fun things to do in baton rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a wide range of fun activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some fun things to do in Baton Rouge:

1. Visit the USS Kidd: Explore the USS Kidd, a Fletcher-class destroyer that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The ship is now a museum and memorial.
2. Louisiana State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the Louisiana State Capitol building, which offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
3. Baton Rouge Zoo: Home to over 1,800 animals from around the world, the Baton Rouge Zoo is a great place to spend a day with family and friends.
4. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: Explore the beautiful Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, which features hiking trails, bird-watching, and opportunities to spot alligators and other wildlife.
5. Magnolia Mound Plantation: Visit this historic plantation, which offers tours of the mansion, gardens, and grounds.
6. LSU Rural African American Museum: Learn about the history and culture of African Americans in rural Louisiana at this unique museum.
7. Baton Rouge River Center: Attend a concert, show, or event at the Baton Rouge River Center, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
8. Third Street Songwriters Festival: If you’re visiting in April, be sure to check out the Third Street Songwriters Festival, which features live music performances by local and national songwriters.
9. Red Stick Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning, visit the Red Stick Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
10. Take a swamp tour: Explore the nearby swamps and bayous on a guided boat tour, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
11. Visit the Baton Rouge Museum: Learn about the history and culture of Baton Rouge at this museum, which features exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to the Civil War.
12. Go kayaking or paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby lakes and waterways.
13. Attend a LSU sporting event: If you’re visiting during football season, be sure to catch a LSU Tigers game at Tiger Stadium.
14. Visit the Hilltop Arboretum: Explore the beautiful gardens and walking trails of the Hilltop Arboretum, which features a variety of plant species and scenic views.
15. Take a food tour: Sample the best of Baton Rouge’s cuisine on a guided food tour, which might include stops at local eateries, bakeries, and markets.
16. Visit the Baton Rouge Gallery: Check out the latest exhibits at the Baton Rouge Gallery, which features works by local and regional artists.
17. Go hiking at the Comite River Park: Explore the scenic trails and scenic views of the Comite River Park, which offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities.
18. Attend a festival: Baton Rouge hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Baton Rouge Blues Festival, the Baton Rouge Jazz Festival, and the Louisiana Book Festival.
19. Visit the Old Governor’s Mansion: Take a tour of the Old Governor’s Mansion, which offers a glimpse into the state’s history and politics.
20. Go shopping at the Mall of Louisiana: If you’re looking for some retail therapy, head to the Mall of Louisiana, which features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Baton Rouge. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.