Unforgettable Long Weekend in Baton Rouge, USA

Experience Southern charm and hospitality in Baton Rouge.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, visiting Baton Rouge means exploring the capital city of Louisiana and experiencing its vibrant culture. From tasting delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine to visiting historic sites like the Old State Capitol and the USS Kidd, there is plenty to see and do in Baton Rouge. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like hiking in the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center and running along the Louisiana State University lakes.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Baton Rouge

  • Stay at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, a chic hotel housed in a historic building
  • Start your day with a breakfast at Louie's Cafe, a cozy eatery known for its fluffy pancakes and omelettes
  • Visit the Louisiana State Capitol, an impressive art deco building with stunning views of the city
  • Explore the LSU Rural Life Museum, a restored 19th-century village that showcases Louisiana's rural history
  • Head to the Shaw Center for the Arts, a multi-level complex that houses galleries, theaters, and a rooftop terrace
  • End the day with dinner at Parrain's Seafood Restaurant, a popular spot for Cajun and Creole dishes, such as gumbo and crawfish etouffee
Day 2

Sights and Sounds of Baton Rouge

  • Have breakfast at Brew Ha-Ha, a trendy cafe that serves delicious coffee and fresh pastries
  • Take a riverboat tour with Louisiana River Adventures, where you can see the Mississippi River up close and learn about its history
  • Visit the USS Kidd, a WWII destroyer-turned-museum that showcases the daily life of sailors at war
  • Explore the Louisiana Art and Science Museum, where you can see an extensive collection of art, hands-on exhibits, and a planetarium
  • Have lunch at Tony's Seafood Market and Deli, a local institution that serves some of the best shrimp and catfish po'boys in town
  • Spend the evening at the Manship Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that hosts concerts, plays, and films
Day 3

Foodie Heaven

  • Start your day with breakfast at Another Broken Egg Cafe, where you can indulge in fluffy omelettes and beignets
  • Visit the Baton Rouge Farmers Market, where you can get fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts
  • Take a cooking class at Red Stick Spice Company, where you can learn how to make Louisiana classics, such as jambalaya and red beans and rice
  • Have lunch at The Chimes, a popular restaurant that serves Louisiana staples, such as fried alligator and boudin
  • Visit the Main Street Market, a buzzling indoor marketplace that features local vendors selling everything from gourmet cheese to handmade jewelry
  • End your stay with dinner at Louisiana Lagniappe, an upscale seafood restaurant that offers waterfront views and delicious dishes, such as crab cakes and shrimp scampi.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Baton Rouge by plane is to fly to Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) which has domestic flights from major airlines such as American Airlines and Delta. From there, take a cab or rent a car to get to your destination.

Car

Driving to Baton Rouge is a great option if you're coming from nearby cities like New Orleans or Lafayette. From New Orleans, take I-10 West, and from Lafayette take I-10 East to get to Baton Rouge. There are several parking options available including metered parking and paid parking lots. Make sure to check traffic reports as traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct train routes to Baton Rouge. However, you can take an Amtrak train to New Orleans and then take a bus or cab to Baton Rouge which is about 80 miles away.

Boat

The Mississippi River runs through Baton Rouge, but there are no direct passenger boats available for transportation. However, taking a riverboat tour can be a fun and unique way to experience Baton Rouge and see the city's historical sites from the water.

Bus

Taking a bus from major cities like New Orleans or Houston is a convenient and cost-effective way to get to Baton Rouge. Greyhound and Megabus have daily buses to Baton Rouge from several locations. The Baton Rouge Bus Terminal is located downtown and it is easy to get around from there via cab or public transportation.

More travel plans

Baton Rouge in Two: Budget-Friendly Fun & Food

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, offers a variety of budget-friendly activities for travelers including exploring the Louisiana State Capitol building, visiting the USS Kidd Museum, and taking a leisurely stroll on the Mississippi River levee. For affordable accommodations, consider staying in nearby cities such as Denham Springs or Gonzales, which are just a short drive away from Baton Rouge. Enjoy authentic Cajun cuisine without breaking the bank by trying local favorites like jambalaya, gumbo or crawfish étouffée at one of the many inexpensive restaurants in the area.

Fall in Love with Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge offers a unique blend of culture, dining, and outdoor activities for couples looking for a romantic getaway. From strolling through the historic downtown streets to exploring the lush gardens and parks, there are endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Relish the flavors of the Southern cuisine and indulge in the vibrant nightlife scene to make the most of your trip.

Baton Rouge on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Visiting Baton Rouge on a limited budget is totally doable, with its array of affordable accommodations, transportation options, and free activities. Explore Louisiana's rich history at the Louisiana State Capitol, the USS Kidd, and the LSU Rural Life Museum. Savor authentic Creole cuisine at local eats with affordable prices like Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant and Tony’s Seafood Market & Deli.

5-day Baton Rouge Adventure: Food, Fun & Culture

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, offers visitors a vibrant blend of history, culture, food, and fun. Highlights include a tour of the Louisiana State Capitol, a visit to the USS Kidd naval museum, and a stroll through the colorful and lively downtown area. Don't miss out on trying some of the area's famous Cajun cuisine while enjoying the charming and unique atmosphere of this Southern gem.