The southern city of Alexandria, Louisiana boasts three sprawling plantations, three performing arts centers, and numerous museums to entertain and amuse. For in-depth knowledge of the history of Louisiana, the Louisiana Historical Museum is downtown.

Kids of all ages will enjoy the Alexandria Zoological Park and over 30 playgrounds and outdoor parks. There is also an arcade, bowling, indoor play centers, and amusement areas that will bring out the kid in every person.

With tasteful restaurants, a unique night scene, a multitude of sports and outdoor adventures to be had, and a food tour that explores all the regional cuisines of Louisiana, adults will never be bored.  If by chance, that does happen, there is still much to be done here with escape rooms, motorcycle rentals, and a few spas for a day of pampering.

Free Things to Do in Alexandria, Louisiana

1. Louisiana Historical Museum

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The museum seems small at first, but the rich history that's packed into its walls more than makes up for its size.  For the history buff, this is an enjoyable place to visit with phenomenal photos, exhibits, and artifacts displayed in glass cases.

You will be particularly impressed with the collection of postcards in-house and the friendliness of their staff.   You can easily pass a few hours getting an education about Louisiana and its culture, people, and background without spending a lot of money.

Address: 503 Washington Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 487-8556

Website: www.louisianahistorymuseum.org

Hours of Operation: Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM

Cost of Admission: Free

Fun Things to Do in Alexandria, Louisiana

2. Alexandria Zoological Park

Credit: Alexandria Zoo

This zoo is clean, and the animals treated well.  The zoo is beautiful, with a good number of animals and the perfect size for families or groups to easily explore in a few hours.  While there are not large-sized animals like one might expect, there are still plenty of critters to explore and watch.

Pricing for this zoo surpasses expectations, and the train ride will be a delight to the kiddos in your bunch.  There are plenty of places to sit down and rest, enjoy the shade, or have some air conditioning while enjoying a snack.

The weather is wonderful, which makes for great time, the animals are active and enjoying the day as well. The diversity of animals is good for a zoo of this size. Many seem to engage with the zoo guests.

Address: 3016 Masonic Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 441-6810

Website: www.thealexandriazoo.com

Hours of Operation: Open Daily from 9AM-3:30 PM

Admission Fee: Adults and Teens - $7.50  |  Children 4-12 - $5.50  |  Children 3 and under - Free  |  Seniors - $4.50  |  Members - Free

Additional Fees: Train Ride - $3.00

Related Read: 10 BEST Water Parks in Louisiana

3. Treasure Chest Flea Market

Credit: Alexandria Treasure Chest

Anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind treasure will find it in this flea market where the past meets the present. If you can think of it, you can find it, household items like candles and handmade decorations, clothing, antique tools, and jewelry are just some of the items for sale.

Booths range in size and design, and each seller has their items to sell. The items change from day to day and weekly as new items arrive and old ones are purchased. Each visit to this flea market is different than the last one as you uncover unique Christmas decorations, retro kids’ toys, handmade soaps, and everything for gift giving.

Those searching for vintage furniture can easily decorate their home and redo their wardrobe shopping here. Many of the booths have antiques and flea market items, but many are also hand-crafted gifts and wares created by talented local artists.

Address: 5840 Coliseum Boulevard, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303

Phone: (318) 704-6197

Website: www.treasurechestvintagemarket.com

Hours of Operation: Wednesday – Friday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM  |  Saturday 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Cost of Admission: Free except for what you decide to purchase

4. Key 2 Escape – A Live Escape Room

Credit: World of Escapes

For a scary good time, this escape room adventure will not disappoint. With names like the slaughterhouse and dollhouse, you can enjoy some mystery, and thrills while enjoying the comforts of air conditioning and roomy escape rooms.

Each room has a difficult skill level for beginners to expert escapees to enjoy, and the bank heist is by far the most challenging. The décor and atmosphere are authentic to what you would expect for each particular theme, making for a real experience and high adrenaline rush.

Not for the faint of heart, you have sixty minutes to escape your particular adventure and its nonstop heart-pumping fun. Children under thirteen are not recommended unless you plan to book the entire escape room of your choice, as other patrons might be disrupted if they become fearful.

Address: 4508 Coliseum Blvd., Alexandria, Louisiana 71303

Phone: (318) 664-0016

Website: www.key2escape.com

Hours of Operation: Friday and Saturday 11 AM – 11 PM  |  Sunday 2 PM – 8 PM

Cost of Admission: One Escape Room - $25.00 Per Person

5. 4 Seasons Bowling Center

Credit: Four Seasons Bowling Center / Facebook

This amusement center is more than just about bowling, from arcade to laser tag and glow bowling as well as a full bar and grill everyone will find something to do.

