More Than Just a Day Trip: Immerse Yourself in These Nearby Towns.

Have you ever wanted to escape Shreveport for the day, and the thought of a turnaround trip to Dallas sounds more exhausting than exciting? The last time I did a quick trip to Dallas for a day, it ended up being one of the most exhausting getaways, and I felt like I needed a getaway from that trip.

We found four great options that are less than two hours away from Shreveport that have enough to do but won't overwhelm you with too many options so you feel like you have to do all the things, but just enough to entertain you for a few hours.

Be a "Steel Magnolias" Mega Fan in Natchitoches, LA

Natchitoches, Louisiana, doesn't just have the famous "Steel Magnolias" home; it also has the best meat pie in the world. Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant is the place to get them. Lasyone’s is an old-school diner located in downtown Natchitoches within short walking distance from the Cane River Lake waterfront park. You can click here to see all the fun options in Natchitoches.

Pretend You're in a Hallmark Movie in Minden, LA

Have you heard of The Villas at Spanish Court? You can rent a picture-perfect cottage or Villa, really any one of those cute places that Sara McDaniel fixed up, and then be a "local" in the Friendliest Town in the South. Minden caught the eyes of the crew from Travel and Leisure, and they claim that this town is the friendliest of all. You should experience all that for yourself.

Be an Antique Shopper and Travel Back in Time in Jefferson, Texas

Have you ever walked the streets of Jefferson, Texas? There is more to the historical town than countless antique shops. Jefferson is home to the best barbecue in the Ark-La-Tex, and the Jefferson General Store makes you feel like you've time-traveled. There is something fun happening in every single store, the town is bustling, rain or shine.

Eat Your Way Through Tyler, Texas

Tyler, Texas, has some of the most unique places to eat, from Villa Montez, an old mansion on a Hill turned Latin restaurant, to the Instagramable hot spot The Grove. Need to walk off the delicious eats? Walk through the Caldwell Zoo or check out all the shopping malls that Tyler has to offer. Some call Tyler a baby Dallas, and we would agree.