Travel Guide to Baton Rouge

Why you should visit Baton Rouge

by Shannon Lane | January 19, 2010

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Baton Rouge, French for "red stick," was once the meeting place for Native Americans at a red-colored stick that marked this special area. Today, the Greater Baton Rouge Area is the meeting ground for politicians, tailgaters, and families from all over the world. This is the city in Louisiana where decisions are made and visitors come to play.

Baton Rouge is a destination of political history and southern hospitality served with a side of youthful energy and finished off with culture and music. Whatever your appetite, Baton Rouge has something to appease your hunger.

Are you a sports fan? You won’t be disappointed by a visit to Baton Rouge. There’s nothing like catching an LSU or Southern home game, be it football, baseball, or basketball. We also have numerous golf courses and boast one of the best public course systems in the US.

If you like the outdoors, take a visit to Bluebonnet Swamp during the day or catch a falling star at the Highland Road Observatory. When the weather is at its best, outdoor festivals and concerts can be enjoyed downtown, with annual events including Fest for All, The Baton Rouge Blues Festival, and Bayou Country Superfest.

Those searching for the finer arts can take in one of the exhibits at the Louisiana Arts and Science Center (LASM) or the Shaw Center for the Arts. If you prefer stage productions, The Baton Rouge Ballet and The Baton Rouge Symphony offer entertaining performances throughout their season. There are also special Broadway Productions and even live concerts at the Baton Rouge River Center.

The littlest visitors to Baton Rouge will enjoy an afternoon at the Baton Rouge Zoo, one of the most budget friendly zoos in the United States or even a ride on a carousel at the Mall of Louisiana. If rides are your thing, Blue Bayou Water Park and Dixie Landin' will wear out even the biggest ball of energy in the family.

You should visit Baton Rouge to discover that it isn’t just the capital of Louisiana, but that we also serve up some capital fun for everyone. Whatever your interest, we’ve got you covered.

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