Hometown atmosphere and recreational variety brings visitors back again and again
NORTHSHORE, LOUISIANA–JUNE 2025–The Northshore has long been a refreshing escape, offering a perfect balance for those who love small-town charm and big-time fun. Whether your kind of fun is exploring the outdoors or perusing local shops, this is the place. Of course, food is also fun here, and longstanding Louisiana favorites, along with innovative specialties, fill a variety of menus. Located just 40 minutes north of New Orleans, an hour east of Baton Rouge and an hour west of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Northshore is easily accessible via Interstate 12—and its communities offer a resounding welcome.
Throughout St. Tammany Parish, the towns and neighborhoods of the Northshore each have a character of their own. Visitors are made to feel right at home and invited to join the locals in enjoying what they love most about their destination. With front porch views of Lake Pontchartrain and backyard gems like the Tammany Trace bike trail and the lush Honey Island Swamp, the communities of the Northshore are a natural for those who love the outdoors. But the region’s personality also shines brightly throughout its downtown streets, hometown hideouts and special attractions—a combination like no other.
Slidell is the largest of the Northshore cities, offering a mix of on-the-water activities, shopping and dining. There are plenty of ways to relish the coastal environment and a variety of waters to explore. A fleet of fishing charters with experienced captains awaits those ready to wet a hook on the waters of Lake Pontchartrain. Swamp tour operators also invite guests to explore the region’s pristine primeval wilderness—by tour boat or kayak.
Back on land, retail options include boutiques, antiques and a shopping center filled with familiar favorites. Olde Towne Slidell is a popular neighborhood that invites visitors to enjoy the streetscapes, which include more than a dozen murals, and a variety of specialty stores ranging from Green Oaks Apothecary (2238 First Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-285-5613), with its herbal teas and essential oils, to the Old Town Slidell Soda Shop (301 Cousin Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-649-4806), where kids of all ages enjoy ice cream cones, shakes or root beer floats, along with a food menu of all-American classics like burgers, dogs, pretzels and wings. More dining options in Slidell include local favorites such as the upscale Gallagher’s on Front Street (2306 Front Street, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-326-8350) for steaks and Middendorf’s Slidell (1951 Oak Harbor Boulevard, Slidell, Louisiana 70461; 985-771-7777), known for its beloved thin-fried catfish served in a casual waterfront setting.
For those seeking a true getaway, Lacombe is the place to enjoy quiet time in a natural setting. This is home to one of the most scenic sections of the Tammany Trace, a Hall of Fame rails-to-trails route that connects the communities of the Northshore. Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (61389 Highway 434, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445; 985-882-2000) encompasses 15,000 acres of pine flatwoods, coastal marshes and other diverse habitats. It’s a birder’s paradise, with hundreds of native and migratory bird species. History buffs can explore the Bayou Lacombe Museum (61115 Saint Mary Street, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445), first opened in 1912 as a two-room schoolhouse. For a classic Lacombe feast, many choose Sal and Judy’s (27491 Highway 190, Lacombe, Louisiana 70445; 985-882-9443), where authentic Italian recipes bring authentic Creole flavor to the Northshore.
In Mandeville, the seawall walking path follows along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Majestic oaks and shaded benches invite visitors to take in the views. Those who want to ride the path and beyond can rent wheels from Brooks’ Bikes/Trikes & Beyond (128 Girod Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-789-5037), which also offers guided tours through historic Mandeville and Covington, brewery hops and off-the-beaten-path explorations along the Tammany Trace. Along the lakefront, The Barley Oak: Old World Draught Haus (2101 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-727-7420) serves up dozens of beers and pub fare, while Pat’s Rest Awhile (2129 Lakeshore Drive, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-951-2173) offers seafood and classic American entrées with Chef Pat Gallagher’s signature touch.
The historic homes along Mandeville’s Lakeshore Drive attest to the community’s roots, as does the nearby Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall (430 Lamarque Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448). Built in 1895, it’s considered the oldest, virtually unaltered rural jazz hall in the country. Spring and fall concerts keep the music alive here and draw both locals and visitors. Old Mandeville also boasts an eclectic mix of shops, from the nostalgic The Candy Bank (201 Carroll Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-778-2750) and fine home décor at Arabella Interiors (3902 Highway 22, Mandeville, Louisiana 70471; 985-727-9787) to vinyl finds and more at 22 Sound Vinyl Records (5200 LA-22, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-792-7270).
Nearby Madisonville is a riverfront community where the Tchefuncte River meets Lake Pontchartrain. At the Maritime Museum Louisiana (133 Mabel Drive, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-845-9200), exhibits, boat models and hands-on educational programs (you can take a class on boat-building) celebrate the area’s nautical heritage. River tours by Tchefuncte River Charters (111 Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 504-237-1029), offer family outings or party cruises (the pontoon is equipped with a bar, sound system and onboard restroom). For breakfast, Abita Roasting Company (504 Water Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-246-3340) serves locally roasted coffee with a riverside view, while dinner at Tchefuncte’s (407 St. Tammany Street, Madisonville, Louisiana 70447; 985-323-4800) is a fine-dining experience not to be missed.
