The Play List: Things to do for singles in Baton Rouge

Arts Market

Held the first Saturday of each month, the Baton Rouge Arts Market showcases the very best creative wares local artisans have to offer. The market operates rain or shine, and shops sell everything from handmade, hand-carved soap to jewelry, housewares and everything in between. Support the arts community, shop local and get truly one-of-a-kind pieces your friends will swoon over. acgbr.com

Atomic Pop Shop

Love real vinyl albums? You’ll love the Atomic Pop Shop. Featuring everything from vintage finds to modern hits, this Mid City treasure supports the love of all things vinyl, stocking vintage audio equipment and supplies as well as art by proprietress Kerry Beary. 2963 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 771-8455. atomicpopshop.com

Bacio Di Roma

This gelateria on Chimes Street, right at the LSU gates, offers more than just a taste of Italy with its delicious, homemade frozen treats, pastries and paninis. It’s also a cultural Mecca of sorts, providing events like International Movie Nights on Tuesdays. Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to hear about the old country, ask the proprietor. He’ll enlighten you with some colorful Italian history and let you in on the secret spots to visit when in Rome. 128 W. Chimes St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 636-2668. baciodiromabr.com

Baton Rouge Art Gallery

The Baton Rouge Art Gallery offers engaging and approachable opportunities to get involved in the local art scene. Check out the First Wednesdays series, which takes place on the first Wednesday of every month from 7 to 9 p.m. Hear it straight from the artist’s mouth at monthly Articulate events, or just stop by the gallery, located in the historic City Park, for current art exhibitions. 1515 Dalrymple Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 383-1470. batonrougegallery.org

Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre

More than 50 years old, the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre showcases the best in classical and modern dance. Each year, the nonprofit company presents <i>The Nutcracker: A Tale from the Bayou</i> with live music from the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra and a spring concert with guest artists. 10745 Linkwood Ct. batonrougeballet.org

Baton Rouge Food Truck Wround-Up

Food trucks have captivated the nation, and there’s no doubt the Red Stick has fallen under the spell of these mobile restaurants, with locals and out-of-towners alike chasing down their favorite’s location each day of the week. However, the best and most festive way to enjoy a snack is Wednesday’s Food Truck Wround-Ups, weekly gatherings of all Baton Rouge’s best food trucks, along with great music and lots of fun. Check brwroundup.com for next week’s location, grab a friend and bring your appetite.

Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra

The BRSO invites you to an extensive close-up look at classical music, whether you’re an expert or a novice listener. Its Symphony 101 series provides an approachable introduction to what makes the orchestra tick, and you can also join Maestro Timothy Muffitt for Concert Conversations, a chance to learn more about the works being performed in BRSO’s masterworks series. Additionally, the Symphony League offers ample opportunities to get involved with everything from holiday fundraisers and galas to the annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon and fashion show. (225) 383-0500. brso.org

Baton Rouge Walls Project

If you like your art more urban and funky, the BR Walls Project offers what you need. Developed to stimulate creativity and change in the community, this partnership between artists and local business allows the artists to paint key buildings across the state, starting right here in Red Stick. brwallsproject.com

Beach Volleyball

Ready for something a little more high-adrenaline, fun-in-the-sun and in your face? Try beach volleyball at Mango’s, where you can have your pick of 11 sand courts to bump, spike and volley your way into a great time. Not into rolling in the sand? Spectators get in for free. <strong>11550 W. Bricksome Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 292-9764. mangosvolleyball.com

Beauregard Gallery and Bistro

Located in historic Beauregard Town, this family-owned neighborhood bistro features original works by local artists and artisans and food prepared from five generations of family recipes. If you and your coworkers are ready for a new lunch getaway—or if you’re simply looking for a quiet spot to dine—Beauregard Gallery and Bistro should be your next stop. 715 Europe St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802-6412. (225) 383-1932.

Belly Dancing Lessons

Gain confidence, get in shape and make some new friends at Fleur de Leaf Belly Dance Studio in Baton Rouge. Learn one of the world’s oldest dance forms in eight-week courses starting at $110. Instruction is available for all levels. 3613 Perkins Rd., Suite L, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 304-3648. fleurdeleaf.com

Birdman Coffee & Books

While you’re in St. Francisville, mingle with the locals at the eclectic Birdman Coffee & Books, an interesting mix of coffee shop, restaurant, bookstore, art gallery and sometimes even live music venue. 5687 Commerce St., St. Francisville, LA 70775. (225) 635-3665.

