Covington and Northshore

Explore Louisiana's Northshore, a serene escape boasting towns like Covington and Mandeville, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Dive into its culinary scene, top attractions, and ideal accommodations.

Covington and Northshore Travel Guide

Nestled on the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain, just across the water from New Orleans, Covington and the surrounding Northshore area provide a delightful blend of Southern charm, outdoor beauty, and cultural richness.

Overview: Louisiana's Northshore, encompassing the northern banks of Lake Pontchartrain, is a serene escape known for its historic charm, lush pine forests, and scenic waterways. Just a stone's throw from New Orleans, it offers a tranquil counterpart to the city's hustle, blending culture, nature, and Southern hospitality.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal time to visit the Northshore area of Louisiana largely depends on personal preferences related to weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. Here's a breakdown:

Spring (March to May):

Weather: Mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and greenery. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s (°F).
Advantages: A comfortable climate for outdoor activities, be it hiking, biking, or kayaking. Spring festivals are in full swing, celebrating the region's culture and arts.

Fall (September to November):

Weather: Cool and refreshing with changing foliage offering a scenic backdrop. Temperatures linger between the high 50s and the mid-70s (°F).
Advantages: A prime season for nature enthusiasts. Local events, including art festivals and food-focused celebrations, are common in the fall.

Winter (December to February):

Weather: Mild and cooler, especially during evenings. Temperatures usually range between the high 40s and mid-60s (°F).
Advantages: A quieter period for tourism, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the Northshore. Accommodation might also be more affordable.

Summer (June to August):

Weather: Hot and humid, with occasional rain. Temperatures often reach the high 80s and 90s (°F).
Considerations: While the warm climate is conducive for water-based activities in Lake Pontchartrain.

Getting There

The Northshore, encompassing towns like Covington, Mandeville, and Slidell, is situated just north of Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans. Here's how you can get there:

By Car:

From New Orleans: The most straightforward route is via the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, one of the world's longest bridges spanning nearly 24 miles. This bridge connects Metairie (a suburb of New Orleans) to Mandeville on the Northshore. The drive, under normal conditions, takes about 30 minutes.
From Baton Rouge: Take the I-12 eastbound, which directly traverses the Northshore area.
From the East (like Gulfport or Biloxi, Mississippi): You can also approach via I-10 West and then I-12 West.

By Air:

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Located in Kenner, west of New Orleans, it's the closest major airport to the Northshore. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle/taxi to your Northshore destination.

By Bike:

Tammany Trace: If you're up for an adventure, you can cycle parts of the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile-long trail that connects several towns on the Northshore.

Towns in Northshore

The Northshore of Louisiana is home to several charming towns, each offering its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Covington:

Founded in 1813, Covington serves as a cultural hub on the Northshore. Its historic downtown district is lined with galleries, boutiques, and eateries. Covington is also known for its festivals, arts scene, and the weekly farmers market, making it a vibrant spot for both residents and visitors.

Mandeville:

Located on the northern banks of Lake Pontchartrain, Mandeville is a serene escape known for its lakefront beauty. The town boasts the Tammany Trace's trailhead, a 31-mile-long rail-to-trail conversion perfect for biking and hiking. Mandeville's historic district, Old Mandeville, offers a glimpse into the town's past with its old homes and buildings.

Slidell:

Situated to the east, closer to Mississippi, Slidell is known for its marinas and access to swamp tours. It's a great place for those looking to delve into the region's natural beauty, with places like the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Slidell also hosts the annual Arts Evening festival, celebrating local artists and musicians.

Abita Springs:

A quaint town known for its artesian waters, Abita Springs is a mix of arts, history, and nature. Home to the Abita Brewing Company, beer enthusiasts can take a tour of the brewery. The town is also renowned for the Abita Mystery House, a quirky museum showcasing oddities and vintage collectibles.

