Alexandria, Louisiana offers a wide variety of entertainment options for physicians and their families. Shopping options range from malls to boutiques to notable grocery stores, with options such as the Alexandria Mall and the historic Bolton Avenue shopping district. Local movie theaters include Cinemark 10 and Movie Tavern, both offering a variety of new releases and classic films. For music theaters, the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year. The Rapides Symphony Orchestra is also based in Alexandria and performs several times a year. In addition, the city has hosted popular artists such as Luke Bryan, Journey, and Elton John in recent years.
Museums and art galleries are also abundant in Alexandria, including the Alexandria Museum of Art and the Kent Plantation House. The Rapides Parish Library offers a variety of resources, including children's libraries. The nearby Alexandria Zoo is a popular destination for families, and there are several observatories in the area for stargazing.
Annual events include the Louisiana Dragon Boat Races, the Alexandria Mardi Gras Parade, and the Pineville Christmas Parade. Within 150 miles of Alexandria, there are several notable annual events such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Texas Renaissance Festival, and the Baton Rouge Blues Festival.
When it comes to dining, Alexandria has a range of options from casual cafes to fine dining. Some of the highest-rated restaurants in the area include Tunks Cypress Inn, Mariner's Restaurant, and Embers. The city also has a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries such as Huckleberry Brewing Company and Diamond Grill Brewery.
Overall, Alexandria offers a rich variety of entertainment options for physicians and their families to enjoy. Whether it's exploring local art and culture, attending concerts and festivals, or dining at highly-rated restaurants, there is always something to discover in Alexandria.
Alexandria, Louisiana offers numerous recreational activities for individuals and families to enjoy. The area boasts several nature trails for hiking, biking, and bird watching, including the popular Indian Creek Greenway and the Kees Park Trail. For those looking for indoor fitness options, Alexandria offers several gyms and fitness centers, such as the YMCA and Anytime Fitness. There are also several playgrounds and recreational centers, including the Alexandria Youth Complex, which offers various activities for children and teenagers.
For families, Alexandria offers several parks with playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, including Bringhurst Park, City Park, and Martin Park. The city also has a public pool, as well as a nearby water park, Rapides Parish Coliseum, which features multiple pools and water slides. Additionally, families can enjoy exploring the Alexandria Zoological Park, which is home to over 500 animals.
For those interested in the great outdoors, the area is home to numerous wildlife refuges, including the Kisatchie National Forest, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is also located within driving distance of several national parks, such as the Cane River Creole National Historical Park and the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
Alexandria, Louisiana offers a variety of outdoor activities for enthusiasts. For hiking and biking, the Kisatchie National Forest, located just outside of the city, provides over 600 miles of trails to explore. Additionally, the Red River runs through the city and offers opportunities for fishing, with popular species including catfish, bass, and crappie. Local fishing guides are available for those looking for assistance in catching the big one. For hunting enthusiasts, the area offers opportunities for deer, squirrel, and turkey hunting with required licenses obtainable through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Snow skiing is not available in Alexandria due to the region’s subtropical climate, but nearby water activities such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Red River and other nearby lakes such as Indian Creek Reservoir and Catahoula Lake. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the area’s well-maintained courses, such as Oak Wing Golf Club and Links on the Bayou. Other nearby outdoor attractions include the Kisatchie National Wildlife Refuge and the Cotile Lake Recreation Area. With so much to do, Alexandria, Louisiana is the perfect location for those seeking outdoor adventure.