Hotels in Slidell

Slidell, Louisiana is overflowing with Southern hospitality, among its tree-shaded streets. Located in the southeastern part of Louisiana on the northern tip of Lake Pontchartrain, visitors are greeted by large oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, irises blowing in the breeze, and plenty of local wildlife. Begin your visit in Olde Towne and shop for antiques, or enjoy some crawfish at a restaurant overlooking the marina. During the 1900s, Slidell became a major crossroads for travel across the Gulf states and today it lies at the intersection between three large interstate highways.

Where to stay

Slidell has easy access from major highways and there are many familiar hotel brands in the area. Families will feel comfortable with affordable rates at the Comfort Inn or Holiday Inn, while more luxurious accommodations come in the form of Homewood Suites by Hilton. This contemporary townhouse has a homely environment and it acts as a great business center. Most Slidell hotels offer rates around $100 a night and some come with swimming pools where guests can take a relaxing dip.

Things to see

Outdoor jaunts to view wildlife species are common in Slidell, while anglers can charter a boat on the ocean. The scenery is beautiful here, and adventures beckon keen explorers.

Swamp tours

The Honey Island Swamp Tours have been featured in the traveler's guide 1000 Things to Do Before You Die. Board a boat bound for one of Louisiana's pristine swamps to search for alligators and other wetland wildlife. You 'll meet turtles and gators while the skipper of your vessel spins exciting pirate yarns. In the summer months, it gets hot, especially without air conditioning on the boat, so be sure to bring water and sunscreen.

Slidell shopping

North Shore Square is the area's only traditional mall. With everything from the Sunglass Hut to Books-A-Million, you'll find accessories, novels and other items you may have forgotten to pack. For a more local feel, visit Bayou Country General Store. Unique art and souvenirs can be found here, such as CDs filled with Louisiana jazz and freshly-prepared pralines, touted as the best in the world. Or take home a taste of Slidell with a line of homemade jams and honey packed in a souvenir holder that resembles an authentic crawfish bag.

Fishing charters

Louisiana is considered a sportsman's paradise because the Gulf offers some of the best fishing opportunities in America. You can join a fishing charter guided by a knowledgeable captain. Not only will you be able to catch dinner, you'll also learn useful techniques for future adventures. If you're lucky, you may even net some rare red snapper.

When to visit

Louisiana is known for its Mardi Gras celebrations. Plan a trip to Slidell in spring, during the annual Bal Masque celebration, and enter a fairytale land where everyone's in costume and lively tunes fill the air.

Independence Day brings the yearly Heritage Festival filled with live music, tasty food and specialty vendors. An awesome fireworks display ends the evening. Olde Towne also hosts the Antique District Street Fair each spring and fall; Arts Evening features pieces from over 100 local artists, so you can immerse yourself in the unique culture of Southern craftsmen and painters.

The mild climate of Slidell welcomes visitors throughout the year. The area is most popular in the spring as Mardi Gras approaches. This time of year has, predictably, the highest-priced hotel rates as well. Leisure travelers will enjoy fall as temperatures cool and fishing hits its stride in the Creole State.