Baton Rouge Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and more in Baton Rouge. Plan your trip with this one-stop guide.


Introduction to Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of southern charm and modern amenities. Situated in the Florida Parishes region, Baton Rouge is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and unique culture.

This city is a paradise for those who love to explore. Whether you are interested in art, history, nature, or food, Baton Rouge has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay during your trip to Baton Rouge.

List of Places to Visit in Baton Rouge

Here are some of the top places to add to your Baton Rouge itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Louisiana State Capitol: This 450-foot high building is a must-visit attraction in Baton Rouge. Check out the views from the observation deck or take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of the building.
  • Shaw Center for the Arts: A true hub for the art-lovers, Shaw Center for the Arts is home to several art galleries, theaters, and rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.
  • USS Kidd: This WWII warship, docked on the Mississippi River, is a museum showcasing the important role that the Louisiana ship played in WWII.
  • Louisiana State Museum: The Louisiana State Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits that showcase the state’s history and culture. You can see everything from Mardi Gras costumes to old musical instruments.

Natural Attractions of Baton Rouge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo: The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world. Be sure to check out the dinosaur exhibit and the safari amphitheater.
  • Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: Explore the 103 acres of forests, wetlands, and meadows in this beautiful nature center, located right in the heart of Baton Rouge.
  • LSU Hilltop Arboretum: This 14-acre arboretum is a paradise for those who love to explore nature. Stroll through the wooded trails and discover native Louisiana plants.
  • Corn Maze at Louisiana State University (LSU): This is a seasonal attraction perfect for fall lovers. Get lost in the 10-acre corn maze and enjoy various fun activities like hayrides, animal feeding, and pumpkin patch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has many excellent options for hiking and biking. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Comite River Park Trail: This 6.8-mile trail is perfect for intermediate-level hikers and mountain bikers. The trail’s terrain shifts from forest to open meadow.
  • University Lake Trail: This 1.75-mile loop trail around University Lake is a popular destination among locals for hiking and cycling. It’s relatively flat and offers scenic views of the lake.
  • BREC’s Farr Park Equestrian Center Trails: These scenic trails meander through expansive fields and dense forests, and you might spot wildlife while walking around.

Best Things to Do in Baton Rouge: Activities and Tours

  • Cajun Country Swamp Tours: Take an exciting airboat tour through the swamps and bayous of Louisiana and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
  • Baton Rouge Riverfront: With a perfect view of Mississippi River, the riverfront is a go-to destination for picnics, strolls, bike rides, and riverboat cruises.
  • Red Stick Farmers Market: Located in downtown Baton Rouge, the farmers market is where you can buy fresh local produce, coffee, and handmade crafts. It’s open every Saturday.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baton Rouge

Here’s what your week in Baton Rouge can look like:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit USS Kidd and Louisiana State Capitol
Day 2 Explore Louisiana State Museum and Shaw Center for the Arts
Day 3 Hike at Comite River Park Trail or University Lake Trail
Day 4 Visit BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo and Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
Day 5 Go to the Cajun Country Swamp Tours and enjoy the airboat ride
Day 6 Explore the LSU campus, including the LSU Hilltop Arboretum
Day 7 Shop at the Red Stick Farmers Market and take a stroll at Baton Rouge Riverfront

Food and Drink Scene of Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has a thriving culinary scene. From po-boys to seafood, here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gumbo: A hearty stew made with sausage, seafood, vegetables, and thickened by rice or okra is the most popular dish you can have in Baton Rouge.
  • Po-boys: Po-boys are a type of Louisiana sandwich served on a French bread roll, stuffed with shrimp, catfish, or any type of meat of your choice.
  • Crawfish: Louisiana’s famed mudbugs or crawfish is a must-try when in Baton Rouge, often served with corn and potatoes boiled in its juices.
  • Jambalaya: A rice-based dish that brings together sausage and chicken flavored with cajun spices.

Local Beverages

  • Hurricane: A sweet and potent rum-based cocktail that is a Louisiana staple.
  • Abita beer: Made with water from the pure Abita Springs, this beer is brewed in the piney woods north of Louisiana’s capital city.
  • Community Coffee: This coffee is a Louisiana institution, roasted since 1919.

