Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Founded by French settlers in 1719, the city has been a melting pot of different cultures throughout its history, leaving behind a unique blend of influences that can be seen in its architecture, cuisine, and music. In recent years, Baton Rouge has undergone a revitalization, with new attractions and amenities popping up all over the city. Here are eight of the best things to do in Baton Rouge in 2024:
1. Visit the Louisiana State Capitol
The Louisiana State Capitol is a majestic building that dominates the Baton Rouge skyline. Completed in 1932, the Capitol is the tallest state capitol building in the United States. It is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture, with its limestone exterior, gold-leafed dome, and intricate interior. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Capitol, which includes the House and Senate chambers, the governor’s office, and the Supreme Court courtroom.
2. Explore the USS Kidd
The USS Kidd is a Fletcher-class destroyer that served in the US Navy during World War II. After the war, the Kidd was decommissioned and donated to the city of Baton Rouge. Today, the Kidd is a museum ship that is open to the public. Visitors can explore the ship’s decks, engine room, and living quarters, and learn about its history and role in World War II.
3. Visit the Old State Capitol
The Old State Capitol is a historic building that served as the Louisiana State Capitol from 1849 to 1932. The building is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture, with its white columns, pediment, and rotunda. Today, the Old State Capitol is a museum that houses exhibits on Louisiana history, culture, and politics. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the building.
4. Explore the Louisiana Art & Science Museum
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum is a world-class museum that houses a collection of art, science, and history exhibits. The museum’s art collection includes works by Louisiana artists such as George Rodrigue, Clementine Hunter, and John James Audubon. The museum’s science exhibits include interactive displays on topics such as space, the human body, and the environment. Visitors can also explore the museum’s planetarium, which offers shows on a variety of astronomy topics.
5. Visit the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center is a 100-acre nature preserve that is located just outside of Baton Rouge. The nature center offers a variety of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation platforms that allow visitors to explore the swamp’s unique ecosystem. Visitors can also learn about the swamp’s flora and fauna through the nature center’s educational programs and exhibits.
6. Attend a concert at the Raising Cane’s River Center
The Raising Cane’s River Center is a multi-purpose arena that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and conventions. The arena has a capacity of over 10,000 people and has hosted some of the biggest names in music, such as Elton John, Taylor Swift, and BeyoncĂ©. Visitors can check the Raising Cane’s River Center website for a list of upcoming events.
7. Visit the USS Kidd Veterans Museum
The USS Kidd Veterans Museum is a museum that is dedicated to telling the stories of the veterans who served on the USS Kidd during World War II. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the stories of the Kidd’s crew, from their training to their combat experiences. Visitors can also learn about the ship’s role in some of the most important naval battles of World War II.
8. Visit the Shaw Center for the Arts
The Shaw Center for the Arts is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance productions. The Shaw Center is also home to the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. Visitors can check the Shaw Center website for a list of upcoming performances.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, and Best Hotels
Baton Rouge is a city with a rich culture that is influenced by its French, Spanish, and African heritage. The city is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and theaters. Baton Rouge is also known for its music scene, with live music venues located throughout the city. The best time to visit Baton Rouge is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. Baton Rouge is located on the Mississippi River, and is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is served by the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, which offers flights to major cities throughout the United States.
Baton Rouge has a variety of local food options, including Cajun and Creole cuisine. Some of the best local restaurants in Baton Rouge include:
- The Chimes
- Ruffino’s
- Drago’s Seafood Restaurant
- The Stockyard Restaurant
- PJ’s Coffee of Baton Rouge
There are a variety of hotels in Baton Rouge, including:
- The Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center
- The Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown
- The Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel
Conclusion
Baton Rouge is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Baton Rouge, including visiting historical sites, exploring museums, attending concerts, and enjoying the city’s local food. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or a music enthusiast, Baton Rouge has something to offer everyone.