Your Ultimate Guide for What to Do in Downtown Baton Rouge
My husband and I were extended a last-minute invitation to Florida. With both of us on summer break from teaching, we jumped at the chance of a beach vacation. But, instead of flying, we decided to turn it into a road trip from Texas to Florida, stopping wherever we felt. One of those stops was Baton Rouge. And let me tell you, this was a great decision. This overlooked city may not have the fame of New Orleans, its neighbor to the South, but there are many fantastic things to do in downtown Baton Rouge.
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Where to Stay in Baton Rouge
Downtown Baton Rouge is an excellent place to stay on a road trip from Texas to Florida due to its convenient central location, which makes exploring the city’s attractions a breeze.
We checked into the Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown, which was the perfect choice.
It was central to everything, within walking distance of attractions and restaurants, and conveniently close to I-10 for when we were ready to hit the road again.
After a quick refresh at the hotel, we were ready to explore.
A Night Stroll Along the Mississippi
For dinner, we went to Capital City Grill, a solid spot for seafood, steaks, and Southern comfort food.
After dinner, we wandered down to the Mississippi River waterfront, where we found a mix of photo ops, art installations, and historic sites.
A few highlights from our evening stroll:
- The USS Kidd Veterans Museum, a retired WWII destroyer turned floating museum.
- The Belle of Baton Rouge, a riverfront casino if you’re feeling lucky.
- The scenic Riverfront Plaza, perfect for stretching your legs after a long drive.
As we walked, we noticed more people heading in for the night, and by the time it got dark, the streets were a little quieter.
Servers at the restaurant had casually mentioned that while downtown was safe during the day, they wouldn’t walk around alone at night.
We never felt unsafe, but we took their advice and kept to well-lit areas before heading back to our hotel.
A Day in Baton Rouge: Museums, Markets & History
The next morning, we decided to hit the town bright and early. If you’re spending a day in Baton Rouge, here’s how I recommend doing it.
First Stop: The Louisiana State Capitol
Top your list of things to do in downtown Baton Rouge with a trip to the Louisiana State Capitol Building.
I love politics, but I also love free things to do. This was both.
The Louisiana State Capitol is the tallest capitol building in the U.S., and it has a pretty unique entrance.
The steps leading up to the building are engraved with each state’s name and the year it joined the Union.
For security reasons, you cannot park directly in front of the Capitol, but several nearby parking options are available.
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.
Once on the 47th floor, we were treated to panoramic views of the entire city. It’s a sight that genuinely can’t be missed!
Free First Sunday in Baton Rouge
We just happened to visit on the first Sunday in July. Visit on the first Sunday monthly to save on local attractions and enjoy many for free.
Luckily, the Capitol Building is among the enjoyable Downtown Baton Rouge activities, part of the First Free Sunday program.
Museums Worth Visiting
- Louisiana Art & Science Museum – A mix of art exhibits and hands-on science displays, great for families or just curious adults.
- LSU Museum of Art – Located in the Shaw Center, this museum features regional and contemporary art.
- Capitol Park Museum – If you visit on First Free Sunday, you can check this out for free along with other participating attractions like Magnolia Mound Plantation.
The Old State Capitol: A Gothic Castle with a Stained-Glass Dome
Not far from the new capitol is the Old State Capitol, a stunning Gothic-style building that looks more like a castle than a government building.
The interior is just as impressive, with a massive stained-glass dome that casts colorful light throughout the grand staircase.
There are interactive exhibits on Louisiana’s political history, but even if politics isn’t your thing, the architecture alone is worth a visit.
Red Stick Farmers Market (Saturdays only)
Every Saturday morning, downtown comes alive with the Red Stick Farmers Market at Main Street Market.
Local vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and hot beignets. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, people-watch, and pick up some snacks for the road.
Where to Eat in Downtown Baton Rouge
You have so many restaurants in Downtown Baton Rouge. Here are a few for you to check out:
- Capital City Grill – casual spot for seafood and Southern classics
- Tsunami Sushi – located on the rooftop of the Shaw Center, great sushi with even better views of the river
- Stroubes Steak and Seafood – Serves steaks and seafood, offering the perfect ending to your day in Baton Rouge.
- Pastime Restaurant – Po’boys, burgers, and pizza
- Third Street Nightlife – The Bengal Tap Room, Happy’s Irish Pub, Squeaky Pete’s
- Coffee Call – scrumptious beignets and coffee
Things to Do Near Downtown Baton Rouge
Although there are plenty of things to do in Downtown Baton Rouge, we made two last stops nearby at the Houmas House plantation and Louisiana State University.
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 a stunning plantation along Plantation Alley, the historic stretch of road between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The manicured gardens alone are worth the trip.
These meticulously preserved estates, such as Nottoway, Oak Alley, or Houmas House, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the antebellum South.
You can wander the grounds and visit the gift shop for free, or you can opt for a Houmas House guided tour.
Whichever you choose, a stop here will not disappoint you.
Louisiana State University
As we continued our road trip, we also visited Louisiana State University.
Even as Texas Longhorn fans, we couldn’t pass up a chance to check out a major SEC school.
The campus was impressive, and we even got to see Mike the Tiger, LSU’s live mascot, and peek inside Tiger Stadium (Death Valley).
Other stops worth exploring on the campus include the LSU Hilltop Arboretum and the LSU Rural Life Museum.
The arboretum, with its tranquil trails, is free to visit, and the museum gives a glimpse of Louisiana’s history.
Final Thoughts: Is Downtown Baton Rouge Worth a Stop?
Spending just one day in downtown Baton Rouge is absolutely worth it.
Downtown Baton Rouge offers plenty, from exploring historical landmarks like the Old State Capitol to savoring delicious Cajun cuisine at local eateries.
It’s easy to walk during the day, and the area is filled with great restaurants and interesting sights. Just keep in mind that the vibe changes as the evening wears on, so plan accordingly for nighttime outings.
For a trip that wasn’t planned, Baton Rouge ended up being one of our best stops. If you’re heading from Texas to Florida, visiting Baton Rouge for an LSU game, or taking a pit stop en route to New Orleans, savor this Louisiana gem at the heart of the Bayou State.
It’s 100% worth pulling off I-10 and spending a day or two exploring the city.
