Take a stroll through Baton Rouge’s captivating past with the Historic Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour. As you wander along the scenic Mississippi Riverwalk, you’ll uncover the city’s rich architectural heritage, from the Gothic-revival Old State Capitol to the towering State Capitol. Discover the Native American roots of the Red Stick Statue and learn about the vibrant Swamp Blues and Cajun culture. This tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning views that will leave you eager to explore further.
Good To Know
- Explore Baton Rouge’s historic downtown through a self-guided audio walking tour, starting at the Old Governor’s Mansion and visiting landmarks like the Old State Capitol.
- Learn about Louisiana’s political and social history as you stroll along the Mississippi Riverwalk, admiring the scenic views and interactive exhibits.
- Discover the significance of the Red Stick Statue, which commemorates the city’s Native American origins and provides a popular photo opportunity.
- Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the State Capitol, the tallest state capitol building in the United States, with its Art Deco and Classical Revival styles.
- The self-guided audio tour allows visitors to explore Baton Rouge’s historic downtown at their own pace, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.
Old Governor’s Mansion
The Old Governor’s Mansion, a historic landmark in Baton Rouge, stands as a testament to the city’s storied past. Constructed in 1930, this grand structure served as the official residence for Louisiana’s governors until 1963.
Visitors can explore the mansion’s elegant interiors, adorned with period furnishings and architectural details that evoke the grandeur of a bygone era. The tour highlights the mansion’s role in shaping the state’s political and social history, providing insight into the lives of Louisiana’s former leaders.
As the starting point of the walking tour, the Old Governor’s Mansion sets the stage for an immersive exploration of Baton Rouge’s historic downtown.
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Old State Capitol
Next on the tour is the Old State Capitol, a magnificent Gothic-revival building that has borne witness to Louisiana’s storied past.
Constructed in the 1850s, this National Historic Landmark previously housed the state legislature.
Constructed in the 1850s, this National Historic Landmark previously housed the state legislature.
Today, it stands as a museum, showcasing exhibits that explore Louisiana’s rich history, from the antebellum era to the civil rights movement.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate architectural details, including the grand staircase and stained-glass windows.
The Old State Capitol offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s past, providing an immersive and educational experience for all who explore its halls.
Mississippi Riverwalk
Along the riverfront, the Mississippi Riverwalk offers a picturesque stroll with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Spanning over a mile, this scenic walkway allows visitors to admire the sweeping curves of the iconic waterway. Benches, gazebos, and interactive exhibits dot the path, inviting guests to relax and learn about the river’s history and ecology.
The Riverwalk connects several key sites, including the Old State Capitol and the USS Kidd Veterans Memorial, providing an easy and enjoyable way to explore downtown Baton Rouge.
It’s a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.
Red Stick Statue
A prominent landmark along the Downtown Baton Rouge tour is the Red Stick statue. It commemorates the city’s Native American origins, as the name "Baton Rouge" translates to "red stick" in French.
The statue depicts a Native American man holding a long, red pole – a symbolic representation of the area’s indigenous history. Located in North Boulevard Town Square, the Red Stick statue is a popular photo opportunity for visitors seeking to capture a piece of Baton Rouge’s cultural heritage.
Its striking design and central placement make it an integral part of the historic downtown walking tour experience.
More Great Tours NearbyKress Building
The Kress Building stands as an iconic architectural gem along the Baton Rouge Historic Downtown Tour. Constructed in 1927, this ornate five-story structure showcases the distinctive Art Deco style, with its intricate facade, ornamental motifs, and symmetrical design.
Originally a department store, the Kress Building has since been repurposed, housing a variety of businesses and eateries.
Today, visitors can admire its striking exterior, which remains a visual highlight of the downtown area. The building’s preservation and adaptive reuse exemplify Baton Rouge’s efforts to honor its rich history while embracing modern development.
State Capitol
As visitors continue their journey along the Baton Rouge Historic Downtown Tour, they’ll encounter the iconic State Capitol building.
Rising 34 stories high, the Louisiana State Capitol dominates the Baton Rouge skyline. Completed in 1932, it’s the tallest state capitol building in the United States.
The striking design features Art Deco and Classical Revival architectural styles, blending modern and traditional elements. Visitors can marvel at the grand marble staircases, intricate ceiling murals, and the observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.
The Louisiana State Capitol boasts a striking design blending Art Deco and Classical Revival styles, with grand marble staircases, intricate ceiling murals, and panoramic city views.
The State Capitol stands as a testament to Louisiana’s rich history and political heritage.
Huey Long Statue
Towering over the Capitol grounds, the Huey Long Statue stands as a powerful tribute to one of Louisiana’s most controversial and influential political figures. This imposing bronze statue depicts the former governor and U.S. senator in a confident stride, capturing his larger-than-life persona. The statue serves as a reminder of Long’s towering ambition, his impact on the state, and the complex legacy he left behind.
| Statue Details | | | |
| — | — | — | — |
| Height | 8 feet | Weight | 1.5 tons |
| Material | Bronze | Erected | 1940 |
Swamp Blues and Cajun Culture
Swamp blues and Cajun culture are integral threads in the vibrant tapestry of Baton Rouge’s heritage.
On this tour, you’ll discover the rich musical influences that shaped the city’s unique sound. Hear how the swamp blues, a haunting blend of Delta blues and Cajun rhythms, emerged from the bayous and gained international acclaim.
Explore the lively Cajun traditions that infuse the local cuisine, dance, and storytelling. From the R&B grooves of Slim Harpo to the soulful harmonies of Zachary Richard, the tour celebrates Baton Rouge’s role as a cradle of American roots music.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Download the Walking Tour App?
To download the walking tour app, customers can visit the dedicated app store for their mobile device. They’ll need to search for and install the app prior to starting the self-guided audio tour.
What Should I Do if I Have Technical Issues During the Tour?
If you experience technical issues during the tour, simply contact the tour provider’s customer support. They’ll be happy to assist you and ensure you have a smooth experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?
There don’t appear to be any discounts mentioned for the tour. However, the tour does offer a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, which could provide some flexibility. Customers should check the tour provider’s website for any potential discounts or offers.
Can I Take the Tour With a Group or Do I Need to Go Alone?
You can take the tour with a group or go alone. The self-guided audio walking tour is flexible, allowing you to experience it at your own pace, whether you’re exploring solo or with friends or family.
How Accurate Is the Audio Guide’s Location-Tracking Feature?
The audio guide’s location-tracking feature is highly accurate, allowing users to explore the tour’s attractions at their own pace while ensuring the content syncs precisely with their location. This hands-off approach provides a seamless, immersive experience.
The Sum Up
The Baton Rouge Historic Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the majestic State Capitol to the picturesque Mississippi Riverwalk, the tour showcases the city’s architectural gems and pays tribute to its Native American roots. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a captivating outdoor adventure, this self-guided tour is a must-do experience.
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