History, Hospitality & Luxury at Southern Hotel & Garden House

After a full day exploring St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana’s Northshore visitors have a fabulous place to rest their heads: the Southern Hotel & Garden House. 

History of the Southern Hotel

After ceasing operations as a hotel in the 1960s, then becoming everything from a sanitarium and drug store to government offices and a courthouse, the property eventually experienced years of disuse and damages throughout the early 2000s. Finally, the property was sold to a local preservationist and attorney, Lisa Condrey Ward, in 2011. The property hadn’t been a hotel for more than half a century when Ward and her partners purchased the striking Mission-style building and began their restoration. 

Over the next three years, the property turned back into a beautifully restored boutique hotel for both Covington locals and visitors to enjoy. By 2014—107 years to the day of its original opening in 1907—Southern Hotel reopened and began welcoming guests again.

The new owners preserved significant architectural details of the building, keeping most of the original bricks and archways as well as the original layout of the hotel’s corridors. Ward handpicked many aspects of the hotel’s elegant décor, furnishings and art. Reflecting Covington’s history, the hotel conveys a distinct sense of its setting, thanks in part to the use of antiques and works by regional artists.

Guest Experience & Amenities

In 2018, The Garden House opened—bringing the Southern Hotel's number of guest rooms to 40 bedrooms and seven lavish guest suites—one of them named for author Walker Percy, who once called Covington home. The Garden House was originally built in 1937, and was the town's former post office. Today it features whimsy art and garden party-esque decor, plus an original New Deal-era mural.

Back in 1907, the hotel’s original owners touted its modern conveniences—“hot water!” “electric lights!”—and, thankfully, today’s Southern can boast those amenities as well. But guests will also find everything expected of a 21st-century boutique hotel and more: fitness and spa treatment rooms, tennis courts, rose gardens, a plunge pool, meeting spaces, the handsome Cypress Bar and its chic, French-inspired restaurant, The Gloriette.

In 2024, The Greenwood event venue joined the Southern Hotel as a sister property—just three miles away. The former Benedictine convent features stunning indoor and outdoor spaces and a four-acre grove surrounded by centuries-old live oaks and native flora. For those looking for luxury event space for a special occasion or destination wedding, The Greenwood features an elegant courtyard, a grand ballroom and a smaller room which includes a private terrace and lounge area. 

Nearby Attractions

This Northshore Louisiana landmark remains a centerpiece of downtown Covington’s historic district—already popular for its numerous galleries, antiques shops, boutiques and nightlife. More than 15 restaurants are within easy walking distance of the hotel, making it a great hub for a romantic getaway or girlfriends’ weekend. 

Also nearby:

• The Covington Farmers Market, held twice a week, is popular for picking up local produce, artisan goods and plants. 
• The 31-mile-long Tammany Trace, the state’s first and only Rails to Trails Conservancy hike and bike path, begins just blocks away (bike rentals are available). 
• Downtown Covington hosts many events, including art walks, free concerts, the Three Rivers Arts Festival each fall and, in the spring,  Taste of Covington culinary, wine and music fest.
• Natural hot springs, particularly the notable Abita Springs, are close by and famous for its artesian water and healing properties.