If you’re searching for a slice of small-town charm within reach of New Orleans, the Rivertown neighborhood of Kenner, LA, might just be your perfect fit. Tucked along the banks of the Mississippi River, Rivertown radiates local history, community spirit, and an inviting atmosphere that makes it more than just a place to live—it’s a place to feel at home. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering making Rivertown your next neighborhood.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
One of the first things you’ll notice about Rivertown is its genuine sense of community. Residents look out for each other, and it’s common to wave at neighbors as you walk down Reverend Richard Wilson Drive or set up a chair for one of the many local events. Community festivals, outdoor concerts, and historic tours regularly bring people together. There’s always a friendly hello at the local coffee shop or as families stroll toward the Kenner Planetarium for weekend outings.
Types of Housing
Rivertown has a lovely mix of historic and newer homes, giving it unique character. You’ll find older Creole cottages and raised shotgun houses, some lovingly restored, especially along Fourth Street and Decatur Street. These homes feature inviting front porches—a favorite spot for residents to unwind in the evenings.
More recent additions to the area include townhouse developments and small apartment complexes near the borders of Rivertown. The diversity in housing options accommodates everyone from young professionals to growing families and retirees.
- Typical home sizes range from cozy two-bedroom cottages to larger four-bedroom family homes.
- Original hardwood floors, tall ceilings, and river views are common highlights for many historic properties.
- Yard spaces tend to be generous, whether for gardening or hosting gatherings.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Rivertown scores high for walkability, especially compared to many suburban areas around New Orleans. The main thoroughfare—Williams Boulevard—runs right through Rivertown, where sidewalks are well-maintained and local businesses are dotted throughout.
- Essentials like grocery stores, pharmacies, and boutique shops are within a ten-minute stroll from most homes.
- Popular local restaurants (try the fried seafood at Gendusa’s Italian Market!) and coffee shops mean you can grab a bite or meet a friend without hopping into your car.
- The greenway along the river and nearby walking trails are great for a morning jog or evening walk with the dog.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families are drawn to Rivertown for its welcoming environment and quality schools within short driving (or sometimes even walking) distance.
- Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy is a standout charter school roughly five minutes away, praised for its STEM-focused curriculum and strong parental involvement.
- Elementary options include Washington Elementary STEM School, with after-school programs and community events for kids.
- The area is host to several preschools and daycare centers, making life easier for parents with young children.
Because Rivertown is both compact and well-knit, kids often ride bikes or walk to school with friends. Parents cite a “peace of mind” knowing so many local families and teachers by name.
Parks and Green Spaces
One of Rivertown’s biggest selling points is its access to parks and the riverfront. Veterans Park sits just on the edge of the neighborhood, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and beautiful oak trees for weekend relaxation. The Kenner Heritage Park—a cluster of historic buildings surrounded by green space—is a favorite for family outings, outdoor storytime, and small weddings.
- The Mississippi River Levee Greenway runs for miles along the river’s edge, perfect for running, biking, or simply taking in a sunset.
- Local community gardens pop up every spring, with neighbors tending plots together and often sharing tomatoes or herbs over the fence.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a top priority for Rivertown residents. The area has a reputation for being one of the safer neighborhoods in Kenner, and local police are actively involved in community outreach.
- Neighborhood watches are active, and porch lights glow in the evenings as a subtle reminder of the collective pride in the area.
- With events like annual National Night Out and frequent neighborhood meetings, residents keep lines of communication open and look out for each other.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Living in Rivertown gives you the best of both worlds: a laid-back, residential environment with quick access to city amenities.
- Downtown New Orleans is only a 20–25 minute drive via I-10, making commutes for work or an evening out entirely manageable.
- Louis Armstrong International Airport is less than ten minutes away for business travelers or jet-setting families.
- Major employers like Ochsner Medical Center and the Treasure Chest Casino are within Kenner, supporting a healthy mix of career opportunities.
What Residents Love Most
When you talk to Rivertown locals, a few things come up time and again:
- The sense of history: From the lovingly restored Rivertown Museum Complex to century-old live oaks, there’s a deep appreciation for the past.
- The river: Whether it’s fishing at the levee, watching paddleboats go by, or enjoying riverside festivals, the Mississippi shapes daily life here.
- The neighborly feel: People remember your name, check in when you’re under the weather, and celebrate milestones together, from new babies to milestone anniversaries.
Annual events like the Rivertown Heritage Festival and Movies in the Park—often held at the Heritage Park or along Fourth Street—make everyone feel like part of the same big family.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a move to Kenner and want a neighborhood with personality, warmth, and a great location, Rivertown hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of place where you’ll know your neighbors, enjoy simple daily pleasures, and have culture and the city just a short drive away. For many, Rivertown isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to truly belong.