Covington, Louisiana is a part of the New Orleans-Metairie-Krenner Metropolitan Area and it is a quaint little town, with a rich culture, quirky shops, and incredible food scene. Covington is a beautiful place to visit, with a diverse array of things to do, so whether you want to stroll down the riverside or admire regional art, there’s something for everyone. And who knows, you might just see Ian Somerhalder visiting his hometown.
Read on to find out about the top things to do in Covington, Louisiana.
1. Bogue Falaya Park & River
Bogue Falaya Park and River is a relaxing place to start your Covington exploration. The beautiful park has plenty of play areas for children and picnic areas to enjoy a scenic meal. Although the park is in downtown Covington, it’s hidden from the city noise, making it a wonderful oasis to just experience nature. The river is equally as fun, not only for the beautiful backdrop it provides but also because you can practice your paddle boarding skills on it, making it the perfect adventure into Louisiana.
Bogue Falaya Park and River
Address: 213 Park Dr, Covington, LA 70433
Website: Bogue Falaya Park and River
2. Movie Tavern Northshore
Running late to see your favorite movie, but still haven’t gotten dinner yet? Don’t worry, the Movie Tavern Northshore is here to provide you with the perfect solution - in-movie dining! Take part in this unique experience and enjoy the newest movies out there, while you eat without a rush. Fun fact - on weekends you can catch a Breakfast Movie, and start the day off with a plot twist.
Movie Tavern Northshore
Address: 201 N Hwy 190, Covington, LA 70433
Website: Movie Tavern Northshore
3. H. J. Smith & Sons General Store
H. J. Smith & Sons General Store has been family run and owned since it’s first opening in 1876. Although you may have prepared a shopping list for your visit to the store, unfortunately, it is no longer operational and is actually a museum. It features hundreds of items, ranging from the 1870s to the early 1900s. Some of the most popular artifacts include a dugout boat, cast iron casket, and wooden washing machine.
H. J. Smith & Sons General Store
Address: 308 N. Columbia St. Covington, LA 70433
4. Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery
If you’re up to experiencing a little thrill, be sure to check out the Insta-gator Ranch and Hatchery. The ranch is home to over two thousand gators of varying ages and sizes. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can head on over to the baby alligator touch pool and actually hold a baby alligator. They offer plenty of tours that bring you to see the alligators and also teach you all about the animal, from hatchling to adult (or handbag, since Louisiana has a large alligator skin industry). You can even take a special egg hatching tour (only available at certain times of the year), where you can hold a hatching alligator.
Insta-gator Ranch and Hatchery
Address: 23440 Lowe Davis Rd. Covington, LA 70435
Website: Insta-gator Ranch and Hatchery
5. Covington Trailhead Museum
The Covington Trailhead Museum (and Visitor Center) is the perfect place to learn about the history of Covington. The visitor center offers a short video detailing the history of the town, after which you can explore the local art exhibits. While I won’t give it all away, some of the highlights of the museum include a large, free standing Italian Bell and an amphitheater, which is the home of the Rockin the Rails concert series.
The Trailhead Museum also serves as a resting station for the Tammany Trace Trail, a 31 mile (49.9 kilometer) adventure.
Covington Trailhead Museum and Visitors Center
Address: 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, LA 70433
6. Old Covington Shops
What charming town would be complete without a historic downtown? Covington does not fail to deliver, and so you shouldn’t skip out on an evening of shopping in Old Covington. While known for its shopping, the area features so much more. You can find restaurants, salons, galleries, and more. You may need a map to guide you through downtown (since it spans over multiple blocks), so stop by the Covington Trailhead Office to get one!
Old Covington Shops
Address: 419 N. New Hampshire St., Covington, LA 70433
Website: Old Covington Shops
7. Art on Columbia Street
Columbia Street is so full of galleries and exhibits that it may take you an entire day to see it all.
Rolland Golden - This gallery shows the art of Rolland Golden, a New Orleans artist who has put on more than one hundred shows and has been featured in numerous magazines and art books.
Rolland Golden
Address: 317 N. Columbia, Covington, LA 70433
Website: Rolland Golden
Savoye Originals - Savoye Originals features the fine art of Steve Savoye, all made from reclaimed and salvaged materials.
Savoye Originals Gallery
Address: 405 N. Columbia St., Covington, LA 70433
Website: Savoye Originals Gallery
St. Tammany Art Association - You’ll never be bored at the St. Tammany Art Association, as it is constantly rotating its collection of art by regional and national artists. Additionally, the building itself is a historic structure.
St. Tammany Art Association
Address: 320 N. Columbia St., Covington, LA 70433
Website: St. Tammany Art Association
Tripolo - This gallery features fine art by regional artists that are beautiful and unique. However, you must make an appointment to visit.
Tripolo Gallery
Address: 323 N. Columbia St., Covington, LA 70433
Website: Tripolo Gallery
8. Don's Seafood Hut & Oyster Bar
Covington, Louisiana is praised for its food and the selection of local restaurants does not disappoint. Don’s Seafood Hut & Oyster Bar is a local favorite and has been serving authentic Cajun cuisine for almost 100 years. The expansive menu features traditional family recipes and also original creations, that are sure to keep you craving for more. They also offer weeknight dinner specials and a two-for-one happy hour - all day, every day. So what are you waiting for - don’t just “seafood”, eat it too!
Don's Seafood Hut & Oyster Bar
Address: 126 Lake Dr., Covington, LA 70433
Website: Don’s Seafood Hut & Oyster Bar
What more can you ask for...
Covington is clearly a lovely town with enough southern charm to keep you wanting more. Whether it’s the alligator adventures or your inner-foodie that brings you back, you know it’s a town you’ll be visiting more than once.