The New Orleans suburbs are fast becoming some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the region. Offering close proximity to downtown New Orleans for work and play, the suburban area of River Ridge, Elmwood and Harahan are that perfect mix of convenience and quiet you simply won’t find in the city.
What’s more, apartments in River Ridge offer you space and luxury amenities like a pool, on-site dog park, gym, and much more. Our Bella Ridge property, for example, is in the heart of River Ridge and boasts perks like a covered parking garage.
Are you new to River Ridge, Louisiana? Whether you’ve just moved or are considering taking the plunge, explore a few of the things to do in River Ridge, Harahan and Elmwood.
With easy access to New Orleans, this neighborhood offers an endless array of activities for all ages, but you don’t have to drive into the city to be entertained. Here are a few of our favorite entertainment options in your backyard:
1200 Elmwood Park Blvd, Harahan, LA
The AMC Elmwood Palace movie theater in Elmwood offers 20 screens, including a full IMAX experience. In true New Orleans style, this movie theater also features a full-service bar, making it a great place for date night.
1200 Clearview Parkway, Suite 1106, Harahan, LA
Adventure Quest Laser Tag offers a variety of fun indoor activities for groups of any age. In addition to laser tag, they also offer bumper cars, cosmic golf, an adventure maze and an arcade. Look for their weekly specials and check out their membership option for extra savings.
6601 Jefferson Hwy, Harahan, LA
This locally-owned bowling alley features 24 wooden lanes and a laidback atmosphere. Colonial Bowling offers a variety of league bowling as well as group rates and parties. Need a break from bowling? Just head to their game room for arcade style games, or visit their Lamplighter Lounge for cocktails.
3000 Downs Boulevard, Metairie, LA
Nearby Lafreniere Park offers 155 acres of outdoor fun, including a 2-mile jogging trail, 18-hole disc golf course, two playgrounds and a 20-acre lagoon. It’s one of the many great places for a bike ride, and it’s the perfect place to get away from it all with a good book and a picnic.
Whether its classic American fare or local oysters joints, River Ridge is home to several casual dining options to satisfy any craving. We love how you’ll find a mix of not only prominent national chains but also local restaurants. Some of our favorites include:
279 Hickory Ave, Harahan, LA
New Orleans is of course known for its great seafood, and the suburbs like Harahan are no exception. Seither’s Seafood is one of the top-rated locally-owned restaurants in this neck of the woods, and for good reason. Enjoy classic Southern dishes like shrimp po-boys, gumbo, crawfish, fried green tomatoes and raw oysters.
1208 S. Clearview Parkway, Suite D, Harahan, LA
Specializing in Mediterranean flavors with a Southern twist, Zoe’s Kitchen is your ideal destination for healthful dishes like grilled chicken kebabs, veggie pita pizza, orzo soup, Greek salads, and much more. They offer a menu for those with food allergies (several items are gluten-free or vegetarian) plus a menu called “Simply 500” where all items clock in at fewer than 500 calories.
Not counting calories? Finish the meal with a slice of their YaYa’s Hand-Made Chocolate Cake.
1212 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
This local pizza chain is a regular winner of foodie awards, including a Gambit Best of New Orleans Award for best pizza, and a New Orleans Magazine Tops of the Town nod. In addition to a comprehensive wine and beer list, Theo’s main draw is its pizza. Unexpected toppings like yellow squash, Anaheim peppers, goat cheese, and jalapeños make Theo’s a step up from your basic Margherita. Build your own pizza or choose from their own creative specialties. Salads, sandwiches, and appetizers are also available.
5608 Citrus Blvd, Harahan, LA
Noted for its consistently fresh and delicious sushi, Kyoto 2 is the Elmwood/River Ridge outpost of its Uptown New Orleans location. We go crazy for the poke salad or the ponzu-topped ceviche. Kyoto 2 also gets points for creative sushi names: order the No Name, Tiger Eyes, or Funky Margarita rolls on your next visit.
1212 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
Sometimes you just need a burger and fries. Skip the typical drive-through options and head to Five Guys Burgers and Fries instead. At Five Guys, handcrafted burgers and real, handmade fries are just a dollar or two pricier than a drive-through and infinitely more delicious. Choose as many free toppings as you want (we suggest the grilled mushrooms) and try the fries Cajun style for an extra kick of heat.
6625 Jefferson Hwy, Harahan, LA
Oak Oven is a locally owned Italian style restaurant with a casual bistro atmosphere. Any restaurant in the New Orleans area can’t help but be inspired by local cuisine and Oak Oven is no exception – not only does Chef Adam Superneau pair southern Louisiana influences with his classic Italian recipes, but the restaurant also uses many locally grown and house-made ingredients. (The fresh mozzarella, pasta and Sicilian semolina bread are all made from scratch in-house!)