BREC Intramural Sports

Meet and compete with new people from the Baton Rouge area through BREC’s intramural sports teams. They offer a fun way to play everything from softball to basketball, flag football and volleyball with other folks out to have a fun and physical good time. brec.org

Buddy Stewart Memorial Music Foundation & Rhythm Museum

What started out as a music store has transformed into a foundation focused on keeping the Baton Rouge music tradition alive. Aficionados will fall in love with the Buddy Stewart Memorial Music Foundation & Rhythm Museum, which offers an antique record shop with one of the largest vinyl collections in South Louisiana and exhibits meant to encourage and educate African American musicians about their heritage. Check their calendar for special events and live performances. <strong>1712 North Acadian West, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 383-9661. stewartmusicfoundation.org

The CaddyShack Bar and Grill

If hitting the green for 18 holes sounds like a bit too much of a commitment—or if you’re just short on time—check out Caddyshack. With 40 tee locations, chipping baskets, a putting green, chipping green and driving range (complete with Nick Saban target), you can get the most out of your time without the caddy or the cart. Interested in taking your game to the next level? Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., Caddyshack features “Walk the Line” with their resident golf professional, Blaine Lindsley. 8181 Siegen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 769-1110. caddyshackbatonrouge.com

City Park Tennis

Does the approach of the U.S. Open have you ready for a game of tennis? Grab your racket and a partner and make a beeline for the courts at City Park. With hourly rates starting at $4 and a ball machine available for just $5, it’s an inexpensive way to get some exercise. Want to amp things up even more? Sign up for cardio tennis, held 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday through Dec. 10, to really add some zing to your workout. It’s meant for players of all skill levels. 1515 Dalrymple Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 343-3767. brec.org

Cooking Classes at Louisiana Culinary Institute

Make new friends and get cooking with leisure courses at the Louisiana Culinary Institute, where certified professional chefs will share their secrets with you. Interested in learning the basics of Italian cooking? Cajun cuisine? Or are you yearning to become a saucier or patisserie expert? LCI has a class for every passion. 10550 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (877) 533-3198. lci.edu

Corks N Canvas

Are you itching to tap into your inner artist, but craving a little company, too? Try out Corks N Canvas, where you’ll be guided through the painting experience in a casual environment, all while sipping your favorite wine (or other beverage of choice). This entertaining, non-traditional art workshop is meant for beginners, and instructors will help you take the painting of your choice from start to finish. 711 Jefferson Hwy., Suite 3A, Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 927-2707. corksncanvas.com/batonrouge

Creative Louisiana

If you’re interested in meeting like-minded creative folks, sign up for the Creative Louisiana meeting held the first Friday of every month at the Baton Rouge Gallery. This monthly get-together is an innovative way to start your day—and your weekend! Doors open at 8:30 a.m. for a 20-minute lecture, free coffee and expert input from a variety of artists, designers and others with a creative tendency in life. creativelouisiana.com

Critical Mass

Are you a dedicated or aspiring cyclist? Looking to meet more friends who like to spend their time on two wheels? Critical Mass in Baton Rouge, a gathering that celebrates cycling while also drawing attention to the need for better bike paths in our city, meets at 5:30 p.m. on the last Friday of each month at the LSU Campanile (that’s the clock tower, for those not in the know). Anywhere between 100 and 200 riders take to the streets on a different route each month. bikebr.org

Vinh Phat Vietnamese Market

Step out of your comfort zone and get cultured with a drive down Florida Boulevard to Vinh Phat Vietnamese Market. Tucked into the back of an unassuming parking lot filled with shops near and dear to the local Vietnamese community, this store offers a treasure trove of Vietnamese culinary staples—from food to cooking utensils and everything in between. Feeling particularly brave? Buy some durian, the spiky fruit notorious for its strong odor and delicious taste. 12385 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815. (225) 275-2390.

