7 Facts About Baton Rouge and New Orleans

Photo credit: Playhouse Media

Author
Recent Posts

Keisha Smith is a Contributing Writer who attended college at Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge. She is currently writing a book on south Louisiana culture.

What To Know About New Orleans and Baton Rouge

We’ll get into it a bit later, but the first similarities between the cities is how they got their names.

New Orleans was founded by the French in 1718. The city was named after Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, who was the Regent of France at the time.

Baton Rouge, which means “Red Stick” in French, was first explored by the French explorer Sieur d’Iberville in 1699. The area was originally inhabited by the Houma and Bayogoula Native American tribes. The French established a military post at Baton Rouge in 1719, and it later became the capital of Louisiana in 1849.

Both cities have rich histories shaped by French, Spanish, and American influences, and they have played important roles in the cultural, political, and economic development of Louisiana and the United States.

Both Represent the Best of Louisiana Culture

Both cities are known for their rich and unique Louisiana Creole and Cajun cultures, which are characterized by vibrant music, cuisine, and traditions. And yes, both cities pull for the Saints and the Pelicans.

French Influence

Both cities have strong French influences in their history and culture, which is evident in their architecture, cuisine, and local customs.

That French influence oozes into the best New Orleans restaurants as well as Baton Rouge’s top eateries.

Festivals

Baton Rouge and New Orleans host a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, food, and cultural heritage. Examples include Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and various food festivals.

Check out the best festivals in New Orleans.

Location

Both cities are located along the Mississippi River, which has historically been an important waterway for trade and transportation in the region.

Universities

Both cities are home to major universities. Baton Rouge is home to Louisiana State University (LSU), while New Orleans is home to Tulane University and the University of New Orleans, among others.

While there are many similarities between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, each city also has its own unique character, history, and attractions that make them distinct.

One of the most traveled routes in South Louisiana is from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. Being the state’s capital city, Baton Rouge visitors often come to the Crescent City to taste the food and enjoy a little more festive atmosphere than you can find in many other areas.

What Is The Distance Between Baton Rouge And New Orleans?

When it comes to distance by car, Baton Rouge to New Orleans is approximately 70 miles.

The most notable route is to take Interstate 10, which goes right through both cities. You can also take Interstate 12, but it’s 15 minutes longer and you’ll have to curve back through Slidell.

For a more scenic route, you can take Airline Highway from Baton Rouge to New Orleans as well, which will take about one hour.

What is The Halfway Point Between Baton Rouge And New Orleans?

The halfway point between Baton Rouge, LA and New Orleans, LA is Denson, Louisiana, which is also known locally as Bear Island.

Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans is several parishes, the Louisiana version of counties.

What Parishes Are Baton Rouge And New Orleans In?

Baton Rouge is in East Baton Rouge Parish, while New Orleans is primarily in Orleans Parish. Nearby is Jefferson Parish, which is considered part of the Greater New Orleans area.

Final Word

Like much of the American South, both New Orleans and Baton Rouge are known for their hospitality and friendly residents.

New Orleans is on the mouth of the Mississippi River in the southeast region of the U.S. state of Louisiana.

The city’s location is strategically situated on the banks of the Mississippi River between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne.

More From NolaFi.com:

Keisha Smith

Keisha Smith is a Contributing Writer who attended college at Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge. She is currently writing a book on south Louisiana culture.