Slidell LA

Slidell – Nestled on the northeast shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Slidell, Louisiana is a charming blend of Southern hospitality, natural beauty, and small-town warmth. Just a short drive from New Orleans, Slidell offers a relaxing escape with its bayous, historic old town, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're drawn by the peaceful waterside views, the flavors of local Cajun cuisine, or the rich culture of the deep South, Slidell invites you to slow down and savor life at an easygoing pace.

• Population: ~28,000
• Weather: Hot, humid summers; mild, short winters (45-90°F)
• Places To Visit: Olde Towne Slidell, Honey Island Swamp, Slidell Heritage Park, Bayou Country General Store, The Train Station Museum
• Top Activities: Swamp tours, fishing on Lake Pontchartrain, exploring antique shops, attending Mardi Gras parades, enjoying local festivals
• Famous Food: Crawfish étouffée, po’boys, beignets, seafood gumbo, and classic Southern BBQ

Slidell, Louisiana, known for its charm and proximity to New Orleans, has a strong local economy supported by sectors like healthcare, education, construction, and retail. Whether you're seeking a career change or just starting out, Slidell offers promising job opportunities across various fields.

Slidell, Louisiana might be a small city, but it’s got some hidden gems where students can kick back, relax, and enjoy life outside the classroom. Whether you're into nature, good food, art, or just finding a cozy corner to hang out with friends, Slidell has a chill spot for you.

Heritage Park – Right by the bayou, this peaceful park is perfect for unwinding after a long day. You’ll find walking trails, picnic tables, and plenty of open space to toss a frisbee, listen to music, or just vibe with your group. Bonus: there are often local festivals and live music events here.

Olde Towne Slidell – This historic downtown area is full of cute cafes, local art, and small shops to explore. Grab a coffee, check out the murals, or hit up a weekend market. It’s a great spot for finding creative inspiration or taking a photo walk with friends.

The Movie Tavern – Why settle for a regular movie night when you can recline in a comfy chair and order snacks right to your seat? The Movie Tavern mixes great films with great food—ideal for chill evenings or stress-free weekends.

Big Easy Comics – Whether you’re into Marvel, Magic: The Gathering, or collectibles, this hangout is a dream for every comic and gaming enthusiast. They also host game nights, which is a fun (and super friendly) way to meet like-minded students.

Slidell Rocks! Climbing Gym – Need to blow off some steam? Head here for indoor climbing fun that gets your body moving and your mind focused. It's beginner-friendly, and whether you're bouldering or scaling walls, you'll leave feeling refreshed.

Camp Salmen Nature Park – This place is a hidden retreat for students who need a break from screens and schedules. Hike the trails, sit by the water, or just enjoy the quiet. Sometimes, all you need to reboot is a little fresh southern air.

Olde Towne Soda Shop – Step back in time at this retro hangout spot. With classic milkshakes, floats, and diner vibes, it’s the ultimate feel-good stop for when you want something sweet with your study pals or just need a pick-me-up.

Wherever you go in Slidell, there’s a spot waiting where you can chill out, laugh with friends, or take a deep breath and reset. It's all about finding the right vibe—and this city has plenty to offer when you know where to look.

Slidell, Louisiana, is a vibrant city located on the northeast shore of Lake Pontchartrain. While Slidell itself is home mainly to community and technical colleges, its proximity to the greater New Orleans and Northshore regions allows residents access to outstanding colleges and universities, both public and private. Students in Slidell benefit from a strong higher education network, offering opportunities in healthcare, technology, business, and the arts.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Slidell, LA

1. Northshore Technical Community College – Sullivan Campus – Located right in Slidell, NTCC provides accessible, career-focused programs, including nursing, information technology, and industrial technology. It’s a top choice for students beginning their educational journey close to home.

2. Delgado Community College – Sidney Collier Site – About 25 miles from Slidell, Delgado is one of Louisiana’s largest community colleges. It offers associate degrees in fields like engineering, healthcare, and business, as well as transfer pathways to four-year universities.

3. Southeastern Louisiana University – Situated in Hammond, about 45 minutes from Slidell, Southeastern is one of the state’s largest public universities. It’s known for excellent business, education, and nursing programs and offers a vibrant student life.

