Woodmere, NY
- About the Town
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Healthcare in and around Woodmere
- Museums near Woodmere
- Sports and Recreation in Woodmere
- Universities and Education near Woodmere
- Local Cuisine in Woodmere
Woodmere is a charming hamlet on Long Island's South Shore, known for its suburban tranquility, excellent schools, and being part of the historic Five Towns community.
About the Town
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Official Name: Woodmere.
- Administrative Status: Woodmere is an unincorporated hamlet and census-designated place (CDP). It does not have its own municipal government and is governed by the Town of Hempstead .
- Regional Location: It is located in Nassau County on the South Shore of Long Island, in the state of New York, United States. Woodmere is a key part of the renowned "Five Towns" area, a collection of villages and hamlets known for their upscale suburban character, strong sense of community, and proximity to New York City .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- The Five Towns: Woodmere is almost always mentioned in the context of the "Five Towns," a well-known regional nickname for a cluster of communities on Long Island's South Shore, which also includes Lawrence, Cedarhurst, Inwood, and Hewlett . The name derives from the woodlands that once dominated the landscape .
Date of Foundation and Age
- History: Woodmere evolved from a 19th-century farming community into a suburban area . It considered incorporating as a village in 1910 and again in 1978, but both attempts were unsuccessful, and it remains an unincorporated hamlet .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 40°38′10″N 73°43′10″W (40.6375, -73.7219) .
- Location: Woodmere is situated on the South Shore of Long Island, placing it in close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its beaches . The area includes a subsection known as "Old Woodmere," which features some waterfront properties .
- Elevation: The elevation in Woodmere is approximately 23 feet (7 meters) above sea level .
- Total Area: The CDP has a total area of 2.8 square miles (7.3 km²), with 2.6 square miles (6.7 km²) of land and 0.2 square miles (0.6 km²) of water .
Town Type and Economic Specialization
Woodmere is primarily a residential suburban community. Its economy and identity are centered around being a sought-after place to live for families and professionals who work in New York City. Key characteristics include:
- Commuter Town: Its major function is as a bedroom community for Manhattan, facilitated by the Long Island Rail Road .
- Local Commerce: The downtown area along Broadway features a variety of independent shops, restaurants, and professional offices, specifically avoiding "big box" chain stores, which adds to its unique charm .
- Community Focus: Excellent schools, parks, and the local library are central to the community's life and property values .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of Woodmere was 18,669 .
- Town Class: It is a small-to-mid-sized suburban community.
- Demographic Features: Woodmere is known for its diverse community, with a significant and active population of Modern Orthodox Jewish families who have established several synagogues in the area . It is a family-oriented community with a high percentage of family households .
"Visiting Card" of the Town
Woodmere offers a classic slice of Long Island suburban life: a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and a charming downtown of local businesses. Its greatest assets are its proximity to the beaches of the South Shore and its convenient access via the Long Island Rail Road to the cultural and economic opportunities of New York City .
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
While not directly on the ocean, Woodmere is situated on the South Shore of Long Island and has water features.
- Bays and Waterways: The hamlet's location places it near the tidal waterways and bays that characterize the South Shore. The area has some residential waterfront, particularly in the "Old Woodmere" section .
Beaches and Coastlines
Woodmere itself does not have public beaches, but it is renowned for its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean beach communities.
- Nearby Beaches: The famous beaches of the South Shore, such as those in Long Beach and Atlantic Beach, are a short drive away, making Woodmere an ideal home base for those seeking both suburban comfort and seaside recreation .
National and Nature Parks
There are no national parks in Woodmere, but it features significant county and local parks that serve as the area's main recreational attractions.
- North Woodmere Park: This is the principal park for residents. It is a Nassau County-owned facility featuring an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, baseball fields, basketball courts, and picnic areas .
- Valley Stream State Park: Located nearby, this state park offers additional green space, hiking trails, and picnic facilities .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Woodmere has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , transitioning to a hot-summer humid continental climate (Dfa), typical of the New York metropolitan area. It is characterized by warm, humid summers and cold, wet winters .
- Coastal Influence: Its location on the South Shore moderates temperatures, making summers more pleasant and winters slightly milder than inland areas .
Average Temperatures Throughout the Year
- Hottest Month: July, with average highs around 83°F (28°C) and lows around 67°F (21°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average highs around 39°F (4°C) and lows around 24°F (-2°C) .
- Record High: 104°F (40°C) in July 1966 .
- Record Low: -12°F (-24°C) in 1985 and 1994 .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Precipitation is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The wettest month is May, and the driest is August. Woodmere receives significant rainfall, contributing to its lush landscape .
- Snowfall: Average annual snowfall is about 22 inches (559 mm) .
