Woodmere, LA
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Institutions
Woodmere is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, part of the New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Woodmere is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Jefferson Parish, in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Louisiana . As an unincorporated area, it does not have its own municipal government and is governed directly by the parish. It is an integral part of the greater New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area .
Date of Foundation and Age
Woodmere developed as a suburban community in the latter half of the 20th century, characteristic of the growth and expansion of the New Orleans metropolitan area during that period. Its population grew significantly between 1990 and 2000, with the U.S. Census officially recognizing it as a CDP by the 2000 census .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Woodmere is situated on the east bank of the Mississippi River, in the "West Bank" region of Jefferson Parish . Its precise geographic coordinates are latitude 29.8575° N and longitude 90.0781° W . The community is bordered to the northeast by Harvey and to the southwest by Estelle, with the Harvey Canal forming its eastern boundary . It lies approximately 6 miles (10 km) south of downtown New Orleans by air, but about 11 miles (18 km) by road . The elevation of the area is near sea level, at approximately 0 to 2 meters (0-7 feet) above sea level .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Woodmere is primarily a residential suburb within the New Orleans metropolitan area. Its economy is closely tied to the larger region, with many residents commuting to New Orleans and other nearby communities for work in various sectors including healthcare, education, maritime industry, and tourism . Local commerce is centered around neighborhood services and businesses along major thoroughfares.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Woodmere was 11,238 . According to census data, the community is classified as a small-to-medium sized town. The demographic makeup in 2020 was approximately 79.3% Black or African American, 6.2% non-Hispanic White, 3.6% Asian, and 7.7% Hispanic or Latino of any race . The population has seen a gradual decline since its peak in 2000.
City's "Business Card" (Brief)
Woodmere is a quiet, family-oriented suburban community that offers a residential haven within the bustling New Orleans metropolitan area. It provides convenient access to the cultural and economic opportunities of nearby New Orleans while maintaining a distinct neighborhood identity, with local schools and services at its core.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Canals)
The most significant water feature is the Harvey Canal, which forms the eastern border of Woodmere and is a vital part of the local drainage and navigation infrastructure . The community lies just west of the Mississippi River, which is the dominant geological feature of the region. The area is characterized by flat, low-lying terrain typical of the Mississippi River Delta.
National and Nature Parks
While there are no national parks directly in Woodmere, the region offers significant natural areas. The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is located nearby in Marrero and includes the Barataria Preserve, which protects vast swamps, marshes, and forests teeming with wildlife, offering visitors a glimpse of Louisiana's unique natural heritage.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Woodmere has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa under the Köppen climate classification), characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, short winters . The area receives abundant rainfall throughout the year and is susceptible to thunderstorms, especially in spring and summer.
Average Monthly Temperatures
Summers are long and hot, with average high temperatures in July and August reaching around 32°C (92°F) and lows around 24°C (76°F) . Winters are mild, with average highs in January around 17°C (62°F) and lows around 8°C (44°F) .
- Hottest Month: July and August, with average highs of 32°C (92°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with average lows of 8°C (44°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
Woodmere receives significant precipitation, averaging about 64 inches (1,630 mm) of rain per year, which is much higher than the U.S. average . The wettest month is typically July, with the region experiencing frequent afternoon thunderstorms . Snowfall is extremely rare, averaging 0 inches annually . Humidity levels are high year-round, becoming particularly oppressive from May through October .
Sunny Days and UV Index
On average, there are 219 sunny days per year in Woodmere . The UV index is high during the summer months, typical of the subtropical climate, requiring sun protection for outdoor activities.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Woodmere for pleasant weather is during the spring and fall.
- Spring (March-May): Warm and increasingly humid, with blooming vegetation. Highs range from 22°C (72°F) to 29°C (84°F) .
- Summer (June-August): Very hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms. This is the peak of the rainy season. Highs average above 31°C (88°F) .
- Fall (September-November): Warm and humid early on, becoming milder and less humid later. This season offers comfortable temperatures for exploring the region, with highs dropping from 30°C (86°F) in September to 22°C (72°F) in November .
- Winter (December-February): Mild and relatively cool, with occasional cold fronts. This is a great time for outdoor activities without the heat and humidity. Highs average between 17°C (63°F) and 19°C (66°F) .
Specific Weather Phenomena
Woodmere and the surrounding region are subject to tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), which can bring high winds, storm surge, and torrential rainfall . Severe thunderstorms are also common in the warmer months.
