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Metairie

Metairie, Louisiana, United States

Metairie: New Orleans' Lively Next-Door Neighbor Just across the 17th Street Canal from the French Quarter's vibrant energy lies Metairie, a bustling suburb offering a distinct Louisiana experience. More than just a bedr…

#Suburb#Residential#Commercial#Southern#Louisiana

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Metairie.

Top Hotels in Metairie

Top Flights to Metairie

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Metairie.

Tours

Zephyr Field

A minor league baseball park, home to the New Orleans Baby Cakes.

Metairie Historic District

Explore the historic buildings and architecture of old Metairie.

Jefferson Performing Arts Center

A modern performing arts theater hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural events.

Shopping

Lakeside Shopping Center

A premier shopping destination with a wide range of retail stores and dining options.

Clearview City Center

A mixed-use retail center with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

East Jefferson Farmers Market

A vibrant farmers market offering fresh local produce and artisanal goods.

Outdoor

Lafreniere Park

A beautiful park featuring walking paths, a botanical garden, kids playground, and a picturesque lake.

Shrine on Airline

A multi-purpose stadium that hosts a variety of events, including baseball and concerts.

Bonnabel Boat Launch

A public boat launch providing access to Lake Pontchartrain for boating and fishing.

Bucktown Harbor Marina

A charming marina offering boat rentals and waterfront dining with scenic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Metairie.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Not Available
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Metairie
Jan
cloud
16°6°
Feb
cloud
18°8°
Mar
rain
21°11°
Apr
sun
25°15°
May
sun
29°19°
Jun
hot
32°23°
Jul
hot
33°24°
Aug
hot
33°24°
Sep
sun
31°22°
Oct
sun
27°17°
Nov
cloud
22°12°
Dec
cloud
18°7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Metairie.

What people love

Metairie, Louisiana, is a vibrant suburb of New Orleans with its own unique attractions and benefits for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Metairie include:

  1. Proximity to New Orleans: Metairie is located just a short drive away from the city of New Orleans, allowing travelers to easily access all the attractions and activities that the city has to offer, such as the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and the historic architecture.

  2. Shopping and Dining: Metairie is home to a variety of shopping centers, including Lakeside Shopping Center and Clearview Mall, offering a range of retail options for visitors. The area also boasts numerous restaurants serving up delicious Louisiana cuisine, from seafood to po'boys to beignets.

  3. Outdoor Recreation: Metairie has several parks and outdoor spaces where visitors can enjoy activities such as jogging, biking, or picnicking. Lafreniere Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, with walking trails, playgrounds, and even a carousel.

  4. Cultural Attractions: Metairie is home to cultural attractions such as the Jefferson Parish Performing Arts Society and the New Orleans Zephyrs baseball team, providing opportunities for entertainment and cultural experiences.

  5. Local Events: Metairie hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals, parades, and live music performances, giving visitors a chance to experience the local culture and community spirit.

Overall, traveling to Metairie offers a mix of proximity to New Orleans, shopping and dining options, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and local events, making it a charming destination for visitors looking to explore the Louisiana area.

What to know

Metairie, Louisiana is a popular destination with many attractions and amenities, but there are some potential cons to consider when traveling there:

  1. Weather: Metairie, like much of Louisiana, can experience hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. This may not be ideal for travelers who are sensitive to heat or prefer milder climates.

  2. Traffic: Metairie is a suburban area located near New Orleans, which can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak travel times. Navigating through traffic jams and delays may be frustrating for visitors.

  3. Crime: While Metairie is generally considered a safe area, like any destination, it is not immune to crime. Travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety and be aware of their surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.

  4. Limited public transportation: Metairie is primarily a car-dependent city, and public transportation options are limited compared to larger cities. This could be a challenge for travelers who prefer not to drive or rely on public transportation.

  5. Limited nightlife: While Metairie offers a variety of dining options and entertainment venues, it may not have as vibrant of a nightlife scene as nearby New Orleans. Travelers seeking a bustling nightlife may need to venture into the city for more options.

Overall, while Metairie has much to offer visitors, it is important to consider these potential cons when planning a trip to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Metairie, located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, is a significant unincorporated area in the Greater New Orleans metropolitan area. Here's a detailed history of Metairie:

Early History:

  • The name "Metairie" is derived from the French word "métairie," which means a small tenant farm. This reflects the area's origins in agriculture and farming.
  • The region was first settled by French settlers in the 18th century, and the land was used for agricultural purposes, particularly for growing crops and raising cattle.

19th Century:

  • During the 19th century, Metairie remained largely rural, with few developments. It was characterized by farms and plantations.
  • The now-famous Metairie Road follows the path of the old Metairie Ridge, which was a natural levee that provided a dry route for settlers and farmers.

Early 20th Century:

  • In the early 1900s, Metairie began to grow as a suburban community due to its proximity to New Orleans.
  • The development of the Jefferson Highway in the 1920s connected Metairie more directly to New Orleans, spurring residential and commercial growth.
  • In the 1940s, the construction of the Earhart Expressway and Airline Highway further facilitated access and development.

Post-World War II Boom:

  • After World War II, Metairie experienced a population boom as part of the suburban expansion around New Orleans.
  • Veterans returning from the war sought homes in suburban areas, leading to the construction of many new neighborhoods.

Significant Events:

  • In 1947, Metairie was severely affected by the Fort Lauderdale Hurricane, which caused significant flooding and damage.
  • The construction of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in 1956 further enhanced connectivity and contributed to the area's growth.
  • Hurricane Betsy in 1965 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005 were significant events that impacted Metairie, causing damage and influencing infrastructure development and flood protection measures.

Cultural and Economic Development:

  • Metairie has developed into a major economic center with shopping areas like Lakeside Shopping Center and Clearview Mall.
  • The community is home to many cultural and recreational facilities, including Lafreniere Park, which provides a large green space for residents.

Landmarks and Notable Figures:

  • Lafreniere Park: A large park offering recreational activities, named after Nicolas Chauvin de Lafrénière, a French colonial politician.
  • Lakeside Shopping Center: One of the largest malls in the New Orleans area, contributing to Metairie's economy.
  • Metairie Cemetery: Known for its elaborate tombs and is a historical and cultural landmark, though technically located in New Orleans.
  • Jefferson Performing Arts Center: A venue for cultural events, highlighting Metairie's commitment to the arts.

Recent Developments:

  • Metairie continues to evolve with new residential and commercial projects.
  • The area is known for its diverse population and vibrant community life.

Overall, Metairie's history reflects its transformation from rural farmland to a bustling suburban community with significant economic and cultural importance in the New Orleans metropolitan area.