Lake Pontchartrain: Gateway to Louisiana's Natural Beauty

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana, a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering fishing, boating, and stunning landscapes.

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Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain is a vast and serene lake located in southeastern Louisiana. Known for its scenic beauty, it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake spans over 630 square miles and is surrounded by charming towns and lush landscapes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching. Its waters are teeming with a variety of fish species, and the surrounding wetlands provide a habitat for numerous bird species. For those interested in history, the area around Lake Pontchartrain is rich with cultural heritage, with many historic sites and museums to explore. Visitors can also enjoy the famous Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the longest continuous bridge over water in the world. This engineering marvel offers stunning views of the lake and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore nature, or learn about local history, Lake Pontchartrain has something to offer everyone.

Local tips in Lake Pontchartrain

Bring binoculars for bird watching; the wetlands are home to many species.
Visit the historic towns around the lake for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
Check the weather forecast before planning your activities on the lake.
Take a drive across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway for breathtaking views.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the nature trails.

File:Landsat new orleans nfl lrg.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Fontainebleu State Park Sunset.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:New Basin Canal Lighthouse 2013 - New Orleans, Louisiana.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Pontchartrain Beach Amusement Park on Lake Shore Drive, New Orleans - 1940s postcard.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mandeville Lakefront - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Lake Pontchartrain?

Unmissable attractions to see

Jackson Square

Explore the vibrant heart of New Orleans at Jackson Square, a historical landmark filled with art, music, and culture in the French Quarter.

The National WWII Museum

Discover the profound stories and artifacts of World War II at The National WWII Museum, a top-rated tourist attraction in New Orleans.

New Orleans City Park

Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant attractions of New Orleans City Park, an urban oasis perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Audubon Aquarium

Explore the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans, a captivating journey through aquatic wonders and conservation efforts for all ages.

Audubon Park

Explore the natural beauty and recreational delights of Audubon Park, a tranquil escape in the heart of New Orleans.

Audubon Zoo

Discover the enchanting wildlife and lush landscapes of Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, a premier tourist attraction for families and nature lovers alike.

Louis Armstrong Park

Explore the lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Louis Armstrong Park, a tribute to New Orleans' vibrant jazz history and artistic spirit.

Museum of Death New Orleans

Discover the intriguing and macabre exhibits at the Museum of Death in New Orleans, where history and art converge in a thought-provoking exploration of mortality.

Mardi Gras World

Experience the artistry and vibrant culture of New Orleans at Mardi Gras World, the heart of Carnival celebrations and creativity.

New Orleans Museum of Art

Explore the New Orleans Museum of Art, a cultural treasure in City Park featuring over 40,000 artworks and a stunning sculpture garden.

Lafreniere Park

Discover the natural beauty and recreational charm of Lafreniere Park, a serene oasis in Metairie, Louisiana, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

St. Louis Cathedral

Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of St. Louis Cathedral, a must-see landmark in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter.

Farmers Market - French Market

Experience the heart of New Orleans at the French Market, where local culture, delicious food, and unique crafts converge in a vibrant atmosphere.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Discover the intriguing history of medicine and pharmacy at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, a captivating tourist attraction in the heart of the French Quarter.

New Orleans Ghost Adventures Tours

Discover the haunting tales of New Orleans with Ghost Adventures Tours and explore the city's eerie past in a fun and captivating manner.

Essential places to dine

Landry's Seafood House

Experience exquisite seafood and Creole flavors at Landry's Seafood House by Lake Pontchartrain – a culinary delight in New Orleans.

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Experience fine dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Metairie - where mouthwatering steaks meet impeccable service for an unforgettable meal.

Bonefish Grill

Discover Bonefish Grill in Metairie: where fresh seafood meets American flair for an unforgettable dining experience.

Carrabba's Italian Grill

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Metairie; an inviting spot for families and friends alike.

Rips On the Lake

Experience fresh seafood and stunning lake views at Rips On the Lake in Mandeville - A culinary gem on Louisiana's beautiful shores.

Pat's Rest Awhile

Discover Southern charm at Pat's Rest Awhile in Mandeville—a lakeside dining experience offering exquisite cuisine and stunning views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lakeside Shopping Center

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Lakeside Shopping Center - where fashion meets flavor in Metairie, Louisiana.

Pontchartrain Place Shopping Center

Explore the delightful Pontchartrain Place Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana, offering a unique blend of shopping and dining for all visitors.

Fleurty Girl French Quarter

Explore Fleurty Girl in New Orleans' French Quarter for unique gifts, stylish fashion, and memorable souvenirs that capture the city's spirit.

