Weekend Getaway

Once you arrive in Baton Rouge, check into your hotel, and let the fun begin! With plenty of hotels in every region, you’ll find plenty of things to do wherever you stay. Friday afternoons are perfect for exploring the historical landmarks located downtown and getting an incredible view of the Mississippi River or checking out all the shopping and eateries in Perkins Rowe.

After getting to know your home for the weekend, it’s time for cocktails and a bite to eat. Get a taste of the local flavors in a casual atmosphere at Bistro Byronz. Another Friday night hotspot is Bin 77 Bistro & Sidebar, where you can enjoy live music and shared plates while sipping a rosemary mule or a glass of wine from their extensive selection. Traveling with the kiddos? Curbside Burgers is sure to hit the spot for everyone in your group, with a vast selection of specialty burgers, sides and shakes.

Saturday morning starts with a trip to the Red Stick Farmers Market! Located downtown, this market is held every Saturday and is a great way to experience the Red Stick like a local. Grab a coffee from any of our downtown coffee shops and check out the local produce, as well as locally made cooking oils and spice blends at Red Stick Spice’s booth. If you're hitting the market on the first Saturday of the month, the Baton Rouge Arts Market is a must. Held in the same location as the farmers market, the Baton Rouge Arts Market features one-of-a-kind products and artwork from the local makers' community.

You’re sure to work up an appetite after walking through the markets, so head to Mid City, where you can dine on bottomless brunch and experience a unique shopping experience. Leola’s Café & Coffeehouse is conveniently located off Government Street and has become a local favorite, offering specialty items such as brunch boards and mimosa flights. Another Mid City brunch favorite is Elsie’s Plate & Pie – make sure to save room for pie! After enjoying your brunch feast, shop around Mid City. From bookstores to record shops, antique and vintage clothing stores, as well as a toy store, you’re sure to find something unique to remember your weekend in Baton Rouge by.

If shopping isn’t your thing and you prefer the great outdoors, no worries! Baton Rouge is known for its park system, and you can stay close to town by trekking, paddle boarding or canoeing the LSU Lakes, visiting BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo, taking a tour of BREC's Bluebonnet Swamp or heading out of the city limits for a hike.

As the sun sets, the fun doesn’t have to end! A Baton Rouge sunset is one you don't want to miss, so enjoy some outdoor dining with incredible views at Tsunami Sushi’s rooftop patio, which is in the Shaw Center for the Arts. After dinner, stay at the Shaw Center to catch a show at the Manship Theater, where you can see musical performances, comedy shows and screenings of some of your favorite films. After the show, grab a drink from The Vintage or The Main Lobby or pay a visit to historic Third Street, where you can dance the night away to live music at O'Hara's Irish Pub or The Basin.

Time flies when you’re having fun! Before you hit the road, get some fuel for your trip home. A visit to Baton Rouge isn’t complete without trying the best beignets this side of the Mississippi (or let’s be honest – the best beignets on either side of the Mississippi). Stop in at Coffee Call for a fresh order of beignet fingers (Coffee Call’s specialty) and café au lait – both of which are Baton Rouge breakfast staples and favorites among tourists and locals alike – to round out a perfect weekend in the Capital City.