Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, food, outdoor activities, or arts and culture, Baton Rouge has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Baton Rouge:
Start your visit by exploring the Louisiana State Capitol, a stunning building with beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the state’s history, admire the impressive architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the USS Kidd Veterans Museum, a Fletcher-class destroyer ship turned museum. Explore the ship, learn about its military history, and pay tribute to the brave men and women who served in the armed forces.
Mike the Tiger, the live mascot of Louisiana State University (LSU), has a specially designed habitat on campus known as “Mike’s Habitat.” Located near Tiger Stadium, the habitat provides a safe and comfortable home for Mike, as well as an opportunity for visitors to observe the majestic animal. Mike’s Habitat consists of a spacious enclosure that includes both indoor and outdoor areas. The enclosure is designed to resemble a natural environment and provides ample space for the tiger to roam, play, and relax.
Step back in time at the LSU Rural Life Museum, a living history museum that showcases the state’s rural past. Stroll through the 19th-century Louisiana plantation, view authentic artifacts, and experience what life was like for early settlers.
Capitol Park Museum, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a fascinating museum that offers visitors a comprehensive look into the history, culture, and diversity of the state. The museum features a variety of engaging exhibits that cover a wide range of topics related to Louisiana’s heritage. These exhibits showcase the state’s rich history, art, music, food, industry, and more. From the early Native American tribes to the diverse cultural influences of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean populations, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Louisiana’s past.
The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center is a natural oasis nestled within Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This 103-acre nature preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of Louisiana’s swamplands and discover the rich biodiversity of the region. The center features a network of well-maintained trails that wind through various habitats, including cypress-tupelo swamp, hardwood forest, and meadows. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or guided hikes along these trails, immersing themselves in the serene surroundings while observing native wildlife and plants.
Spend a day at the Baton Rouge Zoo, home to over 1,800 animals from around the world. Enjoy educational exhibits, animal encounters, and a scenic train ride through the park.
The centerpiece of the plantation is the main house, a French Creole-style structure built in the late 18th century. Visitors can take guided tours of the house, which is furnished with period pieces, showcasing the lifestyle and traditions of the time. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history of the house, the families who lived there, and the architectural elements that make it unique.
The museum features a wide range of art exhibitions showcasing various artistic styles, periods, and mediums. From classical to contemporary art, visitors can explore collections that include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other forms of visual art. These exhibitions often include works by both local and internationally renowned artists.
The Old Governor’s Mansion is an architectural masterpiece that showcases Greek Revival style. Built in 1930, the mansion boasts a stately exterior with majestic columns, ornate details, and a grand staircase. The interior features elegant rooms adorned with beautiful furnishings, artwork, and decorative elements.
Riverfront Plaza provides stunning views of the mighty Mississippi River, offering visitors an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and power of this iconic waterway. You can stroll along the riverfront promenade, sit on benches, or relax on the grassy areas while taking in the scenic vistas.
The LSU Ag Center Botanic Gardens, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a horticultural oasis that showcases the beauty and diversity of plants in the region. Spanning over 440 acres, the gardens offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The Orangerie Garden is a formal garden featuring vibrant flower beds, manicured hedges, and elegant fountains. This picturesque setting is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The garden provides a serene escape and is often used as a backdrop for weddings and other special events.
Blue Bayou Water Park, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a popular destination for water-filled fun and entertainment. With a variety of water attractions and amenities, Blue Bayou offers a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages. Blue Bayou features an impressive selection of water slides that cater to different thrill levels. From high-speed slides with steep drops to more gentle rides for younger visitors, there is something for everyone. The park offers a mix of body slides, tube slides, and multi-person slides, providing an exhilarating adventure for all water slide enthusiasts.
The Knock Knock Children’s Museum, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a vibrant and interactive museum designed specifically for children. With its hands-on exhibits and engaging activities, the museum provides a stimulating and educational experience for young visitors. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and learning. Children can engage in imaginative play, explore science concepts, experiment with art materials, and discover the world around them through a range of interactive displays and activities.