The staff of employees is friendly, and the service is great at this forty-lane alley. There are a few glitches from time to time due to slightly outdated equipment, but the staff is more than willing to accommodate when issues do arise.

The food is tasty at the snack bar and the pricing is reasonable with weekly specials, some including shoe rentals. Children 2-15 can bowl for free by registering beforehand online, shoe rental is not included.

Address: 3510 North Blvd., Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 445-2695

Website: www.4seasonsbowlingcenter.com

Hours of Operation: Monday - Wednesday - 5 PM – 9 PM  |  Friday - 4 PM – 12 AM  |  Saturday - 11 AM – 12 AM  |  Sunday - 1 PM – 8 PM

Cost of Admission: $5.00 per game

Shoe Rental: $3.50 per pair

Special Deals: BOGO Tuesday  |  $3.00 Sundays  |  $15.00 All You Can Bowl Mondays (Includes Shoe Rental)

Related Read: 50 Most Beautiful Places in the US

6. River Oaks Square Arts Center

Credit: River Oaks Square Arts Center / Facebook

For the artist in us all, this art facility is well rounded with artists on hand, creating various pieces which patrons can watch. You can purchase artwork from the various artists and enjoy a wonderful afternoon walking through the buildings.

Shows and exhibits are both of local artists and those from around the country making for diverse artistic talents and creative expression. The gift shop will delight and once you enter it is hard to draw yourself away.

Such hand-crafted artistic items as jewelry, furnishings, paintings, and ceramics are just some of the items that are on display and for sale. You can easily pass a few afternoon hours away, enjoying the beauty of this historic building.

The building itself is laid out in a way that you can easily move about and enjoy everything, with elevators making it comfortable and easy. The numerous windows offer perfect lighting for creating the art as well as highlighting and purchasing it.

Address: 1330 2nd Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 473-2670

Website: www.riveroaksartscenter.com

Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Friday - 10 AM - 4 PM  |  Saturday - 10 AM - 2 PM

Additional Events are offered at differing times throughout the year

Cost of Admission and Fees - Pricing varies, based on the exhibit, reception, or event highlighted at the time. For budding artists, there are fees to compete and display your work.

7. Kent Plantation House

Credit: Great American Treasures

For a little bit of Creole history, French Architecture, and what it was like to live on an authentic working Creole Plantation this house is the perfect trip for an enjoyable afternoon. The plantation house highlights its Spanish, French, and American cultural background which shaped the life and the history of Louisiana.

There are numerous outbuildings to tour where you can see how work and day-to-day life happened on a plantation in Louisiana. Such equipment like a spinning wheel and wagon, and dried herbs suspended upside down can be seen on the property as one walks from building to building.

The plantation hosts events throughout the year and guests who visit can take a tour for a small fee. Donations are greatly appreciated to help keep this rich piece of Louisiana history alive and thriving.

Kent house is closed during select holidays like Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Day. Tours are offered every two hours at the top of the hour. All tours begin at the plantation gift shop.

Address: 3601 Bayou Rapids Road, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303

Phone: (318) 487-5998

Website: www.kenthouse.org

Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday - 9 AM – 5 PM

Cost of Admission: Adults $11.00  |  Children 6-12 $3.50  |  Seniors $9.00  |  Children under six are Free

8. T.R.E.E. House Children’s Museum

Credit: Alexandria Pineville Area Convention & Visitation Bureau

This hands-on children's museum uses mixed media and awakens all the senses through imagination, play, and educational materials. The trains are fun for the kid in us all, dress-up is always a hit with the little people and of course, the indoor treehouse is the highlight of every kid's visit.

Kids can play with classic toys like Lincoln Logs, and lite bright, enjoy some bubble play, and pretend store or bank. Parents and grandparents will enjoy a nice break but might be drawn to join in the fun with their little family members as they chase away a few hours of afternoon time.

The facility is divided up into individual sections or areas that have a different themes, and they have a delightful outdoor playground to exercise the larger motor skills on a sunny afternoon if everyone needs a break and some fresh air.

Periodically the exhibits and areas change slightly to keep the interest of repeat visitors. They host parties and offer memberships for those who visit Alexandria regularly, making it a more worthwhile experience.

Address: 1403 3rd Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 619-9394

Website: Facebook

Hours of Operation: Tuesday – Friday - 9 AM – 3 PM  |  Saturday - 9 AM – 4 PM

Cost of Admission: See Facebook for pricing

Related Read: 45 BEST Things To Do With Kids New Orleans, LA

9. Wayback’s Arcade

Credit: elliottraccaphotography / Instagram

If retro arcade games are your thing, this place will take you back to the classic arcade games of yesterday, with a few new games to choose from for the younger crowd. Vintage games like pinball, packman, and jungle hunt will bridge the gap between today’s video game players and yesterday's arcade rats!

