One day in Baton Rouge is enough for the city’s essential landmarks if you keep the itinerary focused. I would concentrate on downtown and the State Capitol area rather than trying to cross the entire city repeatedly.
Morning: Louisiana politics
Start at the Louisiana State Capitol. Explore the grounds and, when access allows, take in the view from the building.
Then visit Capitol Park Museum for broader context about Louisiana history and culture.
Lunch: eat Louisiana
Use lunch as part of the sightseeing. Look for gumbo, boudin, seafood or another regional dish rather than choosing the most familiar national option.
Afternoon: old capitol and river
Head into downtown and visit the Old State Capitol. Afterwards, walk towards the Mississippi and spend some time watching the river.
If maritime history interests you and current access permits, the USS Kidd can fill the remainder of the afternoon.
Evening
Finish with dinner downtown, in Mid City or near LSU depending on where you are staying.
I would not attempt New Orleans as part of the same day. Baton Rouge deserves at least one day where it is the destination rather than simply a stop between better-known Louisiana cities.
Leave a Reply