Transport
Main Airports
Woodmere is conveniently located near two major airports serving the New Orleans metropolitan area. The primary airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) , located about 15-20 miles north in Kenner. It is the region's main commercial airport, handling domestic and international flights. For general aviation, the New Orleans Lakefront Airport (NEW) is another option, located on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain.
Major Highways
The community is accessible via the West Bank Expressway (LA 23), which connects to the Gretna area and provides access to the Crescent City Connection bridge into New Orleans. U.S. Route 90 Business also runs through the area, linking Woodmere to neighboring communities like Harvey and Marrero and providing connections to the greater highway system.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in the area is provided by Jefferson Transit (JeT) , which operates bus routes throughout Jefferson Parish, including service on the West Bank. These routes connect Woodmere to key destinations such as the Algiers ferry terminal, which provides access to downtown New Orleans, and various commercial centers within the parish.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
The culinary landscape of Woodmere and the surrounding Jefferson Parish is deeply rooted in the traditions of South Louisiana, offering a rich tapestry of Cajun and Creole flavors.
Gumbo
Gumbo is the quintessential dish of the region, a hearty stew that serves as a delicious symbol of Louisiana's cultural melting pot.
- Description: This soul-warming dish is built on a dark roux (a mixture of fat and flour cooked until deep brown), the "holy trinity" of chopped celery, bell peppers, and onions, and a rich stock. It's typically filled with meat or seafood, such as chicken, andouille sausage, shrimp, or crab, and served over white rice. The dish is often thickened with okra or filé powder (dried and ground sassafras leaves), a contribution from Native American cuisine.
- Historical Context: Gumbo's name is derived from the West African word for okra, "ki ngombo," reflecting the profound influence of enslaved Africans on Louisiana's cuisine. Over centuries, French, Spanish, German, and Choctaw culinary techniques blended to create the gumbo we know today. It's a dish for all occasions, from casual family dinners to large gatherings like weddings and football games.
- Where to Find It: While Woodmere itself is primarily residential, you'll find some of the best gumbo just a short drive away in the restaurants and neighborhood po'boy shops of nearby Gretna, Marrero, and Harvey.
Po'boy
The po'boy is more than just a sandwich in the New Orleans area; it's a cultural icon and a staple of local life.
- Description: A po'boy is made with crispy-on-the-outside, light-and-airy-on-the-inside French bread, piled high with fillings. The classic versions are fried shrimp, fried oyster, or roast beef with rich, brown gravy. It's traditionally dressed with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, pickles, and mayonnaise. A key identifier of an authentic po'boy is the "dressing" of the bread: the inside is often lightly coated with mayonnaise or gravy before the filling is added.
- What Makes it Famous: The sandwich's origin story is key to its fame. It was created in 1929 by former streetcar drivers Bennie and Clovis Martin to feed striking streetcar workers, whom they called "poor boys." The sandwich became a symbol of solidarity and a beloved local staple.
- Where to Find It: Numerous family-owned seafood restaurants and po'boy shops throughout the West Bank, including in nearby communities, serve their own celebrated versions of this classic.
Crawfish Boil
A crawfish boil is not just a meal; it's a seasonal ritual and a massive social event that brings communities together.
- Description: Live crawfish are boiled in massive pots with heavily spiced water, lots of salt, cayenne pepper, garlic, and typically whole onions, new potatoes, corn on the cob, and andouille sausage. The result is a spicy, messy, and incredibly flavorful feast. The food is traditionally dumped directly onto a newspaper-covered table for everyone to dig in with their hands.
- When and Where: Crawfish season generally runs from late winter through early summer (roughly January to June). You'll find boils everywhere during this time: at backyard parties, in the parking lots of seafood markets, and as a special offering on restaurant menus.
- Local Connection: Given its proximity to the wetlands of South Louisiana, the West Bank is a prime area for sourcing fresh, local crawfish, making these boils an authentic and essential local experience.
Beignet
For a taste of French-Creole influence, one must try a beignet, a simple but beloved pastry.
- Description: Beignets are square pieces of dough, deep-fried until they puff up and become golden brown, then generously dusted with powdered sugar. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh, often accompanied by a cup of chicory coffee, which has a slightly bitter, roasted flavor that perfectly balances the sweet pastry.
- Cultural Significance: Brought to Louisiana by the Acadians (Cajuns) and popularized by the French Quarter, beignets have become a symbol of the region's relaxed and joyful approach to life. They are a popular breakfast item, dessert, or any-time treat.
