Terrytown, LA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Terrytown is a suburban community on the West Bank of the Mississippi River, part of the New Orleans metropolitan area. Founded in 1960 as a planned development, it is a census-designated place in Jefferson Parish known for its residential character and the major Oakwood Center shopping mall.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Terrytown, Louisiana. It has no official Russian name.
- Status: Terrytown is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP). This means it is a defined population center for statistical purposes but does not have its own municipal government. It is administered as part of Jefferson Parish .
- Country and Region: It is located in the state of Louisiana, within the United States. It is part of the New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area, often referred to as the Greater New Orleans region. Jefferson Parish is known for its diverse communities lining the Mississippi River and its significant role in the region's economy and culture .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Terrytown does not have widely recognized historical names or nicknames. It was a planned suburban development from its inception.
Founding Date and Age
- Terrytown is a relatively new community. It was formally opened to the public on March 6, 1960 .
- It was developed by subdivision developer Paul Kapelow, who named the town after his first daughter, Terry Kapelow. The area's main intersecting streets, Terry Parkway and Carol Sue Avenue, are named after his two daughters .
- As of the current date, March 6, 2025, Terrytown is 65 years old.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: The precise coordinates for the center of Terrytown are 29.9014° N, -90.0279° W (or 29°54′8″N 90°1′46″W) .
- Location: Terrytown is situated on the "Westbank" (the south bank) of the Mississippi River, directly across from New Orleans . It is bordered by Gretna to the west and New Orleans to the northeast.
- Elevation: A unique characteristic of the area is its elevation. Much of Terrytown is at or slightly below sea level, with the elevation at the CDP's center being approximately -3 feet (-0.9 meters) above sea level .
- Geographical Type: It is a suburban community located on the Mississippi River Delta plain.
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Terrytown is primarily a residential suburb and a regional commercial hub for the West Bank of the Mississippi River.
- Its economy is centered on retail and local services. The most significant economic asset is the Oakwood Center, a major enclosed shopping mall that serves as the primary retail destination for the West Bank communities . Residents primarily work in New Orleans or other parts of the metropolitan area.
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of Terrytown is 25,278 .
- City Class: As a CDP with a population just over 25,000, it falls into the category of a small city or large town.
- Demographic Features: Terrytown is a highly diverse community. The 2020 census data shows a population with a significant Black or African American (38.2%) and Hispanic or Latino (27.7%) presence, alongside a White (25.8%) and Asian (4.7%) community. This reflects the diverse demographics of the Greater New Orleans area .
"Visiting Card" of the City (In Brief)
- Terrytown represents the suburban, residential heart of the Greater New Orleans region on the West Bank of the Mississippi. It is best known as a convenient base for exploring New Orleans, with easy access to the city's attractions via the Crescent City Connection bridge, and as home to the Oakwood Center, the premier shopping destination for locals on its side of the river.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes)
- The dominant and most significant water body is the Mississippi River (Mighty Mississippi). Terrytown is situated on its west bank, and the river defines the community's geography and hydrology . It is one of the world's great rivers, and its presence is fundamental to the region's character, providing transportation, water resources, and a distinct landscape.
- The area's hydrology is also shaped by several canals and waterways that drain the low-lying land .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
- Terrytown has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa). This is characterized by long, very hot, and oppressively humid summers, and short, mild to cool winters .
- The area receives abundant rainfall throughout the year and is one of the more humid parts of the United States .
Average Temperatures by Month
The climate is defined by mild winters and sweltering summers .
- Hottest Month: July, with average daily highs of 91°F (31°C) and lows of 77°F (25.8°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average daily highs of 63°F (16.2°C) and lows of 47°F (9°C) .
- Extreme Temperatures: It is very rare for the temperature to drop below 34°F or rise above 96°F .
| Month | Avg. High (°F/°C) | Avg. Low (°F/°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 63 / 16.2 | 47 / 9.0 |
| February | 66 / 18.5 | 50 / 11.6 |
| March | 73 / 21.2 | 57 / 14.3 |
| April | 78 / 24.5 | 63 / 18.0 |
| May | 85 / 27.9 | 70 / 21.8 |
| June | 89 / 30.7 | 75 / 25.1 |
| July | 91 / 31.0 | 77 / 25.8 |
| August | 90 / 30.9 | 77 / 25.8 |
| September | 87 / 29.5 | 74 / 24.1 |
| October | 79 / 25.7 | 65 / 18.9 |
| November | 71 / 20.7 | 56 / 13.6 |
| December | 65 / 17.5 | 50 / 11.0 |
*Source: *
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Terrytown receives a significant amount of precipitation, averaging about 55 inches (1396 mm) per year .
- Wettest Month: July is typically the wettest month, with frequent thunderstorms and an average rainfall of 5.5 inches, contributing to the high humidity .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are very high year-round, especially in summer. Average humidity is around 87% , creating an oppressive feel during the hot months .
- Snow: Snowfall is extremely rare. The average annual snowfall is 0 inches (0 mm) .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May): This is an excellent time to visit. Temperatures are warm and pleasant, and the humidity is lower than in summer. Flowering plants and trees are in bloom .
- Summer (June to August): Summer is very hot, humid, and wet with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. While outdoor activities are challenging, it is a time for enjoying water-based recreation .
- Fall (September to November): Another ideal time for a visit. The intense heat and humidity begin to break in late September, giving way to comfortable, sunny days and cooler nights .
- Winter (December to February): Winters are mild and generally pleasant, though there can be occasional cold fronts bringing wind and cooler temperatures. It's the coolest and least humid time of the year .
- Best Time for Warm-Weather Activities: Based on weather, the prime time to visit Terrytown for outdoor activities is from late March to mid-May and from late September to early November .
Landmarks and Attractions
The Most Famous Landmark: Oakwood Center
- Oakwood Center is the primary commercial and social landmark of Terrytown .
- It is a large, enclosed regional shopping mall featuring major department stores, a diverse array of shops, and a food court. It serves as a central gathering place and retail hub for residents of the West Bank .
Nearby Attractions and Natural Areas
- Bayou Segnette State Park: Located nearby in Westwego, this state park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. It offers a wave pool, freshwater and saltwater fishing, boating, hiking trails, and picnic areas, providing an escape into Louisiana's wetland landscape .
- The Mississippi River: The river itself is a major landmark. The Gretna levee, just west of Terrytown, is a popular local spot for walking, jogging, and taking in expansive views of the river and the New Orleans skyline .
Transport
Major Highways
- Terrytown is well-connected by road. Key highways include Louisiana Highway 23 (Belle Chasse Highway) , which forms the community's southwest border, and Highway 428 (Behrman Highway) , which runs through its eastern part .
- The primary access to New Orleans is via the Crescent City Connection (US 90 Business) , a major bridge crossing the Mississippi River just west of Terrytown.
Public Transportation
- Public transportation in Terrytown is provided by Jefferson Transit (JeT) . Several bus routes service the area, connecting it to the West Bank and providing links to New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) lines .
- Key routes include the W2, W3, and W8 buses, with a major hub at the Wilty Terminal and stops near Oakwood Center .
Ride-Sharing and Other Services
- Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Terrytown, offering another convenient option for getting around without a car .
- The most popular requested destination for Uber riders in Terrytown is Oakwood Center .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Terrytown's culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its location within the Greater New Orleans area, with a strong emphasis on classic Louisiana flavors, from traditional Cajun cooking to iconic New Orleans sandwiches.
The Muffuletta at DiMartino's Famous New Orleans Muffulettas A signature sandwich of New Orleans, the Muffuletta, is a local staple in Terrytown. DiMartino's Famous New Orleans Muffulettas (Terry Town) is a beloved local institution on Carol Sue Avenue. Their muffuletta is a substantial Italian sandwich built on a round, seeded sesame bread. It is layered with generous portions of ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese, and is famously topped with a tangy, chopped olive salad that soaks into the bread, creating a distinctive and savory flavor . It is a popular choice for both dine-in and takeout, with consistent praise for its freshness and quality for over 35 years .
Cajun Specialties and Local Markets For authentic Cajun cuisine, residents and visitors can look to local purveyors like the Gourmet Butcher Block . While located in nearby Gretna, it is a significant source for Terrytown's culinary identity. Known as the home of the "All-Madden Turducken," this market specializes in dishes created with local ingredients and simple preparations that reflect the rustic cooking style of the Acadian people . Their offerings include a variety of Cajun delicacies featuring staple meats like shrimp and pork sausage, and traditional dishes centered around the culinary "holy trinity" of green bell pepper, onion, and celery .
