The origin of this city's name isn't clear, but one amusing speculation is that it came about during the 19th century, when more and more people were crossing the Mississippi River, heading west and stating "west we go."
Westwego, Louisiana, is located alongside the Mississippi River just west of the world famous Audubon Zoo
The origin of this city's name isn't clear, but one amusing speculation is that it came about during the 19th century, when more and more people were crossing the Mississippi River, heading west and stating "west we go."
Westwego, Louisiana, is located alongside the Mississippi River just west of the world famous Audubon Zoo. Its geographical location ensures hot, humid summers and cold, wet winters, so there's a lot of wildlife here -- which is great news if you love fishing, bird watching, or hunting. Westwego has a population of a little over 8,000, but it is a pretty sizable neighborhood. Unlike a typical Louisiana town, there aren't many swamps here, but there are a few creeks spread around just to remind you that you are in fact still here in Louisiana. Since Westwego is a suburb of New Orleans, it's a highly desirable place to live -- in other words, properties are in high demand.
If you love the splendor of New Orleans but like the moderate lifestyle of a smaller town, then Westwego may have just what you're looking for. Unfortunately, landing a property in Westwego isn't as easy as landing one in another Louisiana town. This is partially due to the low availability of properties, safe environment and close proximity to the French Quarter. To improve your chances of grabbing the perfect place, follow these helpful tips:
Best Time to Look
If you're looking for premier apartments, studio apartments, or even a 2 bedroom apartment, the best time to start your search is during the holidays or early summer. Many of the apartment complexes run specials during these times, so you'll get your dream apartment for a much lower rate than usual. Remember, Louisiana has a stormy season, which usually begins around mid-July or early August, so looking for a place during this time may be difficult. Hurricane season is usually the hardest time of year to find a place since many of the residents aren't looking to move in at this time.
What You Need
It's pretty much the same as renting in any other state. More specifically, for renting an apartment in Louisiana, you'll need to have a few documents on hand to get through the credit check and application process for a rental. Even if you're not interested in putting down a deposit the same day you're out visiting apartment complexes, you must always bring your ID and driver's license. Most rental offices will not take you to a viewing or even allow you to tour a show home without it. A few other documents you might want to have on hand are your social security card, check stubs, bank statements, letter of hire, income tax return statement, and reference letters. All of these items will help you to secure a spot when you find one that you like.
The last thing you need, which is deserving of a paragraph of its own, is a deposit and application fee. In most cases, the application isn't free, so you'll need to have your credit/debit on hand to process the payment. If you see a place that you really can't do without -- leave a deposit.
Since Westwego is a suburb of the ever popular New Orleans, there aren't any neighborhoods located within it. So don't worry, there aren't any real factors that would change the housing availability or pricing. You're still good to go! Oh, and don't forget to travel to the French Quarter; it's only a few miles away, after all.
Now we get to the fun part. If you're thinking of moving to Westwego, you have no risk of running out of things to do. Boredom is definitely not a word used very much around here.
Most of the locals enjoy fishing and boating on the Mississippi River. Of course, you don't have to be a fisherman to appreciate the beauty of the Ole' Mississippi. Some people enjoy just laying out on a blanket near the river and gazing skyward or having a nice little picnic waterside. Whatever your preference, come on down and take some pics.
Another favorite pastime of many of the locals here is traveling across the river to the Audubon Zoo. Although 'zoo' is what the locals call it, Audubon is actually much more than this. It's actually a park, aquarium, zoo, and sports center all packed into one very large swath of land. This is the one place where you can say you played golf, hit a few tennis balls, stared down a lion, and pet a seal without sounding strange. Well, you still will, but it's totally worth it.
Looking for a bite to eat? Well, if you're in Louisiana, you shouldn't be! There are restaurants everywhere, especially in Westwego. Since a lot of visitors to New Orleans come to Westwego to stay, there are loads of fresh seafood restaurants in the area, so have your pick! The best seafood in Westwego is at Amy's Seafood and Market Wego.
Mercedes Benz Super Dome -- If you're looking for a real good time, and I mean a real good, ear busting, hoarse voice, cardio-fueled good time, take a drive over the bridge and experience the Mercedes Super Dome. This is the most frequented spot in New Orleans and residents from many of the surrounding towns visit it to experience their favorite live band in person. However, this dome isn't just for concerts, they host conferences, arts and craft shows and sports events. Navigate to their website and get ready to experience the true meaning of fun!
