Things To Do
in Terrytown

Terrytown is a residential suburb of New Orleans located on the west bank of the Mississippi River in Jefferson Parish. It offers a quiet, family friendly feel with easy access to the city’s historic neighborhoods, parks and waterways. The area serves as a convenient base for visitors who want a calmer stay while still being close to downtown New Orleans.

Outdoor recreation along Lake Pontchartrain and nearby bayous adds a relaxed, water oriented character to the visit.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Historic Terrytown
morning
:

Start your journey with a leisurely stroll around Historic Terrebone Avenue, where you can admire the charming architecture that reflects the city’s rich history. Stop by a local café for breakfast, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and local pastries. Don't forget to visit the local shops that offer unique crafts and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head over to the Terrytown Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic or take a walk along the scenic trails. The park is home to many native plants and wildlife, providing a perfect backdrop for some relaxation and exploration. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground and take in the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at one of Terrytown's popular restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through downtown, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music. Round off your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, engaging with friendly locals.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin the day with a visit to the Terrytown Art Gallery, where you can appreciate the local artists' masterpieces. Participate in a morning art workshop that allows you to explore your creative side under the guidance of experienced instructors. Enjoy a light brunch at the gallery's café, surrounded by inspiring artwork.

afternoon
:

Once you’ve honed your artistic skills, head to the nearby cultural center to learn about the history and traditions of Terrytown through engaging exhibits. After lunch, take part in a guided tour that highlights the significance of the area's cultural heritage. Spend the afternoon interacting with the friendly locals and discovering hidden gems throughout the neighborhood.

evening
:

As night falls, attend a theater performance showcasing local talent at the Terrytown Community Theatre. This experience will give you an insight into the community spirit through storytelling and art. Wrap up the evening by dining at a cozy bistro, savoring traditional dishes accompanied by a glass of wine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍕Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$100-180
🛒Groceries for a week$60-120
🚆Monthly public transit pass$55-85

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet residential base with easy access to New Orleans
  • Strong regional cuisine and cultural attractions nearby
  • Less nightlife and nightlife options within Terrytown itself
  • Dependence on car transport for most activities outside nearby parks

Places to Visit in Terrytown

Visit one of these nice places.

Terrytown Lakefront Vista

Sunset over Lake Pontchartrain from the Terrytown shoreline provides expansive water reflections and silhouettes of the city in the distance.

Crescent City Connection Bridge at Night

Illuminated bridge with long exposure possibilities offering dramatic light trails over the river.

French Quarter from Jackson Square

Iconic architecture and lively street scenes ideal for early morning or golden hour photography.

City Park and Big Lake Area

Lush oaks, lagoons and walkways offer tranquil nature photography just a short drive from Terrytown.

Culinary Guide

Food in Terrytown

Terrytown sits in the New Orleans metro and shares in its rich Cajun and Creole culinary traditions. Expect seafood heavy dishes, hearty stews, crawfish boils, and po’boys with bold flavor. You will taste both classic favorites and modern twists across the nearby restaurants and casual spots.

Terrytown Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gumbo

A thick roux based soup with vegetables and meat or seafood; usually served over rice in Cajun and Creole kitchens.

Must-Try!

Shrimp Po'Boy

Crispy fried shrimp served on a crusty French roll with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade.

Crawfish Étouffée

Crawfish cooked in a rich roux based sauce and served over rice; a Creole staple.

Jambalaya

A spiced rice dish with meat and sometimes seafood, cooked with vegetables and stock.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Westwego Farmers Market

Seasonal produce, seafood and Cajun specialties; best on weekend mornings near Terrytown.

French Market

Historic market in the French Quarter offering fresh seafood, spices, pralines, and ready-to-eat bites.

Street Food Stalls

Mobile vendors around the French Quarter and Magazine Street serving classic po'boys and crawfish boils on festival days.

Climate Guide

Weather

Terrytown experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average highs reach the 90s F (30s C) in summer, while winter daytime highs are typically in the 50s and 60s F (around 10-20 C). The region receives frequent rain throughout the year, with a hurricane season from June to November.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Southern hospitality

Friendly greetings and polite conversation are common; small talk is welcomed.

Tipping culture

Tipping is expected in service industries and often built into the overall experience.

Respect for music and cuisine

Support live music venues, be mindful of performances, and avoid blocking sidewalks during busy times.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in any large metro area, stay aware of surroundings, secure valuables, and use well lit streets at night. Be mindful of weather hazards during hurricane season and follow local evacuation orders if issued. Water safety is important around Lake Pontchartrain and marshy areas. In crowds, keep an eye on belongings and travel with a companion when possible.

Tipping in Terrytown

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre tax bill. For bartenders, $1-2 per drink. Hotel housekeeping about $2-5 per day. Taxis and rideshares typically 10-15%. Tips are customary and appreciated.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan indoor activities during peak heat. Hurricane season runs June through November.

Autumn

Milder temperatures with comfortable days and cooler nights. A great time for outdoor exploration and festivals in the region.

Winter

Mild to cool days with occasional cold snaps. Rain is possible; layers help for fluctuating daytime highs.

Spring

Pleasant and lively with blooming landscapes and frequent showers. A popular time for outdoor markets and wildlife watching.

Nightlife Guide

Terrytown at Night

Terrytown itself is relatively quiet at night, but the nearby New Orleans nightlife scene is world famous. Expect live jazz in the Marigny and French Quarter, vibrant bars along Bourbon Street, and music clubs on Frenchmen Street. For a relaxed evening, opt for a riverside cafe or a neighborhood pub with Creole-inspired fare and local cocktails.

Hiking in Terrytown

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve – Barataria Preserve

Wetland trails, boardwalks, and abundant wildlife just a short drive from Terrytown.

Bayou Segnette State Park

Marshland trails and boardwalks with opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

Airports

How to reach Terrytown by plane.

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)

Main international and domestic gateway for the region, located about 25-30 miles from Terrytown; accessible by car, taxi, or shuttle.

Lakefront Airport (NEW)

Small general aviation airport closer to downtown New Orleans, primarily serving private and charter flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Terrytown is predominantly residential with limited commercial centers, so most places require a car. The area has walkable pockets and pleasant lakefront scenery, but you should plan for longer walks or short drives to dining and attractions. The broader New Orleans metro offers very walkable districts if you venture into the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households with children and long time residents contributing to a tight knit community feel.

African American community

A significant portion of the population with strong roots in the larger New Orleans area.

Hispanic/Latino residents

A growing community adding cultural diversity and vibrant local flavors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

American Football

American football is widely followed in the region, with professional and college teams drawing strong local support.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity at schools, community leagues, and in professional teams in the broader area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy on I-10 and I-610 during weekday rush hours. Public transit is more limited on the Terrytown side, so most travelers rely on cars or rideshares. In hurricane season, plan for possible road closures and evacuation routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Terrytown.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes are seafood or meat heavy; look for vegetable sides, salads and nonmeat entrees. Ask for vegetable stock or water as a base, request no sausage or meat in stews, and enjoy plant-forward options when available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are several healthcare facilities in the New Orleans metro area, including major hospitals in Jefferson Parish and the city. Examples include Ochsner Medical Center and West Jefferson Medical Center. Routine care, urgent care, and emergency services are accessible within a short drive from Terrytown.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide