Story And Photos By Angie Kay Dilmore
If you’ve ever driven north on Highway 171 toward Shreveport, you may think you’ve been to Leesville. You’ve seen the chain stores, fast food establishments, tattoo parlors and gentlemen’s club. (Leesville is home to Fort Polk, an army base housing 22,000 soldiers and their families.)
Founded in 1871, Leesville thrived on the timber industry and the Kansas City Southern Railway. In 1941, the United States Army opened Camp Polk (now Fort Polk). The military base quickly replaced timber as the driving force of the Leesville economy.
Despite its small town status, there is surprisingly much to see and do in Leesville.
Dining
The Booker-Lewis Restaurant is located at 106 E. North St. in the Booker Lewis Boutique Hotel. They are well-known for casual fine dining. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For lighter fare and libations, try the adjoining John Beck’s Pub.
Fat Boy and Skinny’s is a popular hamburger and fries joint situated in an old repurposed gas station. Order your burger the way you like it, with 22 toppings to choose from. Cajun fries are a perfect accompaniment. They also make milk shakes with freshly scooped ice cream. The eatery is located at 303 S. 5th St. (also known as Highway 171).
Mexico Lindo specializes in south-of-the-border fare and margaritas. It’s located at 2503 McCrae St.
On Highway 171, you’ll find the usual chain establishments. But there are a few notable restaurants along this busy road. BubbaQues specializes in barbeque. While technically a chain out of Florida, it seems to be popular with the locals.
Cultural Attractions
Vernon Parish Courthouse
For art aficionados, there’s Gallery One Ellleven. No, that’s not a typo – it’s a play on their address, 111 Third St. They host art exhibits by various artists and sponsor art competitions and other events.
The Polk Outdoor Theater hosts musical concerts. Bring your folding chairs or blankets for an evening of music under the stars.
History
For history buffs, the Western Louisiana Museum at 803 S. Third St. resides in a Kansas City Southern Railroad Depot. Artifacts illustrate the history, culture, folk art and natural resources of Leesville and Vernon Parish. The museum is open daily from 1 to 5 pm.
The Vernon Parish Courthouse was built in 1910. The building, with its exquisite architecture, houses a tourist center. Historical murals adorn the walls inside the courthouse.
Shopping
Leesville offers several interesting shopping opportunities. The Imperial Hardware Store has been in business since 1955. The aisles, shelves and ceiling are lined with a myriad of necessities and curiosities.
Interior of Imperial Hardware.
Tracie’s Candle Shop specializes in handmade candles and soaps, scrubs and more. It’s located at 100 1/2 East Texas St. Call 337-404-7742.
My Favorite Things is a combination gift shop, bakery and art gallery. They offer group art and painting classes. 1303 N. Fifth St.
Main St. Market and Garden is a Farmers Market and community garden on Third St. south of town. It’s open Tuesdays 3-6 pm, Thursday 3-6 pm and Saturdays 8 am-1 pm.
Eve & Dee Boutique specializes in women’s clothing, shoes, and accessories. Find it at 1808 S. Fifth St.
Outdoor Activities
Liberty Gardens is a park located on Nolan Trace Rd. next to the Vernon Parish Library. Farther down Nolan Trace there’s a Rodeo Arena. For golf, tennis, and playground fun, visit Leesville Municipal Park. It’s a perfect spot for a summertime picnic. The park is located on Country Club Rd.
For more tourist information on Leesville, visit the Vernon Parish Chamber of Commerce at 1309 N. Fifth St. (Highway 171) or the Tourist Center in the courthouse.
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