Just a stone’s throw from the French Quarter but with its own distinct flavor, Metairie is where locals go to escape the tourist crowds while still getting that authentic Louisiana experience.
Think century-old live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, food joints that’ll make your taste buds dance, and hidden gems even some New Orleanians don’t know about.
This Jefferson Parish powerhouse packs more personality per square mile than should be legal.
Whether you’re here for the legendary po’boys, outdoor adventures along Bayou Metairie, or retail therapy at Lakeside Mall, we’ve got your ultimate Metairie bucket list.
From secret gardens to culinary institutions, here are the 12 best things to do in Metairie, Louisiana that’ll make you feel like a true local.
1. Lafreniere Park – Best Overall & For Outdoor Lovers
Spanning 155 acres right in Metairie’s heart, Lafreniere Park is where locals come to jog, picnic, and soak up that sweet Southern sunshine.
The 2-mile walking path winds around a sparkling lagoon where you can spot turtles sunbathing and herons fishing.
Families love the playgrounds and splash pad, while fitness buffs use the outdoor fitness stations.
Don’t miss the disc golf course – it’s one of Louisiana’s best with 18 challenging holes under massive live oaks.
Pro tip: Visit at golden hour when the duck-filled waterways glow and the live oak alleys look straight out of a movie.
Wednesday nights in summer mean free concerts at the gazebo – bring a blanket and some crawfish boil for the full experience.
2. The Rummel High School Observatory – Best For Stargazing & Unique Experiences
Here’s one most tourists miss: a fully functioning astronomical observatory open to the public every Friday night.
Run by passionate volunteers, they’ll let you peer through their 14-inch telescope at Saturn’s rings or Jupiter’s moons.
The best part? It’s completely free, though donations keep the lights on. Check their Facebook for special events like meteor shower viewings.
Just remember – this is a working school campus, so be respectful of students.
3. Metairie Small Boat Launch – Best For Water Adventures
Want to explore Bayou Metairie like a true Cajun? This little-known public launch lets you drop kayaks or small boats right into the slow-moving waters.
Paddle past cypress knees and hanging moss where egrets and nutria (those cute oversized rodents) go about their day.
Local outfitters offer guided tours, or you can rent equipment and explore solo.
Either way, you’ll see a side of Louisiana most visitors miss.
Just watch for fishing lines – locals take their bream and catfish seriously here.
4. Lakeside Shopping Center – Best For Retail Therapy
This isn’t your average mall – Lakeside Shopping Center is a New Orleans institution with over 150 stores in a surprisingly charming setup.
Beyond the usual suspects, you’ll find Louisiana specialties like:
- Rubinstein’s for Mardi Gras costumes year-round
- The Spice & Tea Exchange for authentic Cajun blends
- Storyville for quirky NOLA-themed gifts
The live oak-shaded courtyard hosts seasonal events from art markets to puppy adoption days.
Parking tip: The upper levels near Dillard’s usually have spots even on busy weekends.
5. Morning Call – Best For Beignets Without the French Quarter Crowds
Skip the hour-long wait at Café du Monde and head to this 24/7 Metairie institution instead.
Their powdered sugar beignets are just as pillowy-soft, served with iced café au lait that’ll perk you right up.
The old-world vibe with tiled floors and iron chairs feels straight from 1870s New Orleans.
Locals know to come after midnight when the post-bar crowd creates the best people-watching.
Dietary note: They offer gluten-free beignets on request – a rare find in Louisiana!
6. Bucktown Harbor – Best For Seafood & Waterfront Views
This funky marina district packs serious character into a few blocks. Come for:
- Deanie’s Seafood (their BBQ shrimp will change your life)
- Fishing charters that’ll take you to Lake Pontchartrain’s best spots
- Sunset views over the docks that’ll fill your camera roll
Weekend mornings mean fresh-off-the-boat seafood sales at the docks. Arrive early for the best selection of blue crabs and speckled trout.
7. Bayou Metairie Bike Path – Best For Active Travelers
Stretching 6.5 miles along the historic bayou, this paved trail connects multiple parks and offers the safest bike route in the area.
You’ll pedal under canopies of ancient oaks, past stately homes, and over charming bridges.
Rental tip: Bicycle Michael’s on Metairie Road has affordable daily rentals and can suggest the best routes based on your skill level.
8. The Historic Railroad Depot – Best For History Buffs
This 1896 Illinois Central Railroad station now houses a free museum showcasing Metairie’s development from swamp to suburb.
The real gem? The fully restored caboose you can climb aboard.
Volunteer docents share fascinating tales of how the railroad shaped the region. Open Saturdays only, so plan accordingly.
9. La Boulangerie – Best For Authentic French Pastries
When New Orleans chefs want real French bread, they send runners to this unassuming Metairie bakery.
Their baguettes crackle perfectly, while the chocolate croissants might ruin you for all others.
Go early for the best selection – their king cakes during Mardi Gras season sell out by 9 AM.
10. Bonnabel Boat Launch – Best For Lake Pontchartrain Access
This recently renovated launch gives you the easiest access to Lake Pontchartrain’s breezy waters. Perfect for:
- Kayaking to the old lighthouse
- Fishing the rock jetties
- Watching epic Louisiana sunsets
Free parking and clean facilities make this a local favorite.
11. The Shops at 301 – Best For Boutique Hopping
This upscale outdoor mall mixes national retailers with Louisiana-owned boutiques. Don’t miss:
- Pippen Lane for stylish kids’ clothes
- The Seasonal Table for gourmet local ingredients
- Kendra Scott for NOLA-inspired jewelry
The central lawn hosts yoga classes and live music in cooler months.
12. Metairie Cemetery – Best For Unique History
Yes, we’re recommending a cemetery – but this is New Orleans, where even our graveyards tell stories.
The elaborate above-ground tombs and historic monuments make for fascinating wandering.
Notable residents include baseball legend Mel Ott and Storyville madam Josie Arlington.
Free maps at the entrance help you navigate the 150+ acres.
Final Thoughts
From hidden waterways to culinary icons, Metairie offers all the Louisiana flavor without the French Quarter fuss.
These 12 best things to do in Metairie, Louisiana prove this suburb is far more than just a place to sleep.
So what’ll it be? Paddling secret bayous at dawn? Scoring hot beignets at midnight? Or maybe uncovering forgotten railroad history? However you explore, Metairie’s ready to surprise you.
Which spot speaks to you most? Drop your pick in the comments and start planning your trip – those beignets aren’t going to eat themselves!