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Louisiana Downs Casino and Racetrack

4
·3k reviews·Bossier City, United States

Experience thoroughbred racing and over 1,300 slot machines at Louisiana Downs, a vibrant entertainment hub with exciting events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Live racing and betting opportunities

CrowdMedium
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Exterior

Louisiana Downs Casino and Racetrack

Best Time

Saturday afternoons

Live racing and betting opportunities

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience thoroughbred racing and over 1,300 slot machines at Louisiana Downs, a vibrant entertainment hub with exciting events.

4
(3k reviews)

"The fireworks show at the end was the best one I've seen in all my 35 years of living!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Box Seat Views

For unobstructed racetrack views, aim for boxes 4 or 5; box 6A has a pole obstruction. :seat:

💨 Beat the Heat

The racetrack area can get hot and stuffy; consider visiting during cooler hours or events. :thermometer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thoroughbred Racing Action

Thoroughbred Racing Action

Racetrack

Experience the thrill of live thoroughbred horse racing with a variety of betting options.

Reddit
Casino Floor Excitement

Casino Floor Excitement

Casino

Try your luck on over 1,300 slot machines in a recently updated casino environment.

Reddit
Red River Balloon Festival

Red River Balloon Festival

Event Grounds

Witness spectacular fireworks and hot air balloons during this popular annual event.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

While the casino floor is updated, the racetrack area can get hot and stuffy, especially during summer events. Consider visiting during cooler months or evenings. For the best racetrack views, aim for boxes 4 or 5 to avoid obstructed sightlines from poles. Reddit

Event-Specific Planning

Louisiana Downs hosts various events like the Red River Balloon Festival and Fourth of July fireworks. Check their schedule in advance, as these can significantly impact crowds and offer unique experiences with food trucks and live music. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Live racing and betting opportunities
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Escape the heat, enjoy events
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Fireworks, balloons, concerts
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#bossiercity #boardwalk #louisiana #ghosttown
@clynnla47
8.4K likes • 162.4K views

🎯 Box Seat Views

For unobstructed racetrack views, aim for boxes 4 or 5; box 6A has a pole obstruction. Reddit :seat:

💨 Beat the Heat

The racetrack area can get hot and stuffy; consider visiting during cooler hours or events. Reddit :thermometer:

#louisiana #bossiercity #bossier #boardwalk #northlouisiana #abandonedplaces
@clynnla47
7.5K likes • 133.1K views
Fireworks in Red River Balloon Festival, Louisiana Downs Casino and Racetrack. #redriverballoonrally @redriver.balloonrally #louisianadowns @louisianadownsofficial #louisiana #louisianatravel #shreveport #bossier #louisianaphotographer @only.in.louisiana #instagood #video
akhilesh.kumar.9619
16 likes • 431 views

📱 Event Schedules

Check the Louisiana Downs schedule for special events like fireworks and concerts. Instagram :calendar:

🍽️ Dining Options

Enjoy food from Inside Rail restaurant or explore diverse food trucks during events. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

Good morning! Rusty Texan Deli & Bar Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack Guitars and Cadillacs KCFat Jacks Oyster and Sports Bar Texarkana AR Dam Bar Front Street Steakhouse
jakegillmusic
3 likes • 365 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Box Seat Views

For unobstructed racetrack views, aim for boxes 4 or 5; box 6A has a pole obstruction. Reddit :seat:

💨 Beat the Heat

The racetrack area can get hot and stuffy; consider visiting during cooler hours or events. Reddit :thermometer:

📱 Event Schedules

Check the Louisiana Downs schedule for special events like fireworks and concerts. Instagram :calendar:

🍽️ Dining Options

Enjoy food from Inside Rail restaurant or explore diverse food trucks during events. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

💸 Betting Lines

Lines at betting stations are generally short, even during busy periods. Reddit :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Louisiana Downs offers a mixed experience, with an updated casino floor and slot machines contrasting with a dated racetrack area that can get uncomfortably hot. Visitors enjoy the live racing, the excitement of special events like fireworks and balloon festivals, and the variety of food trucks available during these occasions. However, some find the casino lacking in atmosphere and note the absence of a non-smoking section.