- Where to Find It: While Café du Monde in New Orleans is the most famous spot, many local bakeries and cafes in the surrounding areas, including on the West Bank, serve excellent, fresh beignets, offering a similar experience without the long lines.
Museums
Woodmere itself does not have major public museums, but the surrounding area and nearby New Orleans offer a wealth of world-class institutions.
World-Class Museums in Nearby New Orleans
Just across the Mississippi River, New Orleans provides access to some of the most significant museums in the American South.
- New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Located in City Park, NOMA is the city's oldest fine arts museum. Its permanent collection features works by Edgar Degas (Edgar Degas) , who lived and painted in New Orleans in the 1870s. The museum holds a strong collection of French and American art, as well as African and Japanese works. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features over 90 sculptures in a beautiful landscape, with pieces by artists like Henry Moore (Henry Moore) and Louise Bourgeois (Louise Bourgeois) .
- The National WWII Museum: Designated by Congress as America’s official museum for World War II, this is a massive, world-renowned institution in the Warehouse District. It offers an immersive and comprehensive look at the American experience in the war through personal stories, interactive exhibits, and iconic artifacts like a Sherman tank and a Higgins boat (landing craft), which were designed and built in New Orleans.
- The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC): A museum and research center dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. It features rotating exhibitions from its vast archives of art, photographs, and documents, including the iconic painting "The Battle of New Orleans" and the famous "Café des Refugies" sign.
Historic and Thematic Museums Nearby
- Louisiana State Museum: This network of museums operates several properties across New Orleans, including the Cabildo and the Presbytère on Jackson Square. The Cabildo, the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer, houses artifacts related to Louisiana's colonial and state history, including Napoleon's death mask. The Presbytère is home to acclaimed exhibits on Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina.
- Southern Food and Beverage Museum: Located in New Orleans, this museum is dedicated to the culinary heritage of the South. It's an excellent place to dive deeper into the history and culture behind the local cuisine, with exhibits on everything from gumbo to cocktails.
Sport and Sporting Legends
While Woodmere itself does not host major professional sports teams, it is situated in a region passionate about sports, with several professional franchises and a rich history of athletic achievement nearby in New Orleans.
Major Sports Venues in Nearby New Orleans
- Caesars Superdome: This iconic domed stadium is the heart of professional sports in the region. With a capacity of over 73,000, it is the home of the New Orleans Saints (New Orleans Saints) of the National Football League (NFL). The Superdome is legendary for hosting Super Bowls (a record-tying seven times, most recently Super Bowl XLVII), major college football championship games, and for being a symbol of the city's resilience after Hurricane Katrina, serving as a "shelter of last resort" during the storm.
- Smoothie King Center: Located adjacent to the Superdome, this is the home arena of the New Orleans Pelicans (New Orleans Pelicans) of the National Basketball Association (NBA). It has a capacity of around 17,000 for basketball games and also hosts major concerts and events.
Professional Teams in the Region
- New Orleans Saints (NFL): The Saints are the city's beloved NFL franchise, founded in 1967. Their victory in Super Bowl XLIV in 2010, following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, was a transcendent moment for the entire region. The team, under coach Sean Payton and quarterback Drew Brees, became a symbol of hope and recovery. They play their home games at the Caesars Superdome.
- New Orleans Pelicans (NBA): The Pelicans, originally the New Orleans Hornets, have been the city's NBA team since 2002. The franchise has been home to superstars like Chris Paul (Chris Paul) and Anthony Davis (Anthony Davis) .
- New Orleans Gold (NOLA Gold): A professional rugby union team that competes in Major League Rugby (MLR). They play their home matches at Gold Mine on Airline Drive in Metairie.
Famous Athletes with Local Ties
- Peyton Manning (Peyton Manning): While born in New Orleans, this legendary NFL quarterback grew up in the area and is one of the most famous sports figures associated with the region. His father, Archie Manning, was a star quarterback for the New Orleans Saints.
- Marshall Faulk (Marshall Faulk): An NFL Hall of Fame running back, Faulk was born in New Orleans and starred at nearby George Washington Carver High School before a legendary college and pro career.
- Will Clark (Will Clark): A five-time MLB All-Star first baseman, Clark was born in New Orleans and played college baseball at Mississippi State University, becoming one of the most accomplished baseball players from the area.
