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Alexandria

Alexandria, Louisiana, United States

Discover the Southern Charm of Alexandria, Louisiana Nestled on the banks of the majestic Red River, Alexandria, Louisiana, welcomes you with open arms and a spirit of true Southern hospitality. Steeped in history and br…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Alexandria.

Top Hotels in Alexandria

Top Flights to Alexandria

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Alexandria.

Tours

Alexandria Zoological Park

Explore a wide variety of animal species in a beautifully landscaped zoo spread over 33 acres.

Alexandria Museum of Art

Discover regional and national artworks in a modern artistic venue.

River Oaks Square Arts Center

A creative hub in downtown Alexandria offering classes, exhibitions, and artist studios.

Cleveland Hall

Situated on the LSU campus, this hall offers a glimpse into the architectural past.

Shopping

Masonic Drive Shopping Center

A central shopping hub with a variety of stores and dining options.

Tammy's Farmers Market

A local market featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

Outdoor

Kisatchie National Forest

Enjoy the pristine beauty of Louisiana's only National Forest with hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Bringhurst Field

A historic baseball stadium hosting local games and events.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Alexandria.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the latest estimates, the approximate population of Alexandria, Louisiana, is around 45,000.

Languages

Arabic, Arabic, English, French

Average weather

Alexandria

Jan

18°9°

Feb

18°9°

Mar

20°11°

Apr

23°13°

May

26°17°

Jun

29°21°

Jul

31°24°

Aug

31°24°

Sep

30°22°

Oct

27°19°

Nov

24°15°

Dec

20°11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Alexandria.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Alexandria, Louisiana:

Rich History: Alexandria has a rich history, dating back to its founding in the early 19th century. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Kent Plantation House and the Alexandria Museum of Art to learn more about the area's past.
Outdoor Activities: Alexandria is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The nearby Kisatchie National Forest provides a scenic backdrop for exploring the great outdoors.
Cultural Attractions: The city is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Visitors can enjoy live performances, art exhibits, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Southern Cuisine: Alexandria is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, with a variety of restaurants serving up classic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and fried catfish. Visitors can indulge in local flavors and experience the unique culinary traditions of the region.
Friendly Locals: Visitors to Alexandria often comment on the warm hospitality of the locals, who are known for their friendliness and welcoming demeanor. Travelers can expect to feel at home and receive helpful recommendations from residents.

Overall, Alexandria offers a blend of history, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, making it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the charm of Louisiana.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Alexandria, Louisiana, United States, could include:

Weather: Alexandria experiences hot and humid summers, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers. Additionally, the city is prone to hurricanes and heavy rainfall during certain times of the year, which could disrupt travel plans.
Limited tourist attractions: While Alexandria does offer some cultural and historical sites such as the Alexandria Museum of Art and the Kent Plantation House, it may not have as many tourist attractions compared to other cities in Louisiana. This could lead to a limited range of activities for visitors.
Safety concerns: Like any city, Alexandria may have certain areas that are less safe for tourists, especially at night. Travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety and be aware of their surroundings.
Limited public transportation: Alexandria may not have as robust of a public transportation system compared to larger cities, making it more challenging for travelers to get around without a car.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Alexandria does have some dining and entertainment options, the selection may be limited compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife may find Alexandria lacking in this aspect.

Overall, it's important for travelers to research and plan accordingly to mitigate any potential cons and have an enjoyable trip to Alexandria, Louisiana.

Alexandria, Louisiana, is a city with a rich history located in central Louisiana, along the south bank of the Red River. Here is a detailed account of its historical development, significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Founding: Alexandria was founded in 1805 when a trader named Alexander Fulton received a land grant from the Spanish government. The city was named after him.
Development: The settlement grew due to its strategic location on the Red River, which made it an important trading post and transportation hub.

19th Century

Civil War: During the Civil War, Alexandria was occupied by Union forces in 1863 as part of the Red River Campaign. The city was largely destroyed by fire during the retreat of Union troops in 1864.
Reconstruction: Post-war reconstruction brought economic recovery as the city rebuilt and resumed its role as a regional trade center.

20th Century

World War II: Alexandria became significant during World War II with the establishment of nearby military installations, including Camp Claiborne and Camp Livingston, which played crucial roles in training U.S. soldiers.
Economic Development: The mid-20th century saw economic diversification with industries such as timber, agriculture, and manufacturing contributing to the city’s growth.

Historical Figures

Alexander Fulton: The city’s founder, who played a pivotal role in its early development.
Henry Boyce: A prominent figure in early Alexandria, who served as a federal judge and contributed to the legal and civic development of the area.

Important Landmarks

Kent Plantation House: This historic home, built circa 1796, is one of the oldest standing structures in Louisiana and offers insight into pre-Civil War plantation life.
Alexandria Museum of Art: Located in the historic Rapides Bank Building, it provides cultural and artistic enrichment to the community.
Rapides Parish Courthouse: A significant historical building that has been central to the area's legal and civic activities.
Red River: This important waterway has been crucial to Alexandria’s development as a trade and transportation hub.

Cultural and Social Contributions

River Oaks Square Arts Center: A cultural hub that promotes arts and crafts in the region.
Annual Events: Alexandria hosts several annual events such as Mardi Gras parades, the Alexandria RiverFête, and cultural festivals that showcase the diverse heritage and community spirit of the area.

Alexandria, Louisiana, continues to be a city of historical significance with its blend of cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and its role as a regional economic center in central Louisiana.