Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
1. New Orleans
Cultural city with vibrant music and food scene, less than two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Rich History: Home to the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and historic plantation homes.
- Food Variety: Known for Creole and Cajun cuisine, including beignets, gumbo, and jambalaya.
- Music Scene: Jazz clubs, live music venues, and the world-famous New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
2. Lafayette
Cajun heartland with festive atmosphere, less than three hours from Baton Rouge.
- Authentic Cajun Culture: Experience the unique Cajun way of life, language, and food.
- Rice Fields and Swamps: Tour the scenic rice fields and swamplands on airboat rides or guided tours.
- Festivals: Attend popular festivals like the Festival International de Louisiane, or the Bayou Blues Festival.
3. Natchitoches
Historic town on the banks of Cane River, less than two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Historic District: Stroll through the historic district with its well-preserved French Colonial and Greek Revival architecture.
- Festival Season: Celebrate Christmas in Louisiana during the Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights.
- Cane River Creole National Historical Park: Explore this unique park, with plantation homes dating back to the 18th century.
4. Hammond
Home to Southeastern Louisiana University and a vibrant arts scene, less than an hour from Baton Rouge.
- University Activities: Attend concerts, plays, or sporting events at Southeastern Louisiana University.
- Arts and Culture: Visit the art galleries, museums, and the Hammond Regional Arts Center.
- Parks and Recreation: Enjoy outdoor activities at Northpark, or visit Tickfaw State Park for camping and boating.
5. Slidell
Cultural melting pot with Creole heritage and a seafood-focused culinary scene, just over an hour from Baton Rouge.
- Seafood Delights: Savor local seafood specialties like oysters, crawfish, and shrimp.
- Festivals: Experience the Honey Island Swamp Fest, or Mardi Gras in Slidell.
- Nature and Wildlife: Visit Honey Island Swamp for airboat tours, wildlife viewing, and photography.
6. Covington
Charming town with a thriving arts scene, just over an hour from Baton Rouge.
- Arts and Culture: Visit galleries, shops, and the Collins C. Diboll Cultural Center.
- Historic District: Explore the historic district with its well-preserved Victorian architecture.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking at Fontainebleau State Park.
7. Donaldsonville
Historic town on the Mississippi River, less than an hour from Baton Rouge.
- Historic District: Stroll through the historic district with its well-preserved antebellum mansions.
- Riverboat Cruises: Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River for scenic views and relaxation.
- Plantation Tours: Tour the Myrtles Plantation, one of America's most haunted homes.
8. Bay St. Louis
Charming coastal town with a vibrant arts scene, just over two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Arts and Culture: Visit art galleries, studios, and the Bay St. Louis Art Center.
- Beaches: Relax on the pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast.
- Historic District: Explore the historic district with its well-preserved architecture.
9. Biloxi
Coastal city known for casinos and seafood, just over two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Casinos: Try your luck at the many casinos along the Biloxi Bay.
- Seafood Delights: Savor local seafood specialties like oysters, shrimp, and gumbo.
- Beaches: Relax on the pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast.
10. Gulfport
Coastal city with a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks, just over two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Arts and Culture: Visit the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Gulfport Art Center.
- Beaches: Relax on the pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast.
- Parks and Recreation: Enjoy outdoor activities at Jones Park, or visit L&N Railroad State Park.
11. French Quarter (New Orleans)
Iconic neighborhood known for its vibrant music and food scene, less than two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Rich History: Home to the St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, and historic buildings.
- Food Variety: Known for Creole and Cajun cuisine, including beignets, gumbo, and jambalaya.
- Music Scene: Jazz clubs, live music venues, and the world-famous New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
12. Garden District (New Orleans)
Historic neighborhood known for its beautiful mansions and parks, less than two hours from Baton Rouge.
- Historic Architecture: Admire the well-preserved historic mansions.
- Parks and Recreation: Relax in Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 or Audubon Park.
- Shopping and Dining: Explore the unique boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants.
13. Garden District (Lafayette)
Charming neighborhood with beautiful gardens and historic homes, less than three hours from Baton Rouge.
- Historic Architecture: Admire the well-preserved historic mansions.
- Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful gardens, like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's gardens.
- Shopping and Dining: Explore the unique boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants.
14. Abita Springs
Small town known for its breweries and natural beauty, less than an hour from Baton Rouge.
- Breweries: Visit Abita Brewing Company for tastings and tours.
- Outdoor Activities: Hike, bike, or swim at the Tammany Trace or Abita River.
- Nature and Wildlife: Visit the Audubon Nature Institute at Tanglewood Forest for wildlife viewing.
15. Destrehan Plantation
Historic plantation home with a haunted reputation, just over an hour from Baton Rouge.
- Historic Architecture: Tour the well-preserved historic mansion.
- Haunted History: Learn about the plantation's haunted history on a guided tour.
- Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the plantation.