Top 10 Things to Do in Baton Rouge This Weekend

Travel Destinations 2024-07-29

Baton Rouge is a bustling city located on the Mississippi River, and the capital of Louisiana. Till 2022, the estimated population of Baton Rouge was 221,453. No doubt, it’s least visited city from all over the U.S but worth visiting once in a lifetime.

From gorgeous parks to historical monuments and historical events/ festivals, Louisiana’s capital has everything for all type of travelers. Whether you are visiting this remarkable city for summer vacation or adventurous tour, there are plenty of things to do in Baton Rouge this weekend.

Below is our complete guide to every exciting adventure in Baton Rouge that awaits you.

Table of Contents

10 Things to Do in Baton Rouge This Weekend

There are a wide variety of activities to do in Baton Rouge like festivals in Baton Rouge this weekend to free events in Baton Rouge this weekend. The following are 10 of the best things that you can enjoy this weekend:

1. Baton Rouge, LA Water Lantern Festival

A large crowd gathers by a water's edge during twilight at the Baton Rouge, LA Water Lantern Festival, releasing numerous glowing paper lanterns onto the water. Palm trees are visible in the background, and the flickering lanterns create a warm, serene atmosphere against the dusky blue sky. — ©kabileler.com

From tasty food trucks, fun music, activities and thousands of lanterns lighting up to the night, you can make your evening memorable. LA Water Lantern Festival is a family-friendly event that shouldn’t be missed. Ticket bookings are ongoing so make sure to book your ticket on time from their website www.waterlanternfestival.com.

Location

20055 Old Scenic Hwy Baton Rouge, LA 70791

Price

$28.33 to $55.99

Date

August 3, 2024

Time

5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

2. Red Stick Farmers Market

For a fresh and fun shopping experience with historical event vibes, head to Red Stick Farmers Market in Downtown Baton Rouge. It is one of the best free events in Baton Rouge this weekend. This market has more than 50 farmers with a variety of locally grown products. In order to maintain healthy and safe environment, pets are not allowed.

Location

501 Main Street, Corner of 5th Street and Main Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Price

Free-Open to the Public

Date

August 3, 2024

Time

8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

3. Melanin Magic Brunch

Melanin Magic Brunch is one of the best outdoor festivals in Baton Rouge this weekend that celebrates Black culture and community through food, music, and social connection.

From delicious food and live music to networking opportunities and fundraising events, you won’t get bored in this event. One of the best events who want to enjoy music, food and entertainment.

Location

8133 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA, USA

Price

$71.21

Date

August 4, 2024

Time

12 – 4pm

4. Blue Bayou Water Park

Aerial view of Blue Bayou Water Park, showcasing numerous pools, exhilarating water slides, and meandering lazy rivers. People are swimming and sunbathing. The park is bustling with activity and surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky. — ©kpel965.com

During summer season, Blue Bayou Water Park is one of the best things to do in Baton Rouge this weekend for adults. It comes with different water slides, lazy river, wave pool and more than 15 attractions. Also, in this park, you can explore world’s largest water slides. For ultimate fun and relaxation, this place won’t disappoint you.

Location

18142 Perkins Rd E, Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Operating season

May 5 through September 3

Time

Wednesday-Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM
Monday & Tuesday: Closed

Phone

(225) 753-3333

5. Lousiana Art & Science Museum

A futuristic museum exhibit at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum features glowing blue lights, various displays, interactive screens, and large suspended objects. People tour the spacious area, some engaged in hands-on exhibits. The setting has a high-tech, immersive atmosphere. — ©airauctioneer.com

This art and science museum once operating as a train station comes with space and culture. In this museum, you can explore the science and history in form of famous exhibitions of international artists, galleries and a state-of-the-art planetarium. Before plan a perfect day trip, don’t forget to check out their list of interactive exhibits and famous events.

Location

100 S River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801

Time

Wednesday to Friday: 10 AM–3 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
Sunday 1–5 PM
Monday & Tuesday: Closed

Phone

(225) 344-5272

6. Magnolia Mound Plantation

A picturesque garden with green plants growing in neat rows, bordered by a rustic wooden fence. A sandy pathway leads to two charming houses reminiscent of Magnolia Mound Plantation, surrounded by tall trees under a clear blue sky. The scene is bathed in bright sunlight. — ©expedia.com.au

It was constructed back in 1791 near the Mississippi River. Magnolia Mound Plantation showcases the French and West Indies vernacular architecture that influenced many houses. Here, you can also attend different educational programs, events, workshops and lectures. Also, it’s listed on National register of historic places and famous for or authentic preservation and restoration.