- Humidity: Summers can be humid, especially compared to areas further from the coast .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Woodmere for pleasant weather is from mid-June to late September .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up gradually from cool to mild. This is a wet period, with May being the rainiest month, but it's also when the area becomes green and beautiful .
- Summer (June-August): Warm to hot and humid. July and August are the warmest months, ideal for enjoying local parks, pools, and nearby beaches .
- Fall (September-November): Mild and generally pleasant with decreasing humidity. September is often a lovely month, and the area experiences less rainfall than in spring .
- Winter (December-February): Cold with a mix of rain and snow. While snow is common, severe blizzards are less frequent than in areas farther from the coast .
Specific Weather Phenomena
Woodmere is susceptible to strong to severe thunderstorms and is prone to flooding in the early fall and late spring . Due to its coastal location, it has been impacted by significant tropical systems, including Hurricane Gloria (1985), Tropical Storm Irene (2011), and Superstorm Sandy (2012) . The area has also experienced tornadoes, in 1985, 1998, and 2021 .
Landmarks and Attractions
North Woodmere Park
This is the premier recreational destination for residents and visitors alike.
- Features: The park boasts a diverse range of amenities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a nine-hole golf course, numerous tennis courts, and facilities for baseball, basketball, and picnics .
- Significance: It serves as the town's central gathering place for sports, relaxation, and community events, embodying the suburban lifestyle of the area .
The Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library
More than just a library, it is described as a focal point of the community .
- Architecture and Role: Noted for its beautiful architecture, the library is a hub for cultural activities, hosting events such as movie screenings, current events discussions, and musical programs for all ages .
Broadway Commercial District
The heart of Woodmere's local economy and social life is along Broadway.
- Independent Businesses: This area is known for its charming mix of independent shops, restaurants, cafes, and professional offices. A defining feature is the absence of "big box" chain stores, which preserves the town's unique character and fosters a close-knit community feel .
Historical Sites and Notable Estates
While many historical estates are gone, their legacy remains.
- Fox Hall: In the 1920s, William Fox, founder of the Fox Film Corporation, had a large estate in Woodmere called Fox Hall, which reportedly hosted celebrities like Humphrey Bogart. The mansion was eventually torn down for residential development .
- Harvey Milk's Childhood Home: Civil rights leader Harvey Milk grew up in Woodmere, where his parents owned a department store on Broadway, adding a significant historical layer to the town's story .
Transport
Main Airports
Woodmere's location on Long Island places it within convenient reach of New York City's major airports.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Located approximately 9 miles away, it is the closest major airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights. The drive is typically around 17 minutes without heavy traffic .
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Situated about 16 miles from Woodmere, this airport handles many domestic flights and is accessible in about 27 minutes by car .
Main Railway Stations
- Woodmere Station: This station provides direct service on the Far Rockaway Branch of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) . This is the primary transportation link for commuters traveling to and from New York City, with a monthly ticket costing approximately $253 .
Public Transportation System
- Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE) Buses: The public bus system for Nassau County operates two routes that travel through Woodmere: the n31 and the n32 . These buses provide local connectivity to neighboring communities and connect with other transport hubs .
Major Highways and Roads
While no major interstate highways pass directly through the residential heart of Woodmere, it has easy access to the region's key roadways.
- Access: Residents can quickly reach the Southern State Parkway and the Cross Island Parkway, which connect to the wider Long Island and New York City metropolitan area highway system, facilitating travel to major beaches, JFK Airport, and Manhattan .
Healthcare in and around Woodmere
Woodmere is a suburban community on Long Island with a limited number of healthcare facilities within the immediate hamlet . Residents have access to local clinics and rely on nearby hospitals for more comprehensive medical services.
Local Medical Practices
For primary and specialty care, Pediatric Healthcare of Long Island - Woodmere, located at 145 Franklin Place, offers pediatric services. Dr. Brittany Brown, a pediatrician who completed her residency at North Shore Long Island Jewish Hospital, is one of the practitioners at this location .
Nearby Hospitals
The closest hospital to Woodmere is St. John's Episcopal Hospital at South Shore, situated approximately 3.6 to 3.7 miles away (about an 8-minute drive) . This facility provides emergency and inpatient services to residents of the Five Towns area.
Other regional medical centers within a reasonable distance include facilities in nearby communities, though specific names beyond St. John's are not detailed in the available information .
Healthcare Overview
Woodmere has a favorable physician-to-population ratio, with approximately 498 physicians per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the U.S. average of 210 per 100,000 . The area's health cost index is 99.5 (slightly below the national average of 100), indicating typical healthcare costs for the region .
The community also has wellness centers and pharmacies serving local residents, contributing to adequate healthcare access despite the limited number of facilities directly within Woodmere's center .
Museums near Woodmere
While Woodmere itself does not have major public museums, there are cultural institutions in the surrounding area, and historical connections to the art world exist.
