Sprawling along the banks of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is the lively capital of Louisiana, home to excellent museums, walking trails and markets. The city’s French Creole roots are showcased at the 18th-century Magnolia Mound Plantation House.

Things to do

The Louisiana State Capitol is a towering Art Deco monument that is the tallest of its kind in the United States. It’s surrounded by landscaped gardens featuring magnolias and 200-year-old oak trees, as well as a statue of former Governor Huey Long, who was assassinated here.

Want to see Louis Armstrong’s first bugle? Head to the Louisiana State Museum, which features two floors of exhibits exploring the state’s history and culture. In addition to artefacts belonging to “Satchmo”, highlights include the tombstone of Huey P. Long and a submarine belonging to the Civil War Confederates.

Wander the picturesque grounds of the Louisiana State University, with many of the most impressive buildings located on Historic Highland Road. The LSU Lakes are a popular spot for walking and fishing, while the LSU Rural Life Museum showcases life in Louisiana during the 18th and 19th centuries.

If you’re interested in sampling produce grown by local Baton Rouge farmers, visit the Red Stick Farmers Market. Fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan bread and meats are for sale, as well as homemade pies, honey and native plants.

Getting around

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is around one hour’s drive from Baton Rouge and there are long-distance buses to destinations across Louisiana. Buses are the main means of transport, but the downtown area is compact enough to explore on foot or bicycle.