4. University of New Orleans (UNO) – Located less than an hour away, UNO is a prominent public research university. UNO excels in engineering, business, and liberal arts, and provides robust support for transfer and commuter students from the Slidell area.

5. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center – New Orleans – For those interested in medical and health careers, LSUHSC is the region’s top public institution. While based in New Orleans, it serves students from across Southeast Louisiana, including Slidell.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Slidell, LA

1. Loyola University New Orleans – Around 40 minutes from Slidell, Loyola is well regarded for its liberal arts, music, law, and business programs. Its supportive campus fosters creativity and personal growth.

2. Tulane University – A national leader in research and academics, Tulane is located in New Orleans and is known for its rigorous programs in public health, law, architecture, and the sciences. Students from Slidell pursue degrees here for its renowned faculty and global network.

3. Our Lady of Holy Cross College (now University of Holy Cross) – This private Catholic institution in New Orleans has a nurturing environment and is respected for programs in nursing, education, and counseling.

4. Dillard University – A distinguished historically Black university, Dillard offers strong liberal arts and STEM programs along with a supportive campus culture. It’s a top private college choice within easy reach of Slidell students.

5. Xavier University of Louisiana – As the nation’s only historically Black, Catholic university, Xavier is famous for its pharmacy, pre-med, and STEM programs. Its mission-driven education attracts motivated students from Slidell and beyond.

No matter what your career goals are, Slidell’s proximity to these excellent public and private institutions means you have a world of educational opportunities within reach. Whether you’re starting at a local community college or aiming for a research university, there’s a pathway to success ready for you.

Slidell, LA is home to several standout high schools that are doing an excellent job of preparing students for bright futures. Whether you're looking for outstanding public education or a private school with a specialized focus, Slidell offers great options. Here are some of the top public and private high schools in the area that consistently earn high marks for academics, extracurriculars, and college readiness.

Top Public High Schools in Slidell, LA

• Northshore High School – Known for high academic achievement and a well-rounded student experience, Northshore High offers a strong college preparatory program, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and numerous extracurricular options.
• Slidell High School – One of the oldest schools in the area, Slidell High combines tradition with modern-day learning, offering diverse academic tracks, competitive sports, and opportunities in the arts.
• Salmen High School – Salmen is a community-focused school that emphasizes both academic growth and character development. It's ideal for students seeking a supportive learning environment.
• Lakeshore High School – A newer public school with excellent facilities, Lakeshore has quickly gained a reputation for academic excellence and outstanding athletics.
• Bayou Lacombe Middle School (Feeder for High School Programs) – While technically a middle school, Bayou Lacombe plays an essential role in high school prep for many students in Slidell, offering advanced math and science programs that set a solid foundation.

Top Private High Schools in Slidell, LA

• Pope John Paul II Catholic High School – This faith-based school offers a rigorous academic curriculum coupled with strong spiritual formation. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students thrive both academically and personally.
• First Baptist Christian School – Known for its nurturing environment and strong academic performance, this school provides a Christ-centered education with a solid college preparatory curriculum.
• Northlake Christian School – While located just outside Slidell, this private school attracts many families from the area. It offers a comprehensive academic program from PreK through high school, including honors and dual enrollment classes.
• Kehoe-France Northshore – Offering a balanced education with a focus on leadership skills, Kehoe-France is known for its strong performing arts and athletics programs, along with academic rigor.
• Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School (Feeder School) – Though technically a PK-8 school, graduates of Our Lady of Lourdes are well prepared for private high school success in the Slidell area.

Choosing the right high school is a big decision, but thankfully, families in Slidell have excellent choices. Whether you're interested in academic rigor, faith-based education, or strong extracurricular offerings, there's a school here that can meet your child’s goals and values. Taking the time to visit schools, meet staff, and ask the right questions will help you find the best fit for your family.

While Slidell, Louisiana, doesn’t have any major league professional sports teams of its own, its residents don’t have to travel far to experience the thrill and excitement of top-tier competition. Just under an hour away, New Orleans offers a vibrant and passionate sports culture that Slidell locals proudly support. Here’s a look at the closest professional sports teams that fans in Slidell call their own.

