What qualifies a hippie town? Local art? Yoga/Pilates shops? Vegan/vegetarian options? Well Covington has all of that, and more. Covington is a wonderful, friendly, peaceful city where local businesses thrive and free thinking and creative expression is encouraged.
Welcome to Covington, a city just north of New Orleans, with a population of about 10,000.
Founded in 1813 under the name Wharton, the city was renamed shortly afterward, though the reason behind the change is still up for debate. Some believe it was to honor General Leonard Covington, a war hero from the War or 1812. Others believe the name was changed to honor Blue Grass whiskey, which was made in Covington, Louisiana.
As you walk though the charming historic downtown section, you’ll be amazed at how this little-big town seamlessly blends the old and new.
It’s one of those places where everyone knows your name. The town’s general store is one of the oldest continuously operating business on the north shore. It’s been run by the same family since 1876 and it’s worth your while to stop by to check it out.
Covington is one of the best places to get local art. There are several art galleries throughout downtown Covington, and they host multiple art festivals throughout the year.
Talented artists from all over come to display their art at festivals like Three Rivers Art Festivals, Spring for Art, Fall for Art, and many others.
Covington is also filled with locally owned unique boutiques.
Covington prides itself on the many locally owned stores in the town. Be sure to support local businesses when you visit!
And of course, dozens of antique shops.
You'll find amazing, unique treasures at any one of the antique stores scattered throughout the historic downtown area.
There are several yoga and pilates shops peppered throughout the city, so keeping your New Year’s resolutions to be more active isn’t ever a problem.
And the Tammany Trace runs straight through Covington, which is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a healthy bike ride.
And what good would any hippy town be without an amazing Farmers Market?
The Farmers Market is quite the popular place to meet up with friends while you shop for the freshest produce around. You can also pick up some delicious homemade jams and jellies, salsas, pasties, pies, and so much more. There's always live music from a talented local musician.
And there are several healthy restaurants where you can get a delicious, vegan/vegetarian/organic or gluten free meal.
Most of the restaurants in Covington offer healthy meals or would be happy to cater to your dietary needs. We’d recommend Toad Hollow over on N. New Hampshire Street. They use only fresh, high-quality, mostly organic ingredients and their food is made from scratch, to order.
There's always something to do in Covington.
Stop by and see for yourself!
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