Disc Golf at BREC parks

Looking for a laid-back way to get moving and spend some time outdoors with your friends? Try disc golf for 18 holes of fun! Less frustrating and intense than traditional golf, disc (or Frisbee) golf is challenging but approachable. Drop by the BREC course at 14024 Highland Road, where you can pick up supplies, get some instruction and hit the greens running. <strong>(225) 272-9200. brec.org

Don Carter’s bowling

Dust off your bowling kicks and head out to Don Carter’s for some retro-style fun at the lanes. At about $4 per person/game or $20 per lane/hour, it’s a budget-friendly way to get your friends out for a fantastic night. Interested in extending the fun? Get your besties or coworkers together for league play. 9829 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 924-0124. dcbowl.com

Farr Park

If you’re ready to hit the trails make an appointment at BREC’s Farr Horse Park, Baton Rouge’s only public stables, where you can schedule trail rides for any skill level and explore the wooded areas around River Road. For a more structured equestrian experience, sign up for group lessons, available in both English and Western styles. Learn about horse care and proper riding form while meeting new people from the Baton Rouge area. 6201 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 272-9200. [email protected]

Forum Fridays

Join Forum 35 members at Juban’s on the third Friday of the month for an informative networking session featuring a local expert speaking on a topic of concern to area young professionals. forum35.org

Free Friday Concerts at Belle of Baton Rouge Casino

When you’re strapped for cash but just have that insatiable urge to see live music, the Belle of Baton Rouge has the cure. Their Free Friday Concerts series happens, well, every Friday at 8 p.m. inside the atrium, providing a welcome remedy to the stuck-at-home blues. <strong>103 France St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 242-2600. belleofbatonrouge.com

Happy’s Running Club

Think drinks and running don’t mix? Happy’s Running Club will change your mind in the time it takes to run a 5k. Every Tuesday night, the city’s largest—and arguably, most fun—running club gathers at Happy’s Irish Pub in downtown Baton Rouge for a 3.1 mile run, rain or shine. Sign up at 6 p.m. for the run at 6:15. Afterward, the group gathers back at Happy’s for drink specials, live music and an all-around good time. $35 annual dues gets you a dri-fit Happy’s Running Club shirt, drink specials and various other goodies throughout the year, but feel free to try before you buy. <strong>136 3rd St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. For more information, email [email protected].

Haven Gallery and Listening Room

Haven Gallery and Listening Room supports local artists in the Baton Rouge area by providing an incredible space to show art and sing songs. The gallery’s goal is to encourage local arts in Baton Rouge by catering to artists and providing their unique and intimate loft setting as a venue to experience art and music. 651 Laurel St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. facebook.com/HavenGLR

Historic Perkins Road Merchants District

If you’re ooking for an evening of entertainment but having trouble making the final decision, head over to the Historic Perkins Road Merchants District, where you can while away an entire day without leaving the area. Grab a hearty breakfast at Zeeland Street Market, do some shopping at Noelie Harmon, the Royal Standard or any of the other boutiques in the area, enjoy lunch at Rock N Sake, do happy hour at Duvic’s then end the night with dinner and live music at Chelsea’s Café. (225) 366-PERK. perkinshistoricmerchants.org

Honeymoon Bungalow

Have quirky taste? Always looking for that one-of-a-kind piece to really bring your room together? Head over to Honeymoon Bungalow, where you can find everything from vinyl records to reclaimed wood furniture and everything in between. 3153 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 343-4622.

Hunter’s Run Gun Club

Just across the river from Baton Rouge in Port Allen, you’ll find Hunter’s Run Gun Club, which offers non-members the opportunity to shoot trap and skeet for just $10 and sporting clays for $24. Those interested in accessing the rifle or pistol ranges can pursue annual memberships for unlimited access. 1365 Northwest Dr., Port Allen, LA 70767. (225) 387-3507. huntersrungunclub.com

Laser Tag of Baton Rouge

Take a break from reality at what may be the Gulf South’s largest stand-alone laser tag facility. This multi-level arena creates a surreal competitive experience, complete with laser lights and ambient fog, and offers your team more than 7,500 square feet of space to run, stalk and engage in virtual combat. Walk-in groups of 15 or more get three games for $13 a person. 5871 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 303-0386. ltofbr.com

Lagniappe Records

A boutique vintage record shop in Baton Rouge’s historic Beauregard Town neighborhood, Lagniappe Records is operated by two veteran musicians and offers a variety of new and used vinyl, including many rare and out-of-print Louisiana music treasures. 986 France St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. lagniapperecords.com

