College Town Baton Rouge Itinerary

Baton Rouge and college town are synonyms. Here, we take pride in being home to both Louisiana State University, the state's flagship school, and Southern University, the largest Historically Black College & University (HBCU) system in the United States. Even when sports aren't in season, there is plenty to do on and around both campuses.

Pictured|Fruitcakes at Zeeland Street

Breakfast of Champions

Start your day the right way at Louie's Cafe, an LSU staple for over 40 years. Enjoy diner-style food and scenery just steps from campus. Another local (and national) favorite is Zeeland Street, a Garden District eatery serving family recipes for breakfast and lunch since 1992. Try the fruitcakes...trust us!

Pictured|Southern University

Visit the Bluffs at Southern University

See where Baton Rouge was first discovered by the French! Located at Southern University, the largest Historically Black College and University system in the nation, the Bluffs offers scenic, tranquil views of the Mississippi River. It's marked with a Red Stick Sculpture created by Southern alumni and local artist, Frank Hayden.

Pictured|Mid City Beer Garden

Grab Lunch

Try local dining options, popular with many of the students in Baton Rouge! Chicken Shack and Tony's Seafood are classic North Baton Rouge spots not far from Southern while The Chimes - Highland and Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux are both a stone's throw from LSU. Looking for something between the two? Mid City Beer Garden offers the perfect atmosphere to grab a beer flight and watch a sports game on its patio.

Pictured|Mimosa Handcrafted

Shop for Souvenirs & Gifts

From handmade jewelry at Mimosa Handcrafted to classic t-shirts at Bengals and Bandits - LSU Northgate, there are college town gifts for everyone in your life. Here are some to consider for all your gameday needs.

Pictured|Tiger Stadium

Visit the LSU Campus and Mike the Tiger's Habitat

Nothing's more iconic in Baton Rouge than LSU's Mike the Tiger Habitat, home to LSU's beloved mascot. Mike the Tiger is a rescue that enjoys a luxurious life in a $3 million habitat, complete with a dedicated team ensuring his top-notch care. Make sure to include a tour of Tiger Stadium, one of the largest college football stadiums in the US that seats over 102,000 fans per game!

Pictured|BLDG 5

Discover Baton Rouge's Fusion and Culinary Scene

Baton Rouge is where Cajun and Creole flavors meet a melting pot of cultures, like in the Asian fusion at Chow Yum or the Mexican cuisine inspired by Cajun-French influences at Mestizo's Mexican Cuisine. Additionally, our city offers fresh farm-to-table offerings perfect for any dietary preference at Cocha and BLDG 5.

Pictured|Teddy's Juke Joint

Keep the Party Going

From live music joints to swanky speakeasies, Baton Rouge has nightlife to match your pace. Teddy's Juke Joint and Phil Brady's Bar offer authentic live music to keep you dancing all night. For a more mellow experience, check out the lounge at The Colonel's Club or Hayride Scandal to catch some piano tunes.