Things To Do
Louisiana's Old State Capitol
The Old State Capitol is a wonderful place to visit. It shares Louisiana's rich history and showcases beautiful architecture from the mid-19th century. Tours are free, and you can see The Ghost of the Castle Show (a 4D experience) for a few dollars!
Louisiana Art & Science Museum
Just across the street from the Old State Capitol is the LASM. Carolyn grew up visiting the LASM on the weekends and on school field trips. The museum has several exhibits, but make sure to go to see the mummy while you're there! The LASM is also home to a planetarium that has several shows and showtimes for those that are interested.
Tsunami Sushi Baton Rouge
On Michael's first trip to Baton Rouge with Carolyn, they went with Chip and Lou to Tsunami for dinner. It was love at first bite! Tsunami is a local favorite offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and gourmet sushi and cocktails in Downtown Baton Rouge. You may want to grab a reservation in advance because this is a popular spot!
Louisiana State Capitol
The current Louisiana State Capitol is located a few blocks from the Old State Capitol. It is the home of our House of Representatives and the Senate, both of which you can view while you're there. Make sure to take the elevator the observation deck on the 27th floor, where you can see the entire city of Baton Rouge and beyond!
Capitol Park Museum
Across the lawn of the State Capitol Building, you will find the Capitol Park Museum. This museum showcases the unique history of Louisiana, including famous Louisianians from Louis Armstrong to Huey P. Long, Mardi Gras, and the nation-building commerce of the Mississippi River.
The Vintage Baton Rouge
While this restaurant has a vintage theme, the menu is trendy and modern. The Vintage offers beignets, breakfast dishes, flatbreads, sandwiches, savory bites, charcuterie and cheese boards along with coffee and cocktails!
Red Stick Farmers Market
Check out whats fresh in Baton Rouge! A few blocks from the Hilton Capitol Center, is the Red Stick Farmers Market. Home to dozens of local vendors and small businesses, it is a great way to start your Saturday.
Garden District Coffee
Garden District Coffee (formerly Perk's) is the perfect spot for a morning latte and baked treat. GDC roasts their own coffee beans, so you can be sure that your coffee is fresh! The outdoor seating area is a perfect spot to catch up with friends old and new!
The Colonel's Club
The Colonel's Club is a spectacular new addition to the Baton Rouge restaurant scene. Check out the lounge or the restaurant to see for yourself why it was nominated by 225 Magazine for Best New Restaurant Best Fine Dining, Best Date Night, Best Brunch, Best Craft Cocktails, and Best Chef of 2025!
Zeeland Street
This is the best spot for a home-cooked, southern meal outside of Chip Coulter's house in Baton Rouge. Zeeland Street Market is a great option for breakfast or lunch, as indicated by its place on the New York Times Best Restaurant List in 2024.
Mike the Tiger's Habitat
Your trip to Baton Rouge is not complete without a trip to see Mike the Tiger. In the heart of LSU's campus lives our beloved Bengal Tiger, Mike. Stop by to see Mike VII in his habitat while you explore LSU's campus!
LSU AgCenter Dairy Store
The LSU Dairy Store is an absolute must for those that decide to visit LSU's campus. It is just a stone's throw from the LSU Student Union and offers dairy and meat products from faulty- and student-raised animals. Grab some ice cream while you're walking around and enjoying the views throughout LSU's campus
Highland Coffees
Highland Coffees is another fantastic spot for a coffee. They also roast their beans in-house to make their richly flavored coffee. This is the perfect spot to grab a latte before heading out to explore LSU's campus!
The Chimes
A trip to Baton Rouge is incomplete without a meal at the Chimes. The newly added rooftop bar is a great spot to relax while enjoying one of the best made-from-scratch menus Baton Rouge has to offer.
Zippy's Burritos Tacos & More
In need of a frozen drink or a quesadilla? Look no further than Zippy's Burritos Tacos & More! Zippy's is another newly renovated spot in Baton Rouge that is home to some of Carolyn's favorite Mexican food and drinks. Stop by to grab a bite and watch a game on one of their several TVs!
Rock-n-Sake Bar & Sushi
Rock-n-Sake is another Baton Rouge favorite for sushi. It offers a fun, energetic atmosphere paired with exciting sushi rolls and Japanese cuisine!
Brasserie Byronz
Brasserie Byronz is yet another can't miss spot in Baton Rouge. It is one of Baton Rouge’s most popular and long-standing family-owned restaurants that is home to beloved dishes like Blue Cheese Chips. Stop by for a gourmet meal you won't forget!
Mid City Beer Garden
Mid City Beer Garden is home to 50+ beers on tap, specialty frozen drinks, and craft cocktails. They also offer fresh bites and locally inspired eats in their unique open air landscaped patio.
Time Warp Boutique
Time Warp is a hidden gem in Baton Rouge. Racks of clothing span the decades, from ’30s evening wear to ’90s printed tops. Its certainly a shop you won't soon forget!
Red Stick Social
Red Stick Social offers bowling, local food, and live music all in one gathering spot. Check out their calendar of events to see what's coming up!
Counter Culture Frozen Yogurt Baton Rouge
If you're out and about in Baton Rouge, consider stopping for a frozen treat or a sandwich at Counter Culture. This is one of Carolyn's favorite spots for a froyo parfait or an Avocado Delight.
Coffee Call
This New Orleans-style coffee house features fresh roasted coffee, rich cafe au lait, sweet hot chocolate, and, Carolyn's favorite, beignet fingers. If you're looking for something more traditional, you can opt for classic beignets or a muffin.