The capital and second-largest city of the U.S. state of Louisiana is located on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River in Plantation Country. An important political, cultural, and economic hub in the region, it dates back to the French colonial era. Baton Rouge means “Red Stick” in French, and comes from a red cypress pole that marked the boundary between Native American tribal hunting grounds. It houses the Louisiana State Capitol, a stunning Art Deco building, the USS Kidd Veterans Museum and arts and science centres and hosts the Baton Rouge Blues Festival and the Louisiana Book Festival.
WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection
Found just a couple of blocks back from the river, this Marriott-owned property is in the downtown area of the city, two miles from the university, with airport transfers provided. It has 135 bedrooms set across 12 floors, with a choice of suites, king and queen rooms. Guests can dine onsite at The Gregory restaurant and lounge, or grab a quick bite and a drink at Milford’s On Third, the hotel’s Big Apple-inspired deli. The Watermark also offers four meeting venues, including a former 1920s vault and a 24-hour fitness suite.