Published Oct 23, 2025

Know Before You Go: Baton Rouge Zydeco

Here in Baton Rouge, we are passionate about sports.

LSU and Southern football games are legendary for their spirited fans and pre-game tailgate parties.

Hockey might not be your first thought when it comes to Louisiana sporting events, but the fans show up ready to rally and support every season. You’ll surely have a great time rooting on the Zydeco, but be sure to get there early and enjoy the surrounding attractions. Grab a meal and a drink at one of the nearby restaurants. Enjoy the river view. Take in some of that world-famous southern Louisiana entertainment and enjoy hockey in Baton Rouge!

Team Overview & Hockey Games Schedule

The Baton Rouge Zydeco is the city’s second time to host a professional hockey team after the Kingfish left in 2003, and the community's excitement is palpable. Nearly 9,000 submissions were received this summer from locals to help the team select a name. The name Zydeco—that funky musical blend of blues, soul, and rhythm and blues—honors the region’s diverse heritage.

This year, the Zydeco's season kicks off on Saturday, October 18, with their first home game being on Halloween! Check the team's official website for the full schedule.

Credit|Taylor Oliver

Where The Zydeco Play

Located on the eastern shore of the mighty Mississippi River, Raising Cane’s River Center is the epicenter for many major events in Baton Rouge. The venue is easily accessible, located mere blocks from Interstate 10, and plenty of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options are within walking distance.

Parking is available on the adjoining River Road and in the garages on St. Louis Street. There is a fee to park in the garages, and they only accept cards. The venue itself is also cashless and limits what you can bring inside. They have a clear bag policy and strict sizes on what is permitted. Check the website for full details.

Pre And Post-game Fun

You don't have to restrict your fun to just the game itself. Raising Cane’s River Center is surrounded by a host of fun attractions, delicious restaurants, and plush hotels.

Restaurants

From high-end restaurants and casual eateries to vibrant cocktail lounges and laid-back bars, you can savor culinary delights before or after the hockey game.

Stroube’s Seafood and Steaks serves superb surf and turf options, and the restaurant’s wait staff receives rave reviews for their knowledge and excellent service.

Tsunami Sushi is a Louisiana-based restaurant known for its fresh, locally-inspired sushi, and the eye-catching river views from atop their rooftop terrace are spectacular. It’s the perfect spot to catch a sunset before the Zydeco hits the ice.

Craving pizza? Located just steps away from the river center, Town Square Pizza and Schlittz & Giggles is open and ready to serve you a slice or two.

Things to do

Nestled against the banks of the Mississippi River, the Riverfront Plaza and City Dock offers walking and biking spaces, artistic exhibits, water gardens, and more along its five acres atop the levee.

The LSU Museum of Art, with its centuries-spanning exhibits, and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum are undoubtedly worth visiting. The River Center Performing Arts Theatre showcases a variety of live performances, from standup comedy to Broadway-style productions.

Expand your knowledge of the state’s history with a tour of Louisiana’s Old State Capitol and Old Governor’s Mansion, or hop aboard the USS KIDD Veterans Museum to explore the WWII Fletcher-class destroyer. (Note: While the destroyer is undergoing replacements until 2026, the museum is still open to visitors.)

Where to Stay

Instead of heading home after the game, consider extending your stay in one of the beautiful accommodations less than a mile from the action.

The Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center resides within a century-old building that reflects Baton Rouge's historic opulence. As a former favorite among some of the state’s most famous politicians, the building was fully restored to its original grandeur in 2006. The Kingfish Grill specializes in steaks and seafood, and the lobby lounge is open until midnight for small plates and drinks.

Hotel Indigo is a downtown boutique gem housed in a historic Classical Revival-style building that once hosted the Standard Motor Company (1922) and later became the Hotel King (1932). Enjoy modern amenities in a stylish setting with flat-screen HDTVs in every room. Savor Cajun and Creole dining at King Bistro, open for breakfast and dinner.

The WATERMARK Baton Rouge is a 144-room boutique hotel housed within a beautifully restored former bank dating back to 1927. Considered Baton Rouge’s original skyscraper, the building features restored murals by famed New Orleans artist Angela Gregory. During your stay, dine at WATERMARK’s restaurants, Milford’s on Third and The Gregory.

The Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown hotel offers stylish and comfortable rooms and suites, ensuring a restful stay for guests. Its amenities include a vibrant bistro featuring local craft beer and a stunning 9x9 video wall, along with a 24-hour fitness center.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown provides a range of guest rooms and suites, with several offering picturesque river views. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and access to a fitness center.

As a newer hotel option, the Origin Hotel brings a sporty spirit to downtown Baton Rouge, capturing the local love for LSU in its interior design. With eye-catching tiger print wallpaper in the bathrooms, a nod to LSU's proud mascot, this boutique hotel embraces the vibrant energy of the city's sports culture.