Set along the banks of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge offers a unique and charming appeal. The Cajun, Creole, French and Spanish influences of its 300 years old history mix with the youth energy of the LSU. The “Red Stick” is a melting pot of history and culture which can be seen in its rich and diverse culinary and musical heritage, historical and cultural attractions. It has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike that keep you coming back for more. Here’s an itinerary guide to the places and experiences that you just can’t miss during your 24 hours in Baton Rouge.
Image By getmahesh (Flickr: Downtown Baton Rouge) [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
9:00am- Omelets and Pancakes at Louie’s Cafe!
Kick start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Louie’s Cafe. Breakfast is available all day long. Enjoy the southern-style omelet, burger, eggs, grits, fruit pancakes, and more. The menu is full of comfort food options. The Cafe is ready to feed you anytime of the day!
Address: 3322 Lake Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Phone: 1 225-346-8221
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Morning: Delve into the Louisiana Capital City history and culture!
10:00am- Glimpse of US Naval History!
Head off to the USS Kidd and Veterans Memorial, a WWII destroyer. It pays tribute to the people who fought for the US military. Check out the warplane used during the war, replicas of gun deck, collection of model ships and other artifacts, and walk onto the restored Navy ship.
Address: 305 South River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9:30am-3:30pm; Saturday & Sunday: 10:00am-4:00pm
Distance from Louie’s Cafe: 2.2miles or 8minutes drive
11:00am- Insight into Louisiana’s Political History!
Next, tour the Old State Capitol that offers a glimpse of the state’s political past. Explore the Louisiana Old State Capitol- the old congress chamber, the old senate room, and marvel at the multi-media presentation and exhibits detailing the history of Louisiana. Don’t miss the “Ghost of the Castle” that depicts the history of the building.
Address: 100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, United States
Phone: 1 225-342-0500
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:00am-4:00pm; Saturday: 9:00am-3:00pm
Distance from USS Kidd: 0.7miles or 4minutes drive
12:00pm- Explore Louisiana industry, history and culture!
Next, head off to the Capitol Park Museum that features over 450,000 artifacts and artwork on the diverse facets of Louisiana culture and history. It houses two permanent exhibitions. Topics range from the Mardi Gras traditions to Sportsmen’s Paradise. Artifacts include a Civil War submarine, a 48 foot wooden shrimp trawler, musical artifacts and much more.
Address: 660 N 4th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Phone: 1 225-342-5428
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:00am-4:30pm
Distance from Louisiana Old State Capitol: 0.6miles or 4minutes drive
Lunch- Eat Up the “Red Stick” Culture!
1:00pm, and It’s Lunch time!
Try the Italian fare at The Little Village (447 3rd St), or savor the Mexican and Caribbean dishes at the Restaurant IPO (421 Third Street). Indulge in some Japanese and sushi at Tsunami Shaw Center - Baton Rouge (100 Lafayette St). Try the Cajun & Creole specialties at Poor Boy Lloyd's (201 Florida St).
Afternoon- Explore Big Attractions of the “B.R.”!
2:00pm- Time for Artistic exploration!
Visit the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. The museum has something to offer visitors of all ages. From sky shows and space stations to interactive science exhibits, from real mummy to art galleries spanning the history of art, the museum has it all for your edutainment.
Address: 100 S River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Phone: 1 225-344-5272
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 10:00am-3:00pm; Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm
3:00pm- Travel back in time!
Head off to the Magnolia Mound Plantation, a colonial home dating backing to the French Creole’s of the eighteenth century. Know the rich and fascinating history of this time period by touring this historic home. Check out the period furnishings, a blacksmith shop, a weaving and spinning building, slave quarters, vegetable garden, and other structures. Take in the beauty of the surrounding majestic oak trees.
Address: 2161 Nicholson Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Phone: 1 225-343-4955
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm; Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm
Distance from Louisiana Art and Science Museum: 2.0miles or 5minutes drive
4:00pm- Some more history at Louisiana State Capitol!
Go to the top of this landmark structure, the Louisiana State Capitol, and enjoy the gorgeous 360-degree view of Baton Rouge. While inside, check out the decor, the chambers of the senate and House of Representatives, and the governor’s mansion. Stroll along the Memorial Hall and know about the history of Louisiana.
Address: 900 N 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States
Phone: 1 225-342-7317
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:00am-4:30pm
Distance from Magnolia Mound Plantation: 2.3miles or 8minutes drive
4:30pm-Shaw Center for the Arts!
Next, head off to the Shaw Center for the Arts that is a performing art spot. Enjoy the visual and performing arts by several artists, scholars and students. Admire the architecture and modern design, comprised of the modern glass-clad structure. The center features an eclectic artwork with several touring and permanent collections. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Mississippi River from this spot.
Address: 100 Lafayette Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, United States
Phone: 1 225-389-7171
Opening hours: Tuesday & Wednesday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Thursday: 10:00am-8:00pm; Friday & Saturday: 10:00am-5:00pm; Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm
Distance from Louisiana State Capitol: 0.9miles or 5minutes drive
5:00pm- Go Shopping!
Head off to the Towne Center at Cedar Lodge. It has an array of shops and restaurants. You can find clothes, jewelry, shoes and items for home at this spot. The center has a unique selection of specialty boutiques and stores.
Address: 6765 Corporate Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, United States
Phone: 1 225-925-2344
Indulge in some more shopping at the Cortana Mall. From the anchor stores like Sears, JC Penney, Dillard’s, and Macy’s to more than 110 specialty stores and several restaurants, this mall offers a total shopping experience. Some of the specialty stores are Champ Sports, Express, Bath & Body Works, Claire’s, Vivo’s and more.
Address: 9401 Cortana Pl, Baton Rouge, LA 70815, United States
Phone: 1 225-927-6747
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00am-9:00pm; Sunday: 12:00pm-6:00pm
7:00pm- Dinner!
Head off to the Anthony’s Italian Deli (5575 Government St) that puts out authentic Italian fare. Try the Cajun classics and BBQ at the Frank’s Restaurant (8353 Airline Hwy).
9:00pm- Partying and Nightlife in the “Capital City”!
Dance the night away at the Texas Club, a popular live music venue where many nationally known rock and country music artists perform live acts. Dance and enjoy the live music while sipping on drinks. Party like a local at the Texas Club!
Address: 456 N Donmoor Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, United States
Phone: 1 225-928-4655
Opening hours: Thursday to Saturday: 8:30pm-2:00am
Map Guide of 24 Hours Tour in Baton Rouge
