Cajun country or lake north shore?

Question

Hi! Have visited Nola many times along with swamp tours and plantations. Past visit after NOLA enjoyed staying a few days at Cajun country, New Iberia, Lafayette, Breaux Bridge, Avery Island, to name a few. Do you recommend for next visit, go a few days to the North shore after NOLA? It's worth spend 2 or 3 nights in the area? Or do you think should I repeat Cajun country? Thank you

Answer

Both Cajun Country and the North Shore offer unique and enriching experiences, so it really depends on what you're looking for during your next visit. Since you've already experienced Cajun Country with its rich culture, flavorful cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, the North Shore could be a refreshing change of pace, offering a different but equally scenic and historical side of Louisiana. Here's a breakdown of both options to help you decide:

Cajun Country (New Iberia, Lafayette, Breaux Bridge, Avery Island)

Since you've already visited Cajun Country, you likely know that this region is steeped in unique Cajun and Creole culture. The area is famous for its bayous, swamps, and historic plantations, offering a deep dive into the culture of Louisiana's Cajun people. Some highlights include:

Historic Plantations: Visiting plantation homes such as Shadows-on-the-Teche in New Iberia or the various homes in Breaux Bridge offers a glimpse into the region's history.
Swamp Tours: The area offers excellent swamp tours where you can explore the famous bayous and marshlands, possibly spotting alligators, herons, and other wildlife.
Food Culture: The culinary scene here is exceptional, with delicious gumbo, crawfish étouffée, boudin, and po'boys. New Iberia, in particular, is famous for Tabasco sauce, and a visit to Avery Island to see the Tabasco factory is a fun experience.
Festivals and Music: If your visit aligns with local festivals like the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, you’ll get a taste of the lively music scene, from zydeco to Cajun tunes.

Returning to Cajun Country is a great choice if you're craving more of the laid-back charm of the rural south, along with the sounds of zydeco music and the flavors of classic Cajun cuisine.

North Shore (Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, Lacombe)

On the other hand, the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, just a short drive from New Orleans, offers a different type of experience. This area is more suburban and has a slower pace than the city of New Orleans but still provides plenty of charm, natural beauty, and local history. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a change of scenery. Key highlights of the North Shore include:

Scenic Lake Views: The North Shore is perfect for those who enjoy beautiful lakeside views, whether you're strolling along the Mandeville Lakefront or taking a boat tour of Lake Pontchartrain.
Historic Towns: Covington and Mandeville are historic towns with picturesque Main Streets, antique shops, art galleries, and quaint local cafes. Mandeville also has a lovely waterfront area along the lake, with plenty of green spaces and parks.
Outdoor Activities: The North Shore is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the scenic trails at the Fontainebleau State Park, take a kayak tour, or visit the Slidell area to explore its nature preserves and birdwatching spots.
Food and Music: The North Shore has a growing culinary scene, with a focus on fresh seafood, local Cajun and Creole dishes, and farm-to-table restaurants. The area also offers live music, particularly in Covington.
Historic Sites: Consider visiting the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum or taking a tour of the St. Tammany Parish area to learn more about the region’s history.

The North Shore is an excellent option if you're looking for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with access to outdoor activities, art, and history, while still being close to New Orleans for day trips. It’s also a great place to unwind if you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Cajun Country if: You want to dive deeper into the culture, food, and history of Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole roots. You’ll get more swamp tours, plantation visits, and authentic local cuisine. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to revisit the heart of Louisiana’s heritage.
Choose the North Shore if: You’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with scenic views of Lake Pontchartrain, outdoor activities, and charming small towns. The North Shore offers a different experience, with beautiful nature, local art, and a calm escape from the city. It’s also an easy day trip from New Orleans if you want to explore but stay closer to the city.

Recommendation: If you’ve already experienced Cajun Country and want something a bit different, I recommend spending a couple of days on the North Shore. It offers a fresh change of scenery, with plenty to see and do without venturing too far from New Orleans. However, if you’re drawn to the unique cultural aspects of Cajun life and feel like you want to explore more of that, then returning to Cajun Country for another round of history, food, and swamp tours would be just as rewarding.