The Main Street General Store is one of Lake Covington’s original buildings from when it was founded and has operated in much the same way since its inception. You can find just about anything at the General Store, from cake mix to postcards and everything in between. Preserved by the Historic Society of Lake Covington, its columned front porch still invites passersby to sit for a spell on one of its two benches that frame its main door.
The Sweatbox is the go-to gym for Lake Covington residents and visitors to workout. Its state-of-the-art facility boasts three levels of workout equipment, two pools (one indoor and one out), tennis courts, basketball courts, four rooms for group exercise, and a sauna in each of the locker rooms. Personal trainers are on hand to offer one-on-one instruction. Once the workout is over, there’s a café on site to grab a smoothie or a protein shake and an adult-only jacuzzi—a popular spot to unwind those sore muscles.
Converted from a barn, the Old Grange is the official venue for many of Lake Covington’s community events. From town meetings to pie-baking contests, its been a staple of Lake Covington life for as long as its residents can remember. Recently, the local rotary club has been hard at work transforming the Old Grange into a world of love and enchantment for the annual Sweetheart Dance coming up. It’s the one time of the year where everyone has a chance of finding that special someone.
The Lake Covington Courthouse was built by Jean Bemis in 1864 and designed in the Greek Revival style with red brick facades and marbled columns. Sitting on the corner of Main and 3rd Streets, it’s one of the tallest buildings in downtown Lake Covington. It’s rumored that the clock in its tower was designed by none other than August Pugin, the designer of Big Ben, as a favor to his long-time friend Jean.
Lake Covington is known for its annual regatta, and almost every day dozens of sailboats can be seen bobbing on its dazzling surface. The lake that gave the town its name is teeming with bass, trout, perch, and bowfin. Many local fishermen make their living plumbing its azure depths. That makes the docks a local hub of activity, with a boardwalk, a marina, a fish market, and boat tours of the lake. Business and leisure collide at the docks, the perfect environment for romance to bloom.
Nestled in the woods north of the lake, the small post and beam cabin is just the perfect size for two. Its stone hearth and bearskin rug invite those on chilly nights to settle before its fire and enjoy the moment. Its small store of canned food is always stocked and there’s several cords of firewood for the fireplace. Empty most of year, the McPherson Cabin is a welcomed oasis for those who find themselves lost in the forest.
The Impulse isn’t the best spot in Lake Covington to go dancing; it’s the only spot. As far as nightclubs go, there are a few, but everyone knows there’s only one place to be on a Friday night if you’re looking to cut loose and have some fun. Neon lights, loud music, and cocktails make the perfect setting to shake things up and try something new.
Cuppa Cafe is at the busiest corner in Lake Covington, across from the courthouse on historical Main Street. Despite the big-box coffee stores coming to town, it’s still the spot the locals flock to for their caffeine fix. The staff is friendly, the views to die for, and the booths in the back corners are a great place to get some privacy and talk one-on-one.
The Wash ‘N Dry is a small three washer and three dryer laundromat that sits nestled between the Curly Q Hair Salon and the Main Street General Store. Typically used by tourists who prefer to hit the spin cycle and check out the other shops, its privacy does have a certain appeal for the locals, especially in a moment’s notice.
Lake Covington is known for its beauty, its charm, its classic style. Mojo’s might be the only exception to the rule. It’s a tiny hole in the wall with a whole different kind of charm, where the locals go to escape their day-to-day and tourists flock to for its rock and roll music and devil may care attitude.
Chez Charbon is the chic place to dine in Lake Covington. Chef Henri creates a little piece of heaven in everything he touches. Situated on the edge of the lake, surrounded by flower and herb gardens, makes it a delightful place to wait, even when you have reservations.
On the outskirts of Lake Covington is a picturesque bed & breakfast simply called Lake Cottage. It is run by an old couple, the Talleys. If you’re not in love when you arrive, watching the owners' adoration for each other after all these years will make you wish for that special someone.
Unlike the general store, The Epicure is Lake Covington’s upscale organic, fair trade market. The market touts its local farm-to-table produce and humanely sourced meats. Tourists come for the import section where shelves are brimming with exotic foods and unusual ingredients.
The Mayor’s House is a newly constructed, two-story brick home, with palatial columns and a wraparound porch. Located within the heart of Lake Covington, directly off Main Street, it’s one of the largest homes within the township. No expense was spared with manicured lawns, hedged-wall gardens, and generously placed rose bushes dispersed throughout. To enter the estate your carriage drives under an ivy-covered brick archway up a cobbled drive that winds its way in front of the expansive porch. A three-tiered fountain made of marble, stone pathways, and wrought-iron lanterns beckon you to tour the grounds.
Nash’s Fix & Fill Mechanic Shop and Gas station is a family owned and operated establishment. This shiny red and chrome encased building looks like it was dropped onto Main Street via the 1950's, bringing back memories of milkshakes and greased overalls. Located in the heart of downtown Lake Covington, it offers the best mechanic work and only petrol for the bustling little town.
Healing Waters Hospital is a cutting-edge hospital. One of the most modern buildings in Lake Covington, it houses several operating rooms, intensive care units, over 100 patient rooms, a morgue, and a chapel. Located right outside of downtown, it stands tall and proud, overlooking the west banks of the lake.
The Pet Project was once the old pharmacy within Lake Covington. The remodel, from a dilapidated building to a modern retail and pet grooming establishment, is a true demonstration that the town is growing up. The owners clear vision adds to the downtowns modern vision for Lake Covington.
The recent addition of the airport has finally put Lake Covington on the map, expanding greater revenues of tourism. Although not as large as airports in bigger cities, its spacious eateries, gift shops, and murals of Lake Covington life give it a charm all its own.