The facility is large, with room enough for everyone to move around and enjoy themselves comfortably. It's clean, and sanitary which is a plus in a place where a large number of people are touching the same surfaces.

The machines are well maintained, and the staff is helpful and friendly. They host parties and other events periodically throughout the year and have a room to rent for special private parties. An exciting place for some good old-fashioned family fun, for the kid in us all!

Address: 1305 Military Highway, Pineville, Louisiana 71360

Phone: (318) 266-7091

Website: www.waybacksarcade.com

Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday - 11 AM – 10 PM  |  Saturday – Sunday - 11 AM – 12 AM  |  Sunday - 1 PM – 10 PM

Cost of Admission - $12.00 per person for the entire day

10. Gone Wild Safari

Credit: Gone Wild Safari / Facebook

If your idea of a good time is getting up close and personal with animals, this is your go-to place. You can easily pass a few hours while taking the bus tour and feeding the friendly animals that are more than happy to eat your offerings and make friends.

The facility is small at only ten acres and in a somewhat secluded spot. The animals seem to be treated well in comfortable and natural environments. For little people, this petting zoo-style safari is a great way for them to experience wild animals safely.

The skilled staff is friendly and helpful to patrons sharing their knowledge and ensuring everyone has a good time. The gift shop is entertaining with the in-house birds and numerous items to purchase. Bathrooms are clean and convenient for patrons to use.

Address: 805 Hooper Road, Pineville, Louisiana 71360

Phone: (318) 787-6902

Website: www.gonewildsafari.com

Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday 9 AM – 5 PM

Cost of Admission: Adults - $12.00  |  Seniors - $10.00  |  Kids under 12 - $8.00  |  Kids under 2 - Free

11. Swamp Daddy’s Restaurant

Credit: Swamp Daddy's Crawfish / Facebook

If it's time for a good southern meal, this seafood restaurant that specializes in Creole and Cajun food will hit the spot. For a taste of local flavor samples, the boiled crawfish that’s all you can eat, corn and potatoes.

The atmosphere is downhome southern comfortable indoors and outside where kids are welcome, and they deliver food fast with a smile. Other seafood specials like crab legs and shrimp are just as delicious as the crawfish if that’s not your thing.

Be sure to leave room for dessert with some bread pudding, a Louisiana specialty. If you have a hankering for a backyard feast, you can take home some live crawfish to boil at your leisure with some friends, and family, and of course a couple of beers to round out the meal!

Address: 55 MacArthur Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana 71303

Phone: (318) 443-1787

Website: Facebook

Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday 5 PM – 9 PM

Cost of Admission: Free except for the price of the food

Related Read: 15 BEST Fast Food Places That Are Open Late

Things to do in Alexandria, Louisiana at Night

12. Frosty Factory

Credit: Frosty Factory / Facebook

This bar is an adult after-hours entertainment, from a variety of drinks not limited to Frozen Daiquiris which are the best in the area to darts, air hockey, and live karaoke its nonstop fun for hours. Events and special nightly activities are hosted, from live music to pool tournaments and dancing, it's everything we need after a long day or week.

Foosball, air hockey, and the friendly atmosphere are perfect spaces for you to hang out with old friends or make some new ones. The prices are good, the bartenders are nice, and the atmosphere has fun written all over it!

The drive-thru bar is a hit that most states don't offer, where you can grab your drink and go. They serve various flavored mixed drinks and other alcoholic beverages and even have an amazing selection of non-alcoholic drinks for those who want a virgin drink.

Address: 3410 Jackson Street, Alexandria Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 445-2280

Website: Facebook

Hours of Operation: Everyday 12 PM – 10 PM

Cost of Admission: Free except for the cost of drinks

13. The Grand 16 Cinema

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For a bit of entertainment and some really good popcorn, sit down in one of the comfortable seats at this movie theater and enjoy a good movie flick. Movies rotate regularly based on New Release dates and popularity so there is always something exciting to enjoy.

The movie theatre chain has 16 screens to catch a movie on, a lovely snack shop for grabbing that candy, and cool drink to wash down all the popcorn you'll eat. You can reserve a specific seat on their online portal and purchase tickets in advance for upcoming movies.

Like other typical movie theatres, the prices at the snack bar are a bit higher than one would hope but still acceptable. The theatre is clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

Address: 2039 North Mall Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301

Phone: (318) 448-7108

Website: www.thegrandtheatre.com

Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday - 10 AM – 11 PM

Cost of Admission: Adults - $7.80  |  Seniors over 60 - $7.80  |  Children under 12 - $7.80  |  Matinee - $7.80