Need a laid-back day trip or weekend escape near New Orleans? Head to Metairie! Enjoy scenic parks, family-friendly attractions, lively Mardi Gras celebrations, and amazing local dining. Whether you’re seeking nature, culture, or classic Louisiana flavors, Metairie offers a fun, easygoing experience just minutes from the city.
Metairie, LA Highlights:
- Lafreniere Park: Explore trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, a carousel, and a scenic lagoon in this sprawling urban park.
- Lakeside Shopping Center: Shop at top retailers, dine, or relax at one of Louisiana’s largest and most popular malls.
- Airline Skate Center: Family-friendly roller skating rink with a retro vibe and fun music nights.
- Metairie Cemetery: Stroll among grand tombs and beautiful sculptures at one of the area's most historic cemeteries.
- Fat City: Discover Metairie’s dining and nightlife hub, with diverse restaurants, bars, and live music.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Metairie is during spring (February–May) and fall (October–November). Pleasant weather and vibrant events like Mardi Gras parades make these seasons especially exciting.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Metairie is easily accessible via I-10, located about 10–15 minutes from downtown New Orleans.
- By Air: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is only a 10-minute drive from Metairie.
- By Bus: Jefferson Transit (JeT) and Regional Transit Authority (RTA) buses connect Metairie to greater New Orleans.
Where to Stay
- New Orleans Marriott Metairie at Lakeway – Upscale hotel with lakeside views, spacious rooms, and quick access to downtown.
- Sheraton Metairie–New Orleans Hotel – Comfortable accommodations close to Lakeside Shopping Center and I-10.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Metairie – Budget-friendly option with a pool, free breakfast, and family-friendly amenities.
Best Things to Do
First: Unwind in Nature’s Playground at Lafreniere Park
Second: Shop, Stroll, and Splurge at Lakeside Shopping Center
Third: Catch the Excitement at the Shrine on Airline
Fourth: If You Love History, Visit the Camp Parapet Monument
Fifth: Savor Fresh Catches at Station 6 Seafood & Oyster Bar
Sixth: Dig Into Cajun Favorites at Bobby Hebert’s Cajun Cannon
Seventh: Indulge in Classic Italian Flavors at Vincent’s Italian Cuisine
Eight: If You Crave Sweet Tradition, Treat Yourself at Cafe Du Monde
If you are interested in local events:
- Metairie Mardi Gras Parades (February–March) – Family-friendly parades with floats, throws, and festive fun along Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
- Family Gras (February) – Free outdoor festival featuring live music, food, art markets, and family activities celebrating Mardi Gras season.
- Lafreniere Park Christmas in the Park (December) – Magical drive-through holiday light display with animated scenes and music.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Metairie, Louisiana:
- New Orleans French Quarter (15–20 min) – Experience world-famous architecture, cuisine, and music in this historic neighborhood.
- City Park, New Orleans (20–25 min) – Explore a massive park with botanical gardens, an art museum, and paddleboat rentals.
- Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve (25–30 min) – Take swamp tours, hike scenic trails, and learn about Louisiana’s natural and cultural history.
- Audubon Zoo and Audubon Park (20–25 min) – Visit lush animal exhibits and picnic under massive oak trees in Uptown New Orleans.
- Old Metairie (10–15 min) – Wander charming residential streets, enjoy boutiques, and dine at locally loved restaurants.
- Lake Pontchartrain Causeway (10 min) – Drive or bike across the world’s longest continuous bridge over water for epic lake views.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How is Metairie related to New Orleans?
- While associated closely with its more famous neighbor, the town of Metairie primarily developed over the years as a twentieth-century alternative to New Orleans and its Old World ways.
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What is Old Metairie known for?
- The Old Metairie upscale community features many high-end boutiques and homes from the 1920s era.
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Where can visitors shop and dine in Metairie?
- Veterans Memorial Boulevard is lined with numerous shops and restaurants, including the Lakeside Shopping Center, which is one of the largest shopping malls in the region.
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What sports attractions are in Metairie?
- For sports fans, Metairie is also home to Shrine on Airline, former home of the New Orleans Baby Cakes and now the home field of the New Orleans Gold rugby team.
Plan Your Trip
