Things To Do
in Metairie
Metairie, a bustling suburb just west of New Orleans along the shore of Lake Pontchartrain, blends residential neighborhoods with vibrant shopping centers and easy access to city attractions. With a strong Cajun and Creole culinary influence, it offers seafood shacks, family-friendly eateries, and casual cafes. Lakeside Shopping Center and nearby parks give the area a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
Visitors can easily reach the French Quarter and other New Orleans highlights while returning to a quieter Metairie base.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Metairie by visiting the expansive City Park, where you can stroll along the picturesque walking paths shaded by ancient oak trees. Stop by the New Orleans Museum of Art to appreciate the diverse collection of art and beautiful sculpture garden. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lush lawns as the birds serenade you with their morning songs.
After lunch, head to the City Park's Carousel Gardens Amusement Park for fun rides and games suitable for all ages. Explore the tranquil waters of the park's lagoons on a paddleboat or take a leisurely bike ride through the scenic trails. Don't forget to visit the Botanic Garden to experience the breathtaking floral displays and serene landscapes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a picnic dinner at the park or visit a nearby cafés for local cuisine. Consider a leisurely walk around the park to witness the evening light reflecting off the lagoons. Conclude your day by catching a live music performance at one of the local venues.
Start your day at the Audubon Zoo, which is known for its diverse collection of animals and beautiful landscaped habitats. Spend your morning wandering through the exhibits, where you can encounter majestic elephants, playful primates, and colorful birds. Don’t forget to snap a few photos in the lovely surroundings of the zoo’s gardens.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the zoo’s café before diving back into more animal encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences. Afterward, cool off at the splash park or take a ride on the carousel for some nostalgic fun. Explore the nearby Audubon Park for an afternoon of relaxation amidst the beautiful greenery.
As the sun begins to dip, head to a different part of the park for a sunset stroll along the lagoon. Stop for a bite to eat at one of the charming neighborhood restaurants known for their Creole cuisine. End the evening with a casual gathering at a nearby bar featuring live local music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) | $100-180 |
| 🚌Public transit day pass | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to New Orleans culture and attractions
- Calmer, family-friendly atmosphere compared to the city core
- Good shopping, parks, and waterfront views
- Less vibrant nightlife than central New Orleans
- Dependence on driving for most attractions and transit
- Weather can be humid and hurricane-prone
Places to Visit in Metairie
Visit one of these nice places.
A large, scenic park in Metairie with fountains, lawns, and sculpture-lined paths—great for wide-angle cityscape or family portraits.
Sunrise or sunset over the expansive lake offers reflective water and pastel skies; ideal for landscape and silhouette photography.
Food in Metairie
Metairie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cajun classic of shellfish in a thick roux-based sauce, widely available in local spots.
Must-Try!
Spiced rice with sausage, chicken, and sometimes seafood; a staple at many restaurants.
A crusty sandwich filled with fried shrimp, oyster, or roast beef, ideal for a quick meal.
A hearty Creole stew with okra, roux, and meat or seafood, served over rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, casual greetings; a nod or 'hello' is common. Small talk is typical when meeting locals.
Appreciate warm, courteous behavior; avoid loud, disruptive behavior in quiet neighborhoods and public spaces.
Casual attire is standard for most venues; dress up a bit for nicer restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Metairie
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities of 15-20% at restaurants are standard; tip bartenders after drinks and leave tips for hotel staff.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is common in smaller venues; contactless and mobile payments are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with flowering landscapes; occasional showers, so carry a compact umbrella.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated and seek shade or indoor venues during peak heat.
Mild, comfortable weather ideal for outdoor activities and day trips to nearby New Orleans.
Generally mild with cooler mornings; occasional cold fronts but comfortable for walking and park visits.
Metairie at Night
Hiking in Metairie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalk trails through cypress swamps with birdwatching and interpretive signage.
Urban refuge with easy trails and wildlife viewing near the city.
Airports
How to reach Metairie by plane.
Main gateway for the region, located about 25-40 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport closer to central New Orleans; useful for private flights and quick access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large number of family households in suburban neighborhoods.
Commuters and service professionals form a sizable share of residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local interest in high school, college, and NFL teams (Saints) draws crowds and community events.
Community leagues and college games; easy to find courts and pickup games.
Popular year-round activity due to proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and bayous.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metairie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for gumbo or jambalaya without sausage, salads, roasted vegetables, and veggie side dishes; always ask about meat-free broths.