After visiting Scaffidi Orthodontics in Slidell, families can explore local attractions to make the trip memorable. Top recommendations include strolling through Olde Towne Slidell, playing at Heritage Park, visiting the Slidell Museum, and grabbing a soft, braces-friendly treat at Beignet Au Lait or Roots Plants and Coffee.
Visiting the orthodontist is a crucial step toward achieving a healthy, confident smile. However, patients often view these appointments as a quick errand to check off the to-do list before rushing back home or to school. Taking a little extra time to explore the surrounding area can turn a standard medical visit into a fun outing.
Slidell, Louisiana, offers a wealth of activities, dining options, and scenic outdoor spaces perfect for families and individuals alike. Since you are already in the area for your appointment, spending an hour or two enjoying the local community adds tremendous value to your day. You can easily transition from the dental chair to a relaxing park bench or a charming local cafe.
This guide will highlight the best local spots to visit after your appointment at Scaffidi Orthodontics in Slidell. From serene nature parks to bustling farmers’ markets, Slidell provides plenty of accessible, family-friendly attractions that require minimal planning and deliver maximum enjoyment.
Key Takeaways
- Plan a relaxing post-appointment activity to reward children and teens for a successful orthodontic visit.
- Slidell features numerous parks, such as Heritage Park and Camp Salmen Nature Park, that are perfect for unwinding.
- Olde Towne Slidell offers a walkable district filled with unique boutiques, historical landmarks, and cozy cafes.
- Local eateries provide plenty of braces-friendly, soft food options like beignets, soups, and smoothies.
Why Explore Slidell After Your Appointment?
Making a day out of your trip to the orthodontist provides benefits that go beyond simple entertainment.
Exploring the city helps associate dental visits with positive experiences, which is especially helpful for young patients who might feel nervous about getting their braces adjusted.
Turning a Routine Visit into a Mini-Adventure
An appointment at the orthodontist does not have to be a stressful or mundane chore. By planning a fun activity afterward, parents can create a mini-adventure that children actually look forward to.
Even a quick stop at a nearby attraction can change the entire mood of the day and create lasting family memories.
Supporting Local Businesses
Spending time in Slidell directly benefits the local economy and strengthens the community. When you choose to grab lunch at a family-owned restaurant or purchase a gift from an independent shop, you help keep the vibrant culture of Slidell alive.
Furthermore, local business owners frequently provide a level of personalized service that you simply cannot find at large retail chains.
Dining Delights: Savoring Slidell’s Culinary Scene
After having your metal braces or clear aligners adjusted, your teeth might feel a bit sensitive.
Fortunately, Slidell offers excellent dining options that serve delicious, soft foods perfect for patients who need a gentle meal.
Casual Bites and Cafes
Casual dining spots offer quick, comforting meals that will not aggravate sensitive teeth. Roots Plants and Coffee, located in the heart of Olde Towne Slidell, provides a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by lush indoor greenery.
Patients can enjoy a warm bowl of soup, a soft pastry, or a refreshing fruit smoothie while admiring the unique botanical displays.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
If your family prefers a sit-down meal, Slidell has several highly rated establishments that cater to all ages. Southside Cafe and Phil’s Marina Cafe are excellent choices that provide diverse menus with plenty of braces-friendly options, such as flaky fish, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese.
These restaurants maintain a welcoming environment where families can comfortably relax after leaving the Scaffidi Orthodontics Slidell clinic.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Shops
No trip is complete without a rewarding dessert, especially when celebrating a successful check-up. Beignet Au Lait on Robert Boulevard serves warm, pillowy beignets that practically melt in your mouth, making them an ideal treat for sore teeth.
Another great option is the Old Town Slidell Soda Shop, where visitors can enjoy creamy milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream in a nostalgic, retro setting.
Outdoor Escapes: Reconnecting with Nature
Fresh air and sunshine are fantastic for relieving any residual stress from a medical appointment.
Slidell boasts beautifully maintained green spaces where patients can stretch their legs and enjoy Louisiana’s natural landscapes.
Local Parks and Green Spaces
Heritage Park, located conveniently on Bayou Lane, is a staple for Slidell residents and visitors. The park features wide walking paths, a large playground for children, and plenty of shaded areas to sit and relax.
Alternatively, the 130-acre Camp Salmen Nature Park provides miles of tranquil trails that wind through protected woodlands and wetlands.
