Planning a weekend getaway that combines Louisiana hospitality with stunning scenery, exciting activities, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity? The Northshore is a hidden gem that boasts a charming atmosphere, delicious local eats, and a welcoming vibe for everyone.
I packed my bags and escaped the hustle and bustle of the city for a quiet, relaxing weekend of Northshore exploration. The Northshore isn’t the kind of metropolis I might usually choose for a gay getaway, but the intimate small-town vibes delivered plenty of inclusive activities and no shortage of welcome.
Once I settled into my cozy room at the Southern Hotel —which included a complimentary tour of the historic site—I set out on a three-day adventure to experience some of the Northshore’s main attractions.
Day 1:
Artistic Inspiration and Classic Comfort Food
Tandem Coffee & Cocktails
424 Girod St., Mandeville
I had a big day ahead, so I started off with a refreshing iced coffee and an energizing breakfast at Tandem. From chai to pour-overs to lattes, I found all my favorite coffee and tea brews, as well as light bites like overnight oats and açaí bowls. If you prefer to kick things off with something stronger, you can treat yourself to an Aperol spritz or a glass of bubbly to get you in the mood for exploration.
Tandem Coffee and Cocktails
Fontainebleau State Park
62883 LA 1089, Mandeville
Whether you’re feeling a hike, an afternoon by the beach, a bike ride, or just want to marvel at the local flora and fauna, Fontainebleau has it all. This 2,800-acre park includes a wealth of activities and historical structures. For those who want to see and do it all, RV and primitive camping are available. There are onsite cabins for scenic overnight stays; however, they are under repair due to hurricane damage, so be sure to check their website for future open dates.
Fontainebleau State Park
Impastato Gallery & Art Therapy
1901 Hwy. 190, Ste. 28, Mandeville
At Impastato Gallery, I discovered the vibrant, stunning creations of Elizabeth Impastato and other local artists. I also found out that the gallery offers a variety of art services like private painting sessions. Next time I’m here with friends, I’ll definitely be signing up for a class so we can tap into our inner Monet or Picasso!
Impastato Gallery & Art Therapy
Historic Mandeville Marker Tour
3101 E. Causeway Approach, Mandeville
This interactive tour allowed me to get up close and personal with Mandeville’s rich history. With more than 40 historic locations on the route, the self-guided tour took me to sites like the Soldiers’ Home built in 1854, the Johnson House/Maison Lafitte, which dates back to 1905, and much more. Each site features a QR code that brings you even deeper with written histories, photographs, and video recordings.
Jean Baptiste Lang House & Gift Shop, c. 1852 on Historic Marker Tour
McClain's Pizzeria
115 Girod St., Mandeville
After a day of exploration, I treated myself to a delicious meal at McClain's Pizzeria, a local business that has become a beacon of inclusivity on the Northshore. This local institution serves up classic and specialty pizzas made with fresh ingredients—not to mention their special edition Pride cocktails that support the Queer Northshore organization.
Photo courtesy McClain's Pizzeria
Day 2:
Arts, Antiques, and Americana
Antique Umbrella Alley on First St. in Olde Towne Slidell
Roots Plants & Coffee
124 Erlanger Ave., Ste. B, Slidell
If you’re like me, then being away from home might have you missing all your houseplants. The Northshore has just the balm you need. I started my second day at Roots Plants & Coffee, an atmospheric cafe brimming with delicious drinks, seasonal fare, and an abundance of tropical plants. This bright, airy space is in the heart of Olde Towne Slidell, so after you’ve had a freshly brewed coffee and a light snack made from only the freshest ingredients, you’ll be ready to take on another day of adventures. You’ll also be close to Antique Umbrella Alley, a vibrant art installation made of brightly colored patio umbrellas floating over the Antique District of Olde Towne.
Roots Plants + Coffee
Magnolia House Antique Mall
228 Erlanger St., Slidell
Alright, what’s an LGBTQ+ weekend without a little shopping? I stopped into Magnolia House Antique Mall and found a treasure trove of vintage home goods, decor, collectibles, and second-hand clothes. While you’re in the area, be sure to explore the city’s other antique shops, like the nearby Antiques & Art on First (1952 First St., Slidell, LA 70458).
