Things To Do
in Slidell
Slidell sits on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain in St. Tammany Parish, just east of New Orleans. The city blends small-town Southern hospitality with easy access to marshlands, wetlands, and coastal scenery. Visitors come for seafood, nature tours, and quick day trips to the bayous and nearby parks.
It is a gateway to Honey Island Swamp and Fontainebleau State Park, with a friendly downtown core in Olde Towne Slidell.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Slidell's Historic District, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and unique boutiques. Stop by the Slidell Museum to delve into the local history, including the fascinating stories of the town's early settlers. Enjoy a fresh coffee and pastry from a local café to fuel your adventure.
After lunch, visit the nearby Pinewood Garden for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature's beauty, featuring lush gardens and serene walking paths. Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, or simply relax by the koi pond. Later, explore the local art scene by visiting the various galleries that showcase works by regional artists.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Louisiana cuisine, savoring dishes like gumbo or jambalaya. After dinner, enjoy a relaxing evening at a nearby bar or pub, where you can listen to live music or engage in conversation with friendly locals. Conclude your day by taking a moonlit walk along the nearby lakefront.
Embark on an exciting morning at the nearby Bayou Bonfouca, where you can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the tranquil waterways. Paddle through the picturesque bayou, keeping an eye out for local wildlife such as herons and alligators. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy on the water, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
After your water adventure, have lunch at a quaint café in the area, then visit the nearby Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge for an afternoon of hiking. Take one of the well-marked trails and immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems of the bayou, with opportunities to spot more wildlife. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera as you walk.
Return to Slidell for dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying the beautiful view of the bayou at sunset. Following dinner, join a guided night tour of the bayou to experience the nocturnal sounds and sights of the wildlife. The adventure will leave you with lasting memories of the unique bayou ecosystem.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🧃Bottled water | $1-2 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to wetlands and bayous from a comfortable base
- Casual, family-friendly vibe with good seafood
- Easy day trips to New Orleans and the Gulf Coast
- Strong local hospitality and outdoor recreation options
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be hot and humid; hurricane season can disrupt plans
- Some areas are car-dependent with limited public transit
Places to Visit in Slidell
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful murals and charming storefronts provide great street photography and portraits.
Scenic lake views, sand beaches, and piney landscapes ideal for golden hour shots.
Wooden boardwalks through marshy areas and forested sections perfect for nature photography.
Historic coastal marshes and distant views of the Rigolets create dramatic landscape shots.
Food in Slidell
Slidell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rich, roux-thickened sauce with crawfish, served over rice.
Must-Try!
Hearty Creole gumbo with shellfish or chicken and sausage, usually served over rice.
Crispy catfish served with cornmeal crust and classic hush puppies.
Seasoned crawfish boiled with corn, potatoes, and sometimes sausage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, seafood, and ready-to-eat treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Louisiana hospitality is warm; greet with a smile and say hello to shopkeepers and servers.
Be open and respectful; small talk about local food and sports is common.
Stay on marked trails, dispose of trash properly, and be mindful of wildlife near wetlands.
Safety
Tipping in Slidell
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15–20% in full-service restaurants; $1–$2 per drink at bars; tip tour guides and hotel staff as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small shops and markets; some places may be card-only or add a small surcharge for cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be mindful of mosquitoes and hurricane season (June–November).
Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Mild to cool days with occasional cold fronts; good time to spot migratory birds and enjoy outdoor activities without crowds.
Warm and humid with blooming vegetation; wildlife viewing is at its peak and outdoor events pick up.
Slidell at Night
Hiking in Slidell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lakeside trails with forested sections and panoramic lake views just a short drive from Slidell.
Rail-trail with shaded segments, boardwalks, and scenic stops along the way to Covington.
Wetland nature trails ideal for gentle hikes and birdwatching near Slidell.
Airports
How to reach Slidell by plane.
Major hub ~40–60 miles from Slidell via I-10/I-12; frequent domestic flights and some international routes.
Smaller city airport offering general aviation and some limited passenger service; closer to downtown New Orleans.
Regional airport in Mississippi about 50–75 miles east; good for domestic flights and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents, with a mix of families and retirees.
A significant and active community contributing to local culture and events.
Growing presence with increasing cultural influence and small businesses.
Diverse mix including smaller communities and newcomers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local ponds and Lake Pontchartrain; fishermen often join local clubs and tournaments.
Football is a common community staple with local games and events.
Coastal Louisiana culture includes hunting and boating as year-round activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Slidell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many spots; look for salads, veggie sides, and pasta dishes; ask for meat-free versions of popular Cajun dishes where possible.