Visiting Northern Louisiana

Louisiana is referred to as a sportsman's paradise by many, and Kisatchie, the state's only national forest, is located in Northern Louisiana. Filled with bald cyprus groves and old growth pine, the park provides a myriad of opportunities for outdoor activities; among them hiking and biking trails, campgrounds and picnic areas, and local wildlife and vegetation viewing. Coupled with a mild year round climate, Northern Louisiana is a perfect destination, particularly in winter and spring when summer crowds can be avoided.

The Poverty Point National Monument is located north of Interstate 20 off the Delhi exit. The Monument is perhaps the most significant and least familiar historical site in the state. An archeologists dream, the site was created nearly 3,000 years ago, and remains virtually unexcavated today. The monument consists of concentric mounds and aisles spanning over 600 feet, reflecting extremely advanced engineering and astrological insights. This is an amazing sight for ancient history

Gained a few pounds over the holidays? Poverty Point is hosting its 3^rd Annual Health Walk this year through May 27^th. Come out on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a walk around the site. All fitness levels are welcome and walks range from ½ to 2 miles. A terrific way to get in shape for summer.

Monroe is a vibrant and energetic city with help from its twin city, West Monroe. If nothing else, stop for a Coke. This is where Coca-Cola was first bottled. In reality, there is great diversity of events, sights, shopping, restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Bring the kids to the Monroe Civic Center Arena the end of March, the Barak Shrine Circus is coming to town! Lions, tigers and elephants; acrobats, clowns and the ring master – they will all be there. Come back in April for the Monroe DeltaFest at the Civic Center. 2010 is only the fourth year for the event, but it is drawing top entertainers to headline concerts, including; Tracy Lawrence, LC Smoove, and Ratchet. Come and enjoy the best regional food, arts, crafts and a weekend full of activities.

American history is celebrated midway between Monroe and Shreveport in Gibsland. On May 23, 1934, the notorious criminal couple Bonnie and Clyde met their end in a shootout just outside of town. The events are historically reenacted over the weekend closest to the anniversary. There is a small Bonnie and Clyde museum in town that features original paraphernalia from the couple. True crime fans will love this event, where facts are debated in a historical meeting, and relatives of the couple and the lawmen involved attend.

Plan now for one of Louisiana's best festivals. The Squire Creek Louisiana Peach Festival was named one of the top 20 June events by the Southeast Tourism Society. Produced by the cities of Ruston and Lincoln, the Peach Festival is a family event featuring a special family fun day in downtown Ruston.

The schedule includes a parade, car show, marketplace, garden party, 5K run, cooking contest and more – literally something for everyone. Country stars Shenandoah will headline the 2010 entertainment.

Travel Tip: Get to know the local Best Western Hotels, there is a lot to see and do across Northern Louisiana. With convenient locations and affordable accommodations, Best Western Hotels will make traveling easy and comfortable.