26 Best & Fun Things to Do in Hammond (LA)

In search of the best and most fun things to do in Hammond, LA?

Hammond is a city in Louisiana, United States. It is the largest in Tangipahoa Parish. Hammond is located Northwest of New Orleans. The population of the city was estimated to be about 21,359 in 2020.

One of the most popular places in the city is the Southeastern Louisiana University, the third biggest University in the state. Hammond is the principal city of the Hammond Metropolitan statistical area.

Hammond was named after a Swedish immigrant who resided in the area around 1818, Peter Hammond.

Hammond has many fun activities and places for everyone, from beautiful scenery to historical museums and lovely diners.

Here are some of the best things to do in Hammond, LA

Things to Do in Hammond, LA

1. Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures

Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures
Credits: Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures / Facebook
Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures

Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures features Bruce Mitchell, also known as The Alligator man. Mitchell hosts the tour company and leads visitors through the swamps and between lakes Pontchartrain and Maurepas.

Tours are usually held on a boat which Bruce uses to hunt alligators. Bruce is a professional in this field and is very knowledgeable about his environment and the town.

Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures is filled with fascinating historical places and features. You also get a chance to see various wildlife from a close distance. Animals like Snakes, Frogs, Alligators, Turtles, and many species of birds live in these places.

Go on a tour with Mitchell’s Swamp Adventures if you don’t know what to do in Hammond, LA.

Address: 41083 W Yellow Water Rd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

2. Joyce Wildlife Swamp Walk Nature Trail

Joyce Wildlife Swamp walks Nature Trail is among the best places to visit in Hammond, LA, especially for nature enthusiasts. This nature trail is located some miles south of Hammond; it encompasses 35,000 acres of swampland between two lakes.

This attraction is home to different species of waterfowl, ospreys, spring metro local migrants, fall neotropical migrants, bald Eagles, American alligators, and more. Tours are available on-site with knowledgeable guides; this wilderness is navigated with a boat.

A protected area with a broad walk on the Northwestern part of the Trail was built in 1990. This place has a tranquil atmosphere and lovely views. You can carry out various fun activities on this beautiful Trail, including taking photographs of different wildlife animals and species like snakes, alligators, spoonbills, turtles, and more.

Address: Old U.S. 51, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, United States.

3. Downtown Hammond

Downtown Hammond
Credits: daystreamin / Flickr
Downtown Hammond

Hammond’s downtown district is famous for its busy, thriving, and welcoming atmosphere. Some of the oldest buildings in the city are located downtown. The city locals expertly preserved this place with artifacts and buildings as ancient as the 1880s.

Downtown Hammond is also divided by the Illinois Railroad tracks; the place is full of fun and lovely buildings, shops, and sights. It contains various bars, restaurants, and cafes with menus and meals for youths from the Southeastern Louisiana University.

A visit to the Hammond Historic district’s website can give you a map for walking tours of famous and historical downtown landmarks. The place hosts a farmers market every Saturday with more than 50 vendors and many shops for specialty food, gifts, accessories, clothes, art supplies, and many more.

Downtown Hammond is a vibrant place full of fun, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Hammond, LA.

Address: 2 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

4. Kliebert and Son’s Gator Tours

Kliebert and Son’s Gator Tours
Credits: Danita Delimont / Shutterstock

Kliebert and Son’s Gator Tours is an alligator farm located in Hammond. An American Alligator is a fascinating animal and a major source of attraction in Southeast Louisiana.

This Alligator Farm is open to the public for tourism. The farm is filled with history and experience. Kliebert and Son’s have been operational for more than 50 years; they are always available anytime between March and October.

Kliebert and Son’s Alligator farm is also a very educational place to visit in Hammond, as it teaches fascinating details about alligators. Visitors get the chance to watch Alligator demonstrations, and lucky ones may even have interactions with baby alligators.

Apart from alligators, this farm has other animals like snakes, emus, wallabies, turtles, and birds. Exploring Kliebert and Son’s Alligator Farm is one of the top things to do in Hammond, LA, especially for animal lovers.

Address: 40511 W E Interstate 55 Service Rd, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, United States.

