Baton Rouge Flood Zone Travel Guide
Introduction
Baton Rouge is a beautiful city nestled in the heart of Louisiana. While it has experienced its fair share of flooding, it has also proven to be a resilient and vibrant community. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites of the Baton Rouge Flood Zone.
Top Attractions
State Capitol Building
The Louisiana State Capitol Building is an impressive site to see, with its towering white columns and stunning architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about Louisiana’s political history.
Shaw Center for the Arts
The Shaw Center for the Arts is a hub of creativity in Baton Rouge. It features art galleries, theaters, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Hidden Gems
Magnolia Mound Plantation
This historic plantation offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s past. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the daily lives of the people who lived and worked there.
Red Stick Farmers Market
The Red Stick Farmers Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and live music. It’s a great place to support local farmers and artisans.
Food Scene
Parrain’s Seafood
Parrain’s Seafood is a Baton Rouge institution, serving up fresh seafood and Cajun cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Don’t miss their famous seafood gumbo.
City Pork Brasserie and Bar
City Pork Brasserie and Bar is a must-visit for meat lovers. They specialize in artisanal charcuterie and smoked meats, as well as craft cocktails.
Budget-Friendly Tips
LSU Lakes
The LSU Lakes are a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. They offer stunning views of the city and are completely free to visit.
BREC Parks
BREC Parks are a great way to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. They offer hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, as well as free events throughout the year.
Outdoor Adventures
Bayou Segnette State Park
Bayou Segnette State Park is a great spot for fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can also rent cabins and spend the night in the park.
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center offers guided nature walks and educational programs. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including alligators and turtles.
Family-Friendly Activities
Baton Rouge Zoo
The Baton Rouge Zoo is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including giraffes, elephants, and tigers.
Knock Knock Children’s Museum
The Knock Knock Children’s Museum is a hands-on learning experience for children of all ages. It features interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Highland Coffees
Highland Coffees is a local favorite, serving up delicious coffee and baked goods in a cozy atmosphere. They also host live music and poetry readings.
Perkins Road Overpass
The Perkins Road Overpass is a popular spot for photographers, with its colorful murals and stunning views of the city.
Natural Wonders
Atchafalaya Basin
The Atchafalaya Basin is the largest wetland and swamp in the United States. Visitors can explore the area by boat or kayak.
Tickfaw State Park
Tickfaw State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors can also see a variety of wildlife, including deer and otters.
Vibrant Nightlife
Third Street
Third Street is the heart of Baton Rouge’s nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and restaurants. Visitors can also catch live music at venues like The Varsity Theatre and The Spanish Moon.
Happy’s Irish Pub
Happy’s Irish Pub is a popular spot for locals, with a laid-back atmosphere and live music on weekends. They also serve up delicious pub fare and a wide selection of beers on tap.
Local Markets
Red Stick Farmers Market
The Red Stick Farmers Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and live music. It’s a great place to support local farmers and artisans.
Mid City Makers Market
The Mid City Makers Market is a monthly market featuring local artists and makers. Visitors can find unique gifts and handmade goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Fontainebleau State Park
Fontainebleau State Park is located on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain and offers beach access, as well as hiking trails and camping.
Driskill Mountain
Driskill Mountain is the highest point in Louisiana, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the summit and take in the scenery.
Cultural Immersion
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is a celebration of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience parades, live music, and delicious food during the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday.
African American Museum
The African American Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of African Americans in Louisiana. Visitors can learn about the contributions of African Americans to Louisiana’s history.
Art and Music Scene
Shaw Center for the Arts
The Shaw Center for the Arts is a hub of creativity in Baton Rouge. It features art galleries, theaters, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
LSU Museum of Art
The LSU Museum of Art features a collection of over 6,500 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can also attend lectures and educational programs.
Walking Tours
Downtown Baton Rouge
A walking tour of downtown Baton Rouge is a great way to see the city’s historic architecture and landmarks. Visitors can see the Old State Capitol Building, the USS Kidd, and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
The Louisiana State University Campus
The Louisiana State University Campus is a beautiful and historic place to explore. Visitors can see the LSU Memorial Tower, the Mike the Tiger Habitat, and the LSU Rural Life Museum.
Architectural Marvels
The Louisiana State Capitol Building
The Louisiana State Capitol Building is an impressive site to see, with its towering white columns and stunning architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about Louisiana’s political history.
The Old Governor’s Mansion
The Old Governor’s Mansion is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its history.
Historical Sites
Magnolia Mound Plantation
This historic plantation offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s past. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the daily lives of the people who lived and worked there.
The Louisiana State Museum
The Louisiana State Museum features exhibits on Louisiana’s history and culture, including the Battle of New Orleans and the Louisiana Purchase. Visitors can also see artifacts from the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
Biking Routes
The Tammany Trace
The Tammany Trace is a 31-mile paved trail that runs through beautiful Louisiana countryside. Visitors can bike, hike, or jog along the trail and enjoy the scenery.
The Mississippi River Levee Trail
The Mississippi River Levee Trail is a popular spot for biking and walking. Visitors can see stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Baton Rouge skyline.
Wellness Retreats
The Yoga Garden
The Yoga Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Baton Rouge. They offer a variety of yoga classes, as well as wellness workshops and retreats.
The Red Shoes
The Red Shoes is a wellness center dedicated to promoting healing and personal growth. They offer yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness workshops.
Adventure Sports
Rock Climbing at Uptown Climbing
Uptown Climbing is a great spot for indoor rock climbing. They offer climbing walls for all skill levels, as well as classes and events.
Kayaking on the Amite River