Northshore, Louisiana Travel Guide

Discover Northshore, Louisiana: A blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant local culture on the northern shores of Lake Pontchartrain.

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Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Pontchartrain, Northshore, Louisiana, is a picturesque destination brimming with southern charm and natural beauty. This delightful region offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, historic sites, and local flavors that capture the essence of Louisiana. Whether you're looking to explore scenic trails or enjoy the rich cultural heritage, Northshore has something special for every traveler. One of the most popular attractions in Northshore is the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile long trail that runs through several towns and beautiful landscapes. Perfect for biking, hiking, or even horseback riding, the Tammany Trace offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings. As you traverse the trail, you can stop by quaint towns like Covington and Mandeville, where you can experience local art galleries, charming shops, and delicious cuisine. For those interested in history, Northshore is home to several intriguing sites. The Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, for example, offers a deep dive into the maritime history of the region with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays. The Abita Mystery House, a quirky museum filled with oddities and folk art, provides a fun and unique experience for visitors of all ages. Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary offerings in Northshore. From fresh seafood to traditional Creole and Cajun dishes, the local restaurants serve up some of the best flavors Louisiana has to offer. Be sure to visit one of the many local breweries or distilleries for a taste of Northshore's craft beverages. In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Northshore hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Wooden Boat Festival and the Three Rivers Art Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant local culture that you can experience during your visit. Every season brings new and exciting activities, ensuring that there's always something to see and do in this charming region.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Northshore.

Visit the Tammany Trace early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy a more serene experience.
Try the local seafood, especially the freshly caught fish and oysters, at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Check the local event calendar before your trip to catch one of Northshore's many unique festivals or cultural events.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the historic towns and scenic trails.
Consider renting a bike to fully experience the beauty of the Tammany Trace trail.

Top City Travel Guides in Northshore

The cities of Northshore, and the easiest places to base yourself.

New Orleans

Slidell

Destinations in Northshore

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Lake Pontchartrain

Pearl River Wildlife Management Area

Honey Island Swamp

Lake Borgne

Explore Northshore: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Cajun Encounters Tour Company

Experience Louisiana's enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture with Cajun Encounters Tour Company, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.

5.0

Jackson Square

Discover the charm of Jackson Square, an iconic park in New Orleans filled with history, art, and lively performances.

4.7

Fontainebleau State Park

Explore the beauty and history of Fontainebleau State Park, a natural paradise with trails, camping, and fishing on Lake Pontchartrain's shores.

4.6

INFINITY Science Center

Explore the wonders of science and space at INFINITY Science Center, where curiosity meets discovery in Pearlington, Mississippi.

4.5

Best landmarks in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Cajun Encounters Tour Company

Discover Louisiana's rich culture and wildlife with Cajun Encounters Tour Company: an immersive experience in the captivating bayous.

5.0

Jackson Square

Explore the historic Jackson Square in New Orleans, a vibrant park surrounded by stunning architecture and rich cultural experiences.

4.7

Fontainebleau State Park

Explore Fontainebleau State Park, a natural gem in Louisiana offering stunning landscapes, endless outdoor activities, and serene lakeside relaxation.

4.6

Laura Plantation: Louisiana's Créole Heritage Site

Explore the heart of Louisiana's Creole culture at Laura Plantation, a historical gem showcasing the rich heritage and stories of the region.

4.7

Best restaurants in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Steamboat Bill's on the Lake

Discover authentic Louisiana seafood at Steamboat Bill's on the Lake - where flavor meets tradition in every bite!

4.5

The Chimes Covington

Experience the best of American and contemporary Louisiana cuisine at The Chimes Covington - where flavor meets Southern hospitality.

4.4

Palmettos On The Bayou

Experience authentic Louisiana cuisine amidst scenic bayou views at Palmettos On The Bayou – a must-visit destination for food lovers.

4.6

Middendorf's Slidell

Experience mouthwatering seafood at Middendorf's Slidell - home to unique catfish fillets and Southern hospitality.

4.0

Best bars in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

The Chimes Covington

Discover a taste of Louisiana at The Chimes Covington, where contemporary American cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Covington Restaurant

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Southern cuisine at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux in Covington, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.

4.2

Mugshots Grill and Bar - Covington, LA

Savor the flavors of Louisiana at Mugshots Grill and Bar, where great food and sports unite in a family-friendly atmosphere.

4.1

Chili's Grill & Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors of American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar in Covington, a perfect spot for families and friends.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Beach On Bourbon

Experience the electrifying nightlife of New Orleans at Beach On Bourbon, your go-to destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.

4.4

The Dungeon

Experience the electrifying atmosphere of The Dungeon, New Orleans' premier night club for rock music enthusiasts in the heart of the French Quarter.

4.4

The Penthouse Club - Baton Rouge

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Penthouse Club, Baton Rouge's premier adult entertainment destination with upscale ambiance and thrilling performances.

