Baton Rouge is a city big on football, food, fun, and history. It's the state capital and includes must-see historic attractions such as the Old Louisiana State Capitol and the USS Kidd on the Mississippi River. The city hosts several conference centers, hotels, and restaurants that will make your trip productive and unforgettable.
Make the Most of Your Time in Baton Rouge
If traveling by plane, you'll arrive at the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) off I-110. Its proximity to the freeway means travel will be easy once you land. For example, you'll find most area hotels along I-10 after the I-12 intersection. This stretch is roughly a 20-minute drive from the airport. Renting a car is easy as you will be able to find the National Car Rental booth located at the north end of the terminal.
This area also serves up some of the best food in the city. For some upscale Louisiana fare, try Parrain's Seafood Restaurant. Mansurs on the Boulevard is a lovely Creole option with a nightly pianist — the perfect backdrop to talk business or dine in style. For something more hands-on, go to the Acme Oyster House – Baton Rouge. All of these restaurants are before the I-10/I-12 intersection, which is within a 20-minute drive of the airport and nearby many hotels. This area is removed from the downtown area, so you'll have no trouble finding a place to park.
To learn more about the city, go to the Old Louisiana State Capitol along the Mississippi River (heading back toward the airport via I-110). The USS Kidd is off the same street, making this area just south of downtown perfect for an afternoon in Baton Rouge. Visit The Blues Room, an intimate bar about a block away from these attractions, to unwind after a long day.
Working in the City
If you're visiting the city to attend a conference or convention, you may be scheduled to spend some time at The Cook Hotel at LSU or the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, both of which offer lodging and conference spaces. These are by the I-110/I-10 interchange –roughly 20 minutes from the airport. The good news is that with so many restaurants, conference halls, and attractions along I-10, navigating the city is very simple.