The Louisiana Maneuvers & Military Museum, located at Camp Beauregard, tells the story of the massive army maneuvers that prepared the United States for World War II and was centered on several army camps in the Pineville area. Other not-to-miss sites include the Louisiana History Museum in downtown Alexandria; the Tioga Heritage Park & Museum; and…

This Louisiana tradition is a celebration of local culture will return in 2022. Festivities take place over two weekends, commencing with the Light the Night Mardi Gras Parade in Pineville, followed by parades in Ball, Tioga and Woodworth. The weekend prior to Fat Tuesday features four popular events in Alexandria.  It begins on Friday with…

Throughout the year, thousands attend the many festivals hosted across the region. The Cochon de Lait Festival, Dogwood Festival, Bunkie Corn Festival, LeCompte Pie Festival, Pecan Festival and Louisiana Mudfest are just a few of the many options the entire family can enjoy. www.alexandriapinevillela.com

Step back into yesteryear at the oldest standing structure in Central Louisiana. The Kent Plantation House predates the Louisiana Purchase and gives a glimpse into how life was more than two centuries ago. The Le Tour de Bayou—a yearly race to benefit the Kent House—is ideal for cyclists, runners and walkers alike. www.kenthouse.org

Step back into yesteryear at the oldest standing structure in Central Louisiana. The Kent Plantation House predates the Louisiana Purchase and gives a glimpse into how life was more than two centuries ago.  Visitors will also appreciate the beauty of Frogmore Plantation about 40 minutes from Alexandria. The home has a working cotton field and…

Spanning more than 600,000 acres of lush pine forests, this is the only national forest in the state. Spend the day—or weekend—birdwatching, camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing and much more. www.fs.usda.gov/kisatchie

Alexandria/Pineville Farmers Markets – Alexandria Farmers’ Market takes place on Tuesdays, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church-Alexandria parking lot at 2727 Jackson Street.   Located in the commuter parking space at the front entrance to Louisiana College, the Pineville Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6…

Tee off at the many spectacular golf courses throughout central Louisiana. OakWing Golf Club, Links on the Bayou Golf Course, Bringhurst Golf Course or Tamahka Trails Golf Club, all offer exceptional settings for a challenging round of play.

Kids have the opportunity to develop athletic skills and good sportsmanship at local sports complexes designed specifically with them in mind. Whether it’s soccer, baseball, softball or basketball, kids can be found after school or during the weekends at Johnny Downs Sports Complex, O’Hearn Mathews Soccer Fields, Youth Baseball Complex, Tennis Complex or Pineville Ward…

Know when to hold them and know when to fold them at local, lavish casinos. Paragon Casino Resort & Spa has top accommodations, a bevy of restaurants, a golf course, a relaxing spa, concerts and more. Jena Choctaw Pines Casino Resort & Spa boasts more than 700 game tables, a delicious buffet, a sports bar…