things to do in baton rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Here are some things to do in Baton Rouge:

1. Louisiana State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the historic Capitol building and climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.
2. 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.
3. Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center: Explore the beautiful Bluebonnet Swamp and learn about the local flora and fauna.
4. Museum of Art: Discover a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by local artists.
5. R.W. Norton Art Gallery: This art museum features a collection of European and American art, as well as rotating exhibits.
6. Baton Rouge River Center: Catch a concert, show, or sporting event at this multi-purpose venue.
7. Old Governor’s Mansion: Take a tour of this historic mansion, which served as the residence of Louisiana governors from 1930 to 1972.
8. Baton Rouge Botanical Garden: Stroll through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the scenic views.
9. Parish Park: This 1,200-acre park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and boating.
10. Downtown Baton Rouge: Explore the vibrant downtown area, which features shops, restaurants, and bars.

Food and Drink:

1. Try some gumbo: Baton Rouge is famous for its gumbo, a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and rice.
2. Visit the Baton Rouge Farmers Market: Every Saturday, the farmers market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
3. Sample some Cajun cuisine: Try some fried catfish, jambalaya, or boudin at one of the many local restaurants.
4. Take a brewery tour: Baton Rouge is home to several craft breweries, including Parleaux Brewing Company and Southern Brewing Company.

Events and Festivals:

1. Baton Rouge Mardi Gras: Celebrate the city’s Mardi Gras tradition with parades, parties, and live music.
2. Baton Rouge Jazz and Blues Festival: Enjoy live music performances by local and national jazz and blues artists.
3. Baton Rouge Film Festival: This annual festival showcases independent films and attracts industry professionals.
4. Baton Rouge Food and Wine Festival: Sample local cuisine and drinks at this annual festival.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Kayaking or paddleboarding: Rent equipment and explore the Mississippi River or nearby lakes.
2. Hiking and biking: The Baton Rouge area offers several trails for hiking and biking, including the Baton Rouge Riverwalk.
3. Fishing: Try your luck at catching bass, catfish, or other species in the Mississippi River or nearby lakes.
4. Golfing: The Baton Rouge area is home to several golf courses, including the Baton Rouge Country Club and the Parque Lagoon Golf Course.

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