The Greater New Orleans area offers plenty of summer fun, and a New Orleans picnic is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Planning a family reunion potluck? A sun-soaked day or a romantic date? There are plenty of idyllic picnic spots in New Orleans to experience. Here are a few of our favorites!
photo by @fontainebleaustatepark via Instagram
Residents of Grand Palms in Mandeville love having easy access to the natural beauty of Fontainebleau State Park. The nature trails offer hiking opportunities. Plus, the cabins and lodges are a great staycation getaway. Grab a spot under one of the ancient oak trees, or pick a picnic location overlooking Lake Pontchartrain.
photo by @redfishabita via Instagram
Having a picnic at the Covington Trailhead feels like taking a trip back in time. Located near downtown Covington and close to Artesia, our newest luxury apartment community, the Covington Trailhead resembles an old-fashioned railroad station.
The venue hosts community events, including the Covington Farmers Market every Wednesday.
There are restrooms and water fountains onsite. And the grassy knoll here is an ideal picnic spot.
photo by @fraymesz via Instagram
Conveniently located close to many of our Metairie apartments, Lafreniere Park is an urban oasis.
The apartment communities of Wildflower, Breckenridge, and White Water Creek are closest to the park. But, with its location just off of Veterans Blvd, the park is easily accessible for all.
Lafreniere Park offers 155 acres of outdoor fun, including plenty of beautiful picnic spots. You’ll also find a Frisbee golf course and a Spray Park, which is open Thursday through Sunday from noon-7PM.
photo by @neworleanscitypark via Instagram
Just a short trip from Park Oaks, Breakers, and Surf Rider apartments, New Orleans City Park is one of the largest urban public parks in the country. With 1,300 acres to explore, there are plenty of quiet spots for picnicking. And there are covered pavilions available to rent for larger gatherings.
One of our favorite spots in City Park is Couturie Forest, which features trails perfect for bird-watching.
photo by @visitjeffersonparish via Instagram
For residents of Sugar Mill East and Sugar Mill West apartments, Laketown is just steps away. This gorgeous park is situated on beautiful Lake Pontchartrain in Kenner.
Laketown is also the home of Treasure Chest Casino and the Coconut Beach Sand Volleyball Complex, the largest sand sports complex in the United States.
Picnic shelters are available for rent, or you can find a spot along the lake shore. A lighted pier also offers the perfect location for freshwater fishing.
photo by @lil_rayrayman via Instagram
Just a short drive from Audubon Gates apartments is John Slidell Park. The walking trails in this park are dog-friendly, much like our apartment communities. Here you’ll find plenty of shade for a nice picnic, as well as playgrounds for family fun.
Many of our apartment communities in Elmwood are close to the scenic La Salle Park, including Sawmill Creek and Walnut Creek. The park is located right next to Zephyr Stadium and features a nature boardwalk, a jogging path, and an outdoor environmental classroom. And there are lots of scenic spots perfect for a picnic!
Many of our New Orleans area apartments feature beautiful resort-style outdoor features onsite. So you won’t even need to leave home to have a relaxing picnic outdoors! Explore all of our available apartments to find your perfect fit.
It’s no secret Jefferson Parish’s Elmwood neighborhood is a shopping destination for residents across the Greater New Orleans Area. Its large shopping center has a great selection of big-box stores, its movie theater boasts 20 screens, and its area attractions include an indoor trampoline park and laser tag venue. In addition to an abundance of amenities, Elmwood is an ideal place for those looking for a quiet and affordable alternative to downtown New Orleans living.
Living in Elmwood makes shopping a breeze. Elmwood Shopping Center is a one-stop shop for all of the items on your shopping list. In one trip, you can find new shoes at DSW, a new dining table at World Market, a television at Best Buy, and more! Instead of having to drive all over town to get the items you need, you can make one trip to one central location and then head right on home! It will save you gas, time, and a lot of patience.
Elmwood’s little corner of the Mississippi River is a quaint residential area with quick access to paved bike paths, public parks, and recreational spaces. La Salle Park is a well-kept multi-purpose recreational space for sports and nature explorations. Its nature boardwalk winds through native cypress trees, making it a scenic and calming spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for some two-wheeled fun, the paved levee bike path is a great way to enjoy the action on the river while you get some exercise in. Pack a blanket and some snacks for a riverside picnic, or wind your way over to Oak Street on the outskirts of New Orleans for some good local eats and live music.
Elmwood might be a shopping haven, but it’s also a secluded treasure. Many of our 1st Lake properties sit tucked away on peaceful, open green areas which provide a feeling of escape and relaxation.
Bella Ridge is a blissful haven for easy living in Elmwood.
