Once a prominent bank building, the exquisite WATERMARK Baton Rouge hotel overlooks the Mississippi River and combines a rich past with contemporary charm.
About Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is full of iconic landmarks, exciting activities, and sightseeing galore. It’s got beautiful parks and outdoor spaces … fascinating museums … delicious dining … a fun nightlife … and interesting cultural attractions. You’ll immediately be impressed by its charm and Southern hospitality.
Baton Rouge is more than just a popular college town, home of Louisiana State University and Southern University and A&M College. It’s a city that blends rich history with modern day attractions. And if you’re wondering why you should pay a visit to Baton Rouge if you already visited New Orleans, the cities have distinct differences. While both cities offer exciting experiences, rich histories, and great food, Baton Rouge offers a more welcomed, relaxed atmosphere along the picturesque banks of the Mississippi river. New Orleans is known for its festive atmosphere and vibrant party scene (with lively celebrations, including Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest).
When visiting a cultural destination like Baton Rouge, I wanted to find accommodations as rich in history as the city is, like the WATERMARK Baton Rouge, part of Mariott’s Autograph Collection of hotels.
The Rich History and Architecture of the WATERMARK Hotel in Baton Rouge
Take one look at the timeless architecture of the WATERMARK Baton Rouge hotel and you’ll immediately transform back to 1925, when the building was built as Baton Rouge’s first skyscraper. This tall, iconic building that overlooks the Mississippi River was the home of the Louisiana Trust & Savings Bank, and impressively just celebrated its centennial. The fact that the hotel is housed in a 100-year-old landmark building, makes for unique accommodations in downtown Baton Rouge.
Walk through the showstopping entrance doors to step inside the grand interior and you’ll be immediately “wowed” by the hand painted artwork featured on the lobby ceiling. Then meander to the hotel’s restaurant also decorated with hand painted murals. However, the most incredible sight is what’s described as “massive carved marble walls” along with a spectacular grand staircase leading down to the original bank vaults.
Modern Hotel Amenities at WATERMARK Baton Rouge
There are still charming features inside the WATERMARK Baton Rouge hotel from the original bank building. You’ll conveniently find the front desk guest check in area (along with a conveniently located valet stand) also brimming with a sophisticated art deco design. The old bank vaults down the staircase have been transformed into outstanding meeting and event spaces.
I can’t stress enough how nice it is to view the hotel’s original artwork and other preserved architecture. While this luxury hotel is on the fancy side, each member of the staff is pleasantly attentive and very friendly. And, as you can expect from an Autograph Collection hotel, the WATERMARK Baton Rouge is immaculately clean.
Hotel amenities include:
:: In-house restaurants/lounge
:: Fitness center
:: Complimentary Wi-Fi
:: Breakfast (fee)
:: Room service
:: 24-hour front desk
:: Non-smoking hotel
:: Dry cleaning service
:: Free newspapers (lobby)
:: Airport transfer available
:: Valet parking (fees)
:: Handicap access
:: Meeting/event venues
Although on the small side, the hotel’s fitness center is open 24 hours a day. You’ll find treadmills, elliptical machines, spin bikes, and free weights. There is no pool onsite.
Upscale Rooms and Suites of Watermark Baton Rouge
There are a variety of room types at WATERMARK Baton Rouge, each blending elegance, history, and luxury. Along with some spectacular Mississippi River views, rooms and suites feature eclectic décor, a bit traditional and a bit industrial in design.
Room types include:
:: Standard King – Features a king-size bed, flat-screen television, a dedicated workstation, and more.
:: Standard Double Queen – Features two queen beds, dedicated workstation, flat-screen television, and more.
:: Junior Suite – For a bit more space, splurge on a junior suite that includes both a king bed and a pullout sofa bed, in addition to a dedicated workstation, and more.
The standard guest room at the WATERMARK Baton Rouge is not huge, but large enough to feel comfortable. The large windows provide plenty of natural light. The bed and bedding (and quiet atmosphere) make for a great night’s sleep. The Keurig machine with free coffee pods is much appreciated for a quick cup of coffee. The bathroom with shower is a nice size and there you’ll discover brand name soap and shampoo toiletries.
Full list of room amenities:
:: Complimentary Wi-Fi
:: Daily housekeeping
:: River views
:: Stylish furnishings
:: Luxury linens
:: Suites with sofa beds
:: Desk workstation
:: Mini fridge
:: Clock radio
:: Hairdryer
:: Premium bath amenities
:: Flat-screen TVs
:: Premium cable channels
:: In-room safe
:: Room service
:: Wake-up calls
Dining at The WATERMARK Baton Rouge
The WATERMARK Baton Rouge features two onsite restaurants: The Gregory and Milford’s on Third. Both restaurants offer delicious food options amidst historical and stately surroundings. There is also the lobby bar that offers small bites, beers, and cocktails and in-room dining is an option as well.
