Baton Rouge, the capital city of
Louisiana, is an exciting blend of sights, sounds and flavors. From its dynamic
and diverse musical heritage, to its significant landmarks and museums, Baton
Rouge is a fascinating city to explore. From its riverboats, plantations and
hospitality, to its Cajun, Creole and Old South cuisine, it excels.
Baton Rouge is 75 miles
Northwest of New Orleans via Interstate 10, and is the parish seat of
government. Baton Rouge is the key industrial city in the area, and the center
of an immense chemical and petroleum complex on the Mississippi River. It is the
second largest city in the state, and the fourth largest port city in the
nation. Projected population figures show that this progressive city will have a
phenomenal growth in future decades.
Nightlife is lively and
varied. it ranges from Cajun clubs and country western clubs to concerts
(symphonic and popular music). There are Riverboat casinos and dinner cruises.
Theater groups maintain a full schedule of excellent offerings throughout the
year.
In recent years, a number of
new attractions, museums and restaurants have opened much to the delight of
visitors from around the world. In the fall of 1999, Louisiana's Old Governor's
Mansion joins the Old State Capitol, riverboat casinos, the Mall of Louisiana,
Bluebonnet Swamp, Alligator Bayou Swamp Tours, and numerous plantation homes in
providing visitors with a variety of things to see and do in the Baton Rouge
area. Additionally, several new bed & breakfast inns and 1200 new hotel
rooms make it simple, easy and affordable to stay overnight in Baton Rouge.
Baton Rouge is home to both
Louisiana State University, the state's flagship university and Southern
University. The capitol, one of America's most beautiful, is 34 stories, 450
feet in height and surrounded by 27 acres of landscaped grounds. It was
constructed in March 1932, at a cost of $5 million. Broad steps of Minnesota
granite mark the entrance to the building. From the observation tower, it is
possible to see the surrounding country for a distance of 30 miles.
Streets and highways
throughout the area are clean, brightly lit and easy to travel. Attractions and
historic sites are clearly marked and all have parking facilities. Baton Rouge
is home to some of the finest restaurants in the United States featuring fresh
seafood, French, Cajun and Creole and traditional Southern cuisine.
With mild and short winters,
scenic Falls and Springs, you can't go wrong in Baton Rouge, whenever you choose
to visit.
Baton Rouge is fun for
families. With plantation homes, swamp tours, a world-renowned zoo, gardens,
museums, wildlife centers and an arts and science, there is always something to
do and see.
With its semi-tropical
climate, Baton Rouge is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities such as
golf, tennis or sporting events. Baton Rouge is home to several nationally
ranked golf courses designed by the biggest names in the sport and the capital
city also offers some of the hottest collegiate sports in the South.
You'll find everything close
at hand in Baton Rouge for an unforgettable family vacation. |