Though we could make a strong case for why a full week or more in Baton Rouge is a great idea, we know that sometimes you're just passing through and need to know the best of what our city has to offer
Here’s a checklist for how to get the most authentic Louisiana experience in Baton Rouge, in just 24 short hours.
Brunch and Beignets
A pastry treat brought over by Acadian settlers to Louisiana, beignets for breakfast are a local staple. So good that Disney World named a boozy version after “Baton Rouge Beignets.” Find them at breakfast places like Coffee Call and Another Broken Egg. If you enjoy savory over sweet, try other Baton Rouge brunch spots like Louie’s Cafe, a diner open 24 hours since 1941!
Stroll along the Riverfront
One of Baton Rouge’s hidden gems is its beautiful Riverfront area. Atop the Mississippi River levee you’ll find a paved path for running, walking and biking with trailhead stops to sit and watch the boats float down the mighty river. It’s also a great access to many of the top things to do in Baton Rouge. There are access points off the Riverfront for the USS Kidd, Art & Science Museum and Planetarium and Raising Cane's River Center.
See Tallest State Capitol Building
Head over to Louisiana’s current State Capitol, a magnificent 34-story art deco-style structure standing proud as the nation’s tallest capitol building. Get a birds-eye view of the entire city and mighty Mississippi River from the 27th floor observation deck.
Have a Louisiana Lunch Sampler
At White Star Market in Mid City, you’ll find a trendy, upscale food hall with local restaurant vendors and chefs. Sample the local flavor with fresh Louisiana oysters from Jolie Pearl, or authentic Cajun dishes like etouffee and red beans at Fete au Fete. If you’re in the mood for something else, local Louisiana chefs have opened a taco joint, an Asian street food-style. Pick up multiple items from different places and share it around the table, family-dining style!
Shop on Quirky Government Street
While in the revitalized Mid City Area, stop in the colorful shops along Government Street. Time Warp Boutique offers vintage clothing and designs, shop for antiques and more at Circa 1857 or Pink Elephant Antiques, pick out a record at Pop Shop Records.
Say hello to Mike the Tiger on LSU’s Campus
One of Louisiana’s Flagship Universities lies in the heart of Baton Rouge, and its campus is a must-visit for its pristine grounds, stately oak trees, broad magnolias and legendary stadiums. Louisiana State University also houses a live Tiger mascot named Mike and his beautiful habitat can be visited.
Tour Magnolia Mound Plantation
Right off LSU’s campus you can find Magnolia Mound Plantation. During your tour this 1790s French Creole house, get a true taste of South Louisiana flavor with an open-hearth cooking demonstration
Dine & Dance Downtown
Baton Rouge comes alive at night, especially downtown. Hot dinner spots for a nice meal include Capital City Grill and Tsunami Sushi in the beautiful Shaw Center for the Arts, Stroube’s Steakhouse, The Little Village, Cecelia’s Creole Bistro and more. After dinner, follow the lively sounds to be found on nearby Third Street. From pool halls to dance clubs and daiquiris bars, bar hop between the many options for nightlife and live music on Baton Rouge’s 3rd Street.
Even if you’re not here for a long time we’ll be sure you’re here for a good time in Baton Rouge! If you have the chance to stay the night, consider one of Baton Rouge’s bed & breakfasts, boutique hotels or renovated historic hotels.
