Westwego, LA

Westwego is a city located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, United States. Its history can be traced back to the early 19th century when the area was still part of the vast wilderness of Louisiana. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous Native American tribes, including the Houmas and Choctaw peoples.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began moving into the region, establishing plantations along the banks of the Mississippi River. One of the earliest settlers was a Belgian named Louis Bouligny, who purchased a large tract of land in the area and named it "Sainte-Gemeinde" (meaning Holy Community). Many other settlers, mainly French, German, and Italian immigrants, followed suit and established their plantations as well.

The construction of the New Orleans and Carrollton Railroad in the 1850s brought significant development to the area. The railroad created better accessibility to Westwego, leading to increased trade and economic opportunities. The community flourished as a result of the railroad, attracting more settlers and businesses.

In 1870, the area was officially incorporated as the town of Westwego. The town's name is believed to have derived from the term "western part of Jefferson," indicating its location within the parish.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Westwego continued to grow and diversify its economy. Industries such as sugar cane farming, fishing, and shipbuilding played a crucial role in the town's economy. The proximity to the Mississippi River also contributed to the growth of Westwego as a vital transportation hub.

In the early 20th century, the development of railroads and highways further enhanced Westwego's accessibility, making it a key transportation crossroad in the region. The town became an important center for the transportation of goods and commodities between New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana.

Today, Westwego is a vibrant city with a diverse population. It still maintains a strong connection to its past and celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various festivals and events. The city's location along the Mississippi River continues to be a crucial aspect of its economy, with industries such as maritime commerce and petrochemical refining contributing to its growth.

Bayou Segnette State Park

A beautiful park offering outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, boating, and camping.

Westwego Historical Museum

A small museum showcasing the history and culture of Westwego through exhibits and artifacts.

NOLA Motorsports

An exciting destination for motorsports enthusiasts, offering karting, go-kart racing, and other high-speed experiences.

Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours

Explore the scenic Louisiana swamplands on guided boat tours, where you can spot alligators and various wildlife.

Alario Center

A multi-purpose sports and event center that hosts concerts, trade shows, conventions, and sports events.

Mardi Gras World

Although technically located in New Orleans, it's just a short drive away. This attraction offers a behind-the-scenes look at the elaborate float designs and costumes used in Mardi Gras parades.

Segnette Field

A popular recreational park with baseball and softball fields, as well as walking trails and playgrounds.

Cajun Pride Swamp Tours

Another option for swamp tours, Cajun Pride offers guided tours through beautiful Louisiana wetlands.

Westwego Flea Market

A great place to find unique treasures, antiques, crafts, and local products.

Westwego Performing Arts Theatre

Experience local theatrical performances, concerts, and other cultural events at this community theater.

Westwego, LA, experiences a humid subtropical climate. The city lies on the western bank of the Mississippi River, about 10 miles southwest of New Orleans. Here are some key features of Westwego's climate:

Mild Winters

Winters in Westwego are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 60s Fahrenheit (5-15 degrees Celsius). However, occasional cold fronts can bring cooler temperatures and occasional freezes.

Hot and Humid Summers

Summers in Westwego are hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (27-33 degrees Celsius). High humidity levels can make it feel even hotter, and heat index values often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

Rainfall

Westwego receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with most precipitation occurring during the summer months. The average annual rainfall is around 62 inches (about 157 cm), which can often lead to localized flooding during heavy downpours or tropical storms.

Hurricane Risk

Being situated along the Gulf Coast, Westwego is prone to the threat of hurricanes and tropical storms. The hurricane season extends from June through November, with the highest risk months typically being August and September. These storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surge, potentially causing significant damage.

Tornadoes

Like much of Louisiana, Westwego is also susceptible to tornadoes, especially during the spring months. While tornadoes are relatively rare, they can occur as part of severe thunderstorms passing through the area.

Overall, Westwego, LA, has a mild winter climate but experiences hot and humid summers with the potential for heavy rainfall and the occasional threat of hurricanes and tornadoes.

Westwego, LA is a small city located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. It is situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River, just south of the city of New Orleans. Although Westwego is relatively small, it consists of several different neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive characteristics.

The Heights

The Heights is a primarily residential neighborhood in Westwego. It features a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. It is a quiet and peaceful area that offers a suburban lifestyle with tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties.

Nine Mile Point

Nine Mile Point is another residential area in Westwego. It is known for its strong community atmosphere and modestly priced homes. The neighborhood offers a close-knit community feel, with parks, schools, and churches providing opportunities for social gatherings.

Avondale

Located on the southern side of Westwego, Avondale is a neighborhood that primarily consists of industrial activities. It is home to various manufacturing plants, shipyards, and other industrial facilities. Avondale also offers housing options, with some residential areas situated away from the industrial zones.

Westbank

The Westbank neighborhood is located along the Mississippi River and offers breathtaking waterfront views. It is a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas. Westbank boasts a vibrant entertainment district with restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also home to the Alario Center, a popular sports and event venue.

Live Oak Manor

Live Oak Manor is a historically significant neighborhood in Westwego. It is known for its beautiful oak-lined streets and older, charming homes. Live Oak Manor has a sense of nostalgia, with some homes dating back to the early 1900s. The neighborhood is a mix of residents of various age groups and offers a peaceful and tight-knit community.

These are just a few of the notable neighborhoods in Westwego, LA. Each of these areas contributes to the overall character and charm of the city, providing residents with a range of housing options and community atmospheres.