Art and Cultural Institutions
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum Archives in New York City holds records related to a "Woodmere Art Gallery" from the period 1961-1974, indicating some historical art activity in the area, though the exact nature and location of this gallery are not specified .
Science and Learning Centers
For family-friendly educational activities, the Center for Science Teaching and Learning is located approximately 4.0 to 4.8 miles from Woodmere, reachable within a 9-11 minute drive . This center offers interactive science exhibits and programs.
Nearby Parks with Educational Value
Several parks in the region offer recreational and natural experiences:
- Valley Stream State Park: Approximately 3.9 to 4.1 miles away (about 9 minutes drive), this park provides outdoor recreation and green space .
- Bayswater Park: Located about 4.4 miles from Woodmere .
- Brookville Park: Situated roughly 4.3 miles away .
For major art museums and historical collections, residents and visitors typically travel to New York City, which is accessible via the Long Island Rail Road from Woodmere Station .
Sports and Recreation in Woodmere
Woodmere offers various recreational facilities and has connections to professional sports through local athletes.
Parks and Recreational Facilities
North Woodmere Park provides leisure and recreation for area residents with facilities including:
- Tennis courts
- Baseball fields
- Basketball courts
- Other sports fields
The park system in the area includes several other recreational areas within a 5-mile radius, such as Valley Stream State Park, which offers additional outdoor sports and activity options .
Local Sports Connections
Woodmere High School (Woodmere HS) has produced at least one Major League Baseball player. Les Howe, a pitcher, attended Woodmere HS and played in the major leagues for two seasons (1923-1924) with the Detroit Tigers and Boston Braves. Over his brief career, he appeared in 16 games .
Commuting and Active Lifestyle
The community has a Bike Score of 50 out of 100, indicating some bicycle infrastructure exists, though a car is still necessary for many errands . The average commute time for Woodmere residents is 40.9 minutes one-way, longer than the national average of 26.4 minutes, which may impact daily physical activity patterns .
Universities and Education near Woodmere
While Woodmere itself does not host universities, several institutions of higher education are within a short driving distance, making the hamlet a convenient residential area for students and academics.
Nearby Colleges and Universities
The closest higher education institutions to Woodmere include:
Molloy College: Located approximately 6.6 to 6.7 miles away, about a 13-minute drive . This Catholic institution in Rockville Centre offers undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, business, education, nursing, and health sciences.
Adelphi University: Situated in Garden City, about 7.9 to 8.7 miles from Woodmere (approximately 16-17 minutes drive) . Adelphi is a private university known for its strong programs in psychology, the arts, and business.
York College (CUNY): Located in Jamaica, Queens, approximately 8.2 to 8.7 miles away . This public college is part of the City University of New York system and offers diverse undergraduate programs.
Other institutions within a 12-mile radius include additional CUNY campuses and specialized colleges .
Local Schools
Woodmere is noted for having excellent public schools, contributing to its reputation as a family-friendly community . The hamlet is part of the Hewlett-Woodmere School District, which serves the educational needs of local children from kindergarten through high school.
Transportation Access for Students
The presence of Woodmere Station on the Long Island Rail Road provides convenient rail access to numerous points on Long Island and New York City, making it feasible for students to commute to educational institutions throughout the region . The Far Rockaway-Mott Avenue subway station is also accessible, approximately 3.4 to 3.5 miles away .
Local Cuisine in Woodmere
Woodmere offers a modest but notable dining scene as part of the Five Towns community on Long Island.
Dining Scene
The hamlet has "a handful of restaurants" within its boundaries, with additional dining options available in the immediately surrounding areas of the Five Towns . This informal grouping of villages and hamlets creates a localized dining culture that serves the residential community.
Given the significant Jewish population in the Five Towns area, the local cuisine reflects this cultural influence, with several kosher restaurants and bakeries operating in and around Woodmere. These establishments serve traditional Jewish deli fare, including:
- Sandwiches with house-cured pastrami and corned beef
- Matzo ball soup
- Bagels with lox and cream cheese
- Knishes and other baked goods
Nearby Dining Options
The proximity to other Five Towns communities—including Lawrence, Cedarhurst, Hewlett, and Inwood—expands the dining choices available to Woodmere residents . Cedarhurst, in particular, has a concentrated dining district with diverse restaurants ranging from kosher steakhouses to Italian, Asian, and American cuisine.
Shopping for Food
Several shopping centers within a 1.2-mile radius provide grocery shopping options for residents . These include supermarkets and specialty food stores where locals can purchase ingredients for home cooking.
For a wider array of dining experiences, residents can easily access New York City via the nearby Woodmere Station, with the Long Island Rail Road providing convenient transportation to the diverse culinary offerings of Brooklyn and Manhattan .