"We went over the Fourth of July weekend and had a great time. We were in box 6A right on the finish line. If we go back I would move over a box to maybe 4 or 5 as there is a big black pole blocking the view of the track. All the staff was friendly and polite. We had a few bites from the Inside Rail restaurant which were all pretty good. The casino and restaurant area are all updated, however the track area is not. Quite dated. Even though it was indoors the AC was not able to keep up and the area was quite hot and stuffy. Definitely needs an HVAC update. All in all I would go again. No long lines at the betting stations."

Sarah Durst

"Had a great time! The VIP section was a fun place to watch, food… it was okay, but it was all you could eat. Staff were very courteous. Will certainly come again(even though I do not gamble)"

Kirk Elmore

"We drove from Texas to Harrah's in Louisiana. Which we had frequently visited prior to covid. It is dead as a door knobs. The restaurants are empty. It's so bad we walk into China palace and the hostess ask us what did we want? I'm like (in my head) to be seated? There was no one in the entire restaurant. What a stupid question. The food was good, but not the quality of a 4 or 5 star restaurant. Overall the casino no life maybe 50 to 75 people in the entire casino. So you know no payouts. A tradition ended. Won't be back."

Lisa Spivey

What People Like

Live horse racing
Updated casino floor
Special event fireworks

What People Dislike

Dated racetrack area
Hot indoor temperatures
No non-smoking section

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Louisiana Downs is located in Bossier City, Louisiana. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors drive from nearby Texas cities like Texarkana. InstagramReddit

Public transportation options are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the venue. TikTok

Parking is available, though reviews suggest the parking lot can sometimes be littered with trash. Reddit

Yes, Louisiana Downs is easily accessible from Shreveport, which is just across the Red River. The drive is typically short. Instagram

While there isn't a hotel directly on-site, there are numerous hotels in the surrounding Bossier City and Shreveport areas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the casino floor is generally free. However, for specific events like the Red River Balloon Festival or for reserved seating like boxes, tickets may be required. Instagram

General admission to the casino and racetrack is typically free. Special events may have an admission fee. Instagram

Casino hours are generally extensive, but racetrack hours vary with the racing schedule. It's best to check their official website for the most current operating times. Reddit

Yes, box seating for groups is available. A box for 4 people typically includes seating and a view of the track, but confirm specific inclusions when booking. Reddit

There is no strict dress code for the casino or general admission areas. However, for VIP sections or special events, smart casual attire might be appropriate. Instagram

🎫 🏇 Onsite Experience

Louisiana Downs primarily features thoroughbred horse racing. Reddit

You can place various types of bets on the horse races, including win, place, and show bets. Lines at betting stations are usually short. Reddit

Currently, there is no dedicated non-smoking section in the casino, which is a drawback for some visitors. Reddit

The casino and restaurant areas are updated, but the racetrack area is described as dated. Some visitors find the casino to be lacking in 'life' or energy. Reddit

During special events like the Fourth of July or the Red River Balloon Festival, there are family-friendly activities, food trucks, and entertainment. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can dine at the Inside Rail restaurant, which offers decent food. During special events, numerous food trucks with diverse options are available. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is the Inside Rail restaurant, and during events, you can find various food trucks and stalls offering different cuisines. InstagramReddit

Food quality is generally considered decent, with some reviews highlighting good bites from the Inside Rail and a wide variety from food trucks during events. InstagramReddit

Prices can vary. Beer during events was noted at $6 for a 16oz can. Food trucks offer a range of prices depending on the vendor. Instagram

Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available, including beer at reasonable prices during special events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For vibrant event photos, capture the fireworks and hot air balloons during festivals. The racetrack offers dynamic action shots. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take photos of the horse races. Be mindful of other guests and avoid using flash photography that might startle the horses. Reddit

