There’s no better time than summer for a city break.
Think about it – everyone’s gone off to somewhere beachy and remote, leaving streets back home uncrowded, hotels wide open, and prices uninflated.
That’s exactly why more and more travelers are putting off those traditional tropical getaways in favor of more culturally immersive experiences, and one Louisiana city is seeing tourism stats skyrocket because of it; and, spoiler alert – it isn’t New Orleans.
Instead, Baton Rouge has nabbed the title of the state’s hottest summer hub, having welcomed close to 9 million visitors in this past year alone and setting a new all-time high in the process.
But while gorgeous, the Louisiana capital has managed to fly under the radar for quite some time now, so we’re here to answer the next natural question – why are travelers suddenly so fascinated by this underrated hub?
So Many Unmissable Sights
With over 300 years of history and a medley of cultures, not to mention some of the most enviable natural landscapes, Baton Rouge promises sightseers the experience of a lifetime.
Whether you’re more curious to see the Capitol Building and Gardens, the Old State Capitol, the LSU Rural Life Museum, the amazing Baton Rouge Zoo, or just take in the views of the Mississippi River, you’re in for a treat!
That distinctive Creole and Cajun mix of influences gives an extra kick to the already-amazing landmarks, so while taking as much pictures as possible is a must, make sure to stop every once in a while and take in the details in real time, too.
Lots To Do, Too
And for those who’re tired of long sightseeing excursions, Baton Rouge is much more than a collection of pretty views.
The Louisiana Lights event held in the city’s newest botanic gardens, the inaugural Masters of Strength Fest, the Water Lantern Festival, and the Red Stick Farmers Market, in particular, are all unmissable.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though – for more info on events you can attend during specific dates, head over here.
And if you’re looking for something more outdoorsy, my top recommendation would be to take a trip through the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center.
Sure, a hiking trail would be easier to navigate, but all the gravel paths and fascinating wildlife sightings make this one of the best places to be during those days when you’re feeling extra adventurous.
You’ll Get A Lot Of Bang For Your Buck
As a big-ish city (the fifth biggest on the Mississippi River), it’s understandable that Baton Rouge isn’t exactly cheap; still, when you compare it to similar places of its kind or, better yet, other destinations people are traveling to this time of year, it’s clear that here, you’ll be getting a lot of bang for your buck.
Not only are most attractions either very cheap (think less than $15 for a ticket) or entirely free, but the food is pretty reasonably priced too; and don’t worry, you won’t be sacrificing quality.
The dining scene is filled with places that offer amazing food for less than $10 a meal.
Don’t believe me? Check out Coffee Call, Bellue’s Fine Cajun Cuisine, and Louie’s Cafe, and get back to me.
Accommodation Options Are Endless
The great thing about going someplace as diverse in its offerings as Baton Rouge is that you can make your trip as luxurious or budget-friendly as you want it to be, and all that starts with choosing the right hotel.
Places here start at ~ $50 (check out Motel 6 if that number piqued your interest) but your average hotel charges something closer to $125.
That’ll get you a room in places like The Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center and Holiday Inn Baton Rouge College Drive.
If you’re looking to fully pamper yourself, though, you can’t go wrong with The Watermark Baton Rouge – rooms go for $520+ a night, but the service, amenities, and overall experience are genuinely worth it for those seeking the convenience of a top-notch hotel.
The Perfect Place For Travelers Who Don’t Want To Stay Still
As busy as your days in Baton Rouge will be, you’re not bound to the city, either.
There’s plenty to see just a short drive away – you can still explore New Orleans, walk through the plantations along the River Road, kayak in the Atchafalaya Basin, enjoy a good meal in Lafayette, or even complete that summer vacation with a sunbathing session in Grand Isle.
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