5. Cate Square Park

Cate Square Park
Credits: Billion Photos / Shutterstock

Cate Square Park is great for relaxing and enjoying many fun activities in Hammond.

The history of this Park goes as far back as 1861 when it was a sawmill, shoe factory, and tannery that supplied the Confederate Army. The Sawmill was built by C. E. Cate, who also helped to plan and develop the city.

An ample open space is located at the heart of the Park. It has a path that steers to a pavilion and a playground area for children. Cate Square Park is one of the top attractions to explore in Hammond, LA.

Address: 279 N Oak St #219, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

6. Hammond Oak

Hammond is decorated with many oak trees, from downtown to every fabulous location in the city. There’s a unique oak on the destination; it is famous for its beauty.

Hammond Oak is a member of the Live Oak Society, and the city is also labeled with a historical marker.

The prominent Swedish founder of the city, Peter Hammond, was buried under the tree. Nearby are the graves of his family members and a slave boy. Hammond Oak is a beautiful sight to see in Hammond, Louisiana.

Address: 500 block of E. Charles St., between N. Holly St. and N. Olive St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

7. Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center

Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center
Credits: Mr Boiko Oleg / Shutterstock

Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center is a popular attraction in Hammond. It’s an interactive children’s museum located in Downtown Hammond. This Children’s Discovery Center encourages hands-on learning and creates fun experiences for children.

They help children learn with different dynamic exhibits like vet clinics, hot air balloons, shrimp boats, a music factory, a dino dig, art stations, rock climbing walls, and more. This Children’s museum is full of fun activities.

Interactive museums help children improve their motor skills, spark their imagination, and encourage them to solve problems. Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center is open to children up to ten years old. Visiting this destination is one of the fun things to do in Hammond, LA.

Address: 113 N Cypress St #3309, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

8. Painting with a Twist

Painting with a Twist
Credits: Kuznetcov_Konstantin / Shutterstock

Painting with a Twist is an establishment focused on impacting everyone to express themselves and show their creativity through art.

Painting with a Twist offers guests a chance to spend quality time with friends and family in the city. They offer classes aimed at different groups, from beginners to experts.

The Painting with a Twist instructors are pleasant, knowledgeable, understanding, and committed to ensuring you have an excellent time.

Children below the age of 18 years are to be accompanied by an adult when coming to the Painting with a Twist’s studio. It is advisable to book your slot from their website for you to have a comfortable experience.

Painting with a Twist also sells home kits to help you work indoors.

Address: 204 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

For a fun time in Louisiana, here is a guide on fun things to do in Ruston, things to do in Slidell, and things to do in Lake Charles for a memorable vacation

9. Hammond Square Mall

Hammond Square Mall
Credits: Kamil Macniak / Shutterstock

Hammond Square Mall is the preferred shopping location in Tangipahoa Parish. Shopping in this Mall is one of the best things to do in Hammond, LA.

Hammond Square Mall was established in 1977 and underwent a complete renovation in the late 2000s. This open-air shopping mall is currently the second largest in Louisiana.

Many popular national retailers can be found at the Hammond Square Mall, including Target, JCPenney, Foot Locker, Claire’s, Old Navy, Kay Jewelers, etc.

This Mall also features various restaurants in the western part, including Olive Garden and Raising Cane’s. Hammond Square Mall is a fun place to shop in the city.

Address: 411 Palace Dr, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

10. Hammond Farmers’ Market

Hammond Farmers' Market
Credits: dotshock / Shutterstock

Hammond Farmer’s Market is a great way to start the weekend in the city; the farmers’ market is a diverse gathering of over 60 vendors in the historic downtown Hammond; the market is held weekly(on Saturdays) throughout the year.

There’s the usual abundance of locally harvested produce during the growing season, it’s a great place to purchase essentials, and you can be sure you’re buying quality and healthy products.

At Hammond Farmers’ Market, you can find eggs, preserves, fresh bread, handmade soaps, flowers, plants, cake, candy, sauces, tea kits, beautiful arts and crafts, etc.

Address: 2 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

11. Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University
Credits: Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University is a prominent university located in Hammond. This historic University was established in 1925 and was renovated and expanded in the 1990s and 2000s.

