A Slice of Small-Town Charm

Cross the Causeway Bridge for a jaunt into Covington, Louisiana

- BETH D'ADDONO

new Orleanians have been escaping the jangle and jive of the city for the sedate Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain since the early 19th century. Back then, affluent locals flocked to "l'autre côté du lac" (the other side of the lake) to escape the vice- and plague-ridden city and lean into wholesome pastimes. The game-changing 24-mile Lake Pontchartrain Causeway opened in 1956, cutting the commute from New Orleans to 45 minutes and transforming the sleepy towns of St. Tammany Parish-Abita Springs, Covington, Folsom, Lacombe, Madisonville, Mandeville, and Slidell-into bedroom communities for the Big Easy.

While each of these towns has its particular attractions-most notably you can feed giraffes at Global Wildlife Center in Folsom-Covington is undeniably top of the list when it comes to small-town charm. From its walkable downtown to its accessible outdoor fun and truly impressive dining scene, Covington offers the ideal staycation setting.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH TOWN

There are more than 30 restaurants to savor in Covington, many within walking distance of downtown. The Gloriette in the elegant Southern Hotel is one newcomer. The restaurant's verdant garden decor is a balm, only outdone by the flavors of chef Steven Marsella's French bistro classics.