24 Hours in Baton Rouge: Your Ultimate Guide for What to Do in the Capital City
If you’re on an exciting road trip through Louisiana, carve out a day for Baton Rouge. This overlooked city may not have the fame of New Orleans, its neighbor to the South, but it does offer a wealth of fascinating attractions, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Baton Rouge has something for everyone.
After stopping in Baton Rouge on a road trip from Texas to Florida, I’ve crafted this guide to help you make the most of a full day.
You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a taste of what makes Baton Rouge unique.
So, fasten your seatbelt, and let me show you what to do in Baton Rouge in just one day.
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Where to Stay in Baton Rouge
Downtown Baton Rouge is an excellent choice for a place to stay due to its convenient central location, making exploring the city’s attractions a breeze. It’s an exciting hub of culture, history, and fun.
Many hotels in this area are within easy walking distance of fantastic restaurants. Additionally, being off IH-10 provides swift access to major highways, making travel convenient and efficient.
I recommend the Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown. It’s clean, affordable, and surrounded by restaurants and attractions.
Must Do in Baton Rouge
Morning: Begin with History
Top your list of things to do in Baton Rouge with a trip to the Louisiana State Capitol Building. As the tallest State Capitol in the U.S., it is a must-visit site for anyone visiting the state.
You cannot park directly in front of the Capitol for security reasons, but several nearby parking options are available.
When visiting the Louisiana State Capitol, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the steps leading to the entrance.
As you ascend, you will see each state’s name and the date they joined the United States engraved on the steps. It is a powerful symbol of our country’s profound history and unity.
Once inside, check in with security and enjoy the rare opportunity to see the inner workings of government, with access to both the House and Senate floors.
While you are there, take a complimentary ride to the observation deck.
From the 47th floor, you can enjoy a panoramic view that encompasses the entirety of the beautiful Baton Rouge cityscape. It’s a sight that genuinely can’t be missed!
After the Capitol visit, treat yourself to a hearty Southern breakfast at Jones Creek Cafe. Authentic cuisine coupled with warm hospitality is the perfect Baton Rouge breakfast experience.
Free First Sunday in Baton Rouge
We just happened to visit on the first Sunday in July. Luckily, the Capitol Building is among the enjoyable Downtown Baton Rouge activities, part of the First Free Sunday program.
Two additional museums which participate, The Capitol Park Museum and the Magnolia Mound Plantation, are close by.
Visit on the first Sunday monthly to save on local attractions and enjoy many for free.
Midday at the Mighty Mississippi
It’s time to enjoy the tranquillity of the Mississippi Riverfront. Relax with a midday walk along the river, taking in outdoor art installations and soothing river views.
Make sure not to miss out on exploring the USS Kidd Veterans Museum. Here, you can step onto an actual Fletcher-class destroyer and learn more about our veterans’ inspiring stories and remarkable endeavors.
As you stroll along the picturesque waterfront, you’ll find various activities and photo ops.
Afternoon: A Southern Lunch and Culture
After absorbing some history and outdoor time, head to one of the many restaurants in Downtown Baton Rouge for lunch.
Pop into Capital City Grill for Southern classics and seafood, including alligator bites. This peaceful location is conveniently located near the Mississippi Riverfront.
You are also near popular downtown destinations like the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and the LSU Museum of Art in the Shaw Center.
If you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, head to the Main Street Market, where they team up with the Red Stick Farmer’s Market.
The Red Stick Farmers Market in Downtown Baton Rouge is a producer-only market, ensuring that all items sold are grown or made on local farms. The Red Stick Farmers Market offers Saturday cooking demonstrations, showcasing the market’s fresh produce.
Post-lunch, be ready to explore Baton Rouge’s historical charm with a trip to the Old State Capitol. Its stunning stained-glass dome, The Museum of Political History, and interactive exhibits provide a captivating insight into Louisiana’s past.
Evening: Tranquil Moments and Fine Dining
For dinner, reserve a table at The Watermark Baton Rouge. Housed in a historic bank building, The Watermark serves various local and international dishes, offering the perfect ending to your day in Baton Rouge.
Entertainment in Baton Rouge
To round off your list of what to do in Baton Rouge, check out the city’s vibrant nightlife scene with live music venues on Third Street. Choose between The Bengal Tap Room, Happy’s Irish Pub, or Squeaky Pete’s for an evening of exciting music and lively entertainment.
Baton Rouge has several riverboat casinos that provide a dynamic gaming and entertainment experience.
From Belle of Baton Rouge to L’Auberge Casino Hotel, try your luck with slot machines, table games, and poker rooms for an exciting night.
Beyond gaming, the casinos often host live music, dining options, and other entertainment.
