Spirited Away
Good Times Await You at the Louisiana Northshore
Words by Kimberley Spivey
Photos by Kevin Garret
Escape from your busy day-to-day schedule and take a road trip to the Bayou State. If you're looking for a getaway filled with aspirational adventures, delicious Creole dishes, street celebrations in historic downtowns, and plenty of outdoor recreation to discover and enjoy—the Louisiana Northshore should be at the top of your list. Discover a place filled with culture and tradition that will leave lasting memories. It's conveniently located an hour from New Orleans' legendary French Quarter, Baton Rouge, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Explore the great outdoors at the Northshore with several exciting adventures that await you. Camping can be a great escape from modern everyday life. It's thrilling, and most of all, sleeping under the stars, hiking through the woods, and roasting marshmallows over a campfire offers peaceful ways to reconnect with nature and relax. Fontainebleau State Park offers fully equipped campsites handpicked from the most stunning and unique sites in the state to make camping more comfortable and accessible for everyone. And if you're looking for a more sophisticated way to become one with nature, they also offer glamping.
While being on the perfect trip in nature, horseback riding is a great way to experience the thrill of a leisurely ride through trails. What kid—even an all-grown-up one—doesn't dream of riding a horse? Head to Splendor Farms and delight in a beautiful farm and riding trail with guest accommodations. Spread across 300 acres, there are so many amenities to indulge in. They offer a heated, saltwater swimming pool, hot tub, bonfire pits, and an on-site petting zoo for the kiddos—and adults, too. In addition, they offer horse camps, outdoor games, horseshoes, and overnight party events.
Like every spectacular traveling adventure, food is a staple to the overall experience in the great Pelican State. Famously known for Cajun and Creole cuisines, it's a food lover's paradise. And there's plenty of seafood to go around. At Pat's Rest Awhile restaurant, they welcome everyone to come and enjoy seafood at its finest in a casual atmosphere suited for indoor and outdoor dining with beautiful views of Lake Pontchartrain. This eatery offers wine and old-fashioned cocktails in the Sophie Cottage and a full-service bar in the Frapart Main Dining, as well as Daiquiris and full service at the Oyster Bar and Deck.
Continue to experience the fun by attending the 27th annual Three Rivers Art Festival, one of the largest art festivals in the region and the most popular events on the Northshore. Whether you're a local or a traveler, there's nothing like a cool breeze on a sunny day during the fall season to partake in festivities. St. Tammany Parish has plenty to do and see that helps you make the most of your visit. This unique event brings people together through a diverse culture by showcasing original art pieces by artists across the country, unique shopping, and entertainment. The festival is on Saturday and Sunday, November 11-12, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Come out and enjoy paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, jewelry, and much more on the Northshore.