Things to do near Baton Rouge – Downtown
Riverside Limousine Service serves many local companies, national affiliates and individuals. We provide limousine and town car service to Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). If it is the passenger’s first visit to the capital city and they are interested our professional chauffeurs enjoy pointing out interesting and historical sites along the way to their destination. Baton Rouge is a beautiful city with many points of interest.
When visitors ask what there is to do in the city our answers often gravitate to night life and after hours events. Downtown has transformed in recent years. There are dozens of local bars, restaurants, venues and nightclubs. In the past decade Downtown Baton Rouge has been developed into a popular entertainment district. Third Street, once the city’s shopping district (until malls opened in the late 50’s) has been revived. Other areas where nightlife can be found include: Highland Road north of LSU, Corporate at College, Perkins between College and the overpass, Town Center and South Sherwood.
HISTORIC SITES:
For the business traveler with an hour available during the daytime there are also historical sites that highlight our legacy and teach visitors our history.
LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL:
The capitol and surrounding grounds are majestic and awe inspiring. We suggest visitors begin by walking the grounds in front of the capitol building. Well maintained gardens surround the tomb of Huey Long, Louisiana governor, senator and one of our most famous citizens.
To the east of the capitol is the Old Arsenal Museum. Built in 1835 partly in response to the (War of 1812) to store munitions it now houses an interpretive history of the area. On the grounds there are cannons which were positioned to protect the arsenal from attack from the Mississippi River.
The capitol building it self is open for visitors to tour. Construction of the Louisiana State Capitol building was approved by a special session of the legislature in 1931 and completed in 14 months. It cost $5 million. An additional million was spent on art. The steps to the entrance are inscribed with the states and their date of statehood.
A self guided tour is available at the information desk. The view of Baton Rouge from the observation deck on the 27th floor is a favorite experience.
GOVERNOR’S MANSION:
The Governor’s Mansion was built in 1963 during the term of Governor Jimmy Davis. Tours of the mansion require scheduling.
OLD STATE CAPITOL:
The Old State Capitol was built in 1847 on a parcel of land donated by the city of Baton Rouge. The capitol was moved to Baton Rouge due to concerns that New Orleans would have too much influence over state governnment. At that time New Orleans was the 4th largest city in the United States.
During the Civil War the building was abandoned when Union forces captured the city. It was used as a barracks and suffered two fires which gutted the building. There is a self-guided video tour available.
THE OLD GOVERNOR’S MANSION:
The Old Governor’s Mansion was built in 1929 by Huey Long. Today it is home for the
Foundation for a Historic Louisiana and available for special events. For many years it was the home of the Louisiana Arts and Science Center.
If you have 60 minutes these historic sites are just a few of the interesting places available for a visit. They are within easy walking distance from downtown hotels or our professional chauffeur can pick you up and wait close by to take you to your next appointment.
You’re here – take a break and don’t miss your chance to see interesting sites or you can wait in the airport lounge. You are in Louisiana – “Pick Your Passion!”
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