Where to Stay in Baton Rouge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in Baton Rouge, whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or more affordable options. Here are our top picks:

  • The Stockade Bed and Breakfast: This Victorian-style bed and breakfast is located just minutes from all the top Baton Rouge attractions.
  • The Watermark Baton Rouge: This luxurious hotel is in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge and features amenities like a rooftop pool and spa.
  • IHG Army Hotels BLDG 521: An affordable option for military families and individuals, this hotel has excellent on-site dining options and is conveniently located close to many attractions.

What to Buy in Baton Rouge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some things you might want to consider buying as souvenirs or gifts:

  • Hot Sauce: Nothing says Louisiana like a bottle of hot sauce. Look for locally made options like Tabasco sauce or the Cajun Injector brand.
  • Louisiana pecans: Pecans are a favorite in Louisiana, and you can find them in everything from pies to pralines.
  • Artwork: Baton Rouge is home to several art galleries where you can purchase local artwork that will remind you of your visit.
  • Mardi Gras beads: Mardi Gras beads are colorful, inexpensive, and the perfect souvenir to bring back to your family or friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Baton Rouge

The people of Baton Rouge are known for their friendly, welcoming nature. If you’re new to the area, you’ll quickly find that locals are quick to strike up a conversation and eager to show you around. Baton Rouge is also known for its love of football, and you’ll see LSU colors – purple and gold – all over town.

Best Time to Visit Baton Rouge

The best time to visit Baton Rouge is between October and December when humidity is low and the temperature is cooler. These months also coincide with many festivals and events happening in the city. The spring months from March to May are also a great time to explore Baton Rouge when everything blooms and celebration of Mardi Gras occurs.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baton Rouge

Do:

  • Be open to trying new foods and drinks.
  • Visit the LSU campus and try to catch a game or event if possible.
  • Take your time exploring the city at a leisurely pace to soak up the culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the vital history of civil rights that Baton Rouge offers.
  • Don’t litter and keep the environment clean.
  • Don’t make vague statements about Baton Rouge as only being a provincial, historic city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is a safe city but like any other place, it’s always better to be aware of one’s surroundings while traveling. Avoid venturing into unfamiliar areas, especially at night. Be mindful when visiting popular attractions like parks or festivals where pick-pocketing can occur.

Health in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has excellent medical services for any visitors who face health issues while exploring the city. It’s always a good idea to pack some basic medicines and sunscreen to beat the heat.

Getting to Baton Rouge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport is eight miles from the city center. The other airports, Alexander International Airport and Lafayette Regional Airport, are within an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Baton Rouge

Intercity bus services, like Greyhound and Megabus, offer connections to Baton Rouge from cities in the southeast and Midwest. It also connects visitors to nearby locations outside the city.

Other Options

Taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and car rentals are great ways to get around Baton Rouge as well.

How to Get Around in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge’s public transport system – the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) – is a quick and efficient option for getting around, with buses running throughout the city on a regular schedule. Taxis, rental cars, and ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are alternative options to consider as well.

Where to Go Next from Baton Rouge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Orleans: Just an hour-and-a-half drive from Baton Rouge, New Orleans is a must-visit city for food, music, and carnival-lovers around the world.
  • St. Francisville: A quaint little town with historic plantations, great local restaurants, and historic sites, this town is perfect for relaxation.
  • Natchez Trace Parkway: The scenic drive through the parkway is an excellent opportunity to follow an ancient trade route, explore native wildlife, and learn about indigenous peoples of the United States.

Conclusion

Baton Rouge is a beautiful destination, full of history, culture, and natural beauty that is just waiting to be explored. Make sure to try the local cuisine, catch a game at the LSU Tiger Stadium, and enjoy a stroll on the Mississippi River. Plan your trip using this comprehensive travel guide and get ready to discover all the gems this city has to offer.

State Capitol Building State Capitol Building LSU Old Law Building LSU Old Law Building Mall of Louisiana Mall of Louisiana