West Baton Rouge Parish

Location is the name of the game in West Baton Rouge Parish, despite how rural it feels. You’re only one hour from the vibrancy of New Orleans, 45 minutes from the hospitality of Cajun Country and a short commute to LSU or Southern University. Situated directly across the Mississippi River from the state capital of Baton Rouge, this parish is home to one of the largest deepwater ports in the world, and its relationship to the river doesn’t end there. The seasonal flooding and ever-shifting banks of the Mighty Mississippi created the lush land that would eventually be settled by the Acadians, or Cajuns, after their expulsion from Canada in the 1760s. Those who came to the parish nearly 300 years ago used the river for transportation and commerce, just as those living here today do.

Homes in West Baton Rouge are overwhelmingly traditional but that doesn’t mean more modern styles can’t be found. Contemporary designs are popping up in subdivisions right beside custom-built houses, bungalows, and cottages. Brick ranch-style residences are particularly popular although the area is known for its Greek Revival architecture. Acadian-style dwellings are also easy to spot as you drive along. Just look for low-sloped roofs and large front porches. Lots in the parish vary widely but for the most part run from one-quarter- to one full acre. Prices range from $125,000 for an investment property to over a million for a waterfront mansion with six bedrooms and eight bathrooms.

There are both public and parochial schools throughout the parish. Two popular public schools are found in the town of Brusly. Brusly Upper Elementary puts children first. This facility encourages students to be empowered and reach their fullest potential through interactive learning. Close by, Brusly High School offers a challenging academic environment along with AP and Honors courses. Nationally acknowledged as a US School of Excellence, Brusly High prepares students for careers in computers, consumer science, and industrial arts while providing social fun with a dance team, cheerleading, and band.

Alexander Park invites visitors to wander its 20 acres before taking in a game of baseball on one of five class A or B fields. Take a seat in the bleachers or try out one of the batting cages while children practice on the T-Ball field. There’s a one-mile walking trail as well as a playground area with benches for parents and caretakers to catch their breath. A volleyball court, splash pad, and rentable pavilion with numerous picnic tables provide fun and relaxation all year round.

The West Baton Rouge Museum Complex is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and culture of the parish through educational programming and both permanent and rotating exhibits. The museum traces the often bittersweet history of sugar in Louisiana from the 1700s to the present day along with displays of musical instruments and artifacts from the past 300 years. There are also works by local artists on display such as Ronald Trahan, a sculptor specializing in metal pieces. Touring the six-acre campus, you might hear French being spoken around you. That’s not just one of the international guests either. The museum offers tours and programs in the French language for both native speakers and those who are learning.

If you find yourself wondering what’s for dinner, Bergeron’s Boudin and Cajun Meats has the answer. In 2002, Moonie Bergeron began the business which quickly outgrew his kitchen. The shop relocated to a 7,000-square-foot space with another 7,000-square-foot commissary to keep up with production. Today, Bergeron has five locations in the region, and the boudin is still smoked with real wood. If you stop by, try the owner’s favorite treat, a steak wrap with jalapeno cream cheese before taking one of their stuffed deboned chickens home for the family.

Living in West Baton Rouge Parish gives residents easy access to the best of the region’s cities, shopping, dining, and rural delights.

Written By

K.T. Phillips

Photography Contributed By

Greg Riegler

Video By

Samantha Houtchens