4.4

The Rabbit Hole

Experience the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans at The Rabbit Hole, a unique night club with live music, creative cocktails, and an eclectic atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Northshore

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Nord du Lac

Discover Nord du Lac, the ultimate shopping mall in Covington, LA, blending diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for every visitor.

4.2

Premier Centre

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Premier Centre in Mandeville, where retail therapy meets dining and entertainment in one exciting location.

4.4

Northlake Shopping Center

Explore Northlake Shopping Center, where shopping, dining, and local culture come together in the heart of Mandeville, Louisiana.

4.3

Retreat Home & Lifestyle

Explore Covington's finest consignment shop for unique home decor and lifestyle treasures that embody local culture and charm.

4.6

Explore Northshore on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Northshore, mapped for you.

Northshore Essentials

Northshore, Louisiana is easily accessible via multiple transportation modes. The nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), located about 40 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Northshore. Alternatively, Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses serve the New Orleans area, from where you can get a rental car or use a rideshare service to reach Northshore.
Once in Northshore, you have several options for getting around. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area at your own pace. Local taxi services and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer public transportation, the St. Tammany Parish has a limited bus service connecting key areas. Biking is another enjoyable way to explore the scenic routes along the Tammany Trace.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in commercial areas. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in rural areas where card facilities may be limited.
Northshore is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any area, it's important to be cautious. Avoid isolated areas and unlit streets at night. High-crime areas targeting tourists are rare, but it's always wise to stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places. Lock your vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Northshore has several hospitals and urgent care centers. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual clothes suitable for the warm, humid climate. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially in family-friendly or religious areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and seafood. Don't forget to tip service staff, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Northshore like a local, visit the farmers' markets for fresh produce and local crafts. Enjoy the Tammany Trace bike trail, which offers a scenic route through the area's natural beauty. Don't miss the local festivals and events, which offer a glimpse into the community's vibrant culture and traditions. Explore the historic towns of Covington and Mandeville for their unique shops, galleries, and eateries.

When is the best time to visit Northshore?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Northshore

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Northshore. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [Bohn-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [Oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [Wee]
- NoNon
  [Nohn]
- Please/You’re welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [Seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [Mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [Par-dohn]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [Koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [Byehn. Eh voo?]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [Par-lay voo ahn-glay?]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [Zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah]
- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [Zhuh voo-dray vwar luh meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [Zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyahnd]
- Cheers!À votre santé!
  [Ah vah-truh sahn-tay!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [Zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [Oh suh-koor!]
- Go away!Allez-vous-en!
  [Ah-lay voo-zahn!]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [Ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees!]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [Ah-peh-lay uhn may-deh-sahn!]
- 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 ah-she-tay...]
- I’m just lookingJe regarde juste
  [Zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [Say kohm-byen?]
- That’s too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [Say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [Poo-vay voo beh-say luh pree?]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [Kel uhr eh-teel?]
- It’s one o'clockIl est une heure
  [Il eht oon uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [Deeze uhr eh duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [Mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [Ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [Swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [Ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [Oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [Duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [Uhn]
- 2Deux
  [Duh]
- 3Trois
  [Trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [Kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [Sank]
- 6Six
  [Sees]
- 7Sept
  [Seht]
- 8Huit
  [Wheet]
- 9Neuf
  [Nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [Dee]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/une...?
  [Oo eh uhn/eun...?]
- What’s the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [Kel eh l'ah-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [Poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [Kahn eh luh pro-shen (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour....)
  [Uhn bee-yay (poor....)]

History of Northshore

Mandeville was founded in 1834 by Bernard Xavier de Marigny de Mandeville, who was a wealthy plantation owner. He envisioned the area as a retreat for the wealthy New Orleanians who wanted to escape the summer heat and yellow fever outbreaks in the city. This vision led to the development of several grand homes and estates along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain.
During the Civil War, the Northshore saw significant activity due to its strategic location. Union forces occupied several areas around Lake Pontchartrain to control the waterways. After the war, the region faced the challenges of Reconstruction, but it gradually recovered and continued to develop its agricultural and timber industries.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Northshore became a hub for the timber industry. The abundant pine forests attracted numerous sawmills and logging operations. Towns like Bogalusa grew rapidly due to the booming timber trade, and the Great Southern Lumber Company established one of the largest sawmills in the world in Bogalusa in 1906.
The completion of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in 1956 marked a significant milestone for the Northshore. The 24-mile bridge, one of the longest in the world, connected the Northshore to New Orleans, facilitating easier travel and commerce. This connection spurred residential and commercial growth in towns like Mandeville and Covington.
The Northshore is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events celebrating the area's rich heritage. The Wooden Boat Festival in Madisonville, the Three Rivers Art Festival in Covington, and the Abita Springs Opry are just a few examples of the lively cultural traditions that draw visitors from near and far.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina had a profound impact on the Northshore. While the area did not suffer the catastrophic flooding seen in New Orleans, it still faced significant wind damage and power outages. The community's resilience was evident in the aftermath, as residents and local governments worked tirelessly to rebuild and restore normalcy.