Points of Interest between Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Belle Chasse, Louisiana

picture of Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Top Places to See When Driving From Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Belle Chasse, Louisiana

Driving from Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Belle Chasse, Louisiana is an exciting and scenic drive that runs for approximately 83 miles. Along the way, there are many amazing places that are worth experiencing and exploring. Whether you are looking for historic landmarks, natural beauty, cultural experiences, or fun outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy on this journey.

In this article, we will take a look at some of the top places to see when driving from Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Belle Chasse, Louisiana. So, fasten your seatbelt, and let's explore these top attractions.

Explore the Capital City:

Before starting our journey, we recommend taking some time to explore the capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food, Baton Rouge offers a lot of activities for visitors. Some of the must-see places in Baton Rouge include:

  1. Louisiana State Capitol:

Standing tall at 34 stories, the Louisiana State Capitol is the tallest capitol building in the United States. Designed in an Art Deco style, the building is home to the Louisiana government. Visitors can tour the building to look at the architecture, artwork, and learn about Louisiana's political history.

  1. USS Kidd Veterans Museum:

If you are interested in military history, the USS Kidd Veterans Museum is an excellent destination for you. The museum is home to the USS Kidd, a destroyer that served in the Pacific during World War II. Visitors can tour the ship, learn about the sailors' lives, and see the displays on the walls that show the history of the American Navy.

  1. Louisiana Art and Science Museum:

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum is a great place for families, especially if you have kids. The museum offers interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and a large collection of art to explore. Visitors can also watch 3D films on the large IMAX screens.

Historic River Road:

After exploring Baton Rouge, we recommend taking the historic River Road, one of America's grandest drives. The River Road is a 70-mile scenic route that runs parallel to the Mississippi River, offering stunning views of the water, the levees, and the plantations. Here are the top places to see on the River Road:

  1. Oak Alley Plantation:

The Oak Alley Plantation is one of the most famous and photographed plantations on the River Road. The plantation was built in the late 1830s and features a long alley of 300-year-old oak trees leading up to the main house which has 28 round columns. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plantation and learn about the antebellum period.

  1. Laura Plantation:

Another plantation worth visiting is the Laura Plantation, which had a strong female influence throughout its history. Unlike Oak Alley, Laura Plantation offers a more intimate look into the lives of the everyday people who lived there, like the Creole women who managed the plantation operations. Visitors can tour the house to see a more intricate style of Creole architecture.

  1. Whitney Plantation:

To learn more about the dark history of slavery, head to the Whitney Plantation, which is known as the "Slavery Museum of America." The plantation is unique because it is dedicated to the history of slavery and gives visitors insight into the lives of the enslaved. A guided tour through the field is led by a tour guide who gives first-hand accounts of the brutality that occurred during slavery.

Nature and Outdoor Activities:

After visiting the plantations, it's time to enjoy some outdoor activities in Louisiana's lush natural scenery. Here are some of the best places to explore nature:

  1. Barataria Preserve:

The Barataria Preserve is a 23,000-acre nature preserve located a few miles south of Belle Chasse. The preserve is home to a variety of habitats, including cypress swamps, marshes, and forests. Visitors can hike the boardwalk trail, go on a boat tour, or even take a kayak in designated areas. You can spot alligators, snakes, and bird species along the trails.

  1. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve:

Named after the pirate Jean Lafitte, this national park spans over 20,000 acres and consists of six separate sites. The sites offer hiking and walking trails, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. You can also take a ranger-led tour to learn about the natural history and wildlife in the area.

Conclusion:

Driving from Baton Rouge to Belle Chasse is a journey that offers a great mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. By visiting the Capitol, taking the River Road, and spending some time in nature, you will have an unforgettable experience on this beautiful drive through Louisiana. Make sure to pack some snacks, water, and your camera, as there are so many photo opportunities to capture along the way!