Live After Five

Downtown Baton Rouge has never seen an event as successful as this spring and fall series of concerts dubbed Live After Five. The series boasts free live music, dancing and a general good time for all. downtownbatonrouge.org/playlivefive.asp

LSU Leisure Classes

Ever wanted to learn a new language, enhance your business skills or try your hand at ballroom dancing? Leisure Classes offered through the LSU Union offer a unique opportunity to do any of those things and more, all in small classes geared toward enhancing your experience. Sign up with a buddy or head out solo to try wine tasting, learn how to use your DSLR camera or even write your own blog. Room 107, LSU Student Union, Baton Rouge, LA 70803. (225) 578-5119. lsuunion.augusoft.net

LSU Museum of Art

So, you’re not ready to take up a brush and smock just yet, but you do find yourself craving some cultural input? The LSU Museum of Art gives you just that. Located in the beautiful Shaw Center in downtown Baton Rouge, it’s open Tuesday–Sunday and offers both guided (if booked three weeks prior) and self-guided tour options for groups. Exhibits include photography, textiles, sculpture, painting, mixed media and more. Shaw Center for the Arts, 100 Lafayette St. (225) 389-7200. lsumoa.org

Lululemon

This yoga shop isn’t just a place to buy your new workout wardrobe. Instead, it offers the whole yoga experience and lifestyle through fun, innovative events like poolside yoga at the Renaissance Hotel or YOLO boarding and yoga by the LSU lakes. Meet up with your exercise buddies or fly solo to make new friends. 7342 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 819-1976. lululemon.com

Massey’s Kayak Rentals

Is simply walking around University Lake not a thrill anymore? Then call Massey’s for an incredibly inexpensive canoe or kayak rental. You can choose the length of time, varying from a half day to a week or more. All rentals include seats, paddles and life jackets. 3340 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 325-3030. masseysoutfitters.com

Mellow Mushroom

It’s not just for squashing your pizza craving. Mellow Mushroom has trivia nights on Wednesdays from 8 to 10 p.m., followed by karaoke until 2 a.m. There’s also a bingo night on Tuesday from 8 to 10 p.m., with winners getting gift certificates and free pitchers of beer. The restaurant also hosts live music. 4250 Burbank Dr., #101, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 490-6355. mellowmushroom.com/store/baton-rouge

Movies at Manship

“Dinner and a movie” takes on a whole new meaning at Manship Theatre. Don’t settle for the mainstream cinema; check out independent films, documentaries, classics and more. If you choose the dinner and a movie option (when available), you’ll have access to a specially offered thematic menu at a local restaurant, taking the boring out of your night out. Whether you’re hanging out with your buddies or enjoying date night, this innovative offering is sure to be a box-office hit. 100 Lafayette St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 344-0334. manshiptheatre.org

Muddy Water Paddling Company

If you’ve ever wanted to try out the stand-up paddle-boarding craze, Muddy Water Paddle Company can get you started. YOLO boarding, a/k/a standup paddle boarding (SUP), is fun for the whole family and is considered the fastest-growing sport in the world. Muddy Water offers free weekly demos on Thursdays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the main Baton Rouge Beach, plus hourly to daily rentals, races, workouts, parties and more. YOLO boarding provides a scenic, enjoyable way to get your core in excellent shape. 4355 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 328-5000.

The Myrtles Plantation

So, you grew up watching horror movies and never thought they were scary enough? See if you can recruit your buddies or your significant other to stay the night in a real-life haunted house. Or, if you’re too chicken, tours are offered daily. Known as one of America’s most haunted homes, this 200-plus-year-old antebellum plantation offers a peek into the genteel South of old and an opportunity to come face-to-face with “Chloe,” one of the many ghosts remaining here after terrible acts took her out of this world…and into the next. 7747 U.S. 61, St. Francisville, LA 70775. (225) 635-6277. myrtlesplantation.com

Olive or Twist

If you’re bored with the same old after-work drink scene, try a handcrafted cocktail at Olive or Twist, combining new, high-quality ingredients and unique flavors—think honeysuckle vodka and crème de violette. Slow down and enjoy the experience as one of the expert bartenders concocts the drink of your dreams, including innovative barrel-aged cocktails. Try the Blackberry Sage or the Cane and Able to start. 7248 Perkins Rd., Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 772-2218. oliveortwistbr.com

