We’ll be perfectly honest. We had no idea what to expect when it came to St. Tammany Parish, aka Louisiana Northshore. We hadn’t heard much about it, and our knowledge of the region was pretty scarce. When planning our trip to Louisiana’s Northshore, we figured we’d try some good cajun food, maybe even see a crocodile - but beyond that we really weren’t sure! Located just 40 minutes from New Orleans’ French Quarter, we now wish we would have made it over when we visited NOLA last spring.
We love it when a destination takes us by surprise.
When a place that we’ve never been and don’t know much about instantly pulls at our heartstrings and embraces us in such a way that we leave saying, “That was SO cool!” That’s what happened with Luisiana’s Northshore. Sure, we ate our weight in cajun home cooking, and we even stumbled upon a few crocodiles (a novelty to us California folks), but it was SO much more than that! Louisiana’s Northshore is filled with charming towns, friendly locals, scenic activities and escapes, and just the kind of flavorful cuisine we’d hoped it would have (more on the food scene, here).
While we could’ve easily doubled this list, we’ve narrowed it down to five “Must Do’s” while you’re in Louisiana’s Northshore. Enjoy!
1. TAKE A SUNSET PONTOON RIDE
There’s no better way to see Louisiana Northshore than by boat, and not just any kind of boat… a pontoon! Our friend Captain Mike at Louisiana Tours and Adventures will not only give you a tour packed with history, random facts (ask him to point out Britney Spears’ old house!), and jaw-dropping sights, but he’ll make sure you’re in the best, most scenic spot just in time to catch the sunset! Make sure to pack a picnic, and plenty of “The Boot” - a Louisiana beer (ONLY Louisiana, because they don’t let this one go outside the boot, aka the state) that’s not to be missed!
New friends!
Dinner and a sunset. See the sun about to dip below the horizon?
2. RIDE BIKES AROUND MANDEVILLE
Mandeville is one of the charming little towns nestled along the water, spacious streets and sidewalks make it perfectly bikeable. Rent a couple of cruisers from the friendly folks at Brook’s Bike Shop, and spend a morning (or an afternoon, whatever you prefer!) riding along the Tammany Trace, a 31 mile “rails to trails” conversion - connecting five Louisiana Northshore communities! After you’re done, do a little boutique shopping on Lakeshore Drive, and don’t forget to stop at The Candy Bank!
3. SEE A JAZZ CONCERT AT DEW DROP JAZZ AND SOCIAL HALL
If you’re an avid jazz fan, chances are you’re familiar with the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall. Not only is it the oldest jazz hall in the WORLD, it’s virtually unaltered, looking just as it did more than a century ago! Famous jazz musicians from around the world have played there, from Buddy Petit and Kid Ory - and it still attracts jaw-dropping headliners! Find their concert schedule here. (Oh, and if you’re hungry, grab dinner from the cute little church ladies at the Free Mission next door!)
4. GO CANOEING WITH CANOE AND TRAIL
Canoeing is always a good idea, especially in the Louisiana wetlands! Rent a canoe (or kayak) from Canoe and Trail, and leisurely float along the river… it’s peaceful, serene, and even dog-friendly, so bring your pup! When you’re done exploring, make sure to end the outing with fresh oysters at The Chimes Covington!
Sally’s first time in a canoe!
5. SHOP THE ANTIQUE STORES IN DOWNTOWN COVINGTON
Founded in 1813, Covington is a charming and historic little town bustling with galleries, boutiques, museums, cafes and you guessed it… antique stores! Located inside quaint converted cottages, Covington’s antique and collectibles shops are absolutely adorable… and you’re sure to find some amazing local gems! Pop into the posh English Tea Room or chic Cypress Bar at the Southern Hotel for a refreshment after!
Bobby found a really special antique