Madisonville, LA

Sitting along the banks of the Tchefuncte River on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Madisonville is one of the most picturesque towns in the greater New Orleans area. As the oldest permanent settlement in St. Tammany Parish, it blends centuries of maritime history with a quiet, comfortable lifestyle. Neighborhood streets are lined with historic cottages and moss-draped live oaks, leading right down to a riverfront filled with popular seafood restaurants and scenic docks. You get the open space and easygoing rhythm of a small waterfront community, along with a straightforward drive to Covington, Mandeville, and the Causeway into the city.

ATTRRichard David Ramsey. Original uploader was Richard David Ramsey at en.wikipedia / Public domain

Living in Madisonville means spending plenty of time outdoors and on the water. Boating, kayaking, and fishing are regular pastimes for local families, with the historic Tchefuncte River Lighthouse standing guard where the river meets the lake. The town celebrates its boatbuilding roots each fall during the Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival, filling the riverbanks with classic vessels, regional food, and live music. With highly rated public schools, welcoming parks, and a close-knit neighborhood feel, it is an easy place to put down roots and enjoy the Northshore way of life.