There’s a friendly student atmosphere to this sleepy Sun Belt city filled with laid back Cajun joie de vivre. Far removed from the charged frenzy of New York or the ostentation of Los Angeles, the subtropical warmth has bred a laid back people who deliver authentic Louisiana at every turn.
Lying around 75 miles north-west of New Orleans, Baton Rouge is also the state capital and the 34-story art deco capitol building dominates the horizon. But the city is just as notable for its universities, one of which is the largest Afro-American institution in the country, and students comprise 20 percent of the population. It’s academic credentials and position at the heart of historical plantation country make this a great place to look deeper into black history and there are several interesting museums to explore.
Where to stay
The main choice for business stays is the Hilton, which is well-equipped with a central location. Otherwise there are a good number of comfortable mid-range hotels such as the Drury Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, Holiday Inn and Homewood Suites.
Where to eat
Baton Rouge has some great Cajun and Creole offerings, such as Juban’s Restaurant or Chimes Restaurant and Tap Room, both of which score highly for food, service and ambience and become lively bars late in the evening. Other popular choices are Izzo’s Illegal Burrito for Mexican and Maison Lacour for French cuisine.
What to see
Baton Rouge Zoo, with nearly 1,000 species, is well worth a visit. The Magnolia Mound Plantation, dating back to the 18th century, offers an insight into Louisiana’s past. There are some interesting shows on at the Shaw Centre for the Arts, while the Old State Capitol was once described as the “ugliest thing on the Mississippi” but houses a fascinating museum of American politics.
