11 Things to Do in Baton Rouge, as Recommended by the Locals 

Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital and the state’s second-largest city. It has a rich history dating back to Native American tribes (specifically the Houma, Bayougoula, and Acolapissa) who called the area home well before French-Canadian settlers came in 1699. When they arrived, they encountered large, reddened poles the Native peoples used to designate their hunting grounds. This is where the city got the name “Baton Rouge,” or “red stick.”  

The area changed hands (and names) many times between the French, then the English, and then the Spanish in 1779. It was reclaimed by local European settlers again before falling under Union control (mostly) during the Civil War. The distinct blend of Southern, Creole, and Cajun cultures you’ll find there today is an amalgamation of African influences brought by enslaved people and the French who first colonized the area.   

Baton Rouge’s personality may be shaped by the past, but it’s also a city looking optimistically toward the future. It serves as a central hub for industry, with a diversified economy that includes healthcare, higher education, petrochemical industries, and government services. It’s also home to prestigious higher-learning institutions like Louisiana State University (LSU) and Southern University that lend a vibrant, college vibe to the city.  

If you’ve never been to Baton Rouge, you’re in for a treat! There are so many fun things to see and do in the city (many of which involve eating, drinking, and merriment) that you might have a hard time deciding where to begin. That’s where our locals’ suggestions come in. We asked local experts on Baton Rouge history and culture and local business owners what they like to do in their favorite city, and we think you’ll like their recommendations!

1. Browse the Capitol Park Museum

LeAnne Weill, director of marketing and public relations for Louisiana State Museums, directed us to the most fitting place to learn about Baton Rouge. “The Capitol Park Museum is a must-stop,” she says. “It’s located across the street from the tallest state capitol in the country and the site of Governor Huey P. Long’s grave. The museum is where the big picture of Louisiana’s colorful history is chronicled, from the Louisiana Purchase to the dark days of slavery, river culture, and a deep dive into Governor Long, including a video collection of some of his colorful speeches.” 

“Another floor focuses on our singular culture — from Acadiana to Zydeco. There’s a large interactive music section (of course), our foodways, and a large section devoted to our favorite holiday, Mardi Gras!” 

Good to know: “Visitors get free admission to the capitol building and can even see the bullet hole in the hallway where Long was shot,” says Weill. “Admission to the museum is $7 for adults and $6 for seniors, students, and active military. Free admission for children under six.” The museum is open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 9 am to 4 pm. 

2. Climb to the top of the State Capitol Building

“When visiting Baton Rouge, start with a trip to the Louisiana State Capitol Building,” suggests Tamaria Williams, communications manager of Visit Baton Rouge. “It’s the tallest in the US, offering panoramic views of the city. Just a short walk away is the Old State Capitol, a stunning Gothic Revival structure similar to a castle. The Old State Capitol offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s political history through its museum’s interactive exhibits.”  

Good to know: You can book guided tours for both locations through visitbatonrouge.com

3. Indulge in beignets at Coffee Call

“Next, fuel up at Coffee Call,” Williams says, “it’s a local favorite known for its delicious beignet fingers and café au lait, perfect for a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up!” A proper New Orleans-style coffee house, the café also offers Gumbo and Po Boys as well as a variety of homemade sandwiches, burgers, soups, and salads. 

4. Eat local!

Williams also recommends immersing yourself in traditional Baton Rouge cuisine. “Don’t miss the chance to eat local and savor the flavors of Baton Rouge by exploring our city’s vibrant food scene,” she says. “From classic Cajun and Creole dishes to fresh Gulf seafood at favorites like Phil’s Oyster Bar and Elsie’s Plate and Pie.” Both restaurants have received accolades from locals and travelers not only for their dishes but also for the warm, friendly welcome you’ll get from the locals who work there.  

5. Root for the home team

“For college sports enthusiasts, catching a Louisiana State University or Southern University game is a must,” says Williams. “The energy in Tiger Stadium or A.W. Mumford Stadium is electric, providing an unforgettable experience of Southern college football.” Louisiana State University’s campus is unique in itself, too. There are beautiful lakes and oak-lined paths, and the campus is also home to LSU’s majestic live tiger mascot, Mike VII. Be sure to stop by and pay him a visit!