5171 Citrus Blvd #2000, Elmwood, LA
Comfort food classics with a Francophile spin are the order d’jour at La Madeleine. Quiche Florentine is the perfect meal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and if you’re unsure what to order – well, they have an on-site bakery. Specialty coffees and a selection of wine are available; so, too, are traditional French classics like Croque Monsieur, Quiche Lorraine, and flaky Spinach Pochette.
1212 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
Frozen yogurt is that perfect blend of tart and sweet that really hits the spot on a warm day. Pinkberry, an international chain, is known for its inventive flavors and options for people with food allergies. For example, their dairy-free mango frozen yogurt has bright, tropical flavors without any gluten, dairy, or added sugar.
Shopping is as easy as it is fun in River Ridge. Convenient shopping centers like Elmwood Shopping Center on Clearview Parkway pack a punch, while local boutiques offer unique finds.
Here’s a peek at our favorite shopping spots in River Ridge:
1915 Hickory Ave, Harahan, LA
This locally-owned fashion boutique is located in the heart of River Ridge and features trendy women’s clothing, shoes and accessories at affordable prices. Be sure to check out their sale rack for unbeatable deals.
1126 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
Ulta is the ultimate high-low mix when it comes to cosmetics. Shoppers will delight at department store beauty brands like Bare Minerals, Tarte, and Benefit right alongside drugstore favorites like Covergirl and Almay. Check their website before you go: there’s almost always a sale and a coupon you can print or download.
1126 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW for short) has shoes for the whole family. With hundreds of pairs in stock, DSW offers a wide variety of styles, sizes, and prices. It’s the go-to spot for shoes whether you need a formal pair for a wedding, classic work pumps, or vacation-ready sandals.
1126 S. Clearview Parkway, Harahan, LA
Have you ever noticed how accessories can change the whole look of your outfit? That’s the ethos behind Charming Charlie, a sprawling accessories store with affordable jewelry that ranges from bohemian-chic to preppy. Hair accessories, purses, phone cases, and select styles of shoes are also in store. All you need to do is add your favorite outfit!
1134 S. Clearview Parkway, Elmwood, LA
In addition to furniture and other housewares, World Market features an international grocery store where you can find global favorites like Milka chocolate bars from Germany, Australian vegemite, and Britain’s favorite topper, HP Sauce.
Need more shopping options? Lakeside Mall in Metairie and Esplanade Mall in Kenner are both within just a few miles of River Ridge. And the boutiques in downtown New Orleans, such as The Shops At Canal Place, are just 15 minutes away.
This annual festival in Harahan celebrates everyone’s favorite Southern nut, the pecan, with plenty of food options including pecan pepper jelly, pecan pralines, pecan pies and much more. The weekend-long event takes place each November and features live music and fun activities for all ages.
Jefferson Parish residents, what are YOUR favorite things to do in the neighborhoods of River Ridge, Harahan and Elmwood?
If you live in one of our River Ridge apartments, be sure to join us on Facebook or Twitter and let us know your favorite neighborhood spots!
We’re so excited for our new Bella Ridge luxury apartment community! From incredibly modern interiors to an on-site dog park, this beautiful apartment complex offers luxury living with square footage, dedicated covered parking, and amenities that you just won’t find in downtown New Orleans.
The property is close to an amazing shopping center with stores like TJ Maxx, DSW, Ulta, and World Market, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find a local presence. In fact, one of Uptown New Orleans’ most popular sushi restaurants, Kyoto, has a second location just about a mile away from Bella Ridge near Elmwood Shopping Village. We’ve taken a closer look at Kyoto 2 to bring you the best of authentic Japanese flavors and the charm of a local favorite.
One of the best-reviewed items on the menu is the Poke Salad Roll. This dish takes elements of the classic Hawaiian raw salad and translates it into a sushi roll. Creamy avocado and a spicy chili dressing play with taste and texture while tuna, crabstick, and squid provide a trio of flavorful seafood. Veggie fans will love the Slow-Ya-Roll, not only for the clever name, but also for the combination of cucumber, avocado, asparagus, and sprouts. Creative rolls like the Funky Margarita and the Taco Salad combine quality seafood with surprising toppings (think spicy avocado sauce or a tangy vinaigrette).
A complete menu with appetizers, noodle soups, salads, and mains provides ample options for even the choosiest eaters. For dessert, the ginger ice cream and black sesame ice cream satisfy a sweet tooth with a welcome alternative to flavors like vanilla or chocolate.
One of the best parts about Kyoto 2 is that you can pick up takeout and enjoy Japanese-style favorites at home in Bella Ridge. Contact us now to find out more about the property and secure a lease. We’re already filling up!
