Baton Rouge
Named by French explorers as the “Red Stick City,” Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital city bursting with history and culture. A beautiful fusion of Cajun and Creole culture molds an extraordinary experience throughout this riverfront city. The Louisiana State Capitol building dominates the landscape of downtown Baton Rouge, a gargantuan tower built in classic 1930s art deco style. Next door, the historic Spanish Town is a popular community for artists and bohemian types, with beautifully preserved homes and tree-shaded streets giving the impression of a charming small town. While Baton Rouge is home to several colleges, Louisiana State University is the hub of the city. Tiger football is the undisputed center of attention throughout the fall. The famous Tiger Walk, tailgating, and raucous home games at Tiger Stadium, also known as Death Valley, is an experience thousands enjoy every season. The area surrounding the LSU campus is loaded with nightlife and entertainment options catering to the student body. Staying true to its colorful emulsion of culture, Baton Rouge is filled with Creole and Cajun eateries but also offers other cuisines. Try a classic Louisiana Po’ boy and fried seafood at Poor Boy Lloyd’s. Most of the activity in town is clustered together near the Mississippi River, and the areas farther east get more subdued and slower-paced, providing tranquil home environments. Whether you’re a student looking for an apartment close to campus or a family looking for a home in a southern town, Baton Rouge is ideal.
Cordova
When Cordova began around 1830, it was a small farming village on the east side of Memphis. Today, it's still on the east side, but much of the town has been annexed by Memphis. Cordova begins on the east side of Shelby Farms Park and follows I-40 east to about Fisherville. The Wolf River runs along the south side. Shelby Farms Park provides a terrific outdoor space, covering 4,500 acres and including bicycle and horseback riding trails, playgrounds, lakes and the river for fishing, the Shelby Farms Dog Park, and the Go Ape adventure center. Ideally located, Cordova is fast-growing due to its natural beauty and its proximity to Downtown Memphis. Cordova pairs historic sites such as the Walter Granville Allen House and Sangie Cemetery with modern amenities and convenient shops and restaurants. Popular destinations include the Cordova International Farmer's Market, the Cordova Bowling Center, and the de Cordova Museum.
Memphis
The vibrant traditions and culture of the south come alive in Memphis, a robust and historic Mississippi riverfront community of over 600,000 neighbors. Memphis is legendary as an incubator for American musical titans, with landmarks like Sun Studios, the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, and Graceland serving as some of the city’s most popular attractions for visitors. The city’s musical tradition continues today, with a packed roster of live music representing every conceivable genre. Just as famous as the music is the food, with Memphis-style barbecue widely available and internationally recognized as a true American delicacy. But beyond the neon of Beale Street, Memphis offers a delightful living experience steeped in southern charm and modern flair. The cost of living is quite affordable, with apartments, condos, and houses to fit any budget. The rental market is incredibly diverse, from urban efficiency apartments to stunning historic homes on sleepy suburban streets. Driving is the most common way to get around, but neighborhoods closer to Downtown tend to be rather accessible for cyclists and pedestrians. Folks who love to spend time outside will likely find themselves hanging out at Shelby Farms Park often, or making weekend trips down to Holly Springs National Forest just over the state line in Mississippi.
