Baton Rouge, meaning “Red Stick” in French, is a town full of life, culture and delicious food. Located along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is a welcoming community with abundant French-Creole charm. As the capital of our state and second largest city offering mostly warm temperatures year round, Baton Rouge is a great destination for a fun girls’ weekend. To make your trip effortless, here are my recommendation for the must see, do and eats in our hometown.
Lodging
L’Auberge Casino & Hotel: Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, L’Auberge offers plush accommodations and stunning views. During your stay, try your luck in the casino, take in some live music at The Edge Bar or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the in-house restaurants. L’Auberge offers several great concerts, comedians and bands throughout the year so be sure to check the schedule of events before planning your stay. During the warmer months, the hotel offers an amazing roof top pool with great views of the river and a bar. You can also reserve a cabana in advance to take full advantage of your time away.
Hilton Capital Center: Located in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge, the Hilton is within walking distance of several bars, amazing restaurants and exciting nightlife. Located along the Mississippi as well, the Hilton offers guests a terrace pool which overlooks downtown and the river. The Kingfish bar is adjacent to the hotel and is a great place to sip a cocktail in a mature environment.
Houmas House Plantation: A little off the beaten path, Houmas House plantation offers well-appointed, luxury cottages for overnight stays. Again, located along the banks of the Mississippi, Houmas House is a quiet place for a nice getaway. Take in a tour of the gardens or plantation home and learn about the rich history the property. Houmas House also boasts several delicious restaurants offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Take a short walk across the street to access a walking path atop the Mississippi River levee.
Shopping:
Simply Chic: Stop by Simply Chic boutique to find the perfect girls’ night out outfit or accessories. The staff at Simply Chic aims to please and is always eager to help you find the perfect pieces at reasonable prices.
The Royal Standard: The Royal Standard has two locations and offers lots of great treasures for your home, the latest fashion trends, and amazing gifts for everyone you left at home. There are just so many fun and unique items, you won’t walk away empty handed.
Bra Genie: For the perfect fitting bra and lovely undergarment and lingerie, The Bra Genie is like no other. The experts will help you find the perfect fitting bra. The Bra Genie also stocks swim wear during the warmer months.
Pampering:
Avant Tous Beauty Bar: Avant Tous can provide just about any beauty or pampering service you desire. In the relaxing environment, de-stress while enjoying time to yourself as you beautify.
Woodhouse Day Spa: For a truly relaxing experience book an appointment for a spa service at the Woodhouse Day Spa. Immediately as you walk through the door, all your worries will be whisked away. Arrive early for your appointment and enjoy a cocktail or cup of coffee in the exquisite “quiet room,” possibly one of my very favorite places in Baton Rouge.
Orchid Nails: Walk in for great service and a wonderful manicure and pedicure. The staff at Orchid is friendly and the atmosphere is perfect for a mom looking to relax.
Dining:
Breakfast – Magpie Cafe’: Breakfast doesn’t get any better than at Magpie. Stop by either of the two locations for a quick farm-to-table breakfast and amazing coffee. Magpie offers a variety of selections daily, with several paleo, gluten free and vegan selections.
Brunch – Bistro Byronz: To me, brunch is synonymous with a girl’s weekend. Bistro Byronz offers scrumptious brunch selections complete with frozen mimosas. The french toast is quite possibly the best I’ve ever eaten.
Lunch – City Pork Brasserie & Bar: Split a charcuterie board with with your girlfriends while enjoying a signature cocktail or perfectly paired glass of wine. City Pork also has several delicious appetizers and salads that are great for sharing.
Dinner – Kalurah Street Grill: Cozily tucked under the Perkins Road overpass, this hidden gem is a must for a delicious dinner. Formerly Chelsea’s, the beautifully remodeled Kalurah Street Grill has a great bar area to visit with your girlfriends and offers live music and karoke on occasion. For dinner, prepared to be wowed, the food is amazing.
Cocktails:
Olive or Twist: Olive or Twist serves up delicious cocktails that vary weekly and a awesome selection of craft beers. Happy hour specials are offered every day and all day on Sunday and Monday. While it is a bar, Olive or Twist also serves some delicious food.
Ringside at Sullivan’s: For the best martinis in town, Ringside at Sullivan’s is the place to go! Try the Knockout Martini while enjoying live music.
Bin 77: Located in Perkins Rowe, Bin 77 offers a large selection of wine that can be enjoyed inside or in their beautiful courtyard. With food selections available too, Bin 77 never disappoints.
Culture:
Live After Five: A free concert series offered in the spring and fall months, Live After Five is a fun free event and is the perfect way to wind down on a Friday afternoon.
Shaw Center for the Arts: Rooftop terraces, restaurants, art and music, the Shaw Center for the Arts has so much to offer. Check the schedule of events before booking your trip and don’t miss out on some great musicians and events.
LSU: While visiting Baton Rouge, make time to check out the beauty of LSU’s campus. Louisiana State University offers numerous sporting events throughout the year, concerts and performances.
Baton Rouge also offers numerous free festivals around town throughout the year featuring local food, music and art. If you’re looking for a more laid back trip, take a stroll down the levee and soak in the rich culture and beauty of the Mississippi River that truly defines our city.
