Ever wonder where the name Baton Rouge came from? Translated from French, it literally means red stick. Its origins date back to the late 17th century when a French explorer stumbled across a pole made of cypress, which was skewered through various dead and bloodied animal remains. It served as a marker for the hunting boundaries between two indigenous tribes that inhabited the area at the time.
Today you’ll find the busy state capital of Louisiana there – a place steeped in local history and abounding in endless opportunities for vacation enjoyment.
It’s just over 500 miles from Atlanta by car (around seven hours or so) and substantially less travel time should you choose to fly (about an hour-and-a-half), with flights available from Delta, United, American and others.
“This is a great place to live and visit,” says resident Christy Chachere. “It’s located right between Lafayette and New Orleans, so the culture is a mix of French and Creole. There’s so much history and it’s absolutely beautiful. If you enjoy taking in the sites while walking I highly recommend Spanish Town or the Levee pathway – it runs through downtown and to the campus of Louisiana State University. Lots of amazing sights to see.”
IF YOU GO
WHAT TO DO & WHERE TO GO:
Plantation Homes
Houmas House Plantation and Gardens
This magnificent antebellum estate dates back to 1803, when it first became an operational sugar plantation. The house itself was not completed until 1825. Inside you’ll find 16 rooms of period splendor filled with furnishings and artwork by area artisans.
40136 Hwy. 942, Darrow, La. 70725
225-473-9380
Laura Plantation
Originally built in 1805 by a French immigrant known as Guillaume DuParc, this Creole estate later became known as the Laura Plantation, named after the fourth owner of the property Laura Locul Gore. This is a unique plantation: it has a raised brick basement and brick and wood support posts for the second floor. Inside, the extensive woodwork is done in Federal style. Much of the decor and accessories come from the collections of the various original owners, giving the home a warmth and sense of authenticity, despite a 2004 fire that significantly damaged the property. Since that time much of it has been restored.
2247 Louisiana Ave., Vacherie, La. 70090
225-265-7690
Nottoway Plantation
Of the three mentioned here, Nottoway is without a doubt the most impressive. Built in 1859, it boasts 64 rooms and 53,000 square feet. It was designed in Italianate and Greek Revival style for John Randolph, a cotton and sugar magnate. The structure consists of three stories with hand-carved marble fireplaces, six interior staircases, more than 20 columns and over 200 windows. Today the site serves as a special events facility and a bed and breakfast.
31025 Louisiana Hwy 1, White Castle, La. 70788
225-545-2730
Swamp Tours
The McGee’s Landing Tour covers the Atchafalaya Swamp Basin, while Cajun Pride can take you on a tour to see the sights of the Manchac Swamp. Both sites have a bountiful population of alligators and snakes and Cypress trees that are 200 to 800 years old.
1337 Henderson Levee Road, Henderson, La. 70517
337-228-2384
110 Frenier Rd., LaPlace, La. 70068
985-651-4477
Louisiana State Museum
Also known as the Capitol Park Museum, this state gem offers changing exhibits that explore the history, industry and culture of Baton Rouge and Louisiana. “Grounds for Greatness: Louisiana and the Nation,” and “Experiencing Louisiana: Discovering the Soul of America” are two presentations that remain on permanent display. Among the fascinating artifacts to be found in the museum are a Civil War submarine, a massive Marlin of record-breaking size and musical artifacts from Fats Domino, Aaron Neville and others.
660 N. 4th St., Baton Rouge, La. 70802
225-342-5428
The State Capitol Building
Built in 1932, this building is the tallest state capitol in the United States: 450 feet high with 34 floors. Considering it was constructed during the Depression, the building was a major accomplishment with a limestone exterior and marble accents throughout the interior. Representative symbolism is prominent in the design, notably at the 22nd floor where there are four winged representing art, law, philosophy and science. An homage to the United States can be found at the building’s entrance way, which boasts a grand staircase with one step for each of the 48 states, listed in the order of their admittance to the Union. Alaska and Hawaii were later added to the very top step when they were made states. A carved embellishment that encircles the base of the building explores significant points in Louisiana history.
900 N 3rd St, Baton Rouge, La. 70802
225-342-7317
The Old Governor’s Mansion
Completed in 1931, it was constructed at an estimated cost of $150,000. More than $20,000 was further allocated to furnish the stately home with hand-painted French wallpaper, velvet drapes, crystal chandeliers and other high-end accessories, which were considered outrageous sums during its Depression-era construction. It ceased to serve as a residential facility in 1963, and today serves as a museum, boasting a magnificent collection of antique art and furniture, along with much of its original appointments.
502 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, La. 70802
225-387-2464
WHERE TO STAY:
Hilton Capital Center
Listed on the National Historic Registry, the Hilton Capital Center is located in the heart of Baton Rouge and offers high amenities, as well as easy access to surrounding attractions.
201 Lafayette St.
225-344-5866
The Stockade Bed and Breakfast
Once a Civil War Stockade, the Stockade Bed and Breakfast is a Spanish-Style Hacienda with six luxurious guestrooms.
8860 Highland Road
225-769-7358
WHERE TO DINE:
Juban’s
High-end Louisiana-style dining touted by Esquire magazine as one of the best restaurants in America.
3739 Perkins Road
225-346-8422
The Chimes
Highly favored by locals, The Chimes offers affordable drinks and dining with a delightfully palatable blend of standard Americana and regional edibles.
3357 Highland Road
225-383-1754
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