Baton Rouge: Discovering A City Of Excitement
If you are interested in going to Louisiana, your first thought may be to see the
city of New Orleans, which never seems to stop the constant party that ensues. However, if you were to miss out on the beautiful city of Baton Rouge, you would be doing yourself a real disservice.
If you do make it to the enchanting city, there are definitely some things you don't want to miss out on. First, do not miss the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
An abundance of culture lies ready for exploration at this terrific museum, which couples art and science in an impressive, historic depot set along the Mississippi. Permanent and temporary art collections go hand-in-hand with interactive galleries where children can delve into scientific principles, a center for space discovery, an exhibit on ancient Egypt, and a hands-on play area for young kids.
The planetarium offers films and programs on the universe, and the whole experience is supplemented with a variety of workshops, lectures, and special events. This is a great place for children and adults alike.
Next, check out the Louisiana State Building. Looking more like a skyscraper than a state capitol, this striking Art Deco structure was built in 1931 at the behest of then-governor Huey Long.
Rising four hundred and fifty feet and thirty four stories, the Capitol is filled with sculptures, murals, and rich materials. Surrounding it are also fifty acres of gardens, and from the observation deck on the twenty seventh floor, amazing views are afforded.
In 1935, Governor Long, a controversial figure in state politics, was assassinated in the building by a local doctor for indeterminate reasons. As you can see, this building has seen some exciting history that you can see firsthand.
If you are a bit of an adventurer, check out the Alligator Bayou. If the Louisiana swamplands, with all their attendant wildlife, have you apprehensive - or just plain curious - plan to visit Alligator Bayou, just ten minutes from Baton Rouge.
The Alligator Queen makes her way through the Spanish Lake Basin, teaching visitors about the history, culture, and biology of the area. Cypress trees, elegant river birds, and dozens of resident alligators are all on view, and you can even get up-close and personal with some.
Other tour possibilities include in-cruise meals, dance and music performances, and storytelling. Great for families and children of all ages.
If you want to show a little school spirit, and maybe catch a football game, check out the Louisiana State University. This picturesque, two thousand acre campus is home to thirty one thousand students, largely from Louisiana but from throughout the country and the world too.
The university was founded in 1860 and is a state-funded institution. On campus, visitors will find history, science, and art museums, along with lovely architecture.
Home to the Fighting Tigers, the university community loves football, and its autumnal tailgating festivities are legendary. Go Tigers!
As long as you are there, check out the museum of art at the university. British and American art comprise the bulk of this impressive museum's collections, and most items date from the 17th century forward.
Among the permanent holdings are silver, glassware, furniture, ceramics, and lighting, accompanied by a good supply of prints and paintings. The sensuous shapes of Newcomb Pottery vessels are also one of the museum's sources of pride.
Temporary exhibits include everything from stone carvings to pottery and Native American art. It is a fun way to spend a lazy afternoon.
Next on your agenda should be the Magnolia Mound Plantation. Nestled in a grove of gracefully arching trees, Magnolia Mound began as a small, late 18th-century home and was expanded into a plantation home.
Its French Creole styling is relatively simple, and the home, elevated on piers, features a generous porch. One of Louisiana's oldest wooden structures, it also features a coved ceiling and French and Caribbean details.
Along with the home itself, guides in period costume point out gardens, dependencies, and slave cabins. It is one of the closest plantations to Baton Rouge.
Last, check out the zoo, particularly if you have children. Since 1970, visitors to, and residents of, Baton Rouge have been able to "travel" the world at this charming zoo.
Animals from Asia, Africa, and North and South America make their home here, delighting children and teaching respect for wildlife and the planet. More than 1800 animals are showcased, and you will see everything from native Louisianan species to elephants, parrots, zebras, tigers, otters, and giraffes.
As you can see, Baton Rouge is an exciting place with an endless list of interesting things to do and see. Check out this magical city for your next vacation!
by: Terry Daniels
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