Westmont, NJ
- About the City
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Sports and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Westmont is an unincorporated community and CDP in Haddon Township, Camden County, New Jersey, United States.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Westmont is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located within Haddon Township in Camden County, New Jersey, United States . While it does not have its own municipal government, it is the primary downtown and most densely populated section of Haddon Township and is served by its own ZIP Code, 08108 . The area is part of the Delaware Valley, the metropolitan region surrounding Philadelphia.
Date of Foundation and Age
The area's first European settlers arrived in 1681 . Haddon Township itself was incorporated on February 23, 1865, from portions of Newton Township . The name "Westmont" was adopted later for this specific community and is believed to be derived from a noted harness racing horse . The Westmont Fire Company, a cornerstone of the community, was established in 1902 .
Geographical Position and Coordinates
Westmont is located at coordinates 39°54′30″N 75°03′19″W (39.9082447, -75.0551620) . Situated in the coastal plain of New Jersey, the area is generally flat, with the elevation of the township averaging around 20 feet (6 meters) above sea level . It is a suburban community typical of the region.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Westmont functions primarily as a residential suburb and a local commercial center within the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Its downtown area along Haddon Avenue features a variety of local businesses, restaurants, and bars. A unique characteristic is that Haddon Township permits the sale of alcohol, unlike several of its neighboring boroughs (Collingswood, Haddonfield, Haddon Heights), making Westmont a local dining and nightlife destination . Its economy is also supported by local services, schools, and its function as a commuter town.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of the Westmont CDP was 13,726 . It is classified as a small town or suburban community. The population density was approximately 6,172 per square mile . The community is predominantly residential, with a mix of families and individuals.
City's "Business Card" (Briefly)
Westmont is the vibrant, walkable downtown heart of Haddon Township, known for its friendly, small-town atmosphere and its collection of independent shops and eateries. It offers a suburban oasis with easy access to Philadelphia via its own PATCO train station, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quiet home base with a lively main street and city connectivity .
Transport
Main Train Station
Westmont is served by the Westmont Station, a key part of the PATCO Speedline . This station provides direct and rapid rail service to Center City Philadelphia and other Camden County communities. It is a popular Park-and-Ride station for commuters heading into the city, helping to define Westmont's role as a transit-oriented community . The station is located in the downtown section, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors.
Major Highways and Roads
While no major interstate highways pass directly through Westmont, the community is well-connected by regional arteries. Local roads provide easy access to nearby New Jersey state routes, which in turn connect to major highways like Interstate 295 and the New Jersey Turnpike, facilitating travel throughout the Delaware Valley.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
The culinary identity of Westmont, NJ, is shaped by its location in the Delaware Valley, a region rich with agricultural history and a crossroads of diverse cultural influences. While Westmont itself is a residential neighborhood, it is surrounded by towns with strong culinary traditions.
The Iconic Jersey Tomato
No discussion of South Jersey cuisine is complete without mentioning the Jersey Tomato. Officially the state vegetable of New Jersey, the tomato, particularly varieties like the 'Rutgers', is celebrated for its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. This flavor is attributed to the unique soil composition of the region. In late summer, roadside farm stands and farmers' markets in and around Westmont overflow with these tomatoes, which are simply enjoyed sliced with salt, on a sandwich with mayonnaise (a "Jersey tomato sandwich"), or used in local marinara sauces. The tradition of the backyard garden tomato is a source of local pride.
The Corner Sub Shop: The Italian Hoagie
The greater Philadelphia area, which includes Westmont, is famous for its Italian hoagie. This is not just any sandwich; it's a specific cultural artifact. A classic Italian hoagie consists of a long, crusty Italian roll (like from the famous Liscio's Bakery in nearby Bellmawr) layered with thinly sliced capicola, salami, prosciutto, and provolone cheese, then topped with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. Local sub shops, often family-owned for generations, are fiercely loyal to their specific recipes and bread suppliers. It's the go-to food for game days, parties, and a quick, satisfying lunch. While many shops serve them, the tradition is the star.
"Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese" – A Regional Breakfast Icon
Perhaps the most regionally specific dish is the Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese sandwich. Pork roll, a processed pork product similar to Canadian bacon but with a distinct, spiced flavor, was invented in nearby Trenton, NJ, by John Taylor in 1856 (and is also sold as "Taylor Ham"). The debate over what to call it ("pork roll" in South Jersey, "Taylor Ham" in North Jersey) is a statewide pastime. The sandwich is simple: sliced pork roll is pan-fried until the edges crisp up, then served on a hard or soft roll with a fried egg and melted American cheese. It is the quintessential breakfast sandwich at local diners and delis throughout Westmont and the surrounding area.
Philadelphia Soft Pretzels
Just across the Delaware River lies Philadelphia, and its most famous snack has made its way to every corner of the region, including Westmont. The Philadelphia Soft Pretzel is different from its hard, dry cousins. It is large, soft, chewy, and has a deep brown, salty crust. They are often sold in bags of six or twelve, twisted into the classic knot shape. Locals eat them with mustard as a snack, and they are a staple at school events, office parties, and sporting events. The smell of a fresh soft pretzel from a bakery or street cart is a hallmark of the region.
Italian Water Ice
A beloved summer treat in the Philadelphia and South Jersey area is Italian Water Ice. Unlike shaved ice or snow cones, Italian water ice has a smooth, dense, and finely textured consistency, almost like a sorbet but not as icy. It's made by constantly agitating the mixture while it freezes, creating a creamy mouthfeel without any dairy. Classic flavors like lemon, cherry, and chocolate are the standards. While there are local chains like Rita's, which started in nearby Broomall, PA, many independent pizzerias and ice cream shops in and around Westmont serve their own versions, making it a definitive taste of a hot summer day in the region.
Sports and Sports Legends
Westmont, NJ, is located in the heart of one of America's most passionate and historic sports regions. While it doesn't have its own major professional stadium, it is minutes away from the iconic sports complexes of Philadelphia, and has its own rich local sports culture.
Nearby Major League Venues
Just across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia, less than 10 miles from Westmont, sits the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, a hub of professional sports.
- Citizens Bank Park: Home to the Philadelphia Phillies (MLB). Opened in 2004, this ballpark is known for its modern yet classic feel, the iconic Liberty Bell in the outfield that lights up and rings for home runs, and its fantastic food options. It's where fans come to cheer on one of the oldest continuous one-name, one-city franchises in American sports.
- Lincoln Financial Field: The home of the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL). Known for its intimidating atmosphere and the passionate, devoted "Eagles Nation" fanbase. The "Linc" is famous for its raucous crowds and the "E-A-G-L-E-S" chant that echoes through the stands.
- Wells Fargo Center: This arena hosts the Philadelphia Flyers (NHL) and the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA). It has been the site of countless playoff battles and championship moments for both franchises. The arena is known for its passionate hockey fans and, historically, the loud atmosphere for the "Philly Phaithful" during the Allen Iverson era and beyond.
Local College Sports
Westmont is situated in an area with a strong college sports presence, particularly in rowing and basketball.
- Camden Riversharks (Historical): While the team is no longer active, for many years the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball played just a few miles from Westmont at Campbell's Field. The stadium, with its stunning view of the Philadelphia skyline, was a beloved local summer destination.
- Rowing on the Cooper River: The Cooper River, which borders Westmont, is a world-class rowing venue. It has hosted the NCAA Rowing Championships, USRowing Youth National Championships, and numerous other national and international regattas. On any given weekend, the river is filled with shells from high schools, colleges, and clubs across the region. It's a point of pride for the local community.
Sports Legends with Local Ties
The South Jersey and Philadelphia region has produced an incredible array of athletic talent, with many stars having connections to the area around Westmont.
- Mike Trout: Perhaps the greatest baseball player of his generation, Mike Trout grew up in nearby Millville, NJ. A multiple-time American League MVP for the Los Angeles Angels, he is a South Jersey native whose legend looms large over the region's baseball community.
