One of the area’s trending spots for shopping, dining and nightlife, the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets are experiencing a surge of revitalization and growth. The Boardwalk serves as a vibrant hub within the Shreveport-Bossier community, offering an array of shopping options and engaging activities for residents of all ages. The outdoor shopping district has been operating under new management since 2022 and with new leadership comes with high hopes for the property’s future. Current General Manager Ashley Warner says, “There’s a common misconception with the Boardwalk having high rent prices. When a business closes, everyone jumps to the conclusion that rent is high, but they aren’t anymore and haven’t been for some time. The new management company offers flexibility for those businesses looking to locate to the Boardwalk and their focus is on quality entertainment and restaurants.” Since 2022, there have been several improvements and updates but more recently, over the last few months, there has been buzz over what’s in the works for the popular lifestyle center.
By now, everyone knows about the area’s newest nightlife hot spot. Since its doors opened in December of 2023, Sweet Caroline’s Dueling Piano Bar has definitely brought the crowds to the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets. This energetic and vibrant entertainment experience proves there is a need for additional nightlife activities in Shreveport-Bossier. Due to the success of the piano bar, Warner said, “We are receiving a lot of calls from local restaurants and entertainment type venues looking to locate to the Boardwalk.” Could additional nightlife opportunities be on the horizon? Stay tuned!
Nightlife is not the only industry that is buzzing at the boardwalk. The various office spaces are at 95% occupancy and the businesses housed within the office suites provide a nice lunch crowd rush for the established eateries like Fudrucker’s, Hooter’s, Joe’s Crab Shack, Salt Grass, Sushiko and Steezy’s, which is a New Orleans style restaurant set to open the beginning of March. The type of businesses comprising the office spaces are full ranging from such occupants as the Bossier Sheriff’s Detective Unit, Margaritaville Exec Offices, Cumulus Radio and Call Centers to entertainment groups like Troubled Muse Movie Studio and a Music Studio.
In addition to the increase in nightlife and office occupancy, events are also picking up at the Louisiana Boardwalk! Events like car shows, 6-8 craft markets a year, seasonal parades and two fireworks shows a year. The Louisiana Boardwalk is a place for all ages and the property is excited to offer an array of entertainment opportunities. This year’s boardwalk events can be found at louisianaboardwalk.com/events/.
A newer addition to the Louisiana Boardwalk is a group of three art related businesses that offer opportunities for residents of all ages to explore their own artistic talents and interests through classes and hands-on experiences. Eric Hess with Sanctuary Art School said, “When the community chooses to participate in one of our artistic experiences, they support a non-profit organization. All of our programs are a lot of fun and we offer special events for groups.” When asked why this group chose the Louisiana Boardwalk as a location Hess said, “It’s a safe and beautiful area and the idea of steady foot traffic appealed to us.” Learn more about each of the businesses that are promoting cultural appreciation and understanding at the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets below:
- Sanctuary Paint Party offers paint parties for individuals, couples or groups. Most group parties consist of birthday celebrations, girl’s night out events, company outings and team building activities. The space allows outside food and beverage and will help customize one-of-a-kind event!
- SAS Gallerie is a 1,200 sq. ft. art exhibition space that switches out shows every two months bringing in higher end artwork predominately from the Gulf South area. The art pieces are for purchase or for view. A mix of local art is also on display throughout the gallerie but the primary purpose of the space is to provide higher end art to the community.
- Point Studio Art is another interactive opportunity where print parties are offered to individuals or groups. The print parties consist of a two-hour creative event where participants experience hand printing on fabric such as t-shirts, totes, pillowcases, etc. No prior artistic background or skills are required.
So what’s the newest addition to the boardwalk? Simple Church has made its way back to the Boardwalk and is currently hosting services in the Regal 14 Movie Theater. This location is only temporary as the old bowling alley building, behind Courtyard Marriott, is undergoing a remodel to serve as the new home for Simple Church and its members. The new location will be a 30,000 sq. ft. multi-level space with indoor and outdoor viewing and seating options. The anticipated remodel has a projected completion date of September 2024.
Whether browsing the latest trends, looking for a fun activity for the whole family or enjoying a leisurely day out with friends, the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets fosters a sense of community spirit and excitement, drawing visitors back time and time again. Check back soon for additional updates!