j. bennett johnston waterway regional visitor center

This museum gives you a very quick view of the history of the Red River, from DeSoto to the present. Without beating a dead horse, it shows the the challenges overcome, from Spanish opposition to log jams/dams, to soft bottoms and swift currents that constantly created sandbar hazards and the course of this major river that begins in New Mexico and ends in the Mississippi River. We viewed the 12 minute movie first, which I recommend. We spent 45 minutes total, and are glad we did. The lady at the reception on 12/6/14 morning was VERY helpful (and constantly working).

This modernistic boat-shaped building (look real close and squint to see the "boat shape") has an auditorium, where one should view the 12-minute video presentation, to set the stage for looking at the exhibits in the other end of the not-too-large building. The visitor center tells the story of how the river got cleared of a substantial snag raft and rerouted to accommodate navigation and also includes a waterfowl display featuring birds that migrate through the area. Displays and exhibits are well done. Plan on 60 to 90 minutes for your visit. The Center is right across the street from River View Park.

Talking to the Lead Ranger, they are in the process of making lots of new improvement to both inside and outside the building and improving the displays and tours of what they have inside. If you are looking for somewhere to take your Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts, this would be the place. They are always having outdoor events and working exhibits around the community to include a hunting event northeast of town later this month. It is also right next for to the Science Building where we are going next.

This is a pretty new attraction in downtown Shreveport. The first thing you'll do is watch a brief video about the Red River that gives lots of interesting information. Then stroll through the rest of the center for great exhibits, including river history, wildlife and more.

Information on the exploration of the Red, as well as historical information on its navigation, and present day shipping is available in photographs, audio, and audiovisual presentations. Plan on about an hour. Plenty of parking is available, and there is no admission charge.