Even though this guide is only a glimpse of what Baton Rouge has to offer, it’s a sampling of the city’s key attractions and experiences. Baton Rouge is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, making visitors eager to return for another visit.
So, here’s to a day well spent in the Capital City! If you have more than one day in Baton Rouge, consider visiting these other nearby spots.
Things to do Near Baton Rouge
Although there are plenty of things to do in Downtown Baton Rouge, you may want to venture out into the town to visit these other attractions.
Visit a Plantation
Touring a plantation wasn’t something I initially planned when thinking about what to do in Baton Rouge. It only crossed my mind when we stopped at the Louisiana Visitor’s Center on our Texas to Florida road trip to Seaside in 30A.
A stop at the majestic Houmas House Plantation was one of my favorite places to visit near Baton Rouge.
Houmas House is just one of many antebellum homes along a 100-mile stretch of road between Baton Rouge and New Orleans known as Plantation Alley.
I encourage you to visit at least one. Touring Baton Rouge’s historic plantations offers a glimpse into the region’s captivating history and culture, like a step back in time.
These meticulously preserved estates, such as Nottoway, Oak Alley, or Houmas House, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the antebellum South.
Wander lush gardens, tour opulent mansions, and uncover the complex stories of plantation life.
It’s a poignant and educational experience, providing insight into the rich and often challenging history of the Deep South.
The captivating architecture, beautiful landscapes, and thought-provoking historical narratives make these plantations a must-see while in Baton Rouge.
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center in Baton Rouge
The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center is a pristine 103-acre nature preserve that offers an incredible opportunity to explore the Southeastern United States’ unique ecosystem.
You can explore the area using a mile-long gravel path and boardwalks that wind through diverse landscapes.
The sheer beauty and recreational opportunities make it a hotspot for tourists and photography enthusiasts alike.
Louisiana State University
Surprisingly, as a Texas fan, I suggest visiting Louisiana State University’s campus and facilities.
Baton Rouge’s campus blends historic charm, majestic oaks, and vibrant culture for a stunning Southern ambiance.
One thing I love about visiting college towns is all the free programs that typically accompany the nearby campus. LSU has many such programs.
LSU Hilltop Arboretum
The LSU Hilltop Arboretum, in the heart of Baton Rouge, is a captivating natural haven that offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The arboretum’s tranquil trails wind through lush landscapes, providing an ideal setting for relaxation, education, and inspiration.
Notably, the LSU Hilltop Arboretum offers free admission, welcoming individuals and families to explore and connect with the beauty of Louisiana’s natural environment without any cost barriers.
LSU Rural Life Museum
The LSU Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge stands as a captivating window into the past, beckoning visitors to immerse themselves in the history and heritage of rural Louisiana.
The museum’s well-preserved artifacts and exhibits reveal early Louisiana settlers’ everyday lives, traditions, and craftsmanship.
Walking through the village-like setting, visitors can gain a profound understanding of the state’s agricultural and cultural evolution.
Visiting the LSU Rural Life Museum brings Louisiana’s rural history to life through furnished cabins, historical implements, and costumed interpreters.
LSU’s Death Valley
LSU Tiger Stadium, also known as Death Valley, is truly a gem in the heart of LSU. It’s not just a football stadium but a way of life for the people of Baton Rouge.
A Saturday night here is one for the books, with the deafening roar of over 100,000 voices cheering for the home team. The ambiance, the electric energy, the sea of purple and gold, and the echoing “Geaux Tigers!” will leave you an LSU fan, if not a football fan, overall.
The Mike the Tiger Habitat is another stop on your LSU tour that shouldn’t be missed. Home to the university’s lovingly pampered live mascot, Mike VII, this 15,000-square-foot site is a state-of-the-art tiger encampment.
Observe Mike as he plays in his tower, waterfall, and stream. You’ll be enchanted by this majestic creature’s playful and regal demeanor.
You will see that LSU is tightly woven into the fabric of Baton Rouge. Sporting events and numerous other activities at LSU are pivotal in shaping the city’s lively atmosphere.
When you’re in Baton Rouge, allow yourself to become a fan of the beloved Tigers, if only just for a day.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, spending just one day in downtown Baton Rouge offers visitors a delightful taste of the city’s unique charm and vibrant culture.
From exploring historical landmarks like the Old State Capitol to savoring delicious Cajun cuisine at local eateries, there’s something for everyone.
Whether admiring the Mississippi River or strolling through the beautiful parks, Baton Rouge has plenty to offer.
When you visit Baton Rouge, whether for an LSU game or a pit stop en route to New Orleans, savor this Louisiana gem at the heart of the Bayou State.
