Recreation & Balloon Adventures In Alexandria and Pineville, Louisiana, By Melody Schubert

In the 1790's two traders named Alexander Fulton and William Miller set up a business across the river from the French outpost, "Post de Rapide." Fulton later laid out the plan for Alexandria in 1805. Today, the area is home to many attractions and entertainment venues.

The Alexandria Zoological Park - Is the perfect way to observe nature. With over 500 animals, this zoo includes twenty endangered species and large window to view the natural habitat of tigers, lions, and jaguars. Children will enjoy a ride in the miniature train and can stop for refreshments at the concession stand. Also, be sure to stop by the newly introduced Louisiana Habitat Exhibit. Stroll through three acres of Louisiana animal life and observe the natural habitats of otters, deer, black bears, bobcats, alligators, snakes, and raccoons!

The Indian Creek Recreation Area - Located in Woodworth, LA in Alexander State Forest, is ideal for camping, picnics, fishing, seasonal hunting, and hiking. Both primitive and water/electric hookups are available, and there are shower and restroom facilities on-site. The Cotile Lake area and Kincaid Recreation Area nearby are also great for recreation activities. Both locations provide campers with the perfect spots for camping, fishing, picnics, and exploring the nature.

Bayou Balloon Adventures - Take off to the wild blue yonder with a hot air balloon ride from Bayou Balloon Adventures. See the true beauty of central Louisiana's landscape as you sail over the cities. Balloon rides typically begin at dawn and finish with the traditional "balloonists' breakfast" of champagne and strawberries.

Louisiana Trails - Louisiana has several Trails where travelers can explore the culture and history of the state as well as find festivals and unique attractions along the way. The legendary Music Trail will get your feet tapping and your hands clapping as you experience jazz, zydeco, country, gospel, Cajun and other unique Louisiana rhythms and sounds.

Cruising The Swamps - For a close up Louisiana's Wildlife try the Lil' Cypress Swamp & Bayou Tour, which travels through Spring Bayou in Marksville, Louisiana. Enjoy a guided tour of Louisiana's most scenic waterway with unique wildlife and plants. Steve's Bayou Tours will also take you through the Spring Bayou area. This tour features the Spring Bayou Game management area, bird watching, visible alligator life, and American lotus and flowers. Prefer to set out on your own in a canoe? Visit Ouiska Chitto and the Kisatchie Bayou where you can canoe down and around in the Ouiska Chitto or row about the mossy oaks in the Kisatchie Bayou.

Audubon Golf Trail- Grab your clubs and play the golf courses that are part of the Audubon Golf Trail, or reel in a big catch at the thousands of salt and fresh water fishing locations throughout the state.