Abita Springs, once a health retreat thanks to its artesian waters and fresh air, was a favorite getaway for those on the south side of Lake Pontchartrain and still provides a peaceful escape with walkable streets, lively downtown square and an inviting community. At the heart of town, the Tammany Trace trailhead meets the plaza just outside the Abita Brew Pub (72011 Holly Street, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-892-5837)—the original home of Abita Beer. The pub serves house-brewed beer, burgers and more. Nearby, Abita Brewing Company (21084 Highway 36, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-893-3143) now ranks among the largest craft breweries in the Southeast. Guests can enjoy guided and self-guided tours and a taproom tasting.
For a quirky stop, tour the Abita Mystery House (22275 Highway 36, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-892-2624), a reimagined gas station and outbuildings that is now a fun house of sorts, created by artist John Preble. He’s assembled a staggering collection of art and nostalgic objects, classic arcade games and interactive dioramas of Southern life, all displayed among offbeat inventions and humorous signs, some of which you’ll find in the gift shop alongside Preble’s art prints, souvenirs, toys and more.
Covington is a charming town known for its plentiful shopping and dining. The historic downtown features eclectic shops and fine art galleries. There’s the St. Tammany Art Association (320 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-8650), which hosts three galleries in its historic Art House, displaying members’ works along with solo and group shows, and each summer, a national juried exhibition. Renowned artists display their works at their own galleries, too, including the vibrant works at Marianne Angeli Rodriguez Gallery (323 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-238-0842) and the arresting monochrome pieces of Abby Sembera Art (434 North Columbia Street, Suite A, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-630-4140).
Copper Rooster Antiques & Gifts (222 Lee Lane, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-5171) offers antique finds, and perhaps the most famous store in town, H.J. Smith & Sons General Store and Museum (308 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-0460), has been family-owned and -operated since 1876.
Dining is a special treat in Covington, which has quite a list of fine dining options. Lola (517 North New Hampshire Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-4992), with its husband-and-wife chef team, features award-winning, Louisiana-inspired dishes. Just down the street is a second spouse-chef team at Del Porto Ristorante (501 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-875-1006), three-time James Beard Award nominees who serve a seasonal, farm-inspired menu at the upscale hot spot. Further down Boston street, Dakota Restaurant (310 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-892-3712) features signature dishes like Lump Crabmeat and Brie Soup, Redfish Pontchartrain and Pan-Seared Duck Breast.
Covington is also home to the stately Southern Hotel (428 East Boston Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-400-5657). Originally opened in 1907 to magnificent fanfare and restored in 2014, the Southern’s beautifully appointed, luxurious rooms offer a relaxing respite while inviting common spaces provide ample spaces to socialize, earning it the locals’ nickname, “Covington’s living room.”
Across the Northshore, visitors can choose from charming bed & breakfasts, guest houses and vacation rentals with personality, or stay at familiar hotel chains offering familiar amenities along with excellent service. One-of-a-kind finds like the Abita Springs Hotel (22088 Ann O’Brien Lane, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420; 985-951-4200) or a cabin on the water or campsite at Fontainebleau State Park (62883 Highway 1089, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-624-4443) round out the lodging options.
If you go
To truly enjoy the hometown experience, consider visiting one of the Northshore’s local farmers markets. The Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market is held every Sunday around the historic gazebo and features fresh seasonal produce, hand-made sauces, prepared food, baked goods, honey, boudin and more.
Covington Farmers Market (609 North Columbia Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-966-1786) has vegetables, fruit, meats, wines, herbs, honey, baked goods, doggie treats, soaps and potted plants. And often, live music adds to the Saturday market fun. On Wednesdays, the Covington Trailhead (419 North New Hampshire Street, Covington, Louisiana 70433; 985-966-1786) is the spot to grab all the goodies, including produce and prepared lunches.
Mandeville Trailhead Community Market (675 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-624-3147) is held on Saturdays at the Mandeville Trailhead, where makers and farmers come together to sell their wares, which include handmade crafts, prepared foods, jellies and plants. Live music and pet adoptions are often part of the day’s features. Also on Saturday mornings, just steps away, is the indoor/outdoor Lafitte Street Market (725 Lafitte Street, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448; 985-960-2224), where patrons can shop for prepared foods, seasonal produce, organic beverages, coffees crafts and more.
In Slidell, Saturday mornings in Olde Towne mean Camellia City Farmers Market (Griffith Park, 333 Erlanger Avenue, Slidell, Louisiana 70458; 985-640-7112) is spreading the love with local produce, prepared foods, seasonal citrus, baked goods, dog treats, Hawaiian jerky, coffee, arts and crafts, fresh cut flowers and more. Pretty little eggplants and yellow squash have that just-picked sheen; bundles of turnip, collard and mustard greens have crisp leaves and smell of the earth. Add live music while you’re shopping and taking in all the delicious aromas, and it’s a feast for the senses.
Saturday mornings also brings the Paddock Farmers Market at the Giddy Up Folsom (82292 LA-25, Folsom, Louisiana 70437; 985-705-1091) where visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the live music. Nearly 20 vendors rotate weekly, offering a wide variety of foods, body care items and fine art.
Pearl River Farmers Market & Craft Show (39437 Highway 41 Spur, Pearl River, Louisiana 70452; 504- 621-6237) is held on the first Saturday of the month and features more than 30 vendors offering fresh vegetables, fruits and artisan crafts.