Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is one of those places where you find the unique mixture of old-world elegance and modern innovation that makes a place worth visiting. It’s also Louisiana’s capital and a must-visit destination for history buffs, foodies, and big-city explorers.

Getting There

You can get to Baton Rouge by airplane or car. If you are arriving by plane, arrange transportation from the Baton Rouge Airport. If you are driving from another state, you will likely be traveling on Interstate 10.

Tip: If you are in the New Orleans area or plan to be, Baton Rouge is just a short drive down the interstate, allowing you to visit both cities for an extended trip.

Areas to Explore

• Downtown – Like most cities, this area is the heart of the community. It is also home to historic landmarks, government buildings, and a lively arts scene. Consider exploring the area’s Old State Capitol and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum!
• Mid-City – Mid-City is just the spot for those looking to experience local culture. This area is known for having an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries to enjoy.
• Garden District – Like many larger cities, Baton Rouge has picturesque neighborhoods filled with charming homes and tree-lined streets. This area is referred to as the Garden District, and it is also an area where you can find great dining options.

Things to Do

• Visit the Louisiana State Capitol – Known to be the tallest state capitol building in the U.S., you can learn about the history of this famous building and state leaders like Gov. Edwin Edwards, Gov. Nicholls, and Gov. Huey P. Long by calling 225-342-7317 to book a free tour.
• Visit the Louisiana Old State Capitol – Located in downtown Baton Rouge, the Old State Capitol houses the Museum of Political History, which has several state-of-the-art exhibits. Often referred to as Louisiana’s “castle-on-the-river,” this historic location is also known for having a ghost in residence, Sarah. You can learn more about the “Ghost of the Castle” at Ghost of the Castle Show
• Baton Rouge Zoo – A family-friendly destination with over eight hundred animals and interactive exhibits. The Zoo & Me Morning program was designed for children 3-5, and the Safari Nights program offers an overnight, bring-your-own sleeping bag and pillow experience. Both are worth looking into!
• Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center – Hey, nature enthusiasts, the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center has live animal exhibits, natural artifacts, waterfowl decoy carvings, boardwalks, and wildlife: birds, snakes, turtles, deer, rabbits, and foxes, to name a few.

Where to Eat

• Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant – Parrain’s is a local favorite known for its fresh seafood and authentic Cajun flavors. Menu options include Alligator, Boudin Balls, Crab Fingers, Seafood Gumbo, Shrimp Remoulade, Crawfish Etouffe, Steaks, Bread Pudding, and more!
• Juban’s Restaurant – This fine dining option features Creole cuisine with a modern twist. Lunch and dinner starters include “Blue Crab Lollipops” and “Crawfish Wontons.” You also have Sea, Land, Air, and Dessert menu options that include “Hallelujah Crab,” a Half Pound Burger, Roasted Duck, and “French Opera Cake,” as well as upgrade options. This is a dining experience!

Shopping

• Mall of Louisiana – While the Mall of Louisiana is known to be the largest shopping mall in Louisiana, many children and adults know it to be the place to ride the carousel. So if you, or the littles, need a break while out for a day of shopping, this is a place to remember.
• Red Stick Farmers Market – Open year-round, the Red Stick Farmers Market offers fresh produce and local crafts. Recent finds include Muscadine wine, sausage, fish, cheeses, pork, poultry, artisan bread, cold press juices, and much more.

Events and Festivals

• Mardi Gras – Baton Rouge, along with many communities across Louisiana, is home to celebrations for Mardi Gras with a family-friendly atmosphere featuring parades, balls, and plenty of beads for residents and visitors to savor.
• Baton Rouge Blues Festival – Enjoy listening to emerging artists and international blues legends at this family-friendly and free-to-attend downtown music festival. Current festival dates are set for early April 2025,    

Where to Stay

• Watermark Baton Rouge: The Watermark is a downtown hotel in what some still call the “Louisiana National Bank” building. The building is also said to be the first skyscraper in Baton Rouge. Now a grand and sophisticated downtown location for visitors and events, the Watermark features a grand staircase, murals, and creative meeting and dining areas where old bank vaults were once located.
• The Stockade Bed and Breakfast: Named after the Civil War Stockade that once occupied the grounds, this Hacienda-style B&B has a variety of guest accommodations and gourmet breakfasts.

Tips for Visitors

• Weather – It is humid in Baton Rouge. We have hot summers and mild winters. Prepare for rainy summer days and keep a light jacket handy in the winter.
• Local Etiquette – Southern hospitality and a friendly greeting are appreciated.
• Transportation – Baton Rouge does have public transportation, but renting a car is recommended to explore Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas.

Like much of Louisiana, Baton Rouge is a city with good people, a lot of history, delicious food, and plenty of options for finding entertainment and fun. So, whether you are here for a day, a week, or longer, we hope this guide will help you decide what areas of the city you may want to visit.

Learn about other Louisiana Communities! 

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