Want to take a step back in time? The streets of downtown Covington, LA, will recreate the 1800s and 1900s of southern Louisiana.
Want to marvel at artistic beauty? Visit the Arts District to view art galleries of every medium and style. Want to explore nature? Three different rivers run through the city and the popular Tammany Trace Trail.
Ready to visit now? Let’s look at how to spend a perfect day in Covington, LA!
About Covington, LA
Located just north of Lake Pontchartrain, Covington, LA, has about 11,500 residents. It’s easily accessible by Interstate 12 and Highways 21, 25, and 190. It’s a straight shot down the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to New Orleans, about a 50-minute drive.
After Hurricane Katrina, many residents of New Orleans fled to Covington and established homes there, thus creating a population boom. The city continues to flourish today.
In fact, quite a few movies have been filmed here. “Dead Man Walking,” “I Love You, Phillip Morris,” and “Joe Dirt 2” are just a few. Many residents live in Covington, LA, and drive into New Orleans for work.
If you visit the area for just a day, here’s how you can enjoy all that Covington, LA, has to offer in 24 hours. From dining recommendations to outdoor recreation, you’ll enjoy your perfect day in this Louisiana city.
Morning
Try the Chicken at Waffles at Abita Roasting Co.
Address: 1011 Village Walk, Covington, LA 70433
Menu options: Before you begin your meal at Abita Roasting Co., try an order of French toast dippers, housemade and hand-battered. Then for egg lovers, try the eggs benedict or wild western omelet. For a heavier dish, order up the Cajun praline chicken and waffles or the Nola BBQ shrimp and cheese grits.
Why You Should Go: Abita Roasting Company is a local favorite. One guest writes, “Excellent coffee at a reasonable price. Much better, in my opinion, than Starbucks or PJs. I like to taste coffee in my coffee, and this place meets my expectations.”
They even provide coffee to many local restaurants in the New Orleans area. You can also order the delicious coffee online so you can keep the morning brews going even after you leave Covington, LA. The cafe is only open Sundays and Mondays from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., so make plans to visit one of those two days.
Pedal Down the Tammany Trace Trail
Address: 21490 Koop Dr, Mandeville, LA
Why You Should Go: The Tammany Trace Trail begins in Covington, LA, about three-quarters of a mile west of Highway 21. It runs for 27 miles all the way to Heritage Park near Interstate 10. There are numerous stops along the way that include the Northlake Nature Center, Fontainebleau State Park, and Camp Salmen Nature Park.
It’s a moderately trafficked trail that’s good for all skill levels. Horses are also allowed on the trail. Make sure you plan a few hours for this biking adventure and enjoy stopping along the way to enjoy the scenic beauty and wildlife refuges.
Traveler’s Tip: If you want to explore more authentic Louisiana charm, keep heading north from Covington to the quaint town of Franklinton.
Afternoon
Enjoy an Afternoon Tea at the English Tea Room
Address: 734 E Rutland St, Covington, LA 70433-3223
Menu Options: The tea list includes savory flavored black tea options like the Abbey Blend and the Lady Londonderry at the English Tea Room. If you prefer green teas, try the Morning Rain or the Formosa Gunpowder. Choose from even more options like Chai teas, Rooibos herbal teas, decaffeinated teas, and more.
Why You Should Go: With over 200 flavors, the English Tea Room has something for every palette. It’s closed on Sundays, so make sure to visit during the week. Or, visit on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended since the English Tea Room is a local favorite.
You can also enjoy a dessert, like a chocolate Chai trifle or strawberry shortcake, while you sip your tea. Don’t miss out on a relaxing afternoon at the English Tea Room when visiting Covington, LA.
Touch a Gator At The Alligator Ranch
Address: 74645 Allen Rd, Covington, LA 70435
You can touch and feed an alligator during your tour. Prices are $19 for adults and $13 for children. One guest writes, “Great fun, well worth the price. DEFINITELY pay the extra $5 and catch baby alligators. You will definitely enjoy. Learned a lot and got to do some fun interactions.”
