Looking for a charming, family-friendly way to spend the 4th of July weekend? Just a short drive from New Orleans, The Northshore offers a perfect mix of summer fun, outdoor adventure, patriotic spirit and local flavor. From splash pads and swamp tours to chilly treats and live music, here’s a weekend itinerary for making the most of your Independence Day getaway to Louisiana’s Easy Escape.
Day 1: Red, White & Relaxed
Morning
Start your weekend a tour through beautiful Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters in Slidell. Glide past moss-draped cypress trees while spotting gators, raccoons, egrets and much more, in their natural habitat.
Afterward, grab lunch at a local eatery for mouthwatering burgers or po’boys, fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas, tacos, pho, curry--you have lots of choices on The Northshore, all served with Southern flair.
Eight60 Wine, Whiskey Bites in Slidell
Afternoon
Keep the exploration going with a stroll through beautiful Fontainebleau State Park, where the family can splash at the water playground or play on the sandy lakeshore.
Fontainebleau State Park
Evening
Wrap up the day with a bang at your choice of 4th of July festivities! Each of the communities throughout The Northshore holds its own celebrations and fireworks displays at various times throughout the patriotic holiday season. For a full list of fireworks shows and locations, visit our 4th of July Fireworks on The Northshore blog.
4th of July fireworks over Tchefuncte River in Madisonville
Day 2: Paddle, Shop, and Savor the Best Seafood on The Northshore
Paddling Bogue Falaya River
Morning
Start your day with a scenic paddle along one of the many waterways of The Northshore, like Bogue Falaya River in Covington and Cane Bayou in Lacombe. Rentals and guided tours with Canoe and Trail Adventures make it a great pick for both beginners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Afternoon
Browse local boutiques in downtown Covington or Mandeville for Louisiana-made goods and patriotic souvenirs. Then treat the family to lunch with a view at one of the area’s top waterfront seafood spots. Local favorites like Pat’s Rest Awhile and Rips on the Lake on the Mandeville lakefront or Palmettos on the Bayou in Slidell serve fresh Gulf seafood — a must for anyone searching for the best seafood on The Northshore.
Palmettos on the Bayou
Evening
Adults can enjoy a relaxing brewery hop, where family-friendly beer gardens often feature yard games. Check out our event calendar for special events for the holiday weekend.
Wherever your spirit (and palate) takes you, be sure to ask about patriotic-themed cocktails or mocktails for a cool refresher without the alcohol. Looking for a non-alcoholic option with style? Visit The DryOak in Covington — Louisiana’s only non-alcoholic bottle shop. Many spots offer non-alcoholic brews so everyone can join in the fun.
Day 3: Farewell, But Make It Fun
Biking the Tammany Trace through Abita Springs
Morning
Enjoy a slow morning with coffee and a light breakfast from a local café. Then take a final nature stroll on the Tammany Trace, one of Louisiana’s most scenic biking and walking trails. If time allows, pop into the Insta-Gator Ranch for a fun and educational end to your trip. It’s great for kids and adults alike, offering close-up views of Louisiana’s iconic reptiles.
Midday
Wrap up with a patriotic brunch or pack a picnic and dine outdoors under the oaks. It’s the perfect way to reflect on the weekend’s adventures before the trip home.
Picnicking at Fairview-Riverside State Park
Plan Your Festive Getaway
From paddleboards to po’boys and from swamp tours to fireworks, The Northshore makes for the perfect place to celebrate summer. Book your stay, pack your red, white, and blue, and make Louisiana’s Easy Escape your new holiday tradition.