A user’s guide to the Capital City for returning alums and visiting fans
Game day is all about the game, but there’s plenty of fun to be had before and after the big event. Bookend your fandom with a sampling of the Red Stick’s many flavors, sights and sounds, and be sure to save room for swag to bring home.
Here’s how to get the most out of your weekend.
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Stock up on local eats
From smoked sausage and boudin links, to fresh produce and artisan baked goods, Baton Rouge is a veritable culinary treasure chest. Fill the tailgate cooler with Italian stuffed artichokes and sweet sausage lasagna from Cannatella Grocery; boudin links from Ronnie’s Boudin & Cracklin’; and all manner of heritage pork cuts from Iverstine Butcher. If all you did was poke your head into an independent grocery, you’d still come away with finds like Hola Nola tortillas and coconut oil-fried chips, The Cocktail Experiment mixers and syrups, St. Bruno Bread Co. sourdough and lots more.
Explore a nearby museum or gallery
Artsy diversions abound in Baton Rouge, including museums and galleries just minutes from campus. The compact LSU Museum of Art on the fifth floor of the downtown Shaw Center for the Arts holds Newcomb pottery, fiber art and contemporary and classical pