Laplace, LA
- About the City
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions and Services
LaPlace, Louisiana, is the "Andouille Capital of the World," a Mississippi River community in the New Orleans metro area known for its strong Cajun heritage, historic plantations, and access to nearby swamps.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: LaPlace, Louisiana
- Administrative Status: LaPlace is a census-designated place (CDP) located in St. John the Baptist Parish . It is an unincorporated community, meaning it does not have its own municipal government but is part of the larger parish structure .
- Country and Region: It is situated in the state of Louisiana in the United States. The region is part of the New Orleans metropolitan area and is famously known as the "German Coast" (French: la Côte des Allemands) due to its settlement by German immigrants in the early 18th century .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Official Nickname: LaPlace's most famous nickname is the "Andouille Capital of the World," a title officially proclaimed by then-Governor Edwin Edwards in the 1970s . This celebrates the town's specialty, a smoked pork sausage of French origin that has become a cornerstone of its culinary identity.
- Historical Names:
- The area was originally part of the German Coast settlements in the 1720s .
- A specific settlement in the area was known as Karlstein .
- The locale was later called Bonnet Carré, named after the sharp, right-angle turn of the Mississippi River nearby, which resembled a square bonnet .
- Spelling Note: The town's namesake, early settler Basile Laplace, spelled his name with a lowercase "p." However, in 1971, the St. John the Baptist Parish Police Jury decreed the official spelling to be "LaPlace" with a capital "P" to disassociate the town from his "questionable background" .
Founding Date and Age
The area was first settled by Europeans in the early 18th century (around 1721) when German immigrants arrived as part of the French colonial effort . The modern community of LaPlace began to take shape in 1883 when a railroad depot was established on the land of Basile Laplace, who had arrived in 1879 . The town's age from this pivotal moment is over 140 years.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 30°4′30″N 90°29′6″W (30.075025, -90.484896) .
- Position: LaPlace is located on the east bank of the Mississippi River, directly across from the town of Reserve, and is about 25 miles (40 km) west of New Orleans and 30 miles northwest of Baton Rouge .
- Elevation: The central area has an elevation of approximately 10 feet (3.0 m) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: It is a riverfront community situated on a floodplain, with significant water features including the Mississippi River, Lake Pontchartrain, and the Bonnet Carré Spillway .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Commuter Town: LaPlace serves as a major bedroom community for nearby New Orleans and Baton Rouge, offering a suburban lifestyle with convenient interstate access .
- Industrial Center: It is a significant industrial hub, home to the headquarters of the Port of South Louisiana, one of the largest shipping ports in the Western Hemisphere . Major industrial employers include Shell Chemical Company, DuPont, ADM, and ArcelorMittal .
- Culinary Destination: Its identity as the "Andouille Capital of the World" makes it a destination for foodies and those interested in authentic Cajun cuisine, celebrated annually at the Andouille Festival .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of LaPlace was 28,841 .
- Population Class: Based on this figure, LaPlace is classified as a small town or large census-designated place.
- Demographic Trends: The community has seen significant demographic shifts. The 2020 census data shows a majority Black or African American population (54.20%) and a growing Hispanic or Latino community (9.43%) .
"City's Calling Card" (In Short)
LaPlace is a quintessential slice of Louisiana, where the spirit of the "German Coast" lives on in its smoky andouille sausage and the echoes of the 1811 slave revolt. Nestled between the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, it offers visitors a taste of genuine Cajun culture, historic plantations, and access to wild swamps, all while serving as a gateway between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
LaPlace has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa) . This type of climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The area is also one of the rainiest in the United States, with abundant precipitation throughout the year .
Average Temperatures and Seasons
- General Temperatures: The area enjoys a long, warm growing season. Average air temperatures hover around 21°C (70°F) annually .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are long, hot, and humid. Highs frequently reach 90°F (32°C) or higher . The combination of heat and high humidity (often near 87%) can make it feel much hotter .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are generally mild. Average daytime temperatures are around 60°F (15°C) . Freezing temperatures are possible but not usually prolonged.
Precipitation and Humidity
- Annual Rainfall: LaPlace receives a significant amount of rain, approximately 1613 mm (63.5 inches) per year . This is well above the US average.
- Humidity: Humidity levels are high year-round, averaging around 87% , contributing to the lush, green landscape but also to a sticky feeling during the summer months .
Specific Weather Phenomena
- Tornadoes: The region is at risk for tornadoes, particularly in conjunction with strong thunderstorms and hurricanes. LaPlace has been struck by significant tornadoes in the past, including an F4 tornado in 1983 and an F3 tornado spawned by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 .
- Hurricanes and Flooding: As a low-lying community near the coast, LaPlace is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes. Storm surge and heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding, as seen with Hurricane Isaac in 2012 and Hurricane Ida in 2021 .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit LaPlace is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) . During these months, temperatures are most comfortable for outdoor activities like swamp tours, exploring plantations, and attending the Andouille Festival in October. The weather is less oppressively humid than in the summer, and the risk of severe weather is lower.
Landmarks and Attractions
San Francisco Plantation
One of the most stunning antebellum homes in the South, the San Francisco Plantation is a National Historic Landmark located in Reserve, just across the river from LaPlace . Built in the mid-1800s, its architecture is a unique and vibrant mix of Creole and Gothic Revival styles, famous for its elaborate, hand-painted ceilings and intricate woodwork. Guided tours provide deep insight into the lives of both the plantation owners and the enslaved people who worked the land .
Whitney Plantation Museum
For a more somber and educational experience, the Whitney Plantation Museum in nearby Wallace is a must-visit . Unlike any other plantation tour in Louisiana, its sole focus is on the history and memory of the enslaved people. Through memorials, original slave cabins, and poignant exhibits, it offers a powerful and essential perspective on American slavery .
St. John the Baptist Parish Church
Located in LaPlace, this Gothic Revival-style church was built in the 1800s and stands as one of the most iconic structures in the area . With its beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate details, it remains an active parish and a peaceful place for reflection, offering a glimpse into the town's spiritual heritage .
The Bonnet Carré Spillway
This is an incredible engineering marvel built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to control flooding from the Mississippi River by diverting excess water into Lake Pontchartrain . It has also become a major recreational hub. The spillway offers miles of trails for hiking and biking, and its waters are excellent for fishing and boating, making it a top spot for nature enthusiasts .
Manchac Swamp and Cajun Pride Swamp Tours
Just outside LaPlace lies the wild and mysterious Manchac Swamp. Cajun Pride Swamp Tours takes visitors deep into this pristine area, where guides share stories of Cajun folklore and the swamp's unique ecosystem . You're almost guaranteed to see wildlife, including alligators, turtles, egrets, and other native birds in their natural habitat .
The Andouille Festival
Held every October, the Andouille Festival is LaPlace's signature event . This weekend-long celebration features live music, carnival rides, and, of course, endless preparations of the town's namesake sausage—from gumbo and jambalaya to straight off the grill. It's a vibrant, family-friendly immersion into the local culture and cuisine .
Frenier Landing Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Overlooking the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, Frenier Landing is more than just a restaurant; it's a destination . Known for its stunning waterfront views, live music, and menu brimming with Cajun and Creole classics, it's the perfect place to sample Louisiana flavors like fried alligator, fresh oysters, and hearty gumbo .
Transport
Major Airports
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (IATA: MSY): This is the primary airport serving the region, located approximately 25 miles from LaPlace . It offers a wide range of domestic and limited international flights. Travelers can reach LaPlace via Interstate 10.
Major Highways
LaPlace is a significant transportation hub, serving as the southern terminus for two major highways :
- Interstate 10 (I-10): The primary east-west interstate along the Gulf Coast, directly connecting LaPlace to New Orleans to the east and Baton Rouge to the west.
- Interstate 55 (I-55): This major north-south interstate has its southern terminus in LaPlace at its interchange with I-10.
- U.S. Highway 51 (US 51): This U.S. highway also has its southern terminus in LaPlace at the junction with U.S. Highway 61 .
- U.S. Highway 61 (Airline Highway): This historic route passes through LaPlace, providing a local alternative to I-10 .
Public Transportation
LaPlace does not have its own public transportation system . However, residents and visitors have several options:
- Jefferson Transit: This bus service offers routes that connect LaPlace with other areas within the greater New Orleans region .
- Ride-Sharing and Taxis: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are available for getting around town or to nearby locations like the airport .
Future Rail Service
There are active plans to establish passenger rail service between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, which would include a key stop in LaPlace . This project is supported by federal infrastructure legislation and would significantly enhance transportation options for the community.
River Ferry
LaPlace has a connection to the west bank of the Mississippi River via a ferry service from Riverfront Park to the town of Reserve .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Andouille Sausage
Laplace is globally renowned as the "Andouille Capital of the World," and this smoked sausage is the cornerstone of its culinary identity . Andouille is a coarse-grained sausage, distinctively smoked, which sets it apart from other sausages. It is made from pork, seasoned with garlic, pepper, onions, and herbs, then slowly smoked over pecan wood, a technique that imparts a deep, rich, and unmistakable flavor . This tradition was brought to the region by French and German immigrants in the 18th century, and Laplace became the heart of its production . While it is used year-round in dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, andouille is a staple of Louisiana's culinary celebrations.
The most famous producer is Jacob's Andouille, a family-run business established in 1928. They have been named the Best Andouille in the River Parishes for four consecutive years, upholding the original recipe and traditional smoking methods that have made Laplace famous .
Iconic Sandwiches: The Po'boy and Muffuletta
Laplace is home to beloved local spots serving iconic Louisiana sandwiches. Mabile's Restaurant is a local favorite, celebrated for its generous servings of classic Louisiana fare . Their menu features two of the state's most famous creations:
- Roast Beef Po'boy: Considered by customers to be one of the best in Louisiana, this sandwich is piled high with tender, flavorful roast beef on crispy French bread .