- Clyde Drexler (Clyde Drexler): An NBA Hall of Famer and one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history, Drexler was born in New Orleans and played college basketball at the University of Houston.
Major Sporting Events
- Super Bowl: The Caesars Superdome has hosted the Super Bowl seven times, tying it for the most of any venue. These events bring massive international attention to the region.
- NCAA Men's Final Four: The Superdome has also been the site of numerous NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championships, known as the Final Four.
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Jazz Fest): While primarily a music festival, Jazz Fest includes a significant cultural component with a massive "Fair Grounds" area dedicated to Louisiana crafts, food, and, in a way, the celebration of local culture, which is deeply intertwined with its sports fandom.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Woodmere is in close proximity to a number of significant higher education institutions, ranging from research universities to specialized colleges.
Major Universities in New Orleans
- Tulane University (Tulane University): Founded in 1834, Tulane is a prestigious, top-tier private research university. It is particularly renowned for its School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine (the only one of its kind in the US), its School of Law, and the A.B. Freeman School of Business. It is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). Famous alumni include journalist Anderson Cooper (Anderson Cooper) , filmmaker Barry Sonnenfeld (Barry Sonnenfeld) , and economist Lawrence Summers (Lawrence Summers) . Tulane's athletic teams, the Green Wave, compete in NCAA Division I.
- Loyola University New Orleans (Loyola University New Orleans): A private Jesuit Catholic university founded in 1912. It is well-regarded for its College of Music and Media, its School of Law, and its strong programs in the liberal arts and communication. The beautiful main campus is located in the Uptown neighborhood, adjacent to Tulane.
Public Universities Nearby
- University of New Orleans (UNO): A public research university that is a vital part of the Louisiana higher education system. It is particularly known for its programs in naval architecture and marine engineering, film and theatre, and hospitality and tourism management. Its location on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain provides a scenic setting.
- Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO): A public historically black university (HBCU) that is part of the Southern University System. It plays a crucial role in the community, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and serving as a center for African American education and culture in the city.
- Nunez Community College (Nunez Community College): Located in nearby Chalmette (St. Bernard Parish), Nunez is a comprehensive community college that offers two-year degrees and workforce training programs. It is a key institution for higher education access and workforce development on the east bank of the area south of New Orleans.
Healthcare Institutions
Residents of Woodmere have access to a robust network of hospitals and medical centers located nearby in Marrero, New Orleans, and the wider Jefferson Parish area.
Major Medical Centers Nearby
- Ochsner Medical Center - West Bank Campus (Ochsner Medical Center - West Bank Campus): Located in nearby Marrero, this is a full-service hospital and a key part of the Ochsner Health system, Louisiana's largest non-profit, academic healthcare system. The West Bank Campus provides a wide range of services, including emergency care, cardiovascular services, surgery, and women's health. It serves as a primary healthcare destination for the immediate community, including Woodmere.
- Ochsner Medical Center - Main Campus (Ochsner Medical Center - Main Campus): The flagship hospital of the Ochsner system, located in New Orleans, is a world-class academic medical center. It is consistently ranked as the top hospital in Louisiana by U.S. News & World Report. It is renowned for its specialized programs in cardiology and heart surgery (one of the busiest heart transplant programs in the US), oncology, orthopedics, and neurosurgery. It is also a major teaching hospital.
- University Medical Center New Orleans (UMCNO): This is the region's premier academic medical center and the primary teaching hospital for Tulane University and LSU Health Sciences Center. Opened in 2015, it's a state-of-the-art facility specializing in level 1 trauma care, critical care, and complex surgeries. It's a hub for medical innovation and training, with a focus on treating the most critically ill and injured patients from across the Gulf South.
- Touro Infirmary (Touro Infirmary): A historic non-profit hospital founded in 1852 in New Orleans. It is a full-service community hospital with a strong reputation for its maternity and women's health services, as well as its orthopedics and rehabilitation programs. It has a long and storied history of serving the New Orleans community.
Specialized and Children's Care
- Children's Hospital New Orleans (Children's Hospital New Orleans): The only full-service, free-standing hospital for children in the region. It provides comprehensive pediatric care, including a Level 1 pediatric trauma center, pediatric oncology, cardiology, and neurology. It is a vital resource for families across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.
- LCMC Health (LCMC Health): This system manages several of the city's most beloved healthcare institutions, including University Medical Center, Children's Hospital, and Touro Infirmary, coordinating a network of specialized care across the city.