Exploring Metairie, Louisiana, you shouldn't miss out on these outstanding activities:
You've just landed at Louis Armstrong International Airport, eager to explore the enchanting heart of New Orleans, fondly known as the 'Big Easy'. Perhaps you're keen to recreate a scene or two from The Princess and the Frog, or bask in the French-inspired architecture while indulging in a powdered sugar-coated beignet. New Orleans, without a doubt, is a magical place. Before you reach the Crescent City, you'll pass through Metairie, an unincorporated area in Jefferson Parish, often viewed as a suburban neighbor to the famous city. Despite its reputation as a gateway, Metairie has its own charm, and a little exploration will reveal its unique tale.
In the affluent Old Metairie community, you'll find 1920s-era homes serving as a throwback to the past. The rest of the neighborhood pulses with the energy of modern Metairie. Veterans Memorial Boulevard, a six-lane road cutting through the heart of it all, is dotted with a diverse mix of restaurants, local shops, and hidden gems. During Mardi Gras, even the usually quiet suburban streets come alive with parades and celebrations.
Whether you're just passing through or looking for a more laid-back adventure, this corner of Jefferson Parish is worth a detour. Here are eight things to do in Metairie.
Admire The Views At Joe Yenni Park
With a skyline punctuated by elevated highways and commercial buildings, you might think that green spaces in Metairie are hard to find. However, knowledgeable locals can show you the hidden gems. Joe Yenni Park, one of the largest parks in Metairie, boasts wide-open fields, recreation areas, and even a FIFA-certified professional soccer complex. Along the boardwalk, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and stunning views of Marsh Island, a designated bird sanctuary filled with native vegetation and wildlife. And if you're visiting during the holidays, don't miss Christmas in the Park, where you can drive through dazzling LED light displays for just $15 per vehicle.
jeffersonparish.gov; 1201 S Clearview Pkwy, Metairie, LA 70005; 504-837-2788
Satisfy Your Cajun Cravings At Casamento's Cafe
As soon as you step off the plane, you might find yourself craving authentic Cajun cuisine. Casamento's Cafe, just a short 10-minute drive from the Louis Armstrong International Airport, is the place to go for that fix. This award-winning restaurant, known for its welcoming atmosphere, offers a menu filled with Creole comfort foods. But the star of the show is without a doubt, their famous gumbo. Try their signature dish: the stuffed gumbo, with your choice of protein smothered in gumbo and rice, topped with fried oysters or shrimp. Other must-tries include the boudin balls, étouffée, and Italian-inspired dishes, a nod to Chef Ron's heritage.
casamentoscafe.com; 4330 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119; 504-304-9115
Witness Local Talent At the Rivertown Theater
Most would recommend a venue in the Big Easy for live shows, but Metairie has its own source of local talent. For an intimate yet equally grand (and easier parking) alternative, check out the Rivertown Theater. This 300-seat venue is praised for its outstanding acoustics, elegant design, and diverse programming. From comedy shows and Broadway-style productions to operas, symphonies, ballets, and more, you'll witness some of the finest performers in southeast Louisiana.
rivertowntheater.com; 320 Bourbon St, Metairie, LA 70002; 504-509-2011
Catch A Game At Yulman Stadium
If you've never been to a football game, a visit to Yulman Stadium is in order. This 30,000-seat, multi-use stadium, formerly known as Tulane Stadium, has hosted numerous sporting events. During football season, it serves as the home field for Tulane University's Green Wave football team. No football knowledge? No problem! The energy alone is enough to keep you entertained from start to finish.
tulanegreenwave.com; 3838 Camp St, New Orleans, LA 70118; 504-865-5211
Enjoy Sunset At East Bayou National Wildlife Refuge
Experience Louisiana's natural beauty up close with a visit to the East Bayou National Wildlife Refuge. This 3,200-acre site is home to a variety of plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Make a stop at the Bienvenue visitor center to learn more about the area, then take one of the many trails through the marsh. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the sky turns a fiery hue and the marsh comes alive with the sounds of nature.
fws.gov; 13550 Lake Ave, Metairie, LA 70005; 504-908-2446
Savor Seafood At Deanie's Seafood
No trip to New Orleans is complete without trying some fresh seafood. Deanie's Seafood, a Metairie institution, is the place to go for that fix. This family-owned restaurant, open since 1966, offers a seafood menu that's as long as it is delicious. From po' boys and gumbo to peel-and-eat shrimp and seafood platters, Deanie's has something for everyone. Don't forget to try their famous crab cakes, made with a secret family recipe passed down through the generations.
deaniesseafood.com; 2421 Esplanade Ave, Metairie, LA 70002; 504-834-3474
Discover Creole Culture At the Louisiana Children's Museum
For a fun and educational experience that the whole family will enjoy, visit the Louisiana Children's Museum. This hands-on museum showcases the rich Creole culture of New Orleans, with interactive exhibits that allow children (and adults) to learn while having fun. Highlights include the Mississippi River Delta, where you can explore the Cajun swamp, and the Mardi Gras parade float, where you can decorate your ownfloat for the big parade.
lcm.org; 420 Julia St, New Orleans, LA 70130; 504-523-1357
Drago's, a cherished family-owned eatery since 1969, is so adored by Louisianans that homegrown potato chip producer Zapp's incorporated a Drago's-style chip into their assortment in 2016. Residents swarm to Drago's for its renowned charbroiled oysters - an absolute must-try for any traveler. Fresh oysters are smothered in a fragrant garlic-and-herb butter concoction, sprinkled with Parmesan and Romano cheese, and grilled to perfection within their shells over a blazing grill. Pair your dish with one (or several) of the notable appetizers and bite-sized delights, such as Fleur De Li Shrimp, fried alligator pieces, and crab meat dip baked au gratin.
dragosrestaurant.com; Metairie Location: 3232 North Arnoult Road, Metairie, LA 70002; 504-888-9254
Celebrate Metairie's Mardi Gras
It's no secret that Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans can get quite boisterous, so if you're in search of a more subdued, family-friendly celebration, Metairie never fails to impress. Although not as colossal as the extravaganzas 10 minutes away in the Crescent City, the parades here, such as the Alice in Wonderland-themed Krewe of MadHatters, are no less vibrant. Witness the splendor of imaginative floats, vibrant costumes, and live music from high school marching bands. Your visit could coincide with Family Gras, a complimentary, youth-oriented event spanning several days with parades, food, local art, and outdoor concerts on Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
Related: When is Mardi Gras 2025?
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After savouring the delectable charbroiled oysters at Drago's in Metairie, you might want to join the local community in celebrating Mardi Gras. Even though the city is often overshadowed by the grandeur of the New Orleans festivities, Metairie offers a more subdued and family-friendly celebration. The Alice in Wonderland-themed Krewe of MadHatters parade is a highlight, featuring lively music, extravagant floats, and vibrant costumes. If your visit coincides with Family Gras, you'll be treated to several days of free events, including parades, concerts, and local art exhibitions along Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