Location

2161 Nicholson Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Time

Monday to Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM
Sunday: 1–4 PM

Phone

(225) 343-4955

7. Shaw Center for the Arts

The Shaw Center for the Arts is a modern angular building with sharp edges and a white façade. It features large, irregularly-shaped windows and is illuminated by streetlights in the evening. There are trees and traffic lights in front of the building, set against a clear sky. — ©arch2o.com

This excellent center for the arts has been providing cultural events to Baton Rouge’s citizens since 2005. Shaw center for the arts show talent with music, performance acts and dance. Ancient Chinese sculptures and regional portraits or drawings has been existed in this arts center. Other than sculptures and regional drawings, you can seek learning from educational performances.

Location

100 Lafayette St, Baton Rouge, LA 70801

Time

Monday: 9 AM–4 PM
Tuesday to Thursday: 9 AM–10 PM
Friday: 9 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–11 PM
Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM

Phone

(225) 389-7171

8. The Mall of Louisiana

The Mall of Louisiana, a modern shopping destination, features a striking glass pyramid roof and entrance canopy surrounded by storefronts such as Pottery Barn and Bebe. Palm trees line the walkway, where several people stroll near parked cars at dusk against a backdrop of a blue sky. — ©kpel965.com

If you want to do some shopping, The Mall of Louisiana is one of the best options to go for. The Mall of Louisiana is only the regional shopping mall in Baton Rouge.

There are 150 stores here from where you can easily purchase anything of your choice. Outdoor shopping area in Louisiana named as Boulevard and more than 25 restaurants let you enjoy to the fullest.

Location

6401 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70836

Time

Monday to Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
Sunday: 12–6 PM

Phone

(225) 761-7228

9. Sensational Mermaid Show at Blue Zoo

A young girl gazes at a sensational mermaid show at Blue Zoo, captivated by an underwater performer dressed as a mermaid. The performer, with long, flowing hair and a vibrant tail fin, interacts with the girl through the glass, waving their hands against the stunning aquatic backdrop. — ©zoon1.com

Blue Zoo is more than a zoo and its aquarium too. Experience a live pirate show with sword fighting and mermaid at blue zoo.

Watch in quality environment as these enchanting creatures glide through the water, performing graceful acrobatics and interacting with the audience. It’s an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike that you can’t forget ever.

Location

6401 Bluebonnet Boulevard, Suite 1123

Date

August 2, 2024

Time

5:00 PM

Phone

(877) 425-8396

10. Harrell’s Ferry Dog Park

At Harrell’s Ferry Dog Park, a group of people and various breeds of dogs gather in a green, sunny space. Some interact with their dogs, while others stand and talk. Trees and park amenities are visible in the background. One white dog with a blue collar stands in the foreground. — ©phxfray.com

If you are dog lover and want to indulge your dog into ultimate joy, excitement and fun, Harrell’s Ferry Park is one of the best options.

Take your favorite dog for a stroll around the pond at this local treasure. Dogs you want to bring in this park must not be more than 6-feet long at all time. There’re no dog fights are allowed inside the park so ensure it earlier.

Location

13900 South Harrell, 13900 S Harrells Ferry Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70816

Time

Monday to Sunday: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM

Phone

(225) 256-2849

Final Thoughts!

Baton Rouge offers a diverse and exciting experience for every visitor. From exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying outdoor adventures and vibrant nightlife, the city has something to offer everyone.

This guide provides a list of 10 things to do in Baton Rouge this weekend, but don’t be afraid to explore and discover hidden gems along the way.

Remember, the best memories are made when you accept the unexpected! So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Baton Rouge getaway today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are some Fun things to do in and around Baton Rouge?

You can explore historical landmarks like Old Louisiana State Capitol, Magnolia Mound Plantation, Visit Baton Rouge Zoo, Louisiana Art & Science Museum and relax at The Emporium Signature Spa. You can also check out local events, festivals and live music concerts.

What are the upsides of vacationing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana?

There are many upsides of enjoying vacations in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. You can explore Rich culture and history, try out delicious Creole cuisine and
enjoy some outdoor adventures like fishing and boating.

Ferona Jose

Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

Top 10 Things to Do in Baton Rouge This Weekend

10 Things to Do in Baton Rouge This Weekend