City: Keithville, LA

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (318) 925-9547

Address: 5730 Meadowlake Dr.

Description: Hole #4, the Island Green, has claimed more than its share of balls since 1959, when this 18-hole course opened. While the fairway is straight enough, you must avoid two water traps, shooting over the lesser of the two ponds to land on the small green. With six additional water hazards, this par 72, 6,000-yard course, located about 30 minutes southwest of Shreveport, provides great play in a country setting. No metal spikes are allowed on the course, driving range, putting green, or chipping area. Given the popularity of this tree-lined facility, it would be advisable to make a tee time reservation that can be taken up to two weeks in advance either by phone or online. Stop by the fully stocked pro shop. While an authorized PING club fitter, the shop also carries Callaway, Titleist, Mizuno, and Tour Edge clubs. And the grill area provides basic fare at good prices. While no alcohol is sold at Meadow Lake, feel free to bring your own cooler stocked with the beverages of your choice. Open from daylight to dark, seven days a week, except for Christmas. New to the game? Lessons are available by appointment for $30 for 30 minutes each or five lessons for the discounted rate of $125. Walkers will pay $12 for the privilege of playing this gorgeous course; carts will cost only $8 more. Twilight rate for both walkers and cart riders is $15; starts at 3:30 p.m. (except during the summer, when it begins at 5 p.m.). And bring plenty of balls just in case Island Green claims another circular victim. Located south of Shreveport; take Highway 171 and veer right onto Colquitt Road (Highway 152). Turn left onto Parish Road 143 and look for the signs.

City: Keithville, LA

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (318) 925-2307 or (318) 458-94

Address: 2563 Barron Rd. (off of US 171)

Description: Take a flight of adventure across the skies of Shreveport and Bossier on Maverick, a 105,000-square-foot hot air balloon that can carry up to four passengers plus the pilot. Because of the bright red, white, and blue colors, your child will certainly be noticed by the community while having a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view the world from this perspective. By appointment only.