The University is the third-largest in Louisiana, located just north of downtown Hammond. A visit to the place will be fun for prospective students and anyone looking to explore new areas.

The campus is breathtaking mainly because of the stunning live oaks scattered for decoration. The oldest Structure in the University is the McGehee Hall. The McGehee was built in 1935 and was added to the list of the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

Southeastern Louisiana University has 14 teams competing for the Southeastern Louisiana Lions and Lady lions. The University also has various sports centers like the 7,500-seat center for basketball and volleyball and also the 7,400-seat stadium for football.

Address: 500 W University Ave, Hammond, LA 70402, United States.

12. Zemmuray Park

Zemmuray Park
Credits: Dan Thornberg / Shutterstock

Zemmuray Park is a lovely community park located just some miles south of downtown Hammond. Exploring this Park is one of the fun things to do in Hammond, LA.

In the middle of this beautiful Park is a popular pond because of the presence of Waterfowl and a walking trail almost a mile long.

Zemmuray Park is one of the significant outdoor public pools located in Hammond. It is open every sunny day in the summer. The Park also features a dog park, a miniature train, a tennis court, three baseball fields, a skate park, and a children’s playground area.

Zemmuray Park’s pond is also a famous fishing location; the pond is filled with aquatic animals like channel catfish, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, redear sunfish, bluegill, and many others.

Zemmuray Park hosts Hammond’s annual Christmas with its beautiful decorations.

Address: 400 S Oak St, Hammond, LA 70403, United States

13. Low Road Brewing Company

Low Road Brewing Company
Credits: id-art / Shutterstock

Low Road Brewing Company is another brewery in Hammond, Louisiana. This microbrewery serves 30 taps, and they produce 15 from their brewery.

They also have unique and seasonal beers which lucky visitors can taste. Low Road Brewing Company is the perfect place to enjoy a beer.

It has a beautiful, cozy atmosphere, ensuring an excellent time. The establishment has an outdoor playground area for pets. There are also food trucks available during the weekends.

Address: 1110 C M Fagan Dr, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

14. Columbia Theatre

Columbia Theatre
Credits: Angie Garrett [CC BY-SA 2.0], Wikimedia Commons
Columbia Theatre
Another place filled with fun and lively activities in Hammond is the Columbia Theatre; this theatre is not just fun but also historical.

Columbia Theatre offers live entertainment and performances; it’s a perfect place for group or family gatherings and outings. The Theatre hosts various talents, both national and international.

Columbia Theatre hosts musicals, theatre performances, concerts, dance, and many other live entertainment options. They have a schedule of available shows on their website.

Columbia Theatre can also be rented for special events in Hammond, like weddings, stand-up comedy, meetings, receptions, birthday parties, and other festivities.

Address: 220 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

15. The Party Barn

The Party Barn
Credits: Dmitry Kalinovsky / Shutterstock

As the name implies, the Party Barn is a party place. It’s a lively and fun place to spend time with loved ones. They have sports, games and more fun activities.

One of the famous games includes escape rooms; in the game, you and your group will solve puzzles, look for clues and think fast to escape the room.

The Party Barn also has a fantastic 18-hole mini golf course, where you can play with your friends and family. You can also learn how to play the sport at this golf course.

There are also more exciting spots and activities like paintball. Check out their batting cage to test out your batting skills.

You don’t have to worry about leaving the place when you’re hungry, as there is a café on site that serves tasty snacks and drinks.

For everyone who loves arcade games, they also have a well-stocked arcade section. This is a great place to make unforgettable memories with loved ones.

Address: 15587 W Club Deluxe Rd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

Are you considering exploring Louisiana? check out our guide on things to do in Lafayette , things to do in Covington, and things to do in Bossier City for a fun time in these cities.

16. Bayou Booksellers

Bayou Booksellers
Credits: GNT STUDIO / Shutterstock

Bayou Booksellers is a library and bookstore located in Hammond; this place is a must-visit for every bookworm in the city. This bookstore sells special, unique items and intriguing books from local authors.

Bayou Bookshop is a famous and well-visited store in Hammond because you can find many items unique to the city and get souvenirs to take back home to loved ones.

This shop always has different items for different people; they sell children’s games, stationery, garden art, gadgets, pet toys, and more.

