Port Allen, LA

County: West Baton Rouge

History

Port Allen, Louisiana

Port Allen, Louisiana is a small city situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River in West Baton Rouge Parish. The area that is now Port Allen was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Bayou Goula and Choctaw.

European settlement in the region began in the early 18th century when French explorers and fur traders arrived in Louisiana. The first significant settlement in the area was established in 1822 when William Bringier, a wealthy planter, obtained a Spanish land grant and built a sugarcane plantation called "Brusly St. John" on the site. The plantation eventually encompassed what is now Port Allen.

The port that gives the city its name was constructed in the mid-1800s as a means to facilitate trade and commerce along the Mississippi River. The port quickly became an essential transportation hub, serving as a point of transfer for goods entering and leaving the region. This led to the growth of surrounding communities as well.

During the Civil War, Port Allen played a strategic role in the defense of Baton Rouge. Union forces occupied the area in 1862 and established a strong presence to control the river and protect the important city of Baton Rouge. The occupation lasted until the end of the war in 1865.

In 1916, Port Allen became an incorporated municipality. The city continued to grow throughout the 20th century, fueled by its location as a transportation hub and the development of industries such as petrochemicals and manufacturing.

Today, Port Allen remains an important center for trade and commerce along the Mississippi River. It is also known for various historical sites, including the West Baton Rouge Museum, which showcases the area's history and culture. Port Allen's convenient location near Baton Rouge has also made it an attractive place for residents who work in the capital city but prefer a quieter suburban environment.

Attractions

West Baton Rouge Museum

West Baton Rouge Museum

This museum showcases the history and culture of West Baton Rouge Parish.

Alligator Bayou Tours

Take a boat tour through the scenic and wildlife-rich Alligator Bayou.

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

Located nearby, this zoo features a variety of animal exhibits and activities for the whole family.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Explore the art and science exhibits, planetarium, and educational programs.

USS Kidd Veterans Museum

Visit this historic naval destroyer and museum dedicated to honoring America's Veterans.

Port Allen Lock

Watch as boats navigate the lock on the Mississippi River, offering a unique experience.

Swamp tours

Take a swamp tour to experience the beauty and wildlife of the Louisiana wetlands.

Sugar Plantation Country

Explore the historic sugar cane plantations in the area, such as Nottoway Plantation and the beautiful gardens of Houmas House Plantation.

Barrow House Antique Shop

Peruse a wide selection of antiques and collectibles at this popular shop.

Local restaurants

Enjoy the local Cajun and Creole cuisine at restaurants like Bergeron's Boudin and Cajun Meat Co. and Mike Anderson's Seafood.

Climate

Port Allen, Louisiana, has a humid subtropical climate typical of the southern United States. The region experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers.

Winters in Port Allen are generally mild, with average high temperatures ranging from the low to mid-60s°F (15-18°C). However, temperatures occasionally drop below freezing, especially during the coldest months of December and January. Average low temperatures during winter range from the mid-40s°F (7°C) to low 50s°F (10°C).

Summers in Port Allen are hot and humid. Average high temperatures during the peak summer months of July and August can exceed 90°F (32°C) and occasionally reach into the upper 90s°F (36°C). High humidity levels make summer days feel even hotter. Average low temperatures during summer range from the low to mid-70s°F (23-26°C).

Port Allen receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being May and June. The city also experiences thunderstorms, especially during the summer months. Hurricanes and tropical storms are a possibility, as Port Allen is located near the Gulf of Mexico. These weather systems can bring heavy rain, high winds, and storm surge.

Overall, the climate of Port Allen is characterized by mild winters, hot summers, high humidity, and a notable amount of rainfall. It is important to be prepared for changing weather conditions and potential severe weather events if visiting or living in Port Allen.

Neighborhoods

Port Allen, LA is a small city located on the west bank of the Mississippi River across from Baton Rouge. Though Port Allen is relatively small, it is home to several distinct neighborhoods that offer different features and lifestyles. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Port Allen:

Downtown

The heart of Port Allen is its downtown area, which offers a variety of amenities, shops, and restaurants. The downtown is the commercial hub of the city, featuring historic buildings and a charming small-town atmosphere.

Brusly

Located just west of Port Allen, the neighborhood of Brusly is a popular residential area. Brusly has a more suburban feel, with quiet tree-lined streets and single-family homes. The neighborhood is known for its strong community spirit and highly rated schools.

Lobdell

Lobdell is a neighborhood located in the northern part of Port Allen. It is primarily a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. Lobdell offers a peaceful suburban setting while still being conveniently located near major highways and amenities.

Morgan Place

Situated on the southern end of Port Allen, Morgan Place is a newer development that offers a variety of housing options. The neighborhood features both single-family homes and townhouses. Morgan Place is known for its community amenities like a playground, pool, and clubhouse.

Addis

While not technically a Port Allen neighborhood, Addis is a neighboring town that is worth mentioning. Addis is a small, tight-knit community located just west of Port Allen. It is primarily a residential area with a mix of newer homes and established neighborhoods. Addis is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and highly rated schools.

Overall, the neighborhoods in Port Allen offer a range of options to suit different lifestyles. Whether you prefer a downtown setting, a suburban feel, or a newer development, there is likely a neighborhood in Port Allen that will meet your needs.

Nearby Cities