This Walkable City in Louisiana Is a Must-Visit Gem

There are many wonderful and worthwhile cities in Louisiana, but there's nothing better than one that you can easily explore on foot. There are numerous cities that fit this description in the Pelican State, as Louisiana is a state with many cities that were planned and built long ago when nearly everyone did their errands and visits by walking. One walkable city in Louisiana that is beloved by residents and visitors alike is the state capital, Baton Rouge. Visitors can see a large portion of the city's most interesting attractions and areas without a vehicle.

If you're looking for a city in Louisiana that you can immerse yourself in without having to worry about driving and parking, read on - Baton Rouge is certainly one.

Why This Louisiana City Is So Easy to Explore on Foot

Baton Rouge is calling your name! This capital city has a population of around 220,000 residents, so it's not small by any means. In fact, the actual land area of the city is 79 square miles. However, the downtown area is just 1.5 to 2 square miles, making it easy for residents and visitors alike to traverse on foot.

Due to Baton Rouge's location on the bank of the Mississippi River, the whole city is close to sea level, and furthermore, it's quite flat. Pedestrians don't have to worry about climbing hills in Baton Rouge, and they'll also find plenty of shade from tall trees while they walk about. Baton Rouge is not only pleasant for walkers, but it's easy, too.

The Best Things to See Within Walking Distance

Baton Rouge offers numerous attractions and points of interest in a highly concentrated area downtown. Within just a few square blocks, visitors to the area can visit the Old State Capitol, the Shaw Center for the Arts, the LSU Museum of Art, the USS Kidd, and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. A few blocks to the north of that area, the Pentagon Barracks Museum, the Capital Park Museum, Capitol Gardens, the Old Governor's Mansion, and the current Louisiana State Capitol are easily accessible, too.

Where to Eat, Shop, and Relax Along the Way

There are lots of great places in central Baton Rouge to eat, drink, shop, and relax, too. Notable dining options in this area include Poor Boy Lloyd's, a po' boy shop that's been open since 1967, and Tsunami Sushi, which offers rooftop views of the city. Locals and visitors both enjoy shopping at Main Street Market and the famous Red Stick Farmers Market, along with the monthly Baton Rouge Arts Market. And, when you need a break, you can enjoy a walk along the Mississippi levee here in Levee Park, or spend some time on a bench in beautiful Capitol Gardens.

What Makes This City Truly Stunning

Baton Rouge is a southern city that is, in many ways, breathtaking. From its 450-foot Art Deco State Capitol Building to views of the Mississippi, from the tree-lined streets to the Victorian architecture mixed with modern skyscrapers, it's really a pleasant city to see. Add to that the friendly folks, the history, and the rich Cajun/Creole culture, and you'll find a city in Baton Rouge that's not like anywhere else.

Tips for Visiting Without a Car

If you choose to visit Baton Rouge without a vehicle, or just wish to leave your vehicle parked safely at your hotel while you explore, then you're in for a treat. To make the best of your experience, choose a hotel that's right downtown. From there, you can easily see a large number of different things by just walking a short distance. If you wish to go further, ride-share drivers and vehicles are plentiful, or you can also ride the free trolley. The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) trolley is free to help you get from place to place downtown with ease.

Baton Rouge is not just the capital of Louisiana - it's a wonderful city that has so much to offer and one that stands tall on its own. It's even better that it's one that's easy to explore on foot. If you're someone who doesn't drive or who would rather not, you'll love visiting Baton Rouge. Choose a hotel downtown, and from there, you can step right outside your door and visit a variety of attractions, interesting shops, and impressive restaurants. Have a great trip!