12 Treasures to Visit in Covington, Louisiana
When visiting Covington, as soon as you set foot downtown, it doesn’t take long to realize that Covington is a virtual treasure trove filled with charming things to do. Whether you are shopping, enjoying the wonderful food our local restaurants have to offer or just passing time, there are many things to do in this quaint city.
Starting on famed 1• Columbia Street, visit the art galleries it is known for, such as the Covington Art Association and Tripolo Gallery, and many retail and antique stores filled with interesting local “treasures.” Numerous restaurants line the street featuring live music and a spirited nightlife.
A visit to 2• H.J. Smith and Sons General Store is like stepping back in time. This Covington institution since 1876 has a Covington history museum located inside and still functions as a general store.
Just two blocks east of Columbia Street is the scenic 3•Lee Lane, where you will find more wonderful antique and gift shops perfect for your Christmas shopping.
On Saturday mornings, from 8 a.m. to noon, a few blocks north on Columbia Street near City Hall, you can find local farmers selling their produce and goods at the 4• Covington Farmer’s Market. Eggs, goat cheese and fresh vegetables are among the many delightful commodities being sold in this open market. Live entertainment welcomes you as you browse creating a friendly, festive environment.
At the southern end of Columbia Street is the Bogue Falaya River and 5• Columbia Street Landing, the birthplace of Covington and once a proud harbor and dock for schooners and steamers, bringing some of the first settlers to the area. It is now known for its Sunset at The Landing monthly concert series and other gatherings featuring local talent performing live music free of charge.
With a quick jaunt around the bend in the river, you enter 6• Bogue Falaya Park. This beautiful open ground is host to many cultural activities such as last month’s Monster Mash, the Chef Soirée Gala in the spring and Louisiana Philharmonic Opera’s Swing in The Pines outdoor series. Its riverbank is a great place to have a picnic as the river gently flows by and its playground is perfect for passing the time with young kids.
Located just outside the park, the quaint 7• Christ Episcopal Church built in 1846 is Covington’s oldest public building still in use today.
Cruising down the oak-lined Jahncke Avenue to the southern tip of Covington, you will wind your way to 8• Old Landing. Nestled between the Tchefuncte and Bogue Falaya Rivers, this is a great launching point for kayakers and paddle boarders who want to enjoy the peaceful natural setting while exploring the rivers.
Speaking of nature, just on the outskirts of Covington on Lowe Davis Road is 9• Insta-Gator Ranch, which will put you up close and personal with Louisiana’s most ancient resident, the alligator. Take a tour of the farm on protected walkways while safely interacting with hundreds of reptiles. Children and adults alike love having their photos taken with the smaller ones.
The 10• Covington Trailhead is where old Covington becomes new Covington. The old rail lines that once guided trains as they lumbered through the city of Covington, are now home to part of the Tammany Trace. This is the beginning of the 31-mile hike and bike path that winds its way throughout the Northshore. The Trailhead also hosts a free cultural concert series in the spring and fall called Rockin’ the Rails as well as a smaller version of the weekend farmer’s market every Wednesday. The trailhead is always a good place to pass the time on a beautiful day.
Another newer addition to Covington, situated at the foot of the Trailhead is Covington’s own microbrewery, the 11• Covington Brewhouse. Pop in, enjoy a tour by a scientist turned brew master and learn what makes their beer so special.
A tour of Covington would be incomplete without mentioning our newest, old jewel, the renovated 12• Southern Hotel. Located a block south of the Trailhead in the heart of downtown, the recently opened Southern Hotel combines old world charm with new world style. With its picturesque courtyard, modern Cypress Bar and Covington’s own history lining the walls, you will be charmed by its ambiance and décor.
The next time you visit Covington, be sure to look around at the history surrounding you. So many little treasures are just waiting for you to discover them.
