River Ridge/Jefferson - New Orleans, LA

Though the history of the area dates back to the construction of numerous area plantations in the 18th and 19th centuries, River Ridge is a relatively new community. Development of the area began in the 1950s and 1960s, and in 1974 it was officially named "River Ridge." It has remained one of the more affluent areas in Jefferson Parish since development first began.

For a day out at the museum, you can head to one of the other great Jefferson Parish communities. The Rivertown Museums in Kenner give you a firsthand look at the historic past of the area. The same goes for artistic attractions. The Jefferson Performing Arts Society hosts numerous special events throughout the year, and you can find plenty of places for painting lessons. Various events, such as a family-friendly Fall Festival, take place year-round.

The dining atmosphere in River Ridge trends toward down-home hospitality with a distinctly Southern air, though international options can be found within the town as well as in surrounding Jefferson Parish. The nightlife scene stays quiet, though a trip to nearby Kenner or Metairie – or a drive down to New Orleans – grants you plenty of opportunities to get out and have some fun. As with most small communities, the majority of restaurants sit right off the highway, which makes it easy to grab some grub from your favorite spot.

Start your gastronomic tour at Dot's Diner, which stays open 24 hours and serves up heaping helpings of Southern favorites, such as tender and juicy country fried steak served with peppery white gravy. Finish up with beignet stix to give your meal a little Louisiana flavor. Just be warned before you head in that the locals flock to Dot's, and no matter what time you arrive, you're likely to find it packed.

For arguably the best po' boy in New Orleans, head to Mr. Poor Boy Restaurant. Pick up a fully dressed po' boy, and see what everyone talks about; if you're craving seafood, nothing beats the perfectly fried shrimp, and land lovers will go crazy for the tender roast beef.

Of course, even born-and-bred Louisianians need a break from down-home cuisine once in a while. Head to Taste of Tokyo, and explore a sampling of Asian fare, including some of the best sushi in Jefferson Parish. The Upside Down Roll with fresh salmon and snow crab comes topped with garlic jalapeño sauce for those who like to keep things spicy.

The lack of live music venues in River Ridge proper doesn't mean you can't get out to see a show now and then. Head to Jefferson to see some of the hottest regional acts at the Rivershack Tavern, or take a trip to Boomtown Casino in Harvey. There are plenty of great bars to visit throughout Jefferson Parish as well. Head to Gennaro's Bar, or get cozy at Winston's Pub & Patio for an authentic U.K. pub experience. You can find both in Metairie.

A car is a must for getting around River Ridge. Public transportation includes the Jefferson Transit bus system, which will take you throughout the parish and into New Orleans. You can call ahead of time for a taxi, but finding a ride through Uber may not be possible.

Standard parking outside of local businesses is available and unpaid. When it comes time to travel, it will take a bit of a drive to get to a major highway or interstate, but with traffic a non-issue, it doesn’t pose much of a challenge. On the whole, River Ridge residents depend on cars to get around as the area isn’t easily walkable. Additionally, there are no bike paths on the streets, though they still pose relatively little hazard to cyclists.

There are no major parks in River Ridge, though two playgrounds are open year-round for those with smaller children. Fortunately, Jefferson Parish has many parks and recreational facilities, which means that getting to a park isn’t too much of a hassle. Most of the parks in Jefferson Parish are free to enter and use, and facilities range from athletics compounds to extensive walking and cycling trails, perfect for active individuals.

Numerous events are held throughout Jefferson Parish year round: Holiday in the Park at Lafreniere Park in nearby Metairie is a particular favorite for locals. Those in need of a place to exercise can generally find a good walking or bike trail at parks in neighboring communities.

The cost of living in River Ridge sits slightly higher than the national average and moderately higher than other similar neighborhoods in Louisiana. Via Jefferson Transit, you can get to New Orleans for $2, while commuters can invest in monthly passes for $60 to save a little dough. There can be a pretty wide range in cost for a one-bedroom apartment, but expect $800 to represent the low end of the spectrum, with many coming in at $1,000 or more. If you want to grab a beer at a bar nearby, expect to pay about $4 for a domestic draft. To get to that bar, you will need to fill up your tank. Since gas prices come in at about 10 percent below the national average, you can save here.

River Ridge, as a smaller community, lacks a major shopping center of its own. Fortunately, a short drive takes you to The Esplanade in Kenner or Clearview Mall in Metairie. For upscale shopping, a trip to the many spots in New Orleans can net you some great high-end finds.

When you want to shop locally, a few small boutiques can be found in River Ridge. Fleur de Lis Framing & Gifts carries regional gifts and décor items in addition to jewelry, all handcrafted by local artists. For the latest in fashion, head to Hickory Chicks Boutique to find stylish clothing items and accessories for the woman with eclectic tastes.

A handful of grocery stores in River Ridge, including a Winn-Dixie and Breaux Mart, make it easy to pick up everything you need. Meanwhile, for farm-fresh produce and other locally crafted goods, make a trip to the Rivertown Farmers Market in Kenner.