Have you ever visited Donaldsonville, Louisiana? Did you realize it used to the capital of Louisiana? There is so much to explore and discover in this historic southern gem near New Orleans. Let’s check it out!

Donaldsonville is only about an hour or so away from New Orleans, but it can seem like a world away.
Flickr.com / Peter Clark
That's because this tiny town is chock full of history and small town southern charm. And of course, beautiful architecture.
This historic town is full of interesting stories---in fact, it was the state capital for a spell beginning in 1830.
Flickr.com / Jimmy Everson DVM
After the civil war, the town also made history by electing the first ever African American mayor, Pierre Caliste Landry, in the United States.
Here is an old photo of the Louisiana state capitol building when it was in Donaldsonville.
Wikicommons / Public Domain
The town remained the capital from 1829-31, moved from New Orleans because of internal conflicts.

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The collection of antebellum homes and buildings in downtown Donaldsonville is some of the best preserved in the entire nation.
Wikicommons / Mtortorich
The Ascension parish courthouse, pictured here, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, along with many other buildings in the town.
There are also some incredible museums in the town, including the River Road African American Museum.
Tripadvisor.com / management
It has one of the finest collections of African American history in Louisiana in the entire state.
And of course you couldn't be an awesome southern town without delicious food.
Yelp.com / Andrea C.
The Grapevine Cafe offers up Cajun, Creole, and African cuisine that is simply delicious. The spicy praline shrimp, pictured here, is amazing!
Finally, like all great Southern towns, the nature in Donaldsonville can't be beat.
Flickr.com / Beth Cortez-Neavel
There are beautiful swamps that surround here, making for some great places to walk around and soak up all the Louisiana swamps have to offer.

If you’ve never seen Donaldsonville before–I bet you are curious now! This tiny town really packs a punch and is a special place for all who visit. Have you ever been? Let us know your stories! We love to hear your feedback.

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