The Overpass Readings

Love that literary feeling? Follow the Overpass Readings, a series put on by creative writing graduate students at LSU, held roughly once a month at Chelsea’s Café. Catch these budding writers before they hit the big time. Grab a drink and hear poetry, fiction and other dramatic readings in the comfort of Chelsea’s. Chelsea’s Café, 2857 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 387-3679. chelseascafe.com

The Pelican House

For a city its size, Baton Rouge has more than its fair share of great bars and pubs. That’s an enviable problem to have, but it does make things difficult for newcomers to the scene. But when it comes to the Pelican House, one of the city’s latest additions, live music, a giant tap beer selection and a solid menu combine to make this a must-stop for anyone in Baton Rouge’s social scene. 2572 CitiPlace Ct., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 456-5200. thepelicanbar.com/home

Radio Bar

Located in Mid City, this isn’t your average trendy pub. Offering an impressive selection of beers and other beverages, ping-pong tables, shuffle board, darts, and innovative apps allowing you to control the music being played, this tavern brought the Red Stick into the new millennium. Follow their Facebook page to find special events, like free food events, beer tastings and more. 3079 Government St., Ste. B, Baton Rouge, LA 70806. theradiobar.com

Raising Cane’s Dog Parks

Studies show that even a few minutes spent with dogs can lower your stress levels. Even if you don’t have a dog of your own, Cane’s dog parks—there are now five, open sunrise to sunset—are a great place to mix and mingle. Drop by on a sunny day and watch the canine antics while chatting with their adoring owners. brec.org/dogparks

Red Stick Area Kickball

If you’re looking for a way to get outside, get some exercise and make new friends, check out Red Stick Area Kickball, a fun, low-key way to get social and competitive at the same time. There’s something for every skill level. <strong>1952 Kenilworth Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. brkickball.com

Red Stick Farmers Market

Shop fresh, locally grown produce at Baton Rouge’s weekly farmers market. Buying your food straight from the source not only sustains local farmers and pumps money into our local economy; it also serves as a social event, offering a great way to meet similar-minded singles or to spend some time with friends. Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon at 5th and Main streets. mainstreetmarketbr.org

Science Café

Held on the last Tuesday of each month, LSU’s Science Café series offers an informal, up-close and personal opportunity to hear more about science, research and art at the state’s flagship university. Complete with free food, giveaways and thematic drink specials, these events aren’t just a cool opportunity to learn more about the world around you; they’re also great networking events. Doors open at 5 p.m.; talks start at 6 p.m. and last approximately 20 minutes. (225) 578-3870. su.edu/researchnews

Skydive Baton Rouge

If you feel like you’ve tried everything the area has to offer, but you’re still looking for something to get your adrenaline pumping, then your next call should be to Skydive Baton Rouge. With less than an hour’s training, you’ll have the opportunity for a tandem skydive of approximately 60 seconds of freefall at 10,000 to 14,000 feet above Louisiana, followed by a canopy ride that lasts anywhere from seven to nine minutes. If this isn’t your first rodeo, the organization also offers accelerated freefall solo skydiving, with appropriate training. (225) 224-8705. skydivebatonrouge.com

State Capitol Raceway

Minutes outside of Baton Rouge lies the State Capitol Raceway—the third-oldest continuously run quarter-mile of drag racing in the country. Check their online calendar for regularly scheduled events, but make sure you and your friends don’t forget your earmuffs. 11436 Highway 190, Erwinville, LA 70729. (225) 627-4574. statecapitolraceway.com

Swine Palace

Housed in several venues on LSU’s campus, Swine Palace fills the theatrical niche between professional theater and student training, performing as both. A non-profit, professional company founded in 1992, Swine Palace supports the educational mission of LSU’s Department of Theatre. Swine Palace’s 2013-2014 season focuses on the common ground between us all, irrelevant of socioeconomic status, race, gender or anything else. Reilly Theatre, Tower Dr. Baton Rouge, LA 70803. (225) 578-3527. swinepalace.org