You can unwind poolside at Bella Ridge. You can share a casual and fun afternoon with your dog and your neighbors’ dogs in Clearwater Creek Premier’s gated pet park. You can go for an easy evening stroll alongside the flowing streams of Palmetto Creek. Every one of our Elmwood locations is designed to make you feel like you’re living in a remote luxury retreat.
If you’re considering a move, consider Elmwood as your new neighborhood. With great shopping, great outdoor spaces, and great living communities, you’ll find it easy to settle in and make yourself at home in Elmwood.
King Cake in New Orleans is a beloved and special tradition – and one you can only enjoy during the Carnival season. So it’s important to make the most of your King Cake window and try as many delicious renditions as you can!
Ask any local and they’ll tell you that King Cake in New Orleans is only eaten from Twelfth Night (January 6) through Mardi Gras Day. And there are so many bakeries, restaurants and special spots that serve up their own spin on the confection.
Need a good starting point to find the best King Cake in New Orleans? Here’s some must-try options for you to enjoy!
Almost everyone has heard of the Randazzo family and their secret family king cake recipe is the stuff of legend in New Orleans. As the most well-known keeper of the family’s sweet treat, Manny Randazzo’s King Cakes offers everything from traditional King Cakes to special flavors like apple, lemon, and strawberry.
A bite of Manny Randazzo’s king cake is an essential part of the Mardi Gras experience – if you’re lucky enough to snag one!
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| Photo by Caluda’s King Cake via Facebook |
Caluda’s, another classic king cake spot, is a go-to bakery offering a variety of traditional and non-traditional flavors both during the carnival season and year-round. Their 30-step baking process makes for a delicious and decadent king cake.
Either pick one up locally or order one for shipping!
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| Photo by @laboulangerienola via Instagram |
This French bakery on New Orleans’ charming Magazine Street is the perfect spot to pick up a delicious King Cake. Well-known and popular year-round for their croissants and pastries, they offer traditional cakes alongside cinnamon, strawberry, almond, and pretzel flavors during Carnival.
You can even grab a personal mini King Cake to enjoy on the go!
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| Photo by @haydelsbakery via Instagram |
Haydel’s classic king cake is famous around town. Made of Danish dough, hand braided with cinnamon and sugar, and baked to perfection, these treats are sure to be one of your top favorites with just one bite.
Plus, they have many special flavors to choose from like praline pecan, cream cheese, strawberry cream cheese, German chocolate, and brownie chocolate chip!
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| Photo by @gambinosbakery via Instagram |
Gambino’s has been a well-known New Orleans King Cake spot for decades. Many call them the King of King Cakes and with good reason. Their classic King Cake is just that – fluffy dough, topped with icing, and drizzled with sugar, exactly how a King Cake should taste.
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| Photo by @graciousbakerynola via Instagram |
If you’re looking for an adventurous flavor to try for your King Cake indulge, Gracious Bakery is the perfect place to start. Their delicious confections showcase some mouthwatering flavors like chocolate, almond frangipane, and nectar cream – they even have a bananas foster-flavored King Cake that’s definitely worth a bite!
Our friends at NewOrleans.com wrote a very extensive blog on all the king cake finds this city offers. Check it out here!
Jefferson Parish must be on the nice list, because there are so many fun activities for us to enjoy this holiday season! Whether you live in Metairie, River Ridge, Kenner, or elsewhere in the Greater New Orleans region, we’ve got you covered with a veritable winter wonderland of holiday happenings.
Jefferson Performing Arts Society Presents: “The Nutcracker”
Experience classic characters like the Mouse King and the Sugar Plum Fairy this holiday season as part of the fantastical journey with The Nutcracker. Get your tickets online for Dec. 16 at 2 p.m. or Dec. 17 at 2 p.m.
Rivertown Theaters Presents: “A Christmas Story” The Musical
This nostalgic and heartwarming musical features memorable characters, catchy songs, and spectacular choreography, bringing you the charm of the classic film. Tickets to the show, running from Dec. 1-17 at the Rivertown Theater in Kenner, can be found here.
Rock out with Trans-Siberian Orchestra as they embark on their 2023 Winter Tour: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve. On Dec. 13 at 7:00 p.m., they will be making their way to the Smoothie King Center, just in time to get you in the holiday spirit! Tickets start at just under $50 and can be purchased here.
The National World War II Museum’s “Louisiana Christmas Day”
From the raucous Cajun bayous to the splendors of caroling in historic Jackson Square, the vintage-chic Victory Belles take you on a holiday musical tour with classic tunes like “Have A Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Christmastime in New Orleans.” Celebrate the holidays Louisiana-style by purchasing tickets here to one of the shows happening throughout the holiday season.
