Jefferson, LA

A quiet slice of New Orleans life, minus the French Quarter frenzy.

Things to know

Discover Jefferson.

Lakeside Shopping Center

Shopping

A classic, open-air shopping hub that's been a community staple for decades. It's a relaxed alternative to the mall, with a mix of national retailers, local shops, and casual dining spots right off the Veterans Memorial Boulevard corridor.

Local Seafood Shacks

Food

Jefferson Parish is famous for its no-frills seafood joints serving boiled crawfish, crabs, and shrimp by the pound. Places like Schaefer's Seafood offer the authentic, spicy taste of South Louisiana in a casual, family-friendly setting.

Lafreniere Park

Nature

The crown jewel of Jefferson's green spaces, this 155-acre park features walking paths, a carousel, fishing lagoons, and a fitness trail. It's the community's backyard for picnics, festivals, and escaping into nature without leaving the city.

things to do

Things to Do in Jefferson

Life in Jefferson revolves around community, food, and easy living. While it's a residential base, you'll find plenty of local character and activities that define this essential part of the New Orleans metro.

Stroll Through Lafreniere Park

Nature

Spend an afternoon exploring the walking trails, feeding the ducks, or renting a paddle boat on the lagoon. The park frequently hosts free concerts and community events, making it the social heart of the parish.

Crack Crawfish at a Local Spot

Food

Embrace the seasonal ritual of visiting a spot like Schaefer's Seafood or Bevi Seafood Co. during crawfish season. Grab a newspaper-covered table, a cold drink, and dig into a spicy, communal boil.

Experience the Greek Festival

Culture

If your visit aligns with late May, don't miss this iconic event. Indulge in lamb chops, spanakopita, and baklava while watching traditional dances under the oak trees of the cathedral grounds.

Browse the Clearview Shopping Center

Shopping

A more modern, bustling retail center compared to Lakeside. It's a one-stop destination for everything from Target runs to catching a movie at the AMC Theatre, surrounded by a wide array of restaurants.

Catch a Game at Zephyr Field

Sports

Cheer on the New Orleans Baby Cakes (now known as the Triple-A affiliate for the MLB's Washington Nationals) at this family-friendly minor league baseball stadium. Enjoy affordable tickets, fireworks nights, and a classic ballpark atmosphere.

Fish at Bonnabel Boat Launch

Nature

Cast a line into the waters of Lake Pontchartrain from this popular public launch and fishing pier. It's a peaceful spot for anglers and a great place to watch the sunset over the water.

neighborhoods

Neighborhoods to Explore

Jefferson is a parish of distinct neighborhoods and unincorporated communities, each offering its own slice of suburban New Orleans life, from historic districts to modern subdivisions.

Old Metairie

Established & Leafy

The most prestigious area in Jefferson, known for its stately homes, towering live oaks, and quiet, winding streets. It borders the Orleans parish line and offers a serene, upscale residential atmosphere with proximity to city amenities.

Metairie (Central Business District)

Central & Convenient

The bustling commercial heart of the parish along Veterans Memorial Boulevard. This is where you'll find major shopping centers, office buildings, hospitals, and a dense concentration of restaurants and services, all with easy highway access.

River Ridge

Riverside & Historic

A residential community nestled along the Mississippi River levee. It has a strong sense of identity, with local parks, schools, and a mix of mid-century and newer homes. It feels removed from the busier corridors while remaining conveniently located.

Harahan

Suburban & Family-Friendly

A small, incorporated city within Jefferson Parish with a tight-knit, small-town feel. Known for its family-oriented neighborhoods, community events like Harahan's 'Mayor's Bike Ride,' and its access to the Mississippi River Trail for walking and biking.

Kenner

Affordable & Diverse

Though a separate city, Kenner is deeply intertwined with Jefferson Parish. It's home to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and offers diverse, affordable neighborhoods, the popular Laketown area, and a growing array of international dining options.

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