Baton Rouge

Under vibrant sunsets over the Mississippi River in southern Louisiana lies Baton Rouge, where a lively culture, delicious restaurants, and a fascinating history combine to create the perfect microcosm of the Bayou State. Louisiana’s capital city is home to Louisiana State University, the Old State Capitol, upscale shops, and exciting attractions like the Baton Rouge Zoo and the Rural Life Museum. Needless to say, this is the kind of place you want to take your time to explore. Given all there is to see and do here, you’ll be at it for a while.

Start with getting the lay of the land at the Louisiana State Capitol and Welcome Center, where you’ll take in a stellar view of the Mississippi River, the Governor’s Mansion, and much of Baton Rouge from the 27th-floor observation deck. Uncover the history of the “Pirate of the Pacific,” the USS KIDD Veterans Museum or get a breathtaking look at the stars at the Highland Road Park Observatory.

Baton Rouge is just as much a place for the arts as it is the hub of all things Louisiana. The Shaw Center of the Arts is the heart of the local arts scene. Admire the paintings, illustrations, sculptures, and mixed media masterpieces of artists from around the world in the LSU Museum of Art and Glassell Gallery and catch a theatrical performance at the Manship Theatre. Head to Louisiana Art & Science Museum, where art and science meet through interactive and entertaining galleries. There’s even more art to be found at the many galleries throughout town that feature the inspiring works of local artists.

Food is a big part of Louisiana’s culture, and Baton Rouge has some of the best of the best. Creole chicken, dirty rice, shrimp, and grits … if you have a craving for it, you’ll find it at one of the hundreds of restaurants here. Make sure you’re here for crawfish season (mid-January through early July), when dozens of local eateries serve up their takes on this Louisiana delicacy. You would certainly be remiss without indulging in the powdered sugar bliss of a beignet – Coffee Call is a Baton Rouge staple and serves up some of the best beignets and beignet fingers you’ll ever try!

When evening arrives, dress up and hit the slots, and place your bets at the poker table at one of Baton Rouge’s three casinos. For a taste of the Louisiana-style nightlife, listen to sultry sounds of blues and jazz at the many live music venues in Baton Rouge, such as Chelsea’s Live, Teddy’s Juke Joint, or Phil Brady’s Bar & Grill.

Start planning your trip to Baton Rouge – we’ll be waiting to welcome you with Southern hospitality and an authentic Louisiana experience!