Classic Louisiana Po' Boys and Seafood The iconic Louisiana Po' Boy sandwich is also a highlight in Terrytown. Cajun Critters Seafood & Poboys is a popular local spot known for its fresh and delicious Cajun-style dishes, with their signature dish being the Cajun fried catfish . They also offer a wide selection of other Po' Boys, sandwiches, and salads. Reviews for DiMartino's also consistently praise their shrimp po' boy, with one long-time customer declaring it the "Best shrimp poboy on the Westbank" . The restaurant also features other New Orleans favorites like red beans and rice, seafood platters, and fried oysters .
Local Dining Scene Beyond these specialties, Terrytown offers a diverse range of dining options. Spigots Brew Pub provides a local brewpub experience with a menu of burgers, salads, and sandwiches . For those seeking other international flavors, there is El Paso Mexican Grill for traditional Mexican dishes and Saigon Café for Vietnamese cuisine, including pho and banh mi . For quintessential American comfort food, Mama's Home Cooking serves classics like fried chicken and meatloaf .
Sport and Sports Legends
Sports and recreation in Terrytown are centered around community clubs, youth athletics, and nearby major-league attractions in New Orleans.
Local Sports and Community Clubs The Terrytown Country Club is a central hub for family-friendly sports and recreation. Established in 1967, it offers a variety of amenities, including 4 lighted tennis courts, which also accommodate 2 pickleball courts. The club features a 25-yard competition-size swimming pool with a diving board and a separate gated baby pool. A key feature of the club is its competitive swim team, which participates in the Jefferson Community Club Association (JCCA) league . The club also provides recreational facilities like cornhole boards, ping pong tables, and horseshoes, fostering a close-knit community environment .
Youth Sports Youth baseball is also present in the area, with teams like the Louisiana Rain, a 9U-AA travel baseball team based in Terrytown, participating in local tournaments . This indicates an active youth sports culture with participation in regional competitive events.
Bowling For bowling enthusiasts, there are approximately 10 bowling lanes in the Terrytown area . These alleys offer opportunities for casual play, leagues for beginners and casual players, and occasionally host special events or tournaments .
Proximity to New Orleans Sports Given Terrytown's location on the west bank of the Mississippi River, it is in immediate proximity to the major professional sports scene of New Orleans. Residents and visitors are just a short drive from the Caesars Superdome, home to the New Orleans Saints (NFL) , and the Smoothie King Center, where the New Orleans Pelicans (NBA) play. This close proximity integrates Terrytown into the broader sporting culture of the region.
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Terrytown is served by local healthcare clinics that provide essential services, with more comprehensive medical facilities available in the Greater New Orleans area.
Local Primary Care The primary healthcare facility within Terrytown is the Oak Street Health Terrytown Primary Care Clinic . Located at 601 Terry Pkwy, this center specializes in providing comprehensive healthcare services for Medicare-eligible adults, particularly seniors. The clinic offers a range of services including primary care, chronic condition management (such as for diabetes and hypertension), wellness and preventive care, immunizations, and in-center lab testing . Patients consistently praise the clinic for its welcoming atmosphere, attentive and caring staff, and the personal attention they receive, often describing the experience as "feeling like family" . The clinic accepts various forms of Medicare and also supports telehealth appointments .
Nearby Hospitals and Mental Health Services For more specialized or emergency care, residents of Terrytown have access to the extensive medical infrastructure of the New Orleans metropolitan area. This includes major hospitals such as Ochsner Medical Center and Tulane Medical Center, both located a short drive away in New Orleans.
Additionally, the New Orleans Mental Health Center is located in close proximity to Terrytown . This facility provides mental health services to the community and is situated just north of the Terrytown area, making it an accessible resource for residents .
Community Health Statistics According to 2021 data, an estimated 81% of Terrytown's population of approximately 25,000 people have health insurance coverage . Coverage rates are notably higher for seniors (100% for those 65 and over) and children under 19 (90.1%), while rates are lower among some demographics, including the foreign-born population not yet naturalized (27.9% uninsured) .