Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Uncover the secrets of one of America’s fastest growing cities and immerse yourself in the many landscapes that define Louisiana’s capital city, Baton Rouge. From legendary Southern cuisine that tantalises taste buds and upscale shopping hot spots to the renowned action of The LSU Fighting Tigers and an eclectic mix of museums, Baton Rouge’s past is as intriguing as its hospitality and charm. See our Top Ten things to do in Baton Rouge.
Whether it’s Mardi Gras, music or arts, Baton Rouge takes advantage of every opportunity to revel in the good times. So whether your travels mean you're in Baton Rouge for the weekend or an extended stay, here is the grand tour of one of the most historic, vibrant and always unforgettable cities in the South.
Historical Attractions
From every direction, everything uniquely Louisiana culminates in the “Red Stick.” Dive into the colourful history of Louisiana in downtown Baton Rouge at the Old State Capitol and the Old Governor’s Mansion. And while you’re there, take a bird’s-eye view of the city from the observation deck of the 34-story Louisiana State Capitol, or walk across the street and soak in the culture at the Capitol Park Museum, a Louisiana State Museum.
Music
Baton Rouge pulsates with a unique rhythm and vibrant music scene. From the soulful sounds of gospel and blues to country, Cajun and Zydeco, Baton Rouge has a tune for everyone. Discover Baton Rouge's rich musical heritage as it hosts a wide variety of events and performances featuring both local and world-renowned entertainers of various genres all year-round. Experience the star-studded Bayou Country Superfest held Memorial Day weekend (end of May) in Louisiana State University’s Tiger Stadium, or make history by partaking in the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, one of the oldest Blues festivals in America. Baton Rouge also offers several free concert series in the spring and autumn, such as Sunday in the Park, Rock ‘n’ Rowe, and Live After Five.
Plantation Hopping
Also referred to as Plantation Country, Baton Rouge is a place where visitors can experience the state’s deep and colourful history told through the area’s historical architecture and rich countryside. With antebellum homes a short drive from Baton Rouge such as Nottoway Plantation, Houmas House and Gardens and The Myrtles Plantation, which is approx. 30 minutes away in St. Francisville, there is a tradition of cottage architecture that is still found across southern Louisiana today. Tour these elaborately crafted, beautiful antebellum mansions and experience what life was like on massive cotton, sugar cane, and rice plantations.
Culinary Experiences & Dining
In Baton Rouge, visitors and locals are either eating or talking about eating, or both! From boiled and broiled to blackened and fried—Baton Rouge is never in short supply of ways to prepare food or great places to eat. People come to Baton Rouge for many reasons, but they all come with one common desire – to delight in extraordinary cuisine that is indigenous to Louisiana at one of more than 400 restaurants. So take your taste buds on the ultimate culinary ride and unlock the secrets of Louisiana’s distinct cuisine in Baton Rouge.
Mornings in the “Red Stick” start with breakfast and naturally it’s always a treat. From homemade coffee favourites, inventive pastries and chocolate confections, Strand’s Café is a delicious way to rise. Closer to LSU campus, you can sip sweet mimosas and enjoy delectable Crawfish Eggs Benedict at The Chimes. For an all-day, late-night breakfast, Louie’s Café surely has your number. And nestled downtown, tempt your taste buds at a local favourite, Capital City Grill, or venture a few steps further and delight in Harrington’s Café, the very best down-home soul food in Baton Rouge. Looking for something hip and trendy? New tapas restaurants downtown include Blend and Zolia Bistro. New nightlife hotspots include City Bar, Bald Eagle and the Blues Room.
Craving Creole cuisine? Check out Juban’s or Mansur’s on the Boulevard for a decidedly unique culinary experience. Or take a step back in time and embrace the distinct history, culture and cuisine of Louisiana at Nottoway Plantation, just 20 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge.
Baton Rouge loves local farmers so it’s no surprise that locals and visitors are big patrons of the Red Stick Farmers Market—every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Quaint, friendly and ever fresh, The Market is a unique opportunity to visit with local farmers, shop quality produce and even participate in cooking demonstrations showcasing the variety of Louisiana cooking. As the hometown to legendary regional brands like Community Coffee, Manda Fine Meats and Louisiana Fish Fry Products, it’s easy to see why Baton Rouge has a passion for food.
Hotel Accommodations
For overnight stays, Baton Rouge is a great getaway—modern hotels, unique inns, and quaint bed & breakfasts.Check out the Cook Hotel, conveniently located on LSU's campus. Likewise, there are a bevy of downtown hotels certain to please, such as Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, Hotel Indigo, the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino & Hotel and the new Hampton Inn & Suites. You can even stay at one of America’s most haunted homes, The Myrtles Plantation, which is approx. 30 minutes away in St. Francisville. With so many accommodation options, there’s no need to miss out on everything Baton Rouge has to offer.
