4 Best Things for Solo Travelers to Do When Visiting Baton Rouge

Making your way to Louisiana’s capital city of Baton Rouge promises an exciting journey of architecture, dining and history alongside the Mississippi River. While New Orleans steals the headlines, Baton Rouge is the epitome of a true Southern town with a rich history that dates back to America’s pioneer days and the French occupation. We hope this guide inspires you to spend some time in the lovely “Red Stick” to make some lasting memories.

Explore Unique Architecture

If you like the cultural mix of French and Spanish architecture in New Orleans, Baton Rouge’s own scene must be viewed up close to appreciate. Because Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s state capital, you can get an eyeful visiting the current Louisiana State Capitol building as well as the old one. Experience the glory and splendor of the current skyscraper State Capitol, as the tallest capitol in the U.S. with 34 floors.

The current capitol goes back to the 1930s and is a beacon of the majesty of Art Deco design. Take private tours to make it to the top for unbelievable views of the city and Mississippi River from the observation deck. This building has ties to some of America’s greatest political moments, including being the spot where for Louisiana Gov. Huey P. Long was killed.

Enjoy more of Baton Rouge’s architectural history by visiting the Old State Capitol just blocks away. Situated majestically alongside the Mississippi River, the Old State Capital dates back to the 1840s, well before America’s pivotal Civil War. Admire the Gothic architecture, stained glass dome and cast iron spiral staircase. The Old State Capital also has as a museum on-site with historical Louisiana artifacts and documents.

Visit Magnolia Mound Plantation

Louisiana, like most Southern states, had deep roots in the inhumane institution of slavery. Because Baton Rouge is a cultural city with a devotion to history, it maintains Magnolia Mound Plantation & Historic Site and offers it for tours. Magnolia Mound dates back to the 1790s and provides precious insight into life at that time, as well as Louisiana’s colonial history.

The first thing you will notice is the French Creole building design with unbelievably high ceilings. Take a private tour to stroll along the many wide balconies with impressive views of the grounds. After enjoying the amazing views up high, continue the tour to touch up close the remnants of the outhouses and the former slave quarters.

Beyond Magnolia Mound, the Baton Rouge area also contains other historical plantations. Visitors are encouraged to see The Myrtles in St. Francisville and Nottoway in White Castle.

Fall in Love with Downtown Baton Rouge

For a true taste of Louisiana cuisine and Louisiana, visiting Downtown Baton Rouge is a must. When it comes to food, stopping by Poor Boy Lloyd’s and The Little Village should be at the top of the itinerary. Or chat among the locals at one of the amazing craft breweries like the Cane Land Distilling Company.

The Gregory Hotel is another high-end location that offers luxury cocktails and several glimpses into Baton Rouge’s history. For those who like to mingle at night while enjoying the finest International cuisine, there’s no better place than L’Auberge Casino Hotel.

This local casino is situated alongside the Mississippi River, with sensational nighttime views that must be seen up close to appreciate. Wrap your mind around nearly 75,000 square feet, which includes a renovated hotel with 12 stories of the latest luxuries and five in-house restaurants, including regional favorite 18 Steak.

Whether you stay to play or to eat during the day, continue visiting Downtown Baton Rouge to interact with local artisan boutiques. Many of these boutiques offer home-baked goods, handmade soaps and clothes that carry a proud local heritage.

Stroll Along the Mississippi River Levee

What better way to experience the majesty and natural beauty of the Mississippi River than walking along the river levee? Stroll or jog the path to admire the Mighty Mississippi and the Baton Rouge landscape. Along the way, stop off at the historical Louisiana Art & Science Museum or U.S.S. Kidd Museum. Don’t miss the Sing the River sculpture, which converts river speed and height to a singing sound you’ll take home with you.