Looking to plan the perfect date night in Baton Rouge? Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner, a fun and casual outing, or something a little more adventurous, the Capital City has plenty to offer. Start your evening with a delicious meal at one of Baton Rouge’s many local restaurants before heading to the Manship Theatre for a live performance. If you prefer a scenic stroll, take a walk along the Mississippi River levee and catch a breathtaking Baton Rouge sunset. Want to try cooking dinner together? Head to Red Stick Spice Company for a hands-on cooking class and shop for every seasoning and spice to take home afterwards! For a creative twist, get artsy at Bellyfire Studios, where you can make your own pottery and craft a one-of-a-kind keepsake. No matter your style, when it comes to date ideas, Baton Rouge has the perfect experience waiting for you.

Take a Cooking Class

Find a spot that offers hands-on cooking classes where you can master new techniques while sampling delicious creations. This might just be one of the most memorable date night ideas in Baton Rouge.

• Red Stick Spice Company 

• Louisiana Culinary Institute

Stay Active Together

Challenge each other at an indoor rock wall or head to TopGolf for climate-controlled hitting bays and delicious food. These active adventures rank among the top date ideas Baton Rouge couples love.

• Rock climbing at Uptown Climbing

• Take a swing at TopGolf

• Take a bike ride with Geaux Ride

Explore Museums and Historic Sites

The Louisiana Art & Science Museum combines fascinating exhibits with a planetarium, while the historic Old State Capitol provides stunning architecture in Louisiana’s famous “Castle on the River,” both perfect romantic things to do in Baton Rouge.

• See the bluff where Baton Rouge got its name the “Red Stick”

• Baton Rouge African American Museum

• Baton Rouge Gallery

• Capitol Park Museum

• Louisiana Art & Science Museum

• Louisiana’s Old Governor’s Mansion

• Louisiana's Old State Capitol

• LSU Museum of Art

• LSU Rural Life Museum

Enjoy Nature and Outdoor Spaces

Looking for a peaceful date night idea? Soak up the fresh air and unwind together while exploring parks and gardens. Enjoying nature is a simple way to connect and make memories outdoors.

• Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

• LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens

• LSU Hilltop Arboretum

• Rooftop Garden at the Main Library at Goodwood

Bring the Romance

Opt for an intimate Baton Rouge moment over cozy late-night treats, rooftop views, evening strolls, or you could even do a little stargazing at the Highland Road Park Observatory.

• Beignets and café au lait at Coffee Call

• Highland Road Park Observatory

• Rooftop views at Tsunami Sushi

• Stroll along the Mississippi River in downtown Baton Rouge

• Ice cream at Gail’s Fine Ice Cream

• Visit The Tunnel Speakeasy 

• Dine on the Mississippi River for dinner with Baton Rouge Cruises

Go Shopping

Turn date night into a little adventure by strolling through Baton Rouge’s shops. Picking out something special together makes the evening even more memorable.

• Circa 1857 

• The Exchange 

• Local Supply 

• Mall of Louisiana 

• Perkins Rowe 

• Red Stick Farmers Market 

• Time Warp Boutique 

• Towne Center at Cedar Lodge

Visit Local Breweries and Distilleries

Sip, savor and explore Baton Rouge’s craft breweries and distilleries for an easygoing date night filled with local flavor and good conversation. Every pour comes with a chance to make new memories.

• Agile Brewing

• Cypress Coast Brewing Co.

• Oxbow Rum Distillery

• Laissez Versez Distillery

• Rally Cap Brewing Co.

Enjoy Live Music and Entertainment

Catch a live show and dance the night away. Nothing beats the energy of local music when you’re looking for fun date night ideas in Baton Rouge.

• The Basin Music Hall

• Chelsea’s Live

• The Main Lobby 

• Phil Brady’s Bar & Grill 

• The Queen 

• Red Dragon Listening Room

• Teddy’s Juke Joint

Catch a Film

Cozy up with popcorn and a good flick. Watching a movie together is a classic date night idea that never goes out of style.

• Cinemark Perkins Rowe 

• Manship Theatre 

• Movie Tavern 

Relax at a Spa

Escape the everyday and recharge together with calming spa treatments, soothing massages and plenty of peaceful time to simply unwind.

• Bumble Lane 

• The Emporium 

• The Healthcare Gallery & Wellness Spa 

• Woodhouse Day Spa

Create Something Together

Share a little inspiration and laughter while getting creative together. Making something side by side is a fun way to connect and create a fun memory to remember the date by.

• Build your own cheese box at Crafted Nibbles

• Get your hands dirty at Bellyfire Studios

• Sip and pour at The Bougie Bar’s candle-making class

• Craft your own libation at The Tipsy Librarian 

• Build your own pasta at Prima Après

Indulge in Sweet Treats

Satisfy your sweet tooth together by indulging in decadent desserts, from rich chocolates to creamy ice cream — because sharing treats adds a sweet ending to any date night in Baton Rouge.

• Gelato and Macarons at Sucré

• Ice cream at Gail’s Fine Ice Cream and La Divina 

More Ideas

• Visit Mike the Tiger’s state-of-the-art habitat at LSU

• Explore Street Art and Baton Rouge Wall Murals

• Walk among the oaks on Louisiana State University’s campus

• Attend a Valentine’s Day or romantic-themed event

For a memorable date night, Baton Rouge offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re indulging in a romantic dinner, enjoying live entertainment, or exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife. From cozy cocktail lounges to scenic riverfront strolls, there’s something for every couple to enjoy. So, whether it’s a first date or a special night out with your longtime love, let the Capital City set the perfect backdrop for your next romantic adventure. Ready to plan your date night? Explore more dining options and things to do in Baton Rouge and make it a night to remember!