- Joe Flacco: The Super Bowl XLVII MVP quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, Joe Flacco, is a native of nearby Audubon, NJ, and played his college football at the University of Delaware. He is a local hero who achieved the ultimate success in professional football.
- Bobby Ryan: The professional ice hockey player (Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, etc.) was born in nearby Cherry Hill, NJ, and is a product of the strong youth hockey programs in South Jersey.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Westmont, NJ, is part of a region dense with higher education opportunities, from major research universities to specialized colleges. While Westmont itself is primarily residential, it is within a short distance of some of the nation's most significant academic institutions.
Major Research Universities Nearby
- Rutgers University–Camden: Located just minutes from Westmont in the heart of Camden, this campus is an integral part of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Founded in 1926, it is a public research university with strong programs in law (Rutgers Law School), business, and the arts and sciences. The campus is known for its commitment to community engagement and its stunning waterfront view of the Philadelphia skyline.
- University of Pennsylvania: Situated across the Delaware River in Philadelphia, the "U" is an Ivy League research university and one of the most prestigious in the world. Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, it is particularly renowned for its Perelman School of Medicine, the Wharton School of business, and its schools of law and engineering. Penn's list of alumni and faculty is a who's-who of global leaders, including Elon Musk (attendee), Donald Trump (Wharton undergraduate transfer), Noam Chomsky, and William Henry Harrison.
- Drexel University: Also in Philadelphia, Drexel is a private research university founded in 1891. It is globally recognized for its cooperative education program ("co-op"), which integrates professional experience into the curriculum. It has strong programs in engineering, business, and, more recently, medicine.
Specialized Institutions
- The Curtis Institute of Music: Located in Philadelphia, this is one of the world's leading conservatories. It is unique for its small size and the policy that every student attends on a full-tuition scholarship. Its alumni include legendary composers and performers such as Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, and Nina Simone. Its influence on the classical music world is immense.
Historical Colleges with Rich Heritage
- Rowan University (nearby in Glassboro, NJ): While a bit further south, Rowan is a significant public research university that has grown exponentially in recent decades, thanks to a historic donation. It is a key driver of the South Jersey economy and is known for its engineering and medical schools.
Healthcare and Medical Institutions
Residents of Westmont have access to a robust network of healthcare facilities, ranging from community hospitals to world-renowned specialized centers in nearby Philadelphia.
Major Regional Hospitals
- Jefferson Health – Cherry Hill Hospital: Located just a few miles from Westmont in Cherry Hill, this is a major full-service hospital and a key part of the Jefferson Health system. It offers a wide range of services including emergency care, cardiac surgery, cancer treatment, and orthopedics. It is known for its comprehensive stroke center and its affiliation with the Sidney Kimmel Medical College, one of the oldest and most respected medical schools in the country.
- Cooper University Health Care – Camden: Situated in Camden, less than 15 minutes from Westmont, Cooper is a leading academic health system and the clinical campus for Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Founded in 1887, it is a Level 1 Trauma Center, meaning it is equipped to handle the most severe and complex injuries. It is renowned for its critical care, cardiac surgery, and cancer programs. The MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is a nationally recognized facility. It is the hospital where many South Jersey residents go for the most advanced emergency and specialized care.
World-Renowned Institutions Nearby (Philadelphia)
Just across the river in Philadelphia are several institutions of global stature that are easily accessible to Westmont residents.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP): Consistently ranked as one of the top children's hospitals in the United States, CHOP is a world leader in pediatric care, research, and education. It is known for pioneering breakthroughs in fetal surgery, cardiology, and oncology. Many families from the region, and indeed the world, come here for the most complex pediatric cases.
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP): A flagship academic medical center and one of the nation's premier hospitals. HUP is perennially highly ranked in specialties like cardiology, neurology, and cancer care. It is a pioneer in medical research and a major teaching hospital for the Perelman School of Medicine.
- Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals: Another highly ranked academic medical center, Jefferson is particularly famous for its Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center and its work in orthopedics and transplantation. It is also a major teaching hospital and a hub for medical innovation.