This city on the banks of the Mississippi is home to Louisiana State University’s Tiger Stadium, three riverfront casinos and supposedly one of America’s most-haunted homes.
The Louisiana state capital offers family-friendly activities, historical architecture and a range of different cultural experiences.
A great place to start exploring Baton Rouge is the Louisiana State Capitol Building and Gardens, the 34-story art deco skyscraper that dominates the Baton Rouge skyline. Admire the interior of the building and look out over the city to get an idea of its scope. If the weather is good, take a stroll through the beautiful Capitol Gardens. Afterwards, the Capitol Park Museum will help you get up to speed on local history.
If you are traveling with kids, take them to the Baton Rouge Zoo, which is 15 minutes north of downtown. The zoo houseshundreds of animals and birds set in enclosures designed to replicate their natural outdoor habitat.
For a different kind of animal experience, visit Louisiana State University’s Tiger Stadium, home to the Louisiana State University football team. The team’s mascot is a real tiger, and even if you can’t get to a game, you can visit “Mike the Tiger” in his $3 million habitat.
If your family has the nerve, take them to the Myrtles Plantation, which claims to be one of the most haunted homes in America. It is reported that 10 murders have occurred there, and it is said to house at least 12 ghosts. The plantation offers historic tours daily, as well as mystery tours.
For more history, take the Sugar Trail, which starts at the Houmas House Plantation. The historic Plaquemine Lock site educates visitors on how sugar and other goods were once transported on the Mississippi. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center has 103 acres (40 hectares) of land containing foxes, turtles and alligators.
The summer months between May and September are when Baton Rouge is busiest. At this time, warmth is almost guaranteed. Beware that it can get very humid indeed, so take plenty of water.