Another fascinating fact about this bookshop is the availability of cookbooks and recipes for people who love cooking.

Address: 201 W Thomas St # A, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

17. AMC Hammond Palace 10

AMC Hammond Palace 10
Credits: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock

AMC Hammond Palace 10 is a fun-filled movie theatre in Hammond; this is a great place to spend time after a day of touring or if you are taking a break from tours.

This theatre offers entertainment for family, friends, and loved ones. Buying snacks and drinks for the movie makes for a more pleasurable experience.

For a more comfortable and enjoyable visit to AMC Hammond Palace 10, it is advised that you order your ticket, snacks, and drinks earlier from their website.

AMC Hammond Palace 100 also features unique, private theatres hosting events like celebrations, movie dates, and more. Visit their website to learn more about the current list of shows in the Theater.

AMC Hammond Palace 10 offers a wonderful and exciting experience. Don’t miss out!

Address: 801 C M Fagan Dr, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

18. Gnarly Barley Brewing

Gnarly Barley Brewing
Credits: Chatham172 / Shutterstock

Gnarly Barley Brewing is a brewery established in 2014 by some natives of Louisiana. Before it became a large brewery, it started as a small homebrewing company.

Gnarly Barley Brewing is a famous brewery with distributions throughout Lafayette, the Greater New Orleans area, Northshore, Houma, and Baton Rouge.

This 14,000-square-foot establishment has won multiple major awards. The Brewery is open for guided tours, where you can see their open-air tap room, which allows you to understand how the brewery works.

They have many products available year-round, like Jucifer Ipa, Skater Aid, Korova Milk Porter, Catahoula Common, and more. They also produce special and seasonal drinks.

The taproom available at their brewery is open every day. They also feature fun activities, including live music, yoga sessions, brewing workshops, and more.

Address: 1709 Corbin Rd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

19. Mrs Heather’s Pumpkin Patch

Mrs Heather's Pumpkin Patch
Credits: AN NGUYEN / Shutterstock

Mrs Heather’s pumpkin patch is an outdoor recreational center with many family fun activities. This place features some of the best outdoor activities that everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy.

Explore this attraction if you don’t know what to do in Hammond, LA, as it provides thrilling adventures and excitement. The destination features an adventurous tunnel slide and zip line. There are also fascinating and educational activities, like learning how to milk a cow.

There is a beautiful nature trail that can be explored; it’s a wonderful place for romantic walks. The most famous recreation among Mrs Heather’s Pumpkin Patch guests is pumpkin picking and painting; this recreational activity is exhilarating for the whole family.

Address: 11215 Lees Ln, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

20. Safari Quest Family Fun Centre

Safari Quest Family Fun Centre
Credits: Yulia Raneva / Shutterstock

Safari Quest Family Fun Center is another top attraction in Hammond, LA. This Fun Center is located along the way to downtown from Hammond Square, featuring many attractions and performances.

One of the most popular activities in Safari Quest Family Fun Center is a great Laser Tag arena; it has various levels and various bases, covering over 3,000 square feet. It also has a stand for spectators.

One of the newest addition to this place is the indoor rope Course; this course has challenging levels and simulations with elements like beams, barrels, skateboards, and netting.

Safari Quest Family Fun Center also hosts the Watering Hole restaurants and a well-stocked arcade. For a family fun experience, visiting this place is one of the top things to do in Hammond, LA.

Address: 200 Hewitt Rd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

21. Tangi Lanes Bowling and Recreation Centre.

Tangi Lanes Bowling and Recreation Centre
Credits: Artbox / Shutterstock

Tangi Lanes Bowling and Recreation Centre is another fun place in Hammond. This is a bowling alley filled with different forms of undiluted fun activities.

This bowling alley has been operational since 1997. It has been one of the most visited places for people looking to have fun in the city. They host a memorable and exciting bowling game called “Galactic Bowling” on weekends.

The lights at this alley make the atmosphere more serene and fun; they also have a billiards table if you’re more interested in that. Tangi Lanes Bowling and Recreation Center guarantees a fun time for everyone who visits.

The bowling alley’s lane 25 lounge is where visitors can purchase drinks, snacks, and various delicacies.