Madisonville:

Nestled along the Tchefuncte River, Madisonville is a historic town with maritime roots. The town boasts the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, which offers insights into the region's boat-building history and river ecosystem. The annual Wooden Boat Festival is a significant event here, celebrating the town's nautical heritage.

Lacombe:

A quieter town with Creole roots, Lacombe offers a laid-back vibe with its bayous and pines. It's an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts, with places like the Bayou Lacombe Centre and Big Branch Marsh offering opportunities for bird-watching and nature walks.

Folsom:

A rural village known for its horse farms and rolling landscapes. The Global Wildlife Center, one of the area's top attractions, allows visitors an up-close experience with free-roaming exotic animals.

The towns of the Northshore offer a blend of Southern charm, rich history, arts, and nature. Whether you're exploring Covington's lively arts scene or soaking in the tranquility of the bayous in Lacombe, the Northshore promises diverse experiences catering to varied

Top Attractions

Discover the heart and soul of Northshore, Louisiana, as you explore its standout attractions, each offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Tammany Trace: A 31-mile-long biking and hiking trail that stretches across the Northshore, connecting several towns from Covington to Slidell.
Fontainebleau State Park: Located in Mandeville, this park offers a sandy beach on Lake Pontchartrain, hiking trails, bird-watching, and camping sites.
Abita Brewing Company: Located in Abita Springs, this brewery offers guided tours and tastings of its renowned craft beers.
Abita Mystery House: A quirky museum in Abita Springs filled with oddities, folk art, and unique exhibits.
Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum: Located in Madisonville, it delves into the maritime history of the region and the significance of Lake Pontchartrain.
Global Wildlife Center: In Folsom, this reserve offers safari wagon tours, allowing visitors to interact with and feed free-roaming animals.
Dew Drop Jazz Hall: Located in Mandeville, it's the oldest unaltered rural jazz hall in the US and still hosts intimate music performances.
Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge: Near Slidell, it's a haven for bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts with its mix of marshes, pine flatwoods, and hardwood hammocks.
Fairview-Riverside State Park: Situated along the Tchefuncte River, it's a scenic spot for fishing, camping, and picnicking.
Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery: Located between Covington and Slidell, it's a working alligator ranch where visitors can learn about these reptiles and even hold baby gators.
Old Mandeville Historic District: Wander through a district filled with historic homes, antique shops, and local eateries while soaking in the ambiance of this lakeside town.
Northlake Nature Center: Situated east of Mandeville, it offers a network of trails through diverse ecosystems, including swamps, forests, and ponds.

Top Activities to do in Northshore

Immerse yourself in the vibrant pulse of Northshore by diving into a range of activities that capture its essence, from serene nature escapades to lively cultural experiences.

Cycling: Explore the Tammany Trace, a renowned trail that spans several towns, providing both scenic beauty and a touch of each town's character.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through the region's waterways, like the Tchefuncte River or Bogue Falaya River for a serene water-based adventure.
Bird-Watching: With its diverse habitats, the Northshore is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and Fontainebleau State Park are top spots.
Fishing: Cast a line in Lake Pontchartrain, the Tchefuncte River, or any of the other freshwater bodies dotting the region.
Craft Beer Tasting: Sample local brews at the Abita Brewing Company and learn about the brewing process.
Swamp Tours: Delve into Louisiana's iconic swamps. Several outfitters offer guided tours to explore the region's unique wetland ecosystems.
Hiking: Explore trails in areas like Fontainebleau State Park or the Northlake Nature Center, immersing in the region's natural beauty.
Historic Tours: Wander through the historic districts of towns like Mandeville or Covington, learning about the Northshore's rich past.
Shopping: Discover boutique shops in Covington's historic downtown or hunt for antiques in Old Mandeville.
Live Music: Experience live performances at venues like the Dew Drop Jazz Hall or local bars and restaurants that host regional musicians.
Culinary Adventures: Savor the flavors of the Northshore by dining at local restaurants, trying out Creole, Cajun, and Southern dishes.
Wildlife Viewing: Visit the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom to interact with free-roaming exotic animals on a guided safari.
Camping: Set up camp in one of the state parks or nature reserves, enjoying the tranquility of the Northshore's natural landscapes.
Boating: Rent a boat or join a guided tour on Lake Pontchartrain, enjoying the waters and potential sunset views.
Festivals and Events: Participate in local events, from art festivals in Covington to maritime celebrations in Madisonville, immersing in the region's vibrant community spirit.