Waterfront Views and Activities
Being close to Lake Pontchartrain means Slidell has access to stunning waterfront scenery. Visitors can drive down to the Slidell lakefront to watch the sailboats or take a peaceful stroll along Bayou Bonfouca.
These waterfront areas offer a quiet retreat where you can watch local wildlife and enjoy the calming sounds of the water.
Retail Therapy: Shopping and Souvenirs
If you prefer indoor activities, Slidell’s shopping districts offer a delightful mix of modern retail and historic charm.
Browsing local shops is a low-impact activity that allows patients of all ages to comfortably walk around and discover unique treasures.
Unique Boutiques and Shops
The Olde Towne Slidell district is famous for its eclectic collection of antique stores, clothing boutiques, and home decor shops. Spending an afternoon strolling through these historic streets reveals hidden gems and one-of-a-kind items you will not find in a traditional shopping mall.
The area maintains a welcoming small-town feel that makes window shopping highly enjoyable.
Local Markets and Crafts
For those visiting on a Saturday morning, the Camellia City Farmers Market is an absolute must-see destination. Located near the City Hall complex, this vibrant market features local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handcrafted artisan items.
It is a fantastic place to pick up healthy, soft fruits or locally made gifts.
Cultural Connections: Arts and History
Slidell possesses a rich cultural heritage that is proudly displayed in its local museums and galleries.
Taking the time to learn about the area’s history adds an educational element to your post-appointment itinerary.
Local Galleries and Exhibits
Art enthusiasts will love visiting Lori’s Art Depot, housed inside the historic Slidell Amtrak Train Depot Museum on Front Street. This community center for the arts showcases beautiful pieces created by local talent and often hosts interactive exhibits.
Viewing local art is a peaceful way to pass the time and gain a deeper appreciation for Slidell’s creative community.
Historical Landmarks and Insights
History buffs can head over to the Slidell Museum and Slidell Mardi Gras Museum, located on First Street. The museum offers fascinating insights into the founding of the city, its early industries, and the vibrant traditions of local Mardi Gras celebrations.
The exhibits are easy to navigate, making it a comfortable experience for patients who simply want a slow-paced activity.
Family Fun: Activities for All Ages
If your children have extra energy to burn after sitting still for their orthodontic adjustment, Slidell has several entertainment options designed specifically for family fun.
Entertainment Centers
Local indoor entertainment centers provide climate-controlled environments where kids can play and socialize safely. While trampoline parks and arcades are popular choices in the area, parents should remind children to play carefully to protect their braces and mouthguards. These active environments are best suited for days when patients only had a routine check-
up rather than a significant wire adjustment.
Educational and Interactive Spots
For a more subdued but equally engaging activity, families can visit the St. Tammany Parish Library’s Slidell Branch. The library frequently hosts interactive youth programs, reading hours, and educational workshops.
This provides a quiet, focused environment where children can unwind with a good book before heading home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best braces-friendly food options in Slidell?
A: Patients with sensitive teeth should look for soft foods like the famous beignets at Beignet Au Lait or the creamy milkshakes at Old Town Slidell Soda Shop. For lunch or dinner, local cafes offer hearty soups, mashed potatoes, and tender seafood that will not damage metal brackets or clear aligners.
Q: How far is Olde Towne Slidell from Scaffidi Orthodontics?
A: Olde Towne Slidell is located just a few miles from the Scaffidi Orthodontics Slidell office, making it a very short and convenient drive. You can easily leave your appointment and be parking in the historic district within ten minutes.
Q: Are there free activities to do in Slidell after my appointment?
A: Yes! Heritage Park and Camp Salmen Nature Park both offer free admission and feature extensive walking trails, playgrounds, and beautiful scenery. Window shopping in Olde Towne Slidell and visiting the Slidell Museum are also fantastic, cost-free ways to enjoy the afternoon.
Making the Most of Your Slidell Visit
Your journey to a perfect smile requires a commitment of time and energy, but the appointments themselves do not have to be tedious. By utilizing this guide, you can transform a standard trip to Scaffidi Orthodontics into a delightful exploration of Slidell, Louisiana. Choose X if a quiet park matters more than a bustling cafe, or choose Y if you want to support a local boutique.
Whether you decide to enjoy a soft pastry, take a nature walk at Heritage Park, or browse the antique shops in Olde Towne, these local attractions provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Embrace the opportunity to connect with the local community, and make your next orthodontic visit an experience the whole family can genuinely look forward to.
