Ponchatoula, the oldest incorporated city in Tangipahoa Parish, hosts the popular Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival every spring.
At a Glance
Known For: Louisiana strawberries, Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, America's Antique City
Top Things to Do: Shop antiques in downtown Ponchatoula, take an alligator tour, explore the Louisiana Quilt Trail
Major Events: Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival & Ponchatoula Antique Trade Days
Top Things to Do in Ponchatoula
Known as America's Antique City, Ponchatoula blends small-town charm with a vibrant downtown filled with antique stores, boutiques, art galleries and locally owned shops. Browse treasures at C.J.'s Antiques & Collectibles, then explore colorful quilt blocks along the Louisiana Quilt Trail, where each design reflects the local community's history and creativity.
Ponchatoula is also famous for its Louisiana strawberries, grown throughout the surrounding countryside. Located just northwest of Lake Pontchartrain, the city serves as a great base for exploring Southeast Louisiana while enjoying fresh local produce, Southern hospitality and historic downtown streets. Don’t miss the seasonal farmers markets!
For a classic Louisiana adventure, head to Kliebert & Sons Alligator Tours, where visitors can learn about alligators and other native wildlife on guided tours at one of the state's best-known alligator farms.
Places to Stay
Stay in the heart of town at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ponchatoula/Hammond, featuring modern amenities, an outdoor pool and pet-friendly accommodations. Looking for a longer getaway? Sun Outdoors New Orleans North Shore offers a resort-style experience with fully equipped RV sites, comfortable cottages and amenities designed for families. Relax by the lazy river, enjoy a round of miniature golf and make it your home base for exploring Ponchatoula, Hammond and the Northshore — and New Orleans isn’t too far away, either.
Additional lodging is available nearby in Hammond, including Home2 Suites by Hilton, Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn.
Food & Drink
Settle in for lunch or dinner at The District, where Cajun-inspired dishes like crawfish queso fries, shrimp and crawfish gouda grits, and voodoo egg rolls put a creative spin on local favorites. Seafood lovers won't want to miss Millside Restaurant, known for fresh Gulf seafood, boiled crawfish and crabs when in season. And Joe's Italian Ristorante is a longtime local favorite serving classic Italian dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Events & Festivals in Ponchatoula
Every April, thousands of visitors flock to the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, one of Louisiana's largest free festivals. Celebrate the area's strawberry-growing heritage with live music, carnival rides, a parade, strawberry-eating contests and countless strawberry-inspired treats, from fresh shortcake to deep-fried strawberries.
Downtown also hosts Ponchatoula Antique Trade Days each spring and fall, when more than 200 vendors fill the streets with antiques, handcrafted goods, collectibles, artwork and vintage finds.
Travel Tips & Resources
It's easy to navigate Ponchatoula. Catch a flight to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, then rent a car or take a rideshare. Ponchatoula is also a short drive from Hattiesburg, Mississippi (2 hours), Mobile, Alabama (3 hours), and Beaumont, Texas (4 hours).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Ponchatoula?
Some of the best things to do in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, include shopping for antiques in the historic downtown, taking an alligator tour at Kliebert & Sons Gator Tours and exploring the Louisiana Quilt Trail. Visit in spring to experience the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, one of Louisiana's largest and most popular festivals.
What is Ponchatoula known for?
Ponchatoula is best known as America's Antique City and for its thriving Louisiana strawberry industry, celebrated each year during the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival. Conveniently located between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, the city is also known for its historic downtown, antique shops and small-town charm.
What is the best time of year to visit Ponchatoula?
While there really isn’t a bad time of year to visit Ponchatoula, we’d say the best time is spring and fall, perfect for festivals and outdoor activities. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild and less crowded.
What is the weather like in Ponchatoula?
Ponchatoula typically enjoys hot, humid summers and short, cold winters. Expect average highs of 92° F in July, with lows dipping to 36° F in January. Pack layers for winter, and sunscreen and a hat for summer.
Where can I get more travel information about Ponchatoula?
For official travel information about Ponchatoula, Louisiana, visit Tangi Tourism, the parish's official destination marketing organization. The site provides visitor guides, maps, transportation details, hotel and lodging information, event calendars and planning resources to help travelers make the most of their visit. Travelers can also find statewide trip ideas, itineraries and regional guides on ExploreLouisiana.com, Louisiana’s official tourism website.