Forever New Orleans

Discover unique gifts, local artistry, and vibrant fashion at Forever New Orleans, your go-to boutique in the heart of the French Quarter.

NOMA Museum Shop

Explore unique gifts and local artisan creations at the NOMA Museum Shop in New Orleans' stunning City Park.

Little Miss Muffin Children & Home

Explore Little Miss Muffin, your go-to boutique for unique children's clothing and gifts in the heart of New Orleans' Lakeview neighborhood.

Le Boulevard

Explore the unique allure of Le Boulevard in Metairie, Louisiana, your destination for handcrafted gifts, antiques, and local artistry.

Redoux Home Market

Explore Redoux Home Market in Mandeville, LA for unique gifts, vintage furniture, and home décor that reflect local artistry and charm.

NOLA Gifts & Decor

Uncover the charm of New Orleans at NOLA Gifts & Decor, your ultimate destination for unique gifts and local treasures.

DAS SCHULERHAUS Gift Gallery & Christmas Boutique

Explore DAS SCHULERHAUS Gift Gallery & Christmas Boutique for unique gifts, seasonal treasures, and local artisanal delights in Mandeville, Louisiana.

PHINA

Explore PHINA, Metairie's premier gift shop, and find unique New Orleans souvenirs and artisan treasures that capture the city's vibrant spirit.

Cameo Boutique

Explore Cameo Boutique in Mandeville for unique gifts and stylish women's fashion, reflecting Louisiana's vibrant culture.

Nola Boo

Discover Nola Boo, a charming gift shop and boutique in Metairie, Louisiana, offering unique gifts and stylish women's clothing that capture the spirit of the South.

Mae Antiques and Collectibles

Explore Mae Antiques and Collectibles in Mandeville, LA, for unique vintage furniture and treasures that tell a story.

Jolie & Jax, LLC. Children's & Gift Boutique

Explore Jolie & Jax, a charming children's and gift boutique in Mandeville, Louisiana, offering unique treasures and quality clothing for all ages.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Frenier Landing Restaurant and Oyster Bar

Discover the flavors of Louisiana at Frenier Landing Restaurant and Oyster Bar, where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.

Barley Oak

Discover Barley Oak in Mandeville: a vibrant bar with an extensive craft beer selection and a welcoming atmosphere by the lakeshore.

Sala Nola

Discover the flavors of New Orleans at Sala Nola, where a vibrant menu meets a cozy lounge ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Lighthouse Bar & Grill

Experience the essence of New Orleans dining at The Lighthouse Bar & Grill, where local flavors meet Southern hospitality in a vibrant atmosphere.

T Rivers Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable seafood at T Rivers Bar & Grill, your go-to spot in Madisonville for dining and entertainment.

Vinnie's Caddyshack Bar and Grill

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Vinnie's Caddyshack Bar and Grill, where great food meets exhilarating sports action in Metairie, Louisiana.

DBC Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine at DBC Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes and a friendly atmosphere await.

Shenanigans Kitchen and Cocktails

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Shenanigans Kitchen and Cocktails in Metairie, where delightful food and live music create unforgettable memories.

Parlay's

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Parlay's, Lakeview's favorite bar with affordable drinks, lively events, and friendly locals in New Orleans.

Landing Bar & Grill

Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious flavors at Landing Bar & Grill, a must-visit destination in Slidell, Louisiana.

Ruby's Roadhouse

Discover Ruby's Roadhouse, Mandeville's premier cocktail bar, offering delicious drinks and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Louisiana nightlife.

Knuckleheads Sports Bar & Grill

Experience a vibrant atmosphere at Knuckleheads Sports Bar & Grill, the ultimate spot for great American food, drinks, and sports action in Metairie, Louisiana.

Donz On the Lake

Experience lakeside dining at Donz On the Lake; a perfect blend of sports, cocktails, and history in Mandeville, Louisiana.

Brooks Seahorse Saloon

Discover the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans at Brooks Seahorse Saloon, a cocktail bar where locals and tourists come together in a lively atmosphere.

FAUX MEAUX NOLA

Experience the vibrant nightlife at FAUX MEAUX NOLA, the ultimate live music bar with delicious food, cocktails, and an electric atmosphere in Metairie.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Lake Pontchartrain

Discover Lake Pontchartrain with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Lake Pontchartrain

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh re-vwah]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [see voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ex-kew-zay mwa]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr luh may-noo, see voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vee-ahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, see voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh seh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh mayd-sanh]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ash-tay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhewst]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell ur ay-till]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon ur]
- Half past (10)Dix et demie
  [dees ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swah]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [wheat]
- 9Neuf
  [nuf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Lake Pontchartrain

Long before European explorers set foot in the region, Lake Pontchartrain was a vital resource for Native American tribes such as the Choctaw, Houma, and Tchefuncte. These indigenous peoples relied on the lake for fishing, transportation, and trade. Artifacts and shell middens found around the lake provide evidence of their long-standing relationship with the area.
In the late 17th century, French explorers, including Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville, began charting the Gulf Coast and its inland waters. The lake was named in honor of Louis Phélypeaux, comte de Pontchartrain, who was the French Minister of the Marine at the time. This period marked the beginning of European settlement and exploration in the area.
Lake Pontchartrain played a strategic role during the War of 1812, particularly in the Battle of New Orleans. American forces, led by General Andrew Jackson, utilized the lake's waterways for transportation and defense. British forces attempted to advance through the lake but were thwarted by American naval defenses and local militias.
In the 1830s, the Pontchartrain Railroad was established, connecting the lake to the city of New Orleans. This was one of the earliest railroads in the United States, and it significantly boosted commerce and tourism in the region. The railroad allowed for the easy transport of goods and passengers, enhancing the economic importance of the lake.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lake Pontchartrain became a popular destination for leisure and recreation. Numerous resorts, amusement parks, and dance halls sprang up along its shores. The Southern Yacht Club, established in 1849, is one of the oldest yacht clubs in the United States and remains a testament to the lake's recreational heritage.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Lake Pontchartrain faced significant environmental challenges, including pollution and habitat degradation. Efforts to restore and protect the lake led to the establishment of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation in 1989. This organization has been instrumental in improving water quality and promoting sustainable use of the lake's resources.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina brought unprecedented devastation to the Lake Pontchartrain area. The storm surge breached levees, causing widespread flooding in New Orleans and surrounding communities. The lake's waters were a key factor in the flooding, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness. Recovery efforts have since focused on rebuilding and strengthening the region's resilience.
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, completed in 1956, is one of the longest bridges over water in the world. Spanning 24 miles, it connects the northern and southern shores of the lake, serving as a critical transportation link for commuters and travelers. The causeway is an engineering marvel and an iconic feature of the lake's landscape.
Today, Lake Pontchartrain remains a vibrant cultural and recreational hub. It hosts annual events such as the Mandeville Seafood Festival and the Wooden Boat Festival. The lake's shores are dotted with parks, marinas, and fishing piers, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Its rich history and diverse ecosystems continue to draw those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Lake Pontchartrain Essentials

Lake Pontchartrain is located in southeastern Louisiana, near New Orleans. The nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is approximately 30 miles southwest of the lake. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach the lake. If you prefer public transportation, there are bus and train services that connect New Orleans to the surrounding areas.
Getting around Lake Pontchartrain and its surrounding areas is easiest by car. Car rentals are available at the airport and in New Orleans. The Causeway Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, connects the northern and southern shores of the lake and offers a scenic route. Public transportation options include local buses and trains, but these may be less convenient for exploring the more remote areas around the lake. Biking and walking are also popular ways to explore the lakefront.
The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops around Lake Pontchartrain. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in more rural areas or at local markets.
Lake Pontchartrain and its surrounding areas are generally safe for tourists. However, New Orleans, located nearby, has neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Tourists should avoid areas such as Central City, parts of the French Quarter late at night, and certain parts of the Lower Ninth Ward. Always stay vigilant, keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. For non-emergency medical issues, there are several hospitals and clinics in the New Orleans area, including Ochsner Medical Center and Tulane Medical Center. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the area for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Light, breathable clothing is recommended in the summer. Avoid overly revealing attire, especially when visiting churches or cultural sites. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and sites. Be mindful of dress codes in places of worship. Public Transport: Do use public transport where available, but be aware of your surroundings. Don’t eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good day.' A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, including seafood and Creole dishes. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Lake Pontchartrain like a local, consider visiting the small towns around the lake such as Mandeville and Slidell. Enjoy local seafood at a lakeside restaurant or take a boat tour. Attend local festivals and events, such as the Wooden Boat Festival in Madisonville. Explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard for a unique perspective. Engaging with locals can also provide insights into the history and culture of the area.

Lake Pontchartrain: Gateway to Louisiana's Natural Beauty

Local tips in Lake Pontchartrain