Summer Fun in Louisiana’s Northshore
Summer is coming, so it’s perfect weather for going outside, exploring, and having a few adventures. After more than a year of pandemic isolation, the state of Louisiana is opening up again. One place you’ll want to visit is the Northshore area, which is an excellent option for all kinds of summer activities.
About the Northshore Area
Louisiana’s Northshore is in St. Tammany Parish. The area is approximately 40 minutes north of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Louisiana calls counties parishes due to the local religious and European history. The parish (or county) offers many experiences for families, food lovers, nature enthusiasts, avid golfers, and art appreciators. It can be an excellent place for a multi-day stay or just a quick visit.
Area Highlights
The Northshore offers many activities, so it’s easy to find something that will suit you. Some of those include:
- Swamp Tours- The Northshore area is famous for its bayous and swamps, beautiful nature, and unique landscape. Take the opportunity to ride a flat bottom boat through giant cypress trees, and you may even see a few alligators.
- Gator Hatchery- Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery in Covington has a lot of alligators. Insta-Gator is a conservation farm that has helped rejuvenate the alligator species in partnership with the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries. At the ranch, you will find adult gators in crystal clear water. In addition, you can safely hold and take pictures with baby alligators on the ranch. While there, you learn about alligator farming, from raising them to the industries that rely on them for their meat and skin. If you come around August and September, you can assist with egg hatching; this activity is available by reservation only.
- Tammany Trace- The Tammany Trace is a rail line corridor that the city converted to a 27-mile paved trail. You can take a walk, scooter, or bike from Slidell to downtown Covington. There are portions of the road for horse riding. You will come across the Mandeville and Abita Springs towns, pedestrian bridges, and wildlife like alligators and birds along the trail.
- Abita Mystery House- The Abita Mystery House is a quirky low-cost attraction. It is fun for kids because of the spooky stories involved, alien attractions, and other oddities. You will find a range of curiosities in its collection and gift shop.
A Day Away in New Orleans
Northshore is 40 minutes away from New Orleans so that you can make a day trip filled with activities from morning to evening. Start your mornings with a yoga session at the Louisiana State Museum Cabildo, formerly a temple, which overlooks the historic Jackson Square. Next, have breakfast at Cajun-inspired Cafe Beignet on Bourbon Street, a local favorite with classic tastes of New Orleans. It also has a daily live performance by Steamboat Willie’s Jazz Band.
In the afternoon, enjoy a bike tour of the historic French Quarter. You can rent a bike from multiple places. The tours take about an hour or two and take you through the city’s sites like the historic St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the French Market. After working up an appetite, try lunch at Cochon Butcher or Carmo. Cochon Butcher is a deli and wine bar inspired by Old World charcuterie shops, while the Carmo is a tropical cafe that serves the multicultural culinary influences of New Orleans.
After the meal, ride through St. Charles Avenue on the famous St. Charles Streetcar that takes you through the antebellum mansions, historic monuments, city parks, and shops of uptown New Orleans. Next, stop by Magazine Street, and take a leisurely stroll or shop the specialty boutiques. You will also find art galleries, unique pubs, and dining venues, among other attractions.
Start your evening at Port of Call for their world-famous hamburgers or steaks. It’s open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. After that, walk through the Palace Market, an outdoor marketplace where you can view or buy artwork, jewelry, and gifts from local artists. As the night progresses, get the authentic New Orleans burlesque experience at The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret. Finally, if you still have energy for some dancing, step into the Hi-Ho Lounge, an underground alternative live music and arts venue.
Consider a Long Term Stay
Louisiana’s Northshore is an excellent place for an extended stay, especially if you plan it right.
There are many lovely hotels and inns. Some areas are more touristy than others, so prices may vary. If you’re going to stay for a while, consider renting a place for your stay. It will lower your costs over the long run and give you more freedom during your visit.
If you rent, certain elements are considered ahead of time, so they don’t ruin your vacation. These include knowing where to get groceries/household items, details surrounding the short-term lease agreement, where to do laundry, cleaning accommodations, and the possible need for Northshore pest control.
Shore Up Your Holiday Plans
It’s time to get out and enjoy the summer. Visit the Northshore for a memorable trip that includes nature, the arts, and even something quirky. There is more than enough for everyone to enjoy.
