Welcome to the Newto News for May of 2025. My name is Zack Cockfield, and my team and I created Newtomedia as a way for visitors or new residents to get information about a city. Each month we bring together resources that will update you on the history, amenities, culture, future opportunities and all other things inside a city that make it unique. We also hope to be a resource for connecting you with people and businesses that can help you live a better life. If you find our efforts useful, please click on the links to get more information!

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Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has a rich and diverse history dating back to its founding in 1699 by French explorer Sieur d’Iberville. The city’s name, which means “red stick” in French, is believed to have been inspired by a pole covered in animal blood that marked the boundary between Native American tribes. Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Baton Rouge served as a crucial trading post and military stronghold, with battles fought over its strategic location on the Mississippi River. In 1849, the city became the capital of Louisiana, a position it has maintained ever since. Baton Rouge played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, with notable events such as the Baton Rouge bus boycott and the Southern University protest contributing to the fight for racial equality. Today, Baton Rouge is a thriving cultural center known for its rich music, cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. It continues to honor its past while embracing a dynamic future as a bustling metropolitan area.

1. The top 10 industries that are hiring locally:

  • Healthcare
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Finance
  • Retail
  • Manufacturing
  • Hospitality
  • Construction
  • Transportation
  • Government

2. The top 10 recreational activities the area is known for:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Skiing
  • Golfing
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Wine tasting
  • Art galleries
  • Live music events

3. Average low and high temperature for the month:

  • Low temperature: 45°F
  • High temperature: 75°F

4. Average precipitation for the month:

  • 3 inches

5. Elevation:

  • 2500 feet above sea level

6. Average home price:

  • $300,000

7. Average household income:

  • $65,000

8. The top 10 tourist points of interest:

  • National Park
  • Historic Downtown
  • Botanical Garden
  • Museum of Art
  • Waterfront Park
  • Zoo
  • Historical Landmark
  • Winery Tour
  • Scenic Drives
  • Outdoor Music Festival

The top 10 restaurants:

Juban’s Restaurant & Bar

Southdowns

Juban’s serves contemporary Creole cuisine in an elegant setting. This restaurant is renowned for its seafood dishes and Southern hospitality.

Doe’s Eat Place

Mid City South

A casual steakhouse offering a wide variety of broiled steaks and Southern classics, served in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.

Mansurs on the Boulevard

Bocage

This upscale restaurant offers classic seafood and steak dishes with Cajun influences, known for its extensive wine list and jazz ambiance.

City Pork Brasserie & Bar

Perkins Road

Offering a unique blend of Southern, Cajun, and creole flavors, City Pork specializes in smoked meats and charcuterie in a rustic setting.

Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant

Mid City South

Parrain’s is famous for its authentic Louisiana seafood dishes, served in a vibrant and causal setting that captures the spirit of Baton Rouge.

Elsie’s Plate & Pie

Mid City South

Known for its creative comfort food and a wide variety of pies, Elsie’s offers a charming atmosphere perfect for casual dining.

The Chimes East

Southeast Baton Rouge

A beloved local chain with a relaxed vibe, offering classic Southern dishes and an extensive selection of beers on tap.

Beausoleil Coastal Cuisine

Jefferson Highway

Specializing in coastal and Creole flavors, Beausoleil offers elegantly presented dishes in a stylish and comfortable setting.

Cafe Jeanpierre

Highland/Perkins

This quaint café serves up Creole and French-inspired brunch and lunch offerings, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Ruffino’s

Highland/Perkins

Ruffino’s combines Italian and Creole flavors to create unique dishes in an upscale yet welcoming environment, known for its steak and seafood.

Current Events:

Body Slam :: A Pro Wrestling Rave
May 22
Thu • 9:00pm

Body Slam :: A Pro Wrestling Rave

Chelsea’s Live

The Bandeaux
May 23
Thu • 9:00pm

The Bandeaux

Chelsea’s Live

Issy, Favorite Friend, The Bloomies and Evie Richard
May 28
Thu • 8:00pm

Issy, Favorite Friend, The Bloomies and Evie Richard

Chelsea’s Live

Fairy Rave with Interstellar
May 29
Thu • 8:00pm

Fairy Rave with Interstellar

Chelsea’s Live

Emo Night BR
May 30
Thu • 9:00pm

Emo Night BR

Chelsea’s Live

Taj Farrant
Jun 05
Thu • 9:00pm

Taj Farrant

Chelsea’s Live

Baton Rouge Latin Nights
Jun 06
Thu • 9:00pm

Baton Rouge Latin Nights

Chelsea’s Live

SET IT OFF FEST
Jun 13
Thu • 3:00pm

SET IT OFF FEST

Chelsea’s Live

Rock The Rouge
Jun 18
Thu • 8:00pm

Rock The Rouge

Chelsea’s Live