The Greater Baton Rouge area is one of the better-known areas of the state. It is located in southeastern Louisiana and it is made of of seven parishes: West and East Feliciana, Pointe Coupee, West and East Baton Rouge, Iberville, and Ascension parishes. Here is a brief overview of the area and what you will find in this region:
Baton Rouge
- State Capital: Baton Rouge is second-largest city in Louisiana, New Orleans is the largest. It is the capital city of Louisiana.
- Culture & History: This area is home the Louisiana State Capitol, as well as the Old State Capitol and the LSU Rural Life Museum, making this area, and the communities in it, an important cultural and historical part of Louisiana.
Surrounding Parishes
The Greater Baton Rouge area includes several parishes:
- Ascension Parish: Ascension is home to the towns of Gonzales and Donaldsonville. Gonzales is known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.”
- East Baton Rouge Parish: This is where Baton Rouge is located and is the most populated parish in the region.
- West Baton Rouge Parish: A mostly rural area with historical towns like Port Allen, WBR Parish is known for its sugar cane and plantations like the Rosedown, Greenwood, and the Myrtles – which is known as one of the most haunted.
Festivals & Events
- Louisiana Book Festival: A must-attend event for book lovers! You can meet authors and catch a panel discussion at this annual event.
- Festival of Lights: This event has become a holiday tradition with a giant Christmas tree, live music, and fireworks!
Things to Do
- Museums & Historical Sites: Popular spots include the Capitol Park Museum, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, and Magnolia Mound Plantation.
- Shopping & Dining: Baton Rouge offers various dining options, from traditional Cajun and Creole cuisine to modern eateries. There are also several large shopping centers and unique local boutiques.
The Greater Baton Rouge area has an interesting mix of urban energy and rural charm, making it an area worth visiting.
Click on the images below to learn more about communities in the Greater Baton Rouge region.
