Maybe it’s your special person’s birthday or an anniversary, or maybe you just want to sweep your significant other away for a weekend of romance. The charming lakefront town of Mandeville, Louisiana offers a wide variety of romantic restaurants and activities perfect for a weekend away. Just 45 minutes from New Orleans and a little over an hour from Baton Rouge, you can easily escape and spend your weekend relishing in intimate small-town charm.
Bike along the Tammany Trace
This rail-to-trail bike path winds along the Northshore, starting in Covington, dipping through Mandeville and ending 31 miles later in Slidell. Bring your own bikes or stop by Brooks’ Bike Shop to rent one for the day. Start at the Mandeville Trailhead and head over to Covington for a nice lunch or turn your wheels east and pedal to Lacomb or Slidell.
Picnic at Fontainebleau
To move your day from fun bike ride to romantic outing, pack a nice picnic and enjoy it at Fontainebleau State Park. Sit on the beach and enjoy your own little charcuterie board filled with meats, cheeses, local Ponchatoula strawberries, and some cookies!
Wine tasting at Pontchartrain Vineyards
Escape to the vineyards and spend the afternoon sipping wines with your partner. Pontchartrain Vineyards lie just north of Mandeville near the town of Bush. Come in on a rainy day and relax in their inviting tasting room or attend one of their outdoor concerts on a sunny afternoon.
Dinner at The Lakehouse
If you are looking for a unique dinner spot with great views and even better entrees, then head to The Lakehouse in downtown Mandeville. This classy restaurant is hosted in the historic 1830’s Bechac Family House overlooking Lake Pontchartrain. Sit down in their warm and relaxing atmosphere and the only worry will be which stunning entree to order. With seafood, steaks, and perfectly crafted cocktails you’ll be in heaven.
Paddle on Pontchartrain
Head out for a sunset paddle on the lake. Brooks’ Bike Shop rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards out in addition to their bikes. Catch the golden hour and have some fun out on the water. They say it takes two to paddle a canoe!
Drinks and Dancing at the Dew Drop Jazz and Social Hall
If you want a local’s spot to go dancing and order some drinks, the Dew Drop is the spot. They are the local hub for jazz music and there is almost always someone playing the stage. Concerts cost $10 and get you into the historic building where Louis Armstrong himself played! All proceeds go towards preserving the structure, supporting jazz artists, and music education, so grab a drink and hit the dance floor.
Getaway for a weekend and get back to what really matters; each other. Explore the small-town charm of this intimate lake-front paradise with good food, good wine, and romantic activities to bring out the best in each other.
Planning a romantic trip in Louisiana? The Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association boasts several one-of-a-kind inns, bed & breakfasts, and historic homes located in all corners of the state.