About this city
Also known as: The Red Stick
Perched beautifully on the eastern first bluffs of the Mississippi River in southeastern Louisiana, Baton Rouge is the state's capital city and its second-largest metropolitan area. Established in 1719 by French explorer Sieur de Iberville, who named the location after a red stick marking indigenous hunting boundaries, the city evolved from a strategic colonial military fort into a booming international deepwater port and political powerhouse. Baton Rouge is home to Louisiana State University (LSU), whose massive campus deeply influences the city's culture and sports spirit. The contemporary city layout features a compelling contrast between historic Creole architecture, a colossal petrochemical refining corridor running along the river, and the unique political legacy of Huey Long, crystallized in the nation's tallest state capitol building.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
Weather & Timing
Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Ascend to the 27th floor of the Louisiana State Capitol for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and city skyline. View authentic historic aircraft and a restored destroyer escort at the USS Kidd Veterans Museum. Catch a football game or view live tigers at the Louisiana State University campus.
Must-See
Museums & Culture
7Museums6
Capitol Park Museum
Knock Knock Children's Museum
Must-SeeLouisiana's Old State Capitol
Louisiana State University Rural Life Museum
Must-SeeUSS KIDD Veterans Museum
