Head to The Buzz Coffee & More, a short drive from McNeese before or between classes. Grab a latte and an everything bagel croissant, or return in the afternoon for a snowball, a sweet regional staple made with fluffy shaved ice and syrup.
Within walking distance from campus you'll find Cancun Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, a longstanding favorite serving up Mexican flavors and Mr. Bills Seafood Express, home to American dishes, daily plate lunches and crawfish in season. Crying Eagle Brewing offers live entertainment, flavorful brews, and delicious bites.
Nina P's Café serving Cajun classics like their award winning gumbo and Darrell's Famous Poboys, home of the flavorful Darrell's Special, are must-visit restaurants perfect for pregame lunch dates and post game celebrations.
From green spaces to nearby shopping, McNeese is just a football toss from popular area attractions. The McNeese State University Quad, home to popular events like Rouge et Blanc Wine and Food Festival, is a perfect backdrop for outdoor study dates, picnics, and photo sessions. Nearby Tuten Park and Prien Lake Park, offer paved walking paths and playscapes, with Prien Lake Park also providing a boat launch.
Independent bookstores, Krew's Books and Brews and The Charmed Page offer quiet study space and coffee plus they host free and low cost events for all ages. Indoor airparks like Lake Area Adventures and Urban Air Adventure Park are great for students looking to take a break from classes and families visiting throughout the semester.
Looking for a little friendly competition? Head over to Game2Life for laser combat and Bayou Games for an intense paintball session, or drop by South Beach Sports Bar and Grill for some beach volleyball fun!
Explore a number of popular bars and clubs with live entertainment near campus. On the Rocks and Cowboys are within walking distance of campus while Crying Eagle Brewing, Rikenjaks Brewing Company, and Cooler's Ice House are a short drive away.
Can't Miss Events & Traditions at McNeese
Homecoming, a popular time for McNeese students, alumni, and fans usually occurs in late October or early November. Celebrations include annual events like the McNeese Homecoming Parade where local businesses, area schools, homecoming royalty, and campus organizations parade down Ryan Street to Navarre Stadium, ending with a homecoming pep-rally.
Every Friday and Saturday before a home game fans flock to the Alumni Center and Navarre Stadium for Cowboy block parties and tailgates packed with food, live music, and special appearances from the Band of Blue, Cowgirl Kickers, and McNeese Cheerleaders.
The biggest games of the season are those against Southland Conference teams, including rivalries with Lamar University. During big plays at football games, fans will see the "Mystery Rider," a secret horseback rider parading through the field. Brace yourself, celebrations can get pretty rowdy especially when the cannon is fired in celebration of every touchdown by the Pokes!
The triumphs of each semester are celebrated during graduation ceremonies at the Townsley Law Arena. Plan to arrive early as these momentous occasions are well attended by students and their families, faculty, staff, and members of the community to recognize the achievements of each graduating class.
Plan Your Visit
There's plenty to do near McNeese State University whether taking a break from classes or visiting your college student. From exploring popular attractions and enjoying our delicious culinary offerings to making memories at a McNeese event, you'll love your time cheering on the Pokes each time you visit Louisiana's Playground. Keep up with all things McNeese athletics by checking out Where Champions are Crowned each month on our Sports page. Geaux Pokes!
McNeese Events
