The city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is the capital of the state and is also known for Louisiana State University, which pulses with college-town energy, especially during football season. The city also gives you that authentic Louisiana flavor without the sometimes over-touristed vibe of New Orleans, with its culinary institute.
Nicknamed “The Red Stick,” Baton Rouge is dripping with history from the Old State Capitol (which looks like a literal castle with a Disney-style animated tour) to antebellum plantations along the River Road like Magnolia Mound.
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What to Do in Baton Rouge
Capitol Park Museum– As a part of the Louisiana State Museums system, the Capitol Park Museum is the best in Baton Rouge, with exhibits on each of the state’s regions and information on its history, cuisines, music, festivals, and much more. 660 North Fourth Street
Louisiana Art & Science Museum– Located on the Mississippi River, younger visitors will love this museum with its planetarium, exhibits on ancient Egypt, and local works of art. 100 River Road South
Louisiana Old State Capitol– The stunning Gothic building saw over 100 years of scandal and change but became a museum in 1994. Visitors can learn about the history of the building and the people who worked there. Enjoy the Disney-style interactive video narrated by the castle’s ghost. 100 North Boulevard
LSU Museum of Art– This art museum has a permanent collection of early American art, Chinese jade, and contemporary work as well as traveling exhibits. 100 Lafayette Street
Old Governor’s Mansion– This home for Louisiana’s leaders was modeled after, what else, the White House. It served as the official residence from 1929 to 1963 when a new mansion was built. 502 North Boulevard
Rural Life Museum– This museum helps visitors understand the importance of farm life to the culture of the South, as well as for Louisiana. They have recreated cabins and other important plantation buildings. The museum is also the site of festivals and events. 4560 Essen Lane
Tin Roof Brewing– The craft beer trend has reached Baton Rouge, with their local brews sold on draft and in cans. The selections include a blonde, amber, and pale ale, as well as seasonal offerings. You can visit the brewery on Fridays for only $5, which includes a souvenir glass and 3 samples. 1624 Wyoming Street
Where to Eat in Baton Rouge
Cocha– This downtown eatery uses only the best local ingredients, usually from the farmer’s market. Try items like the jackfruit tostones and Louisiana oysters. There’s indoor seating and a sidewalk patio. 445 North 6th Street, (225) 615-8826
Doe’s Eat Place– This chain started in nearby Mississippi, but this location is uniquely Baton Rouge. They are LSU fans to the core, dedicating an entire room to purple and gold. They also serve steaks the size of your head and proudly showcase local brewer Tin Roof. 3723 Government Street, (225) 387-5331
Louie’s Cafe– This 24-hour diner is a favorite of LSU students who come by to nurse their hangovers. The Cajun hashbrowns and biscuits (while they last) are well worth an order. You’ll still find Louie himself behind the counter cooking orders. 206 West State Street, (225) 346-8221
The Overpass Merchant– Don’t miss the weekly half-priced burgers and wine at this restaurant that lies east of LSU under a highway overpass. The $9.99 lunch special is also a hit with the working crowd. 2904 Perkins Road, (225) 508-4737
Poor Boy Lloyd’s– You can get your po boy fix here where the specialty is roast beef sandwiches with “debris,” the juices that come from the meat poured over your sandwich. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and for dinner live music on Friday nights. 201 Florida Street, (225) 387-2271
Tony’s Seafood Market & Deli– As the largest seafood market in the state, Tony’s sells everything you could want, from fresh shrimp, crawfish and crabs to live catfish and boudin balls. They also make the top-selling fish fry batter in the country. 5215 Plank Road, (225) 357-9669
Where to Stay in Baton Rouge
Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center– Set in a historic hotel in the heart of downtown, the large hotel has a full restaurant and bar, business center, and riverfront rooms. 201 Lafayette Street
Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown– This outpost has the brand’s signature boutique design with local touches like its in-house restaurant and Louisiana artwork. It’s also within walking distance of downtown attractions. 200 Convention Street
L’Auberge Casino– You don’t have to be a gambler to appreciate the luxurious casino hotel. They’re a hub for dining, shopping, and live entertainment. 777 L’Auberge Avenue
Watermark Baton Rouge– The newest addition to the city’s hotel portfolio is this stylish boutique hotel in the former bank headquarters. It’s a member of the Autograph Collection, meaning you can earn Marriott points for your stay. 150 3rd Street
Airbnb– Groups can stay in one of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods.
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I was a guest of Visit Baton Rouge and Louisiana Tourism, but all opinions are my own.
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