STAY

DRINK

Fatty Arbuckles Pub: This craft cocktail spot / whiskey bar / pub in the Red River District is a great late night spot. They have a cocktail menu, but also extensive whiskey and beer lists.
Red River District

Flying Heart Brewery: I loved this stop! Get a flight of their brews and order the oversized pretzel that comes with a size of beer cheese. They also have fun, creative cocktails that can be enjoyed in their large patio.
East Bank District

EAT

Herby K’s: This has been a destination for me for years. Expect traditional Cajun fare and local beers in a quaint, old school restaurant that they call “a classic ‘hole in the wall'”. They’re famous for their Shrimp Buster, but you can’t go wrong here. Make sure to check their hours before visiting.
Werner Park

Frozen Pirogue Oyster Bar: Another East Bank District spot to add to the list … this place has plenty of options when it comes to daiquiris and oysters! We had a table full of all different kinds of oysters (my favorite was the Garlic Parmesan), but they offer a sampler platter to try any three flavors! The BEST part of this district is that it’s OPEN CONTAINER! Take a daiquiri with you to-go!
East Bank District

Jack Binion’s Steak House: The steakhouse in the Horseshoe has everything you’d expect from a casino steakhouse, and they do it all well! Their wait staff is very attentive and the atmosphere is just right for the casino. My favorites were the 100% Black Angus steaks, prime rib poutine, tempura fried lobster tail, au gratin potatoes … and do not skip dessert.
Inside the Horseshoe Casino

Superior Grill: Another longtime favorite, this TexMex spot can’t be missed for a casual meal and a marg with some live music on the side. I crave their Queso Flameado, which, (plot twist) is made with chicken.
Cedar Grove

Lucky Palace: I’m not lucky enough (ha) to have eaten here yet, but I’ve heard incredible things about this Chinese restaurant that’s tucked in the back of a motel off the highway. The food is meant to be top notch, and their wine list is meant to be even better (and is AWARD-WINNING)!

DO

Gamble … because you can.

Horse Racing at Harrah’s Louisiana Downs: the historic Louisiana Downs is a fun diversion for those wanting to get some fresh air and watch some sport. They have private suits available (with private bars, full catering offerings, and even betting machines) that let you kick back with your friends and watch the action from above.

Picture courtesy of Sarah Mize

Axe throwing at Bayou Axe Throwing Co.: Stop in for a drink and a chance to blow off some steam. Because who doesn’t like to hurl sharp things at wood while drinking? They also host corn hole tournaments from time to time! (We ventured in on a night when one was going on.)
East Bank District

Shop at The Boardwalk: Stop by The Boardwalk for some outlet shopping and a bite. If you’re an outdoors nerd like me, take some time to wander around Bass Pro Shops and visit the alligator in front of the store.
East Bank

Sunflower peeping & wildflower picking outside of town: Who doesn’t love a good sunflower? Even better, there’s a field where you can pick your own wildflower and leave a few bucks in a mailbox. I can’t begin to tell you now charming this stop on our road trip was!
Multiple fields off Highway 3049 off Grimmet Drive to Gilliam (Sentell Road) … full location details on their Facebook page

STAY

I’ve stayed at the Horseshoe a few times now, and have always had a great experience. (I stayed there last while COVID-19 was in full effect, but we felt very safe thanks to all of their measures.) The rooms are clean, very spacious, and the hotel is located walking distance from The Boardwalk.

Things not to be missed when staying at the Horseshoe:
– the casino: it’s like a little piece of Las Vegas in Louisiana. Drinks are free when you’re playing, there’s no ante like some casinos, and you can stumble upstairs to a comfortable bed when you’ve had enough.
– DARE Pool: the day party-ready pool has plenty of chairs for guests, and if you’re feeling feisty, get a (really reasonably priced) cabana that has a private pool!
– room service: their breakfast is … the best. I enjoyed it so much, I ordered breakfast two mornings in a row. They’re known for their ham steak, but don’t sleep on the yogurt parfait or biscuits.

I wrote a full post on the Horseshoe … make sure to read about it all here!