Culinary Scene

The Northshore culinary scene is a delightful reflection of Louisiana's broader gastronomic heritage, enhanced by its lakeside charm and the abundance of fresh ingredients from both land and water.

Traditional Louisiana Cuisine:

Drawing from the Creole, Cajun, and Southern traditions, the Northshore offers classics like gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, and po' boys. Crawfish boils, especially during the crawfish season, are communal events that are both flavorful and festive.

Fresh Seafood:

With its proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf of Mexico, seafood is a staple. Oysters, shrimp, catfish, and blue crab are commonly found on menus, often grilled, fried, or used in rich stews and soups.

Craft Breweries & Beverages:

The Abita Brewing Company, located in Abita Springs, is a testament to the Northshore's burgeoning craft beer scene. Beyond its popular brews, the area also offers local spirits and cocktails infused with regional flavors.

Bakeries and Sweets:

Louisiana's French influence shines through in the local bakeries. Expect to find fresh beignets, pralines, king cakes (especially during the Mardi Gras season), and pecan pies that cater to those with a sweet tooth.

Dining Ambiance:

From upscale dining establishments with views of Lake Pontchartrain to quaint bistros in historic districts and vibrant roadside eateries, the Northshore provides a diverse dining atmosphere. Each town, be it Covington or Mandeville, boasts its own collection of cherished food spots.

Where to Stay

When visiting the Northshore of Louisiana, several towns offer a range of accommodations suited to different preferences and needs. Here are the best areas to stay in, based on their offerings and attractions:

Covington:

Overview: As one of the larger towns on the Northshore, Covington boasts a mix of boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and modern inns.
Accommodations: The Southern Hotel offers a touch of luxury in a historic setting, while various B&Bs provide a more intimate experience.
Why Stay Here: With its lively arts scene, historic downtown, restaurants, and shops, Covington offers a balanced mix of cultural experiences and relaxation.

Mandeville:

Overview: Lying along Lake Pontchartrain, Mandeville combines lakeside charm with historic allure.
Accommodations: Bed and breakfasts dominate the scene here, like the Marvilla Guest House, which offers rooms in a historic setting.
Why Stay Here: Mandeville is perfect for those seeking a calm retreat by the lake. The Tammany Trace trailhead, local eateries, and historic sites make it a versatile choice.

Slidell:

Overview: Positioned on the eastern edge of the Northshore, Slidell offers easy access to both New Orleans and Mississippi's Gulf Coast.
Accommodations: From national hotel chains to quaint B&Bs like the Woodridge Bed and Breakfast of Louisiana, there's a variety.
Why Stay Here: Slidell is a hub for nature enthusiasts, given its proximity to the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and swamp tours.

Abita Springs:

Overview: A small, artsy town known for its pure artesian waters and the renowned Abita Brewery.
Accommodations: Options like the Abita Springs Hotel provide a cozy and locally immersive experience.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, art, and nature.

Madisonville:

Overview: This riverside town offers maritime charm with its boat-centric culture.
Accommodations: Options might be more limited compared to bigger towns.
Why Stay Here: Madisonville is perfect for those wanting a quiet escape, with its nautical attractions, riverfront dining, and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum.

Covington and the Northshore offer a refreshing blend of culture, history, and nature. Whether you're indulging in Southern flavors, exploring historic sites, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this region of Louisiana promises a serene and enriching experience.