University Lake is a scenic body of water located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, near the Louisiana State University (LSU) campus. This man-made lake serves as a recreational hub and a picturesque natural oasis in the heart of the city. University Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. The calm waters of the lake reflect the beauty of the surroundings, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or sitting on one of the benches, you can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.
The Old Arsenal Museum, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a historic site that serves as a museum showcasing the military history of the region. Housed in a building with a rich past, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore exhibits and artifacts that highlight the military heritage of Louisiana.
The LSU Museum of Art, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a vibrant cultural institution dedicated to showcasing and celebrating the visual arts. As the flagship art museum of Louisiana State University (LSU), it offers visitors a rich and diverse collection of artwork, engaging exhibitions, and educational programs.
St. Joseph Cathedral, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a historic and iconic religious landmark in the city. As the mother church of the Diocese of Baton Rouge, it serves as the seat of the bishop and is an important center of Catholic worship and community. St. Joseph Cathedral showcases stunning architecture that reflects the grandeur and spiritual significance of the church. The cathedral’s exterior features Gothic Revival style elements, with intricate stonework, pointed arches, and stained glass windows. Inside, visitors will find a soaring nave, ornate altars, and beautiful artwork that contribute to the cathedral’s serene and reverent atmosphere.
The arboretum boasts a diverse collection of native plants that are representative of Louisiana’s unique ecosystems. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Camellia Garden, Wetland Edge Garden, Butterfly Garden, and many more. These gardens showcase a variety of plant species, highlighting their beauty and ecological importance.
Arsenal Park, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a historic park that holds significant cultural and historical value. Situated on the grounds of the former U.S. Arsenal, the park provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s military history and offers recreational opportunities for the community.
The Pentagon Barracks hold great historical significance as one of the few remaining examples of military architecture from the early 19th century in the United States. Constructed between 1819 and 1826, the barracks served as a prominent military installation during a critical period of American history.
The Horace Wilkinson Bridge, commonly known as the “New Bridge” or the “New Mississippi River Bridge,” is a prominent landmark and a vital transportation link in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As one of the largest cable-stayed bridges in the United States, it spans the Mississippi River and connects East Baton Rouge Parish with West Baton Rouge Parish.
Repentance Park, located in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a vibrant public park that offers a relaxing and scenic urban oasis. Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, the park provides visitors with a variety of amenities and recreational opportunities. Repentance Park is nestled along the beautiful riverfront of the Mississippi River. The park’s location provides stunning views of the water, the Baton Rouge skyline, and the iconic Horace Wilkinson Bridge. Visitors can enjoy the calming presence of the river and take in the sights and sounds of this historic waterway.
The museum features 54 separate displays that include at least one area in the room for each of LSU’s sports. There are also displays featuring LSU’s five retired jerseys, the “Early Years” of LSU athletics, the Tiger Band and Golden Girls, cheerleaders and Mike the Tiger.
Saint Alban’s Chapel is a historic chapel located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on the campus of Louisiana State University (LSU). As a significant spiritual and architectural landmark, it holds a special place within the university community. Saint Alban’s Chapel was constructed in 1926 and was named in honor of Saint Alban, the first British Christian martyr. The chapel was designed by architect Edward F. Neild and is known for its Gothic Revival architectural style. It has served as a place of worship and gathering for the LSU community for nearly a century.
City Brooks Community Park, also known as “BREC’s City-Brooks Park,” is a popular public park located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Spanning over 140 acres, the park offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.
Spanish Town Park, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a charming neighborhood park that holds cultural and historical significance within the Spanish Town community. While the park itself is relatively small, it offers a pleasant and welcoming space for residents and visitors.
The statue of Senator Huey P. Long is a notable landmark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Located on the grounds of the Louisiana State Capitol, the statue commemorates the influential political figure who served as both governor and senator of Louisiana in the early 20th century.
These are just a few of the many attractions and activities that make Baton Rouge a fantastic destination. The city’s unique blend of history, culture, and Southern charm will leave you with unforgettable memories.