Evening
Treat Yourself at Gallagher’s Grill
Address: 509 S Tyler St, Covington, LA 70433-3041
Menu Options: At Gallagher’s Grill, Start off with an order of bacon-wrapped scallops or fried calamari. Once you’re ready for your meal, order up a steak entree ranging from an 8 oz petit filet to a 24 oz cowboy ribeye.
If you want a seafood dish, try the tasty pecan-encrusted catfish meunière or the classic gulf fish almondine. For diners wanting a lighter fare, there are soups and salads to choose from as well.
Why You Should Go: Another local favorite, Gallagher’s Grill is more of a fine dining experience than the previous restaurants. A Covington, LA, native, Pat Gallagher, has been serving the community from the Gallagher’s Grill location since 2007. He also has locations in Mandeville and Slidell.
Once you leave Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery, it’s only a short 18-minute drive to the restaurant. You’ll enjoy relaxing here after a long day exploring Covington, LA.
Shop in Historic Downtown Covington
Address: St. John District, Covington, LA 70433
Why You Should Go: Downtown Covington is worth a stroll, even if you aren’t a shopper. A variety of restaurants, art galleries, antiques, and unique shops line the streets.
Parking is free, and you can walk to just about anywhere. Stop in de Coeur and pick up a few gifts or home accessories.
If you’re looking for Louisiana style, visit Black Flower Apparel, a shop that celebrates Louisiana life and culture. Check out Cottage Antiques and go home with reclaimed furniture or other antique and custom home decor. You could spend an entire day walking the streets of downtown Covington.
Where to Stay?
Downtown Private Loft
Amenities: This fully renovated downtown loft offers guests a convenient and comfortable stay. The living room features a sleeper sofa, two chairs, a desk, and a television. The kitchen is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave and stocked with dishes.
The loft has a queen-sized bed, suitable for one or two guests. Enjoy a free bottle of wine and pastries on your first night.
Why You’ll Love Staying Here: This beautiful, upscale loft is within walking distance to many of Covington’s shops and restaurants. Its chic interior will make you feel like you’re in a fancy hotel.
It’s probably not the best choice for families with children as the decor is mostly white or cream, but for a solo traveler or couple, this private loft is the perfect getaway.
One guest says, “This is our second time at this loft, and the host has literally thought of everything a guest might need! The house is comfortable, clean, and very well appointed. This will definitely be our spot every time we visit Louisiana.” Out of 97 reviews, the loft has received 4.99 stars.
Family Home by the River
Amenities: This large four-bedroom, two-bathroom house is situated on six acres. It can accommodate up to 13 people. Two of the bedrooms have three beds each, so it’s a great house for a couple of families to stay in together.
The large island in the kitchen provides ample space to prepare meals and additional seating. There’s also more seating at a picnic table on the screened-in porch.
The outdoor landscaping is beautiful, with waterfalls, creeks, and beautiful flowers. It also offers easy access to the pier and river.
Why You’ll Love Staying Here: A completely different option, and one that suits families better, is this 100-year-old home located five minutes from Covington, LA. It offers a great place to relax in the peaceful, natural surroundings of the Bogue Falaya River and stunning landscape. You’ll love the spring-fed pool after exploring Covington all day long.
The yard is a great place to play catch or let the kids run around. You can watch them from the rocking chairs on the long front porch. You’ll feel like you’re at home in this charming house by the river.
One guest writes, “Charming, historic house surrounded by pine, gardenia, bamboo trees, waterfalls, and a river. I want to live here!” Out of 41 reviews, this house has received 4.88 stars.
A Day in Covington, LA
If Covington, LA, isn’t on your list of getaway locations yet, it should be. Its close proximity to New Orleans offers a great stay outside the city but near the action. The outdoor recreation and local cuisine will be calling you back again and again. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend to enjoy nature or a fun-filled weekend with the kids, Covington offers it all.
When will you be exploring the city?
I know this has to be a joke if your telling people to travel to Covington la, I live here and believe me I would NOT get off I-12 to go here.