St. Tammany Parish has so many wonderful cities, towns, and villages to explore. As the former first daughter and current resident of Abita, I'm a proud Abitian (as we call ourselves) and think everyone should spend a day in our cute little town. Here are my suggestions on how to make a day of it with your family.
Breakfast
For a quick bite, stop at Maple Street Bakery (72066 Maple St; open Wed-Sat 7a-5p and Sun 7a-1p) for the most amazing smelling, looking, and tasting pastries around. Dine on the front porch or inside of this classic Abita Springs structure and you might see the ghost that’s rumored to haunt the place. Or try Happy Morning Donuts (21025 LA-36; open daily 5a-noon, until 1p on weekends), a little hole in the wall across from the Abita Brewery, and one of my favorite spots for donuts.
For a classic taste of Abita, you can’t go wrong at the Abita Cafe (22132 Level St.; open daily 7a-8p). While best known for its breakfast and amazing coffee, it's also a great place to stop for lunch, dinner, a drink, snowballs, ice cream, and even live music some nights of the week. If you’re in a hurry, grab a coffee or a smoothie in the drive-thru. And see if you can spot the resident chicken while you’re out there.
Explore
This little town isn’t short on activities. The 31-mile Tammany Trace runs right through town, with multiple access points and parking spots downtown. The Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve is less than five miles from downtown. The Abita Mystery House (22275 LA-36; open daily 10a - 5p; $5 a person, under 5 free) is a wacky, can’t-miss museum that will delight kids and grown-ups alike with its roadside attraction weirdness. And a stroll through the sidewalks of town is a delight of classic Abita architecture (and great decorations during the holidays).
On the weekends don’t miss the Sunday Farmers Market, mass at the beautiful St. Jane de Chantal Catholic Church, or the various fairs, festivals, and activities hosted by the town.
Lunch and Dinner
Mama D’s (22054 LA-59; open daily for lunch and dinner) has the best pizza around, or try the Abita Brew Pub (72011 Holly St; open for lunch Sundays and lunch and dinner Tuesdays - Saturdays) for delicious meals inside or on the patio facing the trace, and a beautiful bar serving all the Abita beer you could ever dream of. Or check out the event listings at the Abita Brewery (21084 LA-36) - not only can you go on tours of the brewery but they frequently host family-friendly food trucks outside on the lawn.
Make it a Staycation
The Abita Springs Hotel is right in the heart of town and features gorgeous rooms, complimentary bike rental, and a flowing artesian spring and views of live oak trees in the garden.