Holiday Champagne Stroll presented by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust
Start the holiday season on Magazine Street, Dec. 2 from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m., with an evening of festive after-hours shopping. Enjoy champagne, explore the shops, and discover ideal gifts with special offerings from participating businesses.
Kenner Parks & Recreation invites guests to Christmas Tea with Santa, which will include food and activities. The event will take place at the Kenner City Park Pavilion on Dec. 9, with the first seating at 10:00 a.m. and the second seating at 12:30 p.m. Click here to register.
The Grinch is back in Kenner! Join Kenner Parks & Recreation at Heritage Hall on Dec. 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for yummy food and fun activities before spending time in the Christmas Village. To pre-register for the event, please click here.
Celebrate the holidays with your furry friend! On Dec. 2 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Port Orleans Brewing Company will be hosting a fundraiser to benefit ARNO. There will be photo opportunities with Santa, local vendors to shop from, a raffle with various prizes, and pints for purchase. All proceeds go toward vet bills for ARNO’s special needs cases.
Holiday Market with the Grinch
Join Port Orleans Brewing Company on Dec. 9 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a holiday market featuring the Grinch. Local vendors will be selling crafts and gifts, the Grinch will be taking photos, and there will be a bounce house for children.
On Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 1-23, you can enjoy snow, crafts, food vendors, entertainment, and a special appearance from Santa at Heritage Park in Rivertown. Admire beautiful Christmas lights and animated scenery, and don’t even worry about bringing your wallet – admission is free! (Of course, food and drink are additional costs.)
Lafreniere Park hosts this dazzling event throughout its lush grounds. Explore LED light displays plus amusements like the Children’s Carousel ride. Admission is $10 per vehicle in advance and $15 at the gate, so plan to carpool and save some money! Christmas in the Park runs every Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 10:00 p.m. throughout the holiday season.
Pontchartrain Conservancy is hosting its 10th annual holiday celebration at the New Canal Lighthouse on Lake Pontchartrain on Dec. 9 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Enjoy the West End Boat Parade, activities for the children, local food trucks, hot chocolate, and more. Admission is $10 for ages 6+ and tickets can be purchased online or at the event.
Polar Express Cake Class and Pajama Party
Join Sweetooth Bakery and Cafe Caribe for a holiday decorating class that is perfect for both children and adults! The cost is $35 per person and includes a cake to decorate, decorating tools, hot chocolate, cookies, and more. Tickets can be purchased here for the event on Dec. 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Don’t forget to wear your favorite PJs!
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this indoor, family-friendly holiday fest brings an enchanting winter wonderland right here to New Orleans. It features attractions like ice skating lessons, a holiday display, dining, and carnival rides to name a few. Hosted at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, this fest runs from Dec. 21-30 with tickets for purchase online.
Ring in the holiday season with the 15th annual Merry Madisonville Parade and Celebration. The event takes place at Madisonville’s ballpark and playground on Dec. 3 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with the parade at 2 p.m. and pictures with Santa at 4:00 p.m. There will also be food trucks, hot chocolate, activities, and more!
Twinkle on the Tchefuncte, taking place Dec. 16 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Madisonville Riverfront, is a lighted boat parade and holiday decorating contest, as well as a toy and food drive. Bring your chairs to set up for the parade and stroll along the riverfront for eats and treats, face painting, carolers, and more. If you’re interested in entering the boat parade, click here for more information.
From wintery wonderlands to nostalgic theater productions, there is an event for everybody to enjoy this holiday season! What’s more, you can find a new home to ring in the holiday season even further by checking out our list of communities here!
The flowers are blooming, the weather is warming up, and the crawfish are boiling! Whether you’re in River Ridge, Metairie, or Kenner, we have curated a list of some of the best places to get hot and ready-to-eat crawfish this spring.
(504) 738-2104
9013 Jefferson Hwy, River Ridge, LA 70123
(504) 738-1116
279 Hickory Ave, Harahan, LA 70123
(504) 405-5263
8311 Jefferson Hwy, Harahan, LA 70123
(504) 818-2200
901 South Clearview Parkway, Metairie, LA 70121
(504) 468-1647
2000 W Esplanade Ave, Kenner, LA 70065
(504) 443-6454
3201 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70065
(504) 466-4701
3140 Loyola Dr Kenner, LA
(504) 469-7216
8006 W Metairie Ave, Metairie, LA 70003
(504) 887-1150
5010 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70006
(504) 831-2840
1700 Lake Ave, Metairie, LA 70005
Want more options? Try downloading The Crawfish App and view all the local restaurants offering hot-boiled crawfish this season.
1st Lake Properties | P. O. Box 73709 | Metairie, LA 70033 | info@1stlake.com