Football – New Orleans Saints (NFL)

• New Orleans Saints – Founded in 1967, the Saints have become a beloved institution in Louisiana. They won their first and only Super Bowl championship in the 2009 season, led by iconic quarterback Drew Brees and head coach Sean Payton. Home games at the Caesars Superdome are packed with loyal fans from across the Gulf Coast, including many from Slidell who proudly sport black and gold on game day.

Basketball – New Orleans Pelicans (NBA)

• New Orleans Pelicans – Playing in the Western Conference of the NBA, the Pelicans are a young and energetic team based at the Smoothie King Center, right next to the Superdome. While they haven’t yet claimed an NBA title, they’ve had incredible talent on their roster, including Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and former stars like Anthony Davis. Slidell hoops fans often make the short drive to catch the action live.

Baseball – New Orleans Minor League and College Baseball

• Although New Orleans no longer hosts a Major League Baseball team, local fans still enjoy America's pastime. The city has a rich history of minor league teams, and with college programs like Tulane's Green Wave and the University of New Orleans Privateers nearby, there’s no shortage of quality baseball within reach.

Soccer – New Orleans Jesters (NPSL)

• New Orleans Jesters – Representing the city in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), the Jesters offer an exciting soccer experience just a short trip from Slidell. They focus on growing the sport locally, with an emphasis on community and youth development. Watching a match at Pan American Stadium is a fun, affordable way for fans to enjoy live soccer action.

Hockey – Baton Rouge Zydeco (FPHL)

• Baton Rouge Zydeco – While not located right in New Orleans, the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) brought hockey back to Baton Rouge in 2023 with the Zydeco. A bit of a drive from Slidell, but for die-hard hockey fans, it’s a chance to support professional players chasing their dreams on the ice in Louisiana.

Even though Slidell doesn’t host its own big-league teams, the city’s strategic location near New Orleans allows residents to be part of a thriving sports culture. Whether you love football, basketball, baseball, or even hockey, there’s always an exciting game just down the I-10. And with such passionate fanbases and rich histories, Louisiana’s professional sports scene brings Slidell fans together like few things can!

Slidell, Louisiana, might seem like a small town on the map, but it's packed with charm, culture, and a few surprises. Tucked on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, this city is a hidden gem full of Southern hospitality and unique tales. Here are 10 fun facts about Slidell that might just make you want to plan a visit!

1. The Camellia City – Slidell is known as the “Camellia City” because of the stunning camellia flowers that grow abundantly, adding color and beauty to gardens all over town.
2. Close, Yet Far – While it feels like a quiet retreat, Slidell is just a quick 30-minute drive to New Orleans, offering the best of both worlds—peaceful living with easy access to big-city excitement.
3. Birthplace of John Besh – Famous chef and restaurateur John Besh was born right here in Slidell. His Southern-style cooking helped put Louisiana cuisine on the global food map.
4. All Aboard! – Slidell has a historic train depot that’s still in service today. The Amtrak Crescent route stops here, linking the city with New York and New Orleans.
5. Honey Island Swamp Nearby – Just a short drive away sits one of the most untouched swamps in the U.S. The Honey Island Swamp is full of wildlife and even tales of a mysterious swamp monster.
6. Home to Olde Towne – Slidell’s charming downtown area, known as Olde Towne, features local boutiques, cozy cafes, and hosts fun events like white linen nights and Christmas under the Stars.
7. Hurricane Katrina’s Mark – Slidell was hit hard by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, but the community’s strong spirit brought it back even stronger, making it a symbol of resilience in Southern Louisiana.
8. A Magnet for Artists – The city is home to many local artists and the Slidell Cultural Center showcases regional art, photography, and more. Creativity flows freely here!
9. Bayou Adventures – You can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the nearby bayous. It’s common to see alligators, herons, and even otters in their natural habitat.
10. Mardi Gras Done Local – Sure, New Orleans gets all the attention, but Slidell throws its own family-friendly Mardi Gras parades with lively floats, beads, and a great community vibe—without the big crowds.