KENNER, La. (WGNO) — Located just off the bank of the Mississippi River, minutes from Downtown New Orleans, is a historic district nestled on the edge of Kenner called Rivertown.
In the town where “everyone knows everyone,” it’s evident that the 12-block district holds great value as it is home to mom-and-pop shops, locally owned businesses and fun attractions.
It’s also considered a cultural resource.
Taking a stroll through the district captures the essence of the hidden jewel that some would say gives visitors a “movie set” type feel.
The trip starts as soon as you drive over the train tracks and onto part of Kenner’s main street, Williams Boulevard.
As town visitors enter the area, they are met with a piece of history that has been transformed into a wedding venue now called The Crossing. The building was erected in the 1820s as the Kenner Transportation Building.
As you stroll along, passed the Rivertown Exhibition Hall and Mayor’s Court, you will come across an empty lot that now doubles as a Bocce Ball court.
In that courtyard once stood a 117-year-old building that housed a restaurant well known for its Italian-inspired cuisine called Gendusas Italian Market.
Formerly Kenner’s first post office, the restaurant served as a must-stop on a driver’s commute on their way to the airport.
At 5:30 on the morning of Tuesday, June 16, 2020, the Kenner Fire Department fought a blaze for 30 minutes at the original address that left the building destroyed and the roof partially collapsed.
“I just knew my business was gone,” said Troy Gendusa in 2020.
The multiple pizza options are worth a family dinner alone. Anyone looking to indulge in a traditional taste of Italy can choose between the Gotti, the Vito, the Sicilian, the Gambino, the Gallo or more.
After a quick trip through Italy and to work off that smoked provolone, visitors can take a stroll through Heritage Park.
The park is a replica of the days of old, with an old packing shed, icehouse, vintage grocery store, outdoor pizza oven, a 1930s style gas station and a replica of St. Mary’s Church, which is Kenner’s first Catholic Church.
Some say it’s a quaint destination for weddings and christenings.
The town is not only historic, but also educational. On any given Saturday, the family can make a visit to the Rivertown Planetarium Mega Dome Cinema to explore the world of science through interactive exhibits and laser shows.
The young and the young at heart also have a chance to visit the science center, where they can get a look at the equipment used by NASA astronauts during a journey through the universe.
From there, the family can take in a show next door at the Rivertown Theater for the Performing Arts on Minor Street. Upcoming thespians put on shows and musicals written by locals that any Broadway buff would yell “encore” for.
During the months of May and July, audiences can attend either “Sister Act the Musical” or “Mean Girls- High School Version.”
To end off a perfect day in Rivertown, head down to the end of Williams Boulevard to LaSalles Landing. The piece of land is believed to be the site where the French explorer Rene’-Robert Cavalier, sieur de La Salle landed on his way to the Gulf Of Mexico.
While there, visitors can admire the monarch waystations and flowers along the walkway, admire the flags of 10 countries flying high or take a photo with the statue of Tom Allen and Jem Mace throwing punches at the first-ever World Heavyweight Prizefight Championship held in Kenner.
Throughout the year, Rivertown is home to many festivals and field trips.
To get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, grab some pizza, take in a show, look at the stars and bask in the hidden jewel of Rivertown.
Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.