We’re proud of each of our 1st Lake Properties, but today we’re highlighting one of our River Ridge apartment communities: Sawmill Creek. With easy access to downtown New Orleans and quieter suburbs like Metairie, Harahan, and Kenner, Sawmill Creek presents a range of exciting activities alongside amenities like double sinks, washer and dryer, and even a wood-burning fireplace in select units.
Even better? We’re offering reduced rents and reduced move-in costs for a total savings of up to $1,200.
Another draw of this River Ridge apartment community is its landscaping. 1st Lake Properties takes great care in creating a peaceful atmosphere at Sawmill Creek. Between lush stretches of pines and plants, you’ll find a variety of perks to enhance your time outside.
A playground, grilling stations, and two enchanting pools invite residents to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of lawn care or pool maintenance – we’ve taken care of everything so all you have to do is relax. Additionally, private patios and balconies offer residents a sense of peace and privacy.
We love the range of apartment home styles at this centrally located property. No matter what size space you’re looking for, Sawmill Creek can meet your needs. Our one- and two-bedroom apartments are available with either a townhome floor plan or that of a traditional flat. You can also customize how many bathrooms you’d like: anywhere from 1 to 2.5 bathrooms are available.
Comfortable and convenient, Sawmill Creek is one of our most coveted locations. Its proximity to all the attractions of greater New Orleans pairs with large floor plans and contemporary amenities: three prime reasons to make Sawmill Creek your new home. Call now for more information on our limited-time specials!
1st Lake Properties takes pride in each of their individual apartment communities with meticulous landscaping and reliable maintenance. To reward properties who demonstrate outstanding attention to detail, that has become to be known as the “1st Lake Look”, 1st Lake recognizes winners of the Beautification Awards each quarter and the results are in for the most recent winners! Congratulations to these properties, worth checking out if you’re looking for a lovely new apartment to move in to!
Lake Towers – Lake Towers has its own pool area with a gazebo and courtyard overlooking the peaceful Capital Lakes in Baton Rouge that is beautifully landscaped.
Camelot Court – Camelot Court offers townhome style apartments that provide a private home living experience with all the amenities that apartment living affords! In addition to private backyards, there is a private pool and courtyard area that is carefully maintained and landscaped.
Turtle Creek – At these tranquil Metairie apartments, enjoy a spacious swimming pool surrounded by manicured greenery.
White Water Creek – The property grounds at the White Water Creek apartments in Metairie are adorned with winding walkways, bubbling creeks, fountains and palm trees to make living more of a resort-like, luxury experience.
Willow Creek – Bask in pleasant living at the oak tree-lined Willow Creek apartments in River Ridge with landscaped paths, creeks and fountains and a private swimming pool.
Palmetto Creek – Palmetto Creek always have attentive maintenance staff on hand to handle any resident need thoroughly and efficiently. Palmetto Creek has walking paths, pavilions, lush plants and creeks for its residents to enjoy.
March marks the beginning of spring, the season for new beginnings! Let one of those new beginnings be a new 1st Lake Properties apartment. Embrace the changing of the seasons with a fresh new place to call home, and with these exclusive deals and specials at several quality apartments in the metro New Orleans area, you’ll be sure to find one that fits your criteria and budget.
Palmetto Creek – At Palmetto Creek, you will find luxury apartment living at its finest with the best in amenities including elaborate landscaping, gazebos, jogging trails, tennis court, fitness center, swimming pool and more. This month, the River Ridge apartment community is offering two weeks of free rent, totally $1,200 off the annual rental rate.
Hickory Creek – Check out these great River Ridge apartments, offering special reduced rates on two bedrooms in March. Apartments come with spacious closets, full size washer & dryer, free movie rentals, 24 hour maintenance and more.
Chestnut Creek – Another lavish River Ridge apartment community, the Chestnut Creek apartments are offering reduced rents, half off deposits and waived move-in fees. Find bonus features like wood burning fireplaces, sunrooms, extra-large walk-in closets and more.
Turtle Creek – Find privacy, rest and relaxation at this peaceful Metairie community with a recreation area and swimming pool. This month, the Metairie apartments are offering one week of free rent on select studio apartments, so call now to schedule a tour.
Lakes of Chateau Estates North – In addition to all the exterior features like fountains, walking paths, bridges, a tennis court and swimming pools, these luxurious Kenner apartments are offering $1,125 in savings on select apartments plus reduced move-in costs.
Crossings – These Metairie apartments not only have large floor plans, are minutes away from New Orleans and have an on-site service team, this month the Crossings apartments are offering special rates on two and three bedrooms!
Boardwalk – The Boardwalk apartments in Metairie have extra space for sunrooms and home offices, plus a pool, modern design and amenities, plus reduced move-in costs this month. Call today to learn more!
1st Lake Properties | P. O. Box 73709 | Metairie, LA 70033 | info@1stlake.com
