Abita springs, LA

## Overview Abita Springs, Louisiana, has been a celebrated spa town for well over a century, drawing visitors to its naturally flowing mineral water long before the area became a charming small-town destination on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The water is sourced from a deep aquifer within the Southern Hills regional aquifer system — geological structures dating back roughly five million years, with water-bearing formations found at depths of up to 3,000 feet. The local Choctaw people were among the first to recognize the spring's significance, considering the water to possess healing properties. The name "Abita" itself is believed to derive from a Choctaw word. By the late 1800s, the spring had become the centerpiece of a resort community, attracting visitors from New Orleans and beyond who came to "take the waters." Today, the spring's legacy lives on — most famously through the Abita Brewing Company, which uses the local aquifer water in its well-known craft beers. The town maintains a public fountain that allows anyone to access the spring water free of charge. Visitors have long reported that the water tastes exceptionally clean and refreshing, and it has historically been used as a drinking water source by both residents and travelers. ## Directions 1. The public drinking fountain is located at **72019 Maple Street, Abita Springs, LA 70420**, right in the heart of the small downtown area. 2. Head to the **LA-36 roundabout** in the center of town — the fountain and a charming gazebo are situated immediately adjacent to the roundabout. 3. If coming from **Covington**, take LA-36 East (also called LA-36/Columbia Street) for approximately 7 miles into Abita Springs. The roundabout and fountain will be on your right as you enter the town center. 4. If coming from **Mandeville or I-12**, take Exit 65 onto LA-59 North, then turn right (east) onto LA-36. Follow LA-36 into Abita Springs; the roundabout is roughly 2 miles ahead. 5. Parking is available along Maple Street and nearby side streets. The fountain is easily visible from the road. ## What to Expect The Abita Springs public fountain is a simple, welcoming setup located beside a picturesque gazebo at the LA-36 roundabout in the center of town. The fountain flows year-round and is freely accessible to the public — just bring a container if you'd like to fill up. The surrounding area is quaint and walkable, with the small-town charm that Abita Springs is known for. Nearby you'll find local shops, restaurants, and the quirky UCM Museum (formerly the Abita Mystery House). The Abita Brewing Company's tap room is also a short drive away and makes for a great companion stop. The water emerges cool and clear, fed by the deep aquifer that has supplied this community for generations. While many locals and visitors regularly drink from the fountain and have reported the water to be of excellent quality, water conditions can vary, and no public water source can be unconditionally guaranteed safe at all times. The site is flat and easily accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all mobility levels. There is no fee to visit, and the fountain is available at any time of day.