Property taxes are among the lowest in the nation. Traffic congestion is rare. Shreveport offers a rich intellectual and cultural environment to its residents. Louisiana State University in Shreveport and Centenary College provide both undergraduate and graduate education programs. The Shreveport Symphony, the Shreveport Civic Opera and many community theater groups display the best of the performing arts, and the Strand Theatre brings Broadway plays and nationally known performers to the city.
Opportunities abound for sports enthusiasts.
Some of the best hunting and fishing areas in the country are within a 100-mile radius of Shreveport. For family recreation numerous boating, fishing and camping facilities are readily accessible, including Cross Lake, Cypress Lake, Lake Bistineau and Toledo Bend. The Nike Invitational professional golf tournament is held each April, the Champion Lake national water ski competition each July, and national bass fishing competitions are held annually. The Independence Bowl, an NCAA Division I post-season football contest, is held in December, and Louisiana Downs provides thoroughbred racing each year. Hamel's Amusement Park, Watertown, and Sci-Port provide ample family entertainment opportunities.