The Gregory is a sit-down restaurant featuring a menu of classic Southern fare infused with international flavors in a vintage-modern atmosphere blending old-fashioned Louisiana architecture mixed with contemporary design elements. The food selection is a blend of Southern classics with modern farm-to-table cuisine. Whether you order the Belgium waffle for breakfast, Roast Beef Debris Po-Boy for lunch, or the Wagyu Flat Iron steak for dinner, The Gregory features outstanding food and exceptional service.
Milford’s on Third is modeled after a New York style deli, serving hand-crafted deli classics. The menu includes traditional salads, signature pickles, and house-made soups. Grab an everything bagel with cream cheese for breakfast, Milford’s Matzo Ball soup and pastrami on rye for lunch, or a French Dip for dinner, you’ll swear you’re in New York City not Baton Rouge.
In addition to the hotel restaurants, just walk outside of the hotel and you’ll find other dining options in downtown Baton Rouge. Baton Rouge is popular for cuisines blending both French and Creole cultures. However, the food at the hotel is so good that you may not want to eat elsewhere.
What to Explore in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Located in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge, the WATERMARK hotel is located on the corner of 3rd and Convention streets. That makes it convenient walking distance to historical landmarks and must-see attractions that are brimming in Louisiana history and the culture of America’s deep south. To fully appreciate Baton Rouge there are many unique experiences that you’ll want to consider including these highlights:
Louisiana State Capitol – Towering at a steep 450 feet, it is the tallest state capitol building in the country. You can take an elevator up to the observation deck to appreciate spectacular panoramic city views. Inside the Capitol building, you’ll see amazing artwork and learn about Louisiana’s political history. Outside the Capitol is equally impressive as you can walk around and enjoy fresh air amidst the landscaped gardens.
USS Kid Veterans Museum – This National Historic Landmark is a floating museum where you hop aboard a famous World War II Fletcher-class destroyer. This well-preserved ship allows you to experience life at sea for sailors during the war. Interactive tours with expert guides allow you to explore the decks, command center, and crew living quarters. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories that bring the ship’s history to life.
Louisiana State University – Visit this vibrant Baton Rouge college campus and appreciate all that makes LSU so iconic and amazing. Be sure to stop by Tiger Stadium and visit the habitat home of “Mike” the living Fighting Tiger mascot.
Southern University and A&M College – Whether you’re visiting this campus for an exciting Jaguar sporting event or just walking around, pay a visit to the campus art museum.
Shaw Center for the Arts – This venue features some of Baton Rouge’s most prestigious live performances and visual arts.
Baton Rouge River Center and Performing Arts Theater – Get tickets to see a variety of concerts, sporting events, dance shows, and more.
Louisiana Art & Science Museum – Located in an old railroad depot, walk around this educational museum and be sure to get tickets for the IMAX theater, an inspiring experience with outstanding sights and sounds.
Baton Rouge Zoo – Encounter exotic creatures from around the world including birds, bobcats, deer, giraffes, otters, hippos, snakes, wolves, rhinoceros, and many more.
Enjoy Southern Hospitality at a Charming Hotel and Equally Charming City
Southern charm and hospitality is alive and well in Baton Rouge, especially at the WATERMARK Baton Rouge, an Autograph Collection hotel. The historical nature of the tall hotel building and the restored and preserved parts of the former bank building added to the wow factor. If you’re going to visit a cool city brimming in history and culture, you want to select a hotel that matches the ambiance.
The downtown location of the WATERMARK Baton Rouge is convenient, allowing you to explore the town and check off many sightseeing spots on your Baton Rouge travel itinerary. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, stores, and places to visit. And speaking of restaurants, both The Gregory and the Milford’s on Third New York style deli located onsite at the hotel were a pleasant surprise.
The hotel’s attention to detail in the guest room and throughout the hotel is impressive. The Double King room was impeccably clean, super plush and comfortable, and featured modern décor with cool design elements. The hotel staff were friendly, welcoming, and attentive – from valet parking and check-in, to dining and housekeeping.
About Parking: The WATERMARK Baton Rouge room rate does not include valet parking which was $33 per night. The property does not have onsite self-parking but there are multiple parking garages and parking lots within walking distance from the hotel.