6. Don’t miss the Baton Rouge Blues Festival

“If you’re visiting in the spring, make plans to attend the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, one of the oldest blues festivals in America,” Williams suggests. “This vibrant event showcases the rich musical heritage of our region and is a highlight of our city’s cultural center.” The festival is held at various places in downtown Baton Rouge, taking advantage of the scenic Mississippi as a backdrop. The festival has a really laid-back, community-centric vibe. It’s free to the public, and people often bring blankets and lawn chairs for picnicking while enjoying the live performances.   

In addition to music, the festival typically has food trucks with Creole and Cajun fare, local art exhibits, and other cultural activities. There’s a special emphasis on preserving blues history, so there are often panel discussions with historians, musicians, and documentarians who educate people about the genre and its influence on American music. 

7. Grab a cookie at Counterspace Mid City

 “I would say my top thing to do in Baton Rouge is to stop by Counterspace Mid City and get a chocolate chip cookie,” says Sara Landry West, a local professional organizer and founder of South Coast Organizers. They’ve got a great selection of other baked goodies, too, like muffins, bars, and cakes. You can also preorder ready-to-bake cinnamon rolls and cookie dough, quiche, biscuits, cheddar and chive muffins, and more. Counterspace Mid City is a downtown staple offering a huge variety of treats for every taste, be it sweet or savory — but their salted chocolate chip cookie will always be the GOAT. 

8. Spend a day at the Baton Rouge Zoo

The Baton Rouge Zoo, also known as BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo, delights visitors of all ages with exhibits showcasing animals from around the world. In fact, it’s home to over 1,800 animal species, many of which are endangered and protected. You’ll find Asian tigers, African natives like lions, zebras, rhinoceroses, giraffes, and l’aquarium de Louisiane, an exhibit focused on saltwater and freshwater aquatic creatures, including Louisiana alligators and other native species. Also, don’t miss the stunning colors of Flamingo Cove and the aviary, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and native bird species.  

The zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and preservation, and many of the animals at the zoo are part of breeding programs aimed at increasing the population of endangered species. Like many other zoos, Baton Rouge offers a variety of fun seasonal events like Boo at the Zoo for Halloween and ZooLights during the holidays.  

Good to know: The Baton Rouge Zoo is open year-round from 9:30 am to 5 pm, although hours might vary depending on the season. 

9. Explore the Riverfront

The Mississippi Riverfront area is a hub for so many attractions, activities, parks, museums, dining, and entertainment venues. You should plan to spend a couple of days checking out everything it has to offer. If you want to take a relaxing stroll, try the levee path, green park, and the Capitol Area greenway.  

While you’re out, you might notice the public art installations around the riverfront, including the iconic Wave sculpture. There are also historic riverboat cruises if you’re interested in seeing the city from a different perspective. 

The riverfront is also home to an eclectic mix of restaurants and bars, many of which offer outdoor seating with views of the Mississippi. In addition to dining, the riverfront area often hosts live music and outdoor movie screenings on weekends for the community to enjoy. 

10. Pay homage at the USS Kidd and Veterans Memorial

Also along the riverfront is the USS Kidd, a WWII-era destroyer turned floating museum. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of naval combat and military heritage, and with pre-registration, you can even camp on the Kidd overnight! Right next door is the Louisiana Veterans Memorial, honoring those who served in the armed forces.  

Good to know: The ship is currently away for drydock repairs, but the museum is open daily from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Check back for the latest updates before you visit. 

11. Enjoy the local art and culture scene

The riverfront also hosts the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM), where art, science, and technology mingle. There’s a wide variety of interactive exhibits to entertain visitors of all ages and a planetarium where you can take a trip to the stars for a while. Nearby is the Shaw Center for the Arts, another prominent cultural landmark along the riverfront. The Shaw houses art galleries, performance spaces, and the Manship Theatre, where you can enjoy movie screenings, live performances, and other events. Don’t forget to grab sushi and cocktails at Tsunami on the rooftop. It’s the perfect place to wind down during the afternoon with a gorgeous river view. 

Baton Rouge is waiting for you!

The people here are as warm as the weather (which can get pretty warm, especially in the summertime) and are more than happy to show you around their favorite town! History, culture, sports, blues, and beignets are just a few of the things the city has to offer. Hopefully, our locals’ suggestions for places to see and things to do have helped point you in the right direction. Happy touring!