Sprawling north-west of New Orleans, Metairie takes its name from the French word for “sharecropping farm”, referring to the practice of many of its early settlers. In the wake of World War II, the area’s cypress swamps and marshlands were drained to allow for large-scale development around what is now known as “Old Metairie”.
Things to do in Metairie
Operas, ballets and orchestral performances are held at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center, a 1,000-seat venue on the edge of LaSalle Park. It features a state-of-the-art theatre named after the Louisiana senator, Ken Hollis, with a proscenium arch stage and outstanding acoustics. During intermission, you can grab a drink at the bar and enjoy views across LaSalle Park from the terrace.
For a retail fix, head to the Lakeside Shopping Center, which opened in 1960 as New Orlean’s first regional mall. It is now anchored by Dillard’s, Macy’s and JCPenney and boasts more than 120 additional stores and restaurants. You can shop for homewares at Pottery Barn, browse the latest fashions at Zara or get hands-on with the kids at the Build-A-Bear Workshop.
Metairie’s largest green space is Lafreniere Park, which boasts two playgrounds, a carousel and a man-made lagoon. You can stretch your legs on the boardwalk trail while spotting ibis, geese and swans, as well as the park’s large population of resident raccoons. In addition to its sporting fields, Lafreniere Park is renowned for its Christmas light displays.
Getting around Metairie
Metairie is around 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of New Orleans and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America and Europe. Regular buses connect to Metairie, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.