- Muffuletta: A massive sandwich filled with Italian meats and cheeses, topped with a distinctive olive salad. The muffuletta at Mabile's is a must-try, known to taste even better the next day after the flavors meld in the refrigerator .
Wayne Jacob's Smokehouse
For an authentic taste of Laplace's smoking heritage, Wayne Jacob's Smokehouse is a historic destination. Operating since 1950, it functions as both a restaurant and a store, offering handcrafted andouille sausage and other smoked meats made with real charcoal over several hours . Visitors can enjoy these meats on site in dishes like brisket sandwiches or purchase them to take home. Reviewers consistently praise the unparalleled flavor of the smoked sausage and andouille, making it a must-stop for a memorable meal .
Museums
1811 Kid Ory Historic House
Located in Laplace, the 1811 Kid Ory Historic House is a museum of national significance, situated in one of the oldest structures in St. John the Baptist Parish . This site is uniquely dedicated to two pivotal moments in American history: the largest rebellion of enslaved people in U.S. history and the birth of jazz .
The house, originally part of a plantation, was the site where the 1811 German Coast Uprising, led by Charles Deslondes, began. The first blood of the rebellion was drawn here . The museum's exhibits on this event include interpretive story panels, period maps, and historical artifacts, telling the story of this desperate gamble for freedom with the accuracy and nuance it demands .
The house is also the birthplace of Edward "Kid" Ory (1886), a pioneering jazz bandleader, composer, and trombonist. He was born in the quarters there and went on to become a foundational figure in early New Orleans jazz . The museum brings his story to life with exhibits featuring antique, homemade instruments, interactive music and video displays, and Ory's own century-old trombone . The museum is operated by the Bonnet Carré Historical Society, which is dedicated to preserving the histories of the River Parishes through scholarly research and education .
Sport and Sporting Legends
Nearby Collegiate Sports
While Laplace itself does not have major professional sports teams, it is ideally located within a short drive of the intense college sports action for which Louisiana is famous . The city is approximately 30 miles from both Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond and Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, offering a variety of college sports to watch .
For fans of the highest level of college athletics, the powerhouse Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge is easily accessible for football and basketball games. Similarly, the excitement of professional sports is just a short drive away in New Orleans, home to the New Orleans Saints (NFL) and the New Orleans Pelicans (NBA) .
Youth and Community Sports
Laplace has an active youth sports scene. An example of this is the Louisiana Athletics Baseball team, a 13U-AAA travel baseball team based in Laplace that competes in regional tournaments across Louisiana, including events in Hammond, Baton Rouge, and Denham Springs . This indicates a strong community infrastructure for baseball and other youth sports.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Colleges and Universities Nearby
While there are no four-year universities located directly within Laplace's city limits, the city is within a 30-mile radius of a wide array of higher education options, providing residents with access to over 28 colleges and universities enrolling nearly 90,000 students .
Some of the most notable institutions within a short drive include:
- Tulane University (23 miles): A prestigious private research university ranked #596 nationally, with a highly selective 11% acceptance rate and over 14,000 students .
- Loyola University New Orleans (23 miles): A private university with a 78% acceptance rate and strong programs in the liberal arts and business .
- Xavier University of Louisiana (23 miles): Ranked as the #1 Best Private College in Louisiana, this historically Black university is known for its strong programs in the sciences and pharmacy .
- University of New Orleans (25 miles): A public university ranked #5 among public universities in Louisiana .
- Southeastern Louisiana University (30 miles): A large public university in Hammond with over 13,000 students .
- Delgado Community College (23 miles): The closest community college, offering open admission and a wide range of two-year programs .
Local Health and Specialized Education
Laplace is also home to specialized facilities that provide health education and vocational training. The Urgent Care/LaPlace - CARE Program and BAART Laplace are outpatient treatment centers that offer substance use disorder treatment and education to the community .
Healthcare Institutions and Services
Outpatient and Specialized Care
Laplace hosts several healthcare facilities focused on outpatient services and specialized treatment programs.
The Urgent Care/LaPlace - CARE Program, located at 309 Belle Terre Boulevard, is a for-profit outpatient facility that provides substance use treatment and counseling . They offer special programs for a wide range of groups, including veterans, service members, adult men and women, military families, and individuals with mental health disorders or a history of trauma. Treatment approaches include medication-assisted treatment, substance use counseling, and one-on-one counseling .
Similarly, BAART Laplace, located at 128 Woodland Drive, is an outpatient clinic providing medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorders . This facility is affiliated with the Tulane School of Medicine and serves adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. It accepts Medicaid and private insurance and offers a walk-in admission process .
River Parishes Treatment Center and Louisiana Behavioral Health Services - Cognitive Development Centers are other nearby options for behavioral health and outpatient treatment .
Nearby Major Hospitals
For comprehensive hospital care, including emergency services and specialized surgery, residents of Laplace have access to world-class medical centers in the nearby cities of New Orleans, Metairie, and Kenner, all within a 20-30 minute drive. This includes the renowned Ochsner Health System and other major hospitals in the New Orleans metropolitan area .