Passing through Barksdale Air Force Base? A layover in Shreveport is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of BAD:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Shreveport from BAD
You have two main options for getting from Barksdale Air Force Base into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at BAD aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Shreveport itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Shreveport Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Shreveport, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
How to Spend Your Time in Shreveport
If you head into Shreveport, here are two things worth checking out:
Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Shreveport Aquarium is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Shreveport.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BAD, you can spend time at Barksdale Global Power Museum or try Barksdale Base Exchange (BX). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Shreveport
If you make it into town, Herby-K’s Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Frank’s Pizza & Napoletana.
Inside BAD
If you’re staying in the terminal, Burger King (Barksdale AFB) is your main option. Red River Dining Facility (DFAC) works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BAD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Shreveport or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at BAD, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Shreveport doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from BAD, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.