Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has a wide variety of attractions that cater to different interests. Here are some must-visit attractions: - Louisiana State Capitol: A stunning example of Art Deco architecture, the Louisiana State Capitol is a popular landmark in the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about Louisiana's political history. - USS Kidd: This World War II-era destroyer is now a museum that offers a glimpse into life on a Naval vessel. Visitors can explore the ship and view exhibits on the history of the U.S. Navy. - Louisiana Art and Science Museum: This museum features a wide range of exhibits on art, science, and space. It also has a planetarium and an interactive children's gallery. - Baton Rouge Zoo: The zoo is home to over 900 animals from around the world. Visitors can see tigers, giraffes, elephants, and more. - Shaw Center for the Arts: This center has a theater, art galleries, and a rooftop terrace with views of the Mississippi River. It hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year.

Baton Rouge has a variety of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy. Here are some ideas: - BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo: In addition to seeing the animals, visitors can take a train ride, feed the giraffes, or ride the carousel. - Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: This nature center has over a mile of trails through a cypress-tupelo swamp. Visitors can see wildlife like alligators, turtles, and birds. - LSU Lakes: Located on the Louisiana State University campus, the LSU Lakes are a popular spot for jogging, walking, and picnicking. Visitors can also rent a pedal boat or kayak to explore the lakes. - Highland Road Park Observatory: This observatory offers stargazing opportunities and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can use the telescopes to see planets, stars, and other celestial objects. - Baton Rouge Riverfront: The riverfront area has a paved promenade that offers views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can also take a riverboat tour or rent a bike to explore the area.

Baton Rouge hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year. Here are a few: - Bayou Country Superfest: This annual music festival features some of the biggest names in country music. It usually takes place in May at LSU's Tiger Stadium. - Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival: This festival celebrates Louisiana's unique culture with music, food, and crafts. It usually takes place in August at the Shaw Center for the Arts. - Louisiana Renaissance Festival: This festival is a recreation of a 16th-century English village. Visitors can see jousting, sword fights, and other performances. It takes place on weekends in November and December. - Mardi Gras: Baton Rouge has its own version of Mardi Gras, which includes parades, parties, and other events. It usually takes place in February or March. - Louisiana Cajun Food Festival: This festival celebrates Cajun cuisine with food, music, and crafts. It usually takes place in November at the Lamar-Dixon Expo Center.

Baton Rouge has a rich culinary scene that features Cajun, Creole, and Southern cuisine. Here are some unique food and drink experiences to try: - Crawfish: This Southern delicacy is a must-try when in Baton Rouge. Crawfish boils are a popular way to enjoy them. - Beignets: These fried doughnuts covered in powdered sugar are a Louisiana tradition. Try them at Coffee Call or at the famous Cafe du Monde in nearby New Orleans. - Boudin: This spicy sausage is made with rice and pork and is a staple of Cajun cuisine. Try it at places like Johnson's Boucaniere or The Best Stop. - Louisiana craft beer: Baton Rouge has a growing craft beer scene. Check out local breweries like Tin Roof Brewing Company or Southern Craft Brewing Co. - Louisiana cocktails: Try a Hurricane, a Sazerac, or a Ramos Gin Fizz, all of which have roots in Louisiana.

Baton Rouge has many family-friendly activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. Here are a few: - Louisiana Art and Science Museum: This museum has interactive exhibits and a planetarium that kids will love. - Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: Kids can see alligators, turtles, and other wildlife on the trails at this nature center. - Knock Knock Children's Museum: This museum has hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. - BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo: The zoo has over 900 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants. Kids can also ride the train or carousel. - USS Kidd: Kids can explore a real Navy destroyer and learn about life on a Naval vessel.

Baton Rouge has a rich history that visitors can explore at various historic sites. Here are a few: - Magnolia Mound Plantation: This Creole-style plantation house dates back to the 1700s and offers a glimpse into Louisiana's colonial past. - Louisiana's Old State Capitol: This Gothic-style building served as the state capitol from 1850 to 1932. It now houses a museum that tells the story of Louisiana's political history. - USS Kidd: This World War II-era destroyer is now a museum that offers a glimpse into life on a Naval vessel. Visitors can explore the ship and view exhibits on the history of the U.S. Navy. - Shaw Center for the Arts: This center is housed in a historic building that was once a department store. Visitors can see art exhibits and performances in a beautiful setting. - Magnolia Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place of many famous Louisianans, including Governor Huey P. Long.

Baton Rouge has a variety of outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy. Here are some ideas: - BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo: In addition to seeing the animals, visitors can take a train ride, feed the giraffes, or ride the carousel. - Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: This nature center has over a mile of trails through a cypress-tupelo swamp. Visitors can see wildlife like alligators, turtles, and birds. - LSU Lakes: Located on the Louisiana State University campus, the LSU Lakes are a popular spot for jogging, walking, and picnicking. Visitors can also rent a pedal boat or kayak to explore the lakes. - Highland Road Park Observatory: This observatory offers stargazing opportunities and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can use the telescopes to see planets, stars, and other celestial objects. - Baton Rouge Riverfront: The riverfront area has a paved promenade that offers views of the Mississippi River. Visitors can also take a riverboat tour or rent a bike to explore the area.

Baton Rouge has a rich cultural scene that visitors can explore. Here are some experiences to have: - Louisiana Art and Science Museum: This museum features art exhibits, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits on science and space. - Shaw Center for the Arts: This center has a theater, art galleries, and a rooftop terrace with views of the Mississippi River. It hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year. - Manship Theatre: This theater hosts a variety of performances, from plays to concerts. - Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra: The symphony performs classical and popular music throughout the year. - Baton Rouge Gallery: This gallery features works by local artists and hosts exhibitions throughout the year.

Baton Rouge has a variety of shopping destinations, from malls to boutiques. Here are some to check out: - Mall of Louisiana: This mall has over 160 stores, including major retailers like Macy's and Dillard's. - Perkins Rowe: This mixed-use development has shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. - Louisiana Boardwalk: Located in nearby Bossier City, this outdoor shopping center has over 60 stores and restaurants. - Red Stick Farmers Market: This farmers market is held on Saturdays and features over 50 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. - Mid City Merchants: This neighborhood has a variety of shops, including antique stores, boutiques, and gift shops.

Baton Rouge has a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some recommended options: - Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center: This historic hotel is located in downtown Baton Rouge and offers views of the Mississippi River. - Watermark Baton Rouge: This boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown and has luxurious rooms and suites. - L'Auberge Casino Hotel Baton Rouge: This casino hotel has a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a spa, pool, and multiple restaurants. - Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel: This hotel is located near the Mall of Louisiana and has modern rooms and suites. - Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown and has stylish rooms and suites.

Baton Rouge has a variety of transportation options, including: - Car rental: Many major car rental companies have locations in Baton Rouge. - Uber/Lyft: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Baton Rouge. - CATS: The Capital Area Transit System operates buses throughout Baton Rouge. - Biking: Baton Rouge has over 50 miles of bike lanes and paths, making it easy to get around on two wheels. - Walking: Many of Baton Rouge's attractions are located within walking distance of each other, especially in the downtown area.