bossier City offers a variety of local events and festivities that make it a truly special place to live.

• Red River Balloon RallyHeld annually in July, this must-see event features hot air balloon races and mesmerizing evening balloon glows. Presented by the Louisiana Office of Tourism, this family-friendly event offers a wide range of activities, including AEP Swepco kid zones, tethered balloon rides, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Make sure to catch the Louisiana State Ballooning Championship, where more than 20 hot air balloons compete for glory.
• Bossier City Mardi GrasExperience the magic of Mardi Gras with bright parades, live music, and mouthwatering Cajun cuisine. From the Twelfth Night celebration to the Krewe of Harambee MLK Day Parade, Bossier City knows how to celebrate this iconic festival in style. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, catch colorful throws, and enjoy the vibrant energy that fills the streets during Mardi Gras season.
• Louisiana State FairHeld in October, the Louisiana State Fair offers 17 days of fun-filled activities, including thrilling rides, live entertainment, and a variety of delicious fair food at the Louisiana State Fairgrounds in nearby Shreveport. As the largest livestock show and carnival in the state, it’s an event not to be missed. Enjoy the exciting atmosphere, catch a circus show, and indulge in your favorite fair treats.
• Bossier City Farmers MarketIf you appreciate fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts, the Bossier City Farmers Market is the place to be. Open every Saturday from April to November, this family-friendly event is a great opportunity to support your local community and connect with local farmers, artisans, and small businesses.
• Barksdale Defenders of Liberty Air ShowWitness thrilling aerial displays and explore static aircraft displays at this biennial event. Organized and hosted by the 2nd Bomb Wing Barksdale Air Force Base, the air show features the capabilities of a variety of military and civilian aircraft, as well as opportunities to learn more about aviation history, pay tribute to service members, and enjoy a fun-filled day with your family.
• Ark-La-Tex Gem & Mineral ShowHosted by the Ark-La-Tex Gem and Mineral Society, this annual event is a gem and crystal enthusiast’s paradise. Discover unique treasures from a variety of vendors, some of whom offer everything from rough stones to exquisite jewelry pieces. They also hold workshops and lectures where you can learn more about the lapidary arts and earth sciences.
• Bossier City Makers FairDon’t miss out on the craftsmanship of Bossier’s talented community. From exquisite pottery to stunning upcycled furniture, the Bossier City Makers Fair is a long-awaited event for both residents and visitors to discover one-of-a-kind treasures, indulge in delicious food, and embrace the city’s vibrant creative spirit. They also offer live music and family-friendly activities.

Bossier is home to numerous attractions and activities

From captivating attractions to unique experiences, Bossier City brims with adventure, learning, and relaxation. Here are some fun activities to look forward to:

• Learn about aviation history at the Barksdale Global Power MuseumThe Barksdale Global Power Museum is dedicated to showcasing the dynamic history of Strategic Bombardment and the significant role of Barksdale Air Force Base in peacetime. It houses a collection of aircraft and artifacts from the Barksdale Air Force Base, including vintage aircraft like World War II bombers, the P-51 Mustang, and the B-52D and B-52G Stratofortress. Aviation enthusiasts can also revel in the MACH 3+ SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest and highest flying jet aircraft in military history.
• Connect with nature at the Red River National Wildlife RefugeWhether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this sanctuary provides something for everyone to appreciate. The Red River National Wildlife Refuge is home to diverse natural habitats, from historic hardwood forests to cypress sloughs and shrub swamps. You can hike scenic trails, go birdwatching, or practice your wildlife photography skills. Hunting and fishing opportunities are also available, while the Headquarters unit offers various wildlife-related activities.
• Go camping at Cypress Black Bayou Park and Recreation AreaCypress Black Bayou Park and Recreation Area in nearby Benton offers outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The park, owned by Cypress Black Bayou Recreation and Water Conservation District, spans around 2,500 acres of land surrounding Cypress Lake and Black Bayou. You can also swim, rent cabins, and explore the park’s zoo and other amenities.
• Explore interactive exhibits at the Sci-Port Discovery CenterLocated along the downtown Shreveport riverfront, this 92,000-square-foot science and entertainment center is where science, play, and exploration come together. Discover over 200 hands-on exhibits, dive into the mysteries of the universe at the Sawyer Space Dome Planetarium, and embark on history-based adventures in the open-air escape room, the Gallery of Intrigue.
• Appreciate local art and culture with the Bossier Arts Council (BAC)Be a part of Bossier’s dynamic arts scene with the BAC! With a mission to promote and support cultural events and develop a cultural identity for the area, this community-based organization serves as a crucial platform for local artists and performers. They regularly host exhibitions, concerts, and workshops, as well as provide resources and opportunities for artists to advance their careers. The BAC also collaborates with schools and community centers, encouraging all members of the community to engage in the arts.

Bossier offers great dining options

When it comes to dining, Bossier City – and its sister city Shreveport – is home to a collection of quaint eateries and long-standing institutions that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

• If you’re a barbecue lover, you can’t miss Silver Star Smokehouse. Their mouthwatering dishes, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, will make your taste buds dance with joy.
• For a taste of authentic Louisiana flavors, head over to Herby-K’s, a beloved local eatery in nearby Shreveport. Indulge in their signature shrimp buster po’boys or savor a bowl of their seafood gumbo. The flavors are rich, the portions generous, and the experience unforgettable.
• Located along Mansfield Road, Crawdaddy’s Kitchen tantalizes taste buds with its authentic Louisiana flavors and seafood specialties. Renowned as one of the top spots for crawfish in the state, this lively eatery is where neighbors come together to relish in good company and great food, from delectable gumbo to flavorful etouffee and savory boudin.
• Looking for a casual spot with Italian-inspired dishes? Cascio’s Market Bistro is the place to go. This charming neighborhood bistro offers a variety of mouthwatering options, from the popular pizzaletta to their flavorful chicken pesto tortellini.
• For a lively atmosphere and a taste of Louisiana’s vibrant food scene, Marilynn’s Place is a must-visit. Their menu is packed with favorites like seafood gumbo, fried shrimp remoulade po’boy, and crawfish etouffee. This New Orleans-style restaurant is also a community gathering place, with live music, events, and the center point for the highland parade.

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN BOSSIER CITY TODAY!

Searching for the perfect home is easy when you have Shreveport-Bossier’s top real estate agents on your side. Osborn Hays Real Estate is a boutique real estate brand that is dedicated to helping you find the right property using personalized strategies and hyperlocal expertise. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, we specialize in residential, commercial, land, and investment properties in Bossier, Shreveport, and the surrounding areas. We believe in the power of face-to-face interactions and building trust with our clients, so get in touch with us today and take that first step towards your dream home. You can call us at 318.603.3641 or send us an email here!
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