Magnolia House Antiques
Slidell Mural Tour
2055 Second St., Slidell
Nostalgic portraits of Olde Towne, hummingbirds and insects flying over a field of flowers, vibrant scenes from a Slidell Mardi Gras celebration—I found all these images and more on the Slidell Mural Tour, a self-guided exploration of the city’s street art that depicts everything from nature and culture to history and tributes to homegrown heroes. Plus, there were fantastic photo opportunities along the way.
'Welcome to Olde Towne' mural by Matt Litchliter, 205 Cousin St.
Swamp Girl Glass Blowing
1060 Front St., Slidell
If you want to unleash your inner artist, Swamp Girl Glass Blowing is the place to go. Here, you can not only witness the magic of molten glass being transformed into beautiful and unique treasures but also design, color, and shape your own creations. They even offer private lessons so you can learn more about the fundamentals of glass blowing and explore new forms of artistic expression.
Solange Ledwith, Swamp Girl Glass Blowing
Old Town Slidell Soda Shop
301 Cousin St., Slidell
Enjoy a blast from the past (and maybe a brain freeze or two) at this combination soda and ice cream shop, arcade, and golf course. I treated myself to some light American diner fare and a refreshing cold drink. If you’re visiting with a group, challenge your friends to an 18-hole mini-golf competition. When you’re done, grab a drink at one of Olde Towne Slidell’s classic atmospheric bars like The Brass Monkey Draught Emporium, Luna Tequila, or Whiskey & Ashe.
Old Town Slidell Soda Shop
Palmettos on the Bayou
1901 Bayou Ln., Slidell
Sure, I just snacked, but eating is half the fun of vacations, right? I enjoyed a delicious meal with a scenic view of Bayou Bonfouca at Palmettos, where world-class food and service meet classic Southern fare and comfort. If you’re in the area on Saturday or Sunday, you can move this stop up on your list so you can attend one of the restaurant’s enchanting jazz brunches.
Palmettos on the Bayou
Day 3:
Scrumptious Treats, Quirky Quests, and Outdoor Adventures
Cured. On Columbia
Cured. On Columbia
415 N. Columbia St., Covington
I started day three with a light breakfast and coffee. At Cured. On Columbia, you can build your perfect breakfast sandwich and order a steaming coffee (or your favorite iced pick-me-up) in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I had a delicious avocado toast on thinly sliced sourdough. It was just what I needed to replenish my energy for a big day in the sunshine.
Black Flower Apparel & Records
424 N. Columbia St., Covington
Across the street from Cured, I found this charming retro music shop. Not only was it stocked with vintage records and cassettes, but there were also games, jewelry crafted by local artisans, and tons of merch celebrating every aspect of Louisiana culture.
Black Flower Apparel & Records
Tammany Trace Biking Trail
I embraced the beauty of Louisiana with a bike ride on the scenic Tammany Trace. This 31-mile paved trail winds through forests and bayous, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. It's a fantastic way to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air, and soak up the Louisiana sunshine. Because the trail spans miles across the Northshore, you can start near the Abita Springs Trailhead & Museum to keep your transit time to a minimum.
LOLA Restaurant
517 N. New Hampshire St., Covington
I capped off my Northshore excursion with dinner at LOLA, a fine-dining restaurant in the city’s historic train depot. LOLA boasts a charming atmosphere, an eclectic staff, and an extensive menu curated by award-winning chefs, who also happen to be a husband-and-wife team. Not only can you choose from inventive entrees that bring local flavors to life, but you can sip a glass of LOLA’s famous frosé and top off your meal with a mouthwatering dessert.
After three packed days of adventure and activity, I left the Northshore feeling rested, inspired, and most importantly, welcomed into a unique and cozy community.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of everything, The Northshore has something for travelers of all interests and passions. When you’re ready to follow this itinerary—or build your own using the Queer Northshore directory of welcoming businesses—be sure to book a stay at one of St. Tammany’s hotels and B&Bs so you can see and do it all.
Dustin Woehrmann is Creative Director at Boombox, a New Orleans-based company specializing in Cause and Diversity Marketing.