Maybe you’ve been to Baton Rouge before or maybe you already live here, but have you ever really immersed yourself in the Capital City? Full of history, culture and flavors that can’t be experienced anywhere else, Baton Rouge has so much to offer. Sometimes it takes living like a tourist for a few days to see it. Whether you’re from the area, or belong to any part of the Louisiana community, here are some tips to planning a vacation (or a staycation!) in Baton Rouge.

Plan a Getaway

Sometimes a change of scenery is just what you need for a glamorous getaway — even if you’re already in town. From boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts to the major brands you love, Baton Rouge is the premier place to rest easy. 

  • Renaissance Hotel: It’s summertime here in the Capital City, and nothing beats spending a day out by the Renaissance Hotel’s resort-style pool. Be sure to bring your sunscreen! 
  • Watermark Hotel: Located on historic Third Street, the Watermark Hotel is in the perfect spot to experience the heart of Downtown. After a long day of exploring, enjoy fine dining infused with local flavors and pride at The Gregory, the hotel’s premier restaurant. 
  • Stockade Bed and Breakfast: Beautiful and charming, the Stockade Bed and Breakfast is one of Baton Rouge’s hidden gems on Highland Road. Packed with history and a gourmet breakfast you’ll never forget, this cozy spot is a great place to] staycation. 
  • Myrtles Plantation: If you’re interested in a more unique getaway, the Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville is perfect for romantic getaways...and ghost hunters. As one of America’s most haunted homes, guests rave about the mystery tours of the beautiful Antebellum plantation, as well as the cozy rooms and wonderful hospitality.  

Visit visitbatonrouge.com/hotels to see a list of all Baton Rouge hotels.

 

Learn Something New

In a city that’s packed with history and lessons, these spots will have you learning and laughing in Baton Rouge.

Museums

  •  LSU Museum of Art: On the fifth floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts lives the LSU Museum of Art, with over 5,000 pieces collected with a focus on Southern artists. On the first Sunday of every month from 1-5 p.m., there’s family fun and art for everyone at one of the largest university-affiliated art exhibitions in the South.
  • USS Kidd: Visit one of four Fletcher-Class destroyers, still in its original condition from World War II. The USS Kidd doubles as the Veterans’ Museum and displays a variety of artifacts that celebrate veteran and naval military history. Great for kids and history buffs of all ages!
  • Louisiana Art & Science Museum: With interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art Pennington planetarium, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum is a spot every visitor and local should visit. Enjoy activities like stargazing, featured exhibits and intriguing shows that are great for a family outing. 

Cooking Classes

We know you are a Cajun food connoisseur, but learning to make your favorite dishes from other passionate locals is a great way to feel connected to the community. Red Stick Spice offers cooking classes in-person and online for those who want to learn and taste the Baton Rouge culture. The Louisiana Culinary Institute also provides leisure classes taught by professional chefs for those who want to be their own top chef at home. 

 

Spend Time With Nature

Before retiring to your hotel room for the day, be sure you make time for all that the Red Stick has to offer. There’s so much to do (and see) in the great outdoors of Baton Rouge.

  • Milford Wampold Memorial Park: From running or biking to enjoying a kayak or paddle board ride around the LSU Lakes, this park is the perfect place to experience a classic southern Louisiana sunset. 
  • Bluebonnet Swamp and Nature Park: Explore 103 acres dedicated to conservation, education and recreation. With walking trails and wildlife galore, you could spend the entire afternoon strolling under the foliage. 
  • Baton Rouge Zoo: See and interact with your favorite animals! The BR Zoo is perfect for the whole family and a great way to round out your staycation.

 

Local Gems

Check out some of the best local gems  across the city. 

  • Mural Hunting: Art has been spilling onto the walls and streets of Baton Rouge for years. From downtown sculptures to the Mid City murals that portray the city’s heroes and culture, drive around, snap some photos, and show our art scene some love! If you’re looking for the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city, read our blog. 
  • Your Favorite Meals: With so many local favorite restaurants ready to serve you, your staycation can easily turn into a Baton Rouge food tour! Get a new outlook on Baton Rouge while experiencing the Asian-fusion flavors from the rooftop of Tsunami. Don’t forget to stop by Elsie’s Plate and Pie for some Cajun flare and all the sweet and savory pies you love. For a look at all Red Stick restaurants, click here.
  • Mid City Makers Market: Once a month, local artists and makers around Baton Rouge gather in Mid City to showcase and sell their work. Makers share everything from jewelry and clothes to paintings and cuisine. If you’re looking to support locals, this is the way to do it. 
  • Coffee Shop Hop: Baton Rouge has many local coffee shops that satisfy your caffeine cravings while providing the cute coffee shop aesthetic. From campus classics like Highland Coffees to the scenic outdoor Garden District Coffee, there’s a spot for all coffee-lovers to enjoy. If you’d like to have a side of fresh Baton Rouge beignets with your cafe au lait, take a trip to Coffee Call, a local favorite. 

With so much to see, do and eat, it’s time to explore Baton Rouge again. If you’re looking for more ideas, follow The Red Stick Blog!