Absolutely! Events like the Red River Balloon Festival offer stunning visuals with fireworks, balloons, and local vendors. Instagram+1

A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing both the racetrack action and wider event scenes. A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for fireworks. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permits. Always check venue policies. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the casino and racetrack are primarily adult-focused, Louisiana Downs can be a fun destination for families during special events. The Red River Balloon Festival and Fourth of July celebrations are particularly family-friendly, featuring fireworks, live music, and a wide variety of food trucks with options for all ages. Instagram+1 These events often have a festive atmosphere that appeals to children, offering entertainment beyond gambling. It's advisable to check the event schedule to plan a visit that aligns with family-friendly programming. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, Louisiana Downs offers free general admission to the casino and racetrack, making it an accessible entertainment option. Instagram While gambling and dining can add up, focusing on the free entertainment aspects, like watching the horse races from general viewing areas or enjoying the atmosphere during free-entry events, can be cost-effective. Reddit Keep an eye out for promotional offers on the casino floor, and during events, exploring the diverse food trucks might offer more budget-friendly meal choices compared to sit-down restaurants. Instagram

🏇 Horse Racing Enthusiasts

Louisiana Downs is a prime spot for thoroughbred racing fans. You can experience the excitement of live races and place bets on your favorite horses. Reddit To enhance your viewing, consider booking box seats in sections 4 or 5 for unobstructed views of the finish line. Reddit While the track area itself might feel dated, the core racing action and betting opportunities remain the main draw for dedicated enthusiasts. Checking the racing calendar for stakes races or special racing days can add extra excitement to your visit. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Racetrack Experience

Louisiana Downs is renowned for its thoroughbred horse racing. Visitors can experience the thrill of live races, with betting windows available for various wager types. While the casino and restaurant areas have seen updates, the racetrack itself is described by some as dated. Reddit For the best viewing experience, it's recommended to secure box seats in sections 4 or 5 to avoid obstructed views from poles, a common issue noted in reviews. Reddit The atmosphere during race days can be lively, especially on weekends or during special racing events like the Kentucky Derby, which can draw larger crowds. Reddit

When planning your visit to the track, keep in mind that the indoor areas can become quite warm and stuffy, particularly during hotter months. Reddit This suggests that while the betting and dining might be comfortable, the viewing experience at the track itself might be less so in peak heat. Checking the racing schedule in advance is crucial to catch the main events and understand the operational hours. Reddit

Casino and Entertainment

The casino floor at Louisiana Downs boasts over 1,300 slot machines, offering a wide variety of gaming options. The casino and adjacent restaurant areas have been updated, providing a more modern feel compared to the racetrack. Reddit However, some visitors have noted a lack of energy or 'life' within the casino, with relatively few patrons present even during peak times, which can impact the payout perception. Reddit A significant point for some guests is the absence of a dedicated non-smoking section, which can be a deterrent for those sensitive to smoke. Reddit

Beyond the slots, Louisiana Downs also hosts various events throughout the year. These can range from concerts and festivals, like the Red River Balloon Festival, to holiday celebrations such as Fourth of July fireworks displays. Instagram+1 These events often feature live music, numerous food trucks with diverse culinary offerings, and local vendors, transforming the venue into a more dynamic entertainment hub. Instagram+1 The fireworks shows, in particular, have received high praise, being described as some of the best attendees have seen. Instagram

Dining and Refreshments

When it comes to dining, Louisiana Downs offers a few options. The Inside Rail restaurant provides a sit-down experience with food that's generally considered decent, with some reviewers highlighting good bites. Reddit For those seeking more variety, especially during special events, the venue frequently hosts a multitude of food trucks. These trucks offer a wide array of culinary choices, from classic fair food to more diverse options, catering to different tastes. Instagram+1

Beverages are also readily available. During events, beer has been noted at reasonable prices, such as $6 for a 16oz can. Instagram While the food and drink options are present, the overall dining experience might be more appealing during special events when the food truck scene is active, offering a more vibrant and varied selection compared to the standard restaurant offerings. InstagramReddit

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