Address: 1612 W Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

22. Oriental Relax Massage

Oriental Relax Massage
Credits: joysugarplum / Shutterstock

Oriental Relax Massage is a massage place in Hammond. It is one of the best places to relax and soothe your muscles.

This establishment has a calm and serene atmosphere that promises a relaxed experience. They have different massages for different situations and people; some for the body and others to keep the brain rested.

Examples of the services offered by Oriental Relax Massage include Deep Tissue massage, Hot stone massage, and Swedish massage, all aimed at ensuring a refreshed body and mind.

Massages at the Oriental Relax Massage can be as quick as 30 minutes to as long as 2 hours, depending on your availability.

Address: 935 S Morrison Blvd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States.

23. The Red White and Brew

Red White and Brew
Credits: Rido / Shutterstock

The Red White and Brew is a wine production facility and tasting place. Here, you can learn how wine is made and taste different wines to know your favorite.

The Red White and Brew has many wines, cocktails, cigars, beers, and spirits. They also have a wine shop on site for people who want to enjoy quality, exquisite wine indoors.

Red White and Brew staff are professional, knowledgeable, and respectful; they are always ready and eager to help you find what you want. You can ask their amiable staff

 if you have any questions concerning the wines.

Check their website for the schedule of upcoming wine tasting activities if you would love to be part of their wine tasting programs. You can also stay for a drink at their bar after your tours and other activities.

The Red white and brew is a place in Hammond that promises a fun and exciting time. Do visit!

Address: 120 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States.

24. River Road Go-Kart Track

River Road Go-Kart Track
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River Road Go-Kart Track is a family and operated race track offering fun and exciting family entertainment for all ages. 

At River Road Go-Kart Track, you can race with your buddies in a 6-car heat in their 9hp Dino Karts. 

You don’t have to fret because they have something for the smaller kids with their single, double-seat karts. They also offer league tournaments for people interested in participating. 

They look forward to creating an unforgettable experience for you with their many spill, thrills, and excellent services. 

So visit River Road Go-Kart and race as fast as you want while having the best time. 

Address: 47329 River Rd, Hammond, LA 70401, United States

25. Chappapeela Sports Park

Chappapeela Sports Park
Credits: Dan Thornberg / Shutterstock

Chappapeela Sports Park offers numerous recreational activities and a cozy family environment. 

Chappapeela Sports Park is well-kept, large, and neat, and it has a great play area for children. Although the Park is large, it often fills up during a tournament. 

The facility has more than twenty soccer fields, twelve softball and baseball fields, two regulation football fields, a 1.5-mile walking trail accessible from morning to evening, and a splash pad. 

The Park also has a concession stand with a good selection of food and snacks. 

Address: 19325 Hipark Blvd, Hammond, LA 70403, United States

26. Hammond Regional Art Center

Hammond Regional Art Center
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A Great attraction that tourists who love art should not miss is the Hammond Regional Art Center. 

The Center holds events, exhibits, and classes designed to teach visitors about the different kinds of arts. 

The exhibit features various art forms, such as photographs and sculptures, making your visit educational and exciting. 

When you visit Hammond Regional Art Center, endeavor not to miss their “Art-O-Mat.” 

The “Art-O-Mat” is a renovated vintage cigarette machine that distributes artwork that various artists make for a unique experience. 

You can obtain various artworks in this machine, such as miniature sculptures, tiny art prints, jewelry, handcrafted soap, and lots more. 

Hammond Regional Art Center also tries to beautify the community by showcasing artworks in storefronts, empty commercial spaces, and office buildings. 

For people interested in enhancing their art skills, the Center offers art classes for kids, teenagers, and adults. 

You are also free to take home your art piece from these classes to remember your fun time at Hammond Regional Art Center 

Address: 217 E Thomas St, Hammond, LA 70401, United States

Take to exploring other Louisiana, check out our guide on things to do in Monroe for fun exploration.

Plan Your Trip to Hammond

Hammond is a place filled with many fun and adventurous activities, and above are some of the best. It is a perfect getaway destination for the whole family.

Regardless of your preference, you’ll undoubtedly find what you’ll enjoy. Hammond, LA, awaits your visit!