Getting Around Shreveport
Shreveport is a mid-sized city in northern Louisiana served by several transportation options. While the city is primarily car-oriented, visitors have alternatives including public buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Understanding these options will help you navigate the city efficiently.
Public Transportation: SporTran Bus System
SporTran is Shreveport's public transit provider and one of the oldest public transportation systems in the South, operating continuously for over 125 years. The system operates a fleet of more than 50 buses and lift vans, including hybrid vehicles.
SporTran buses are free of charge for all passengers. Most major destinations and attractions in the city are accessible via the bus network, which also extends into nearby areas of Bossier City.
The system is organized around two main transfer points where routes connect:
- The Downtown Transfer Hub (SporTran Intermodal Terminal), located at the corner of Texas Avenue and Murphy Street
- The Southwest Transfer Hub, located at the corner of W. 68th Street and St. Vincent Avenue
Most hotels in Shreveport have a bus stop nearby, making it convenient to access public transportation from your accommodation. If you're traveling between downtown Shreveport and the southern half of the city, you'll likely need to use both transfer stations.
Rail, Metro, and Tram Networks
Shreveport does not have a rail, metro, or tram system. The city's mass transit is served exclusively by the SporTran bus network.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis are available throughout Shreveport and can reach more destinations than public buses, though at a higher cost. Ride-hailing services including Uber and Lyft operate in the city and offer another private transportation option.
Getting From the Airport to Downtown
Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV), located 5 miles west of downtown at the intersection of Interstates 20 and 220, is the main commercial airport for the region. The smaller Shreveport Downtown Airport (DTN), located about a mile north of downtown, serves general aviation.
Public Transportation from the Airport
SporTran buses serve Shreveport Regional Airport with a stop located directly outside the baggage claim doors. Routes 7 and 13 connect to the Downtown Transfer Station, from which Route 20 connects to hotels, casinos, and points downtown. As with all SporTran service, buses from the airport are free.
Taxi Service from the Airport
Taxis are available at the airport, with typically 2 to 4 vehicles waiting outside the terminal. A taxi from the airport to downtown Shreveport or Bossier City ranges from $15 to $25. Taxis provide access to more parts of the Shreveport-Bossier City area than public transportation, though at a higher cost.
Ride-Hailing from the Airport
Uber and Lyft drivers typically arrive at the airport in less than 5 minutes. When exiting the terminal, walk to the right and go to the edge of the building where Shreveport Regional Airport has designated areas for ride-hailing services. Wait near the Uber/Lyft signs on the curb after requesting your ride.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Many hotels located near the airport and west of the Inner Loop (I-220/LA-3132) offer free airport shuttle service. Contact your hotel directly to arrange for pickup, as flights at Shreveport are less frequent than at larger airports.
Walkability
Shreveport is primarily car-oriented, with most residents preferring personal vehicles for transportation. The downtown area and some neighborhoods are walkable, but the city is not highly pedestrian-friendly overall. Visitors without a car should plan to use public transit or ride-hailing services for most trips.
Getting Around by Car
The city is easy to navigate by car. Interstate 20 runs east-west through Shreveport (connecting Dallas and Jackson, Mississippi), while Interstate 49 runs north-south (connecting Texarkana and Alexandria). An Inner Loop consisting of Interstate 220 on the north and Louisiana Highway 3132 on the south provides a semi-loop around downtown. Clyde Fant Parkway runs along the riverfront and links downtown with the southeastern part of the city around LSU Shreveport and shopping areas along South Youree Drive.