Teddy’s Juke Joint

In the mood to mix things up a bit? Head out of town and into a different world at Teddy’s Juke Joint in Zachary, where live acts bring you back to the crown age of R&B. It’s genuinely like stepping into the liveliest museum you’ve ever seen, complete with old photos and relics from the past. And Nancy’s kitchen serves up some of the best food you can ask for. Just remember to stop on your way to the Juke Joint and pick up your own drinks, because Teddy’s is strictly BYOB. 17001 Old Scenic Hwy., Zachary, LA 70791. (225) 892-0064. teddysjukejoint.com

Tiki Tubing

There are some things that are just more fun with more people, and tubing is definitely one of them. Grab as many friends as you can fit into your car and drive the short distance to Denham Springs for a long-lasting good time. Though their website quotes a time of about four hours, rest assured that you and your buds can draw the fun out as long as you like. With tube rentals starting at just $19.99, you can’t beat this summer treat. And if tubing is a little low-key for you, try the Tiki Zip Line, guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. 33203 Hwy. 1019, Denham Springs, LA 70706. (225) 223-1156. tikitubing.com

Time Warp

Take a step back into the trendy past at Time Warp, where the fashions of yesterday are waiting to be rediscovered. Explore everything from ’80s-era prom dresses to outfits from the ’20s and ’30s, plus reconstructed vintage lines, candles, accessories and more. 3001 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 377-8550. timewarpboutique.com

Tin Roof Brewery

Want to check out a leader in the burgeoning Baton Rouge brewery scene? Tin Roof Brewery offers an open house tour every Friday afternoon. For a paltry $5, you’ll get a souvenir pint glass, three samples of tasty Tin Roof Beer and a tour of the brewing facility. Doors open at 5 p.m., the tour starts at 6 and the taps close at 7 sharp, so be punctual and bring your friends for an up-close and personal experience at one of the Red Stick’s premier breweries. 1624 Wyoming St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 377-7022. tinroofbeer.com

Tsunami

Whether it’s your first time or your 50th, seeing the view of downtown Baton Rouge, the levee and the Mississippi River from Tsunami’s outdoor terrace never gets old. Make sure to bring your friends on Tuesdays after work for incredible drink specials. Watch the sun go down on the city as you toast to the good life. 100 Lafayette St., Baton Rouge, LA 70801. (225) 346-5100. servingsushi.com

UREC Bike Rentals

LSU’s University Recreation Center offers bike rentals for anyone. You don’t have to be a student or even affiliated with the university in any way. Rent for half- or whole days and take to the lakeside trails for a leisurely pedal or an invigorating workout. The choice is yours, but you can’t beat the price or the location. 102 Student Recreation Complex, Baton Rouge, LA 70803. (225) 578-8601. lsuuniversityrec.com

The Varsity Theatre

The iconic Varsity Theatre, located just outside the North Gates of LSU, isn’t just a place to catch great live music—though it is, of course, a great music venue. It also offers fantastic gatherings for trivia competitions, ’80s retro nights and album launch parties. Grab dinner next door at the Chimes then head over to the Varsity for good times. 3353 Highland Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 383-7018. varsitytheatre.com

Wednesdays at The Bulldog

Hump Day have you down? Round up your closest friends and rally the troops at the Bulldog on Wednesday for free pint glass night, where you can keep the glass from each pint you buy all night long. Everyone loves this promotion, so if you want a table, get there early. Or, go anytime to begin your “Beer Journey.” Those completing a tour of 50 drafts get to pick a prize from among Bulldog’s shirts, caps and other materials. You’ll also get your name on their Wall of Adventurers. 4385 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 303-9400. bulldog-batonrouge.draftfreak.com

Zolia Bistro

Not just any restaurant, Zolia offers a true Mediterranean dining experience, often with live music on weekends. Try their Thursday night wine buffet and tapas tastings; it’s a lively way to start the descent into your weekend. For $18, patrons can enjoy a choice of three red and white wines. For $20, a tapas tasting menu will be available, including an assortment of meat and cheese boards, grilled vegetables, fresh fruit, hummus and more. If you want to try both, the cost is only $15 per person. 400 Convention St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 490-2312. zoliabistro.com

Want more things to do? Check out the lists below.

• Things to do for singles in Cajun Country
• Things to do for singles in New Orleans
• Things to do for empty nesters in Baton Rouge
• Things to do for empty nesters in Cajun Country
• Things to do for empty nesters in New Orleans
• Things to do for families in Baton Rouge
• Things to do for families in Cajun Country
• Things to do for families in New Orleans