You’re driving across Lake Pontchartrain. It’s long. It’s beautiful, sure, but if you’re heading into the Northshore for work or a wedding, you just want to get there. Covington isn't just a suburb anymore; it's a hub. And honestly, finding a place to crash that doesn't feel like a dusty roadside motel or a $400-a-night "boutique" trap is harder than it looks. That’s where the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Covington usually enters the conversation.
It's reliable.
People choose it because they know exactly what the cinnamon rolls taste like. But there’s a bit more to this specific location on Stirling Blvd than just the standard corporate checklist. Whether you are in town for a procedure at St. Tammany Health System or you're just trying to avoid the chaos of New Orleans during Mardi Gras while still being close enough to drive in, this spot occupies a very specific, very useful niche in Louisiana travel.
The Location Logic: Why Stirling Boulevard Matters
Let’s be real. If you stay in a hotel that’s tucked away in some dark corner of a residential neighborhood, you spend half your trip staring at Google Maps trying to find a sandwich. The Holiday Inn Express and Suites Covington is basically sitting in the middle of a retail goldmine. You’ve got the Stirling Covington Shopping Center right there.
If you forgot your phone charger or need a specific type of snack that the lobby pantry doesn't carry, you just walk or take a two-minute drive. You have Target, Best Buy, and a bunch of eateries within a stone's throw. For a business traveler who gets into town at 9:00 PM and just wants a decent meal and a pair of clean socks, this layout is a lifesaver.
The hotel sits just off I-12. This is the main artery. You can zip over to Hammond in 20 minutes or hit the Causeway to get to Metairie. It’s strategically placed. It’s not "scenic" in the sense of overlooking a rolling river, but it is efficient. Efficiency is a luxury when you’re on a schedule.
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The Room Situation
Standard rooms are fine, but if you’re staying more than two nights, the suites are the move. They give you that extra breathing room so you aren't eating your takeout pizza on the same bed you're about to sleep in. The desks are actually functional. Most hotels give you a tiny sliver of wood that barely fits a laptop, but these are designed for people who actually have to answer emails.
- The beds use the standard IHG "soft" and "firm" pillow system. It sounds like a gimmick until you realize you actually have a preference.
- Microwaves and mini-fridges come standard. This is a massive deal for families or anyone trying to save a buck by not eating out for every single meal.
- Blackout curtains. They actually overlap. No annoying sliver of light hitting you in the eye at 6:00 AM.
What People Get Wrong About Covington Stays
A lot of folks assume that staying in Covington means you’re "out in the sticks." That’s a dated view. The Northshore has exploded. Staying at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Covington puts you near the corporate offices of companies like Chevron and Hornbeck Offshore. It’s a business town.
But it’s also a foodie town.
Don't just eat at the chains near the hotel. You’re minutes away from Downtown Covington. Go to Lola for lunch. It’s inside an old train car. Or hit up Del Porto if you want world-class Italian that would hold its own in Manhattan. The hotel acts as a low-stress basecamp. You get the free breakfast—which, let's be honest, the pancake machine is a marvel of modern engineering—and then you go explore the actual culture of the Northshore.
The "Express" Philosophy
There is a misconception that "Express" means "Cheap." It’s not a budget motel. It’s a limited-service hotel. What’s the difference? You aren't paying for a bellhop you don't need or a 24-hour room service menu that charges $25 for a grilled cheese. You’re paying for the gym, the pool, the high-speed Wi-Fi, and the breakfast.
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The Wi-Fi here is actually decent. We’ve all been in those hotels where the connection drops the second you open a Zoom call. Here, it’s stable enough for most remote work needs, which is a big reason why you’ll see so many consultants in the lobby.
Navigating the Logistics of Your Stay
Parking is free. In an era where even suburban hotels are starting to sneak in $15 "destination fees" or parking charges, this is a relief. The lot is well-lit and spacious. If you’re driving a larger SUV or a work truck, you won’t feel like you’re playing a game of Tetris just to get into a spot.
The Breakfast Ritual
The breakfast is served from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM on weekdays. If you show up at 9:15 AM, it's going to be a bit picked over. That’s just the reality of hotel life. The move is to get there around 7:45 AM. You get the fresh batches of eggs and the turkey sausage. And yes, the cinnamon rolls are worth the calories. They are gooey, warm, and probably the most iconic part of the brand.
When to Book (And When to Avoid)
Covington isn't a sleepy town during certain times of the year. If there is a big equestrian event at the Folsom arenas or a major festival like the Three Rivers Art Festival, the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Covington will fill up months in advance.
Prices fluctuate.
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During a random Tuesday in October, you might snag a room for a steal. During a home game weekend for LSU (where people overflow from Baton Rouge) or a major New Orleans event, expect to pay a premium. Always check the IHG app directly; sometimes the "member rate" actually saves you a significant chunk compared to the big travel search engines.
Nuance: The Noise Factor
Because it’s near the interstate, you might worry about road noise. The soundproofing is surprisingly solid, but if you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room on the side of the building facing away from the highway. Higher floors are generally quieter anyway. Most people don't notice it, but if you're sensitive, it's worth the request at check-in.
Actionable Steps for a Better Stay
If you are planning a trip to the Northshore, don't just wing it.
- Join the IHG One Rewards program before you book. Even the lowest tier usually gets you a later checkout, which is huge if you want to sleep in after a long night in the city.
- Check the bridge traffic. If you have a meeting in New Orleans, download the Waze app and check the Causeway status. Fog or accidents can turn a 40-minute drive into a two-hour ordeal.
- Explore the Tammany Trace. This is a 31-mile rails-to-trails path. You can pick it up very close to the hotel. It’s perfect for a morning run or a bike ride to clear your head between meetings.
- Target your dining. Use the hotel as your sleeping quarters, but make a point to drive the five minutes into the historic district for dinner. It changes the whole vibe of your trip from "business travel" to "local experience."
The Holiday Inn Express and Suites Covington provides exactly what it promises: a clean, modern, and efficient place to stay. It doesn't try to be a five-star resort, and it shouldn't. It’s the reliable choice for people who value their time and their sleep. Whether you're here for the Northshore's growing medical corridor or just passing through on your way to the Gulf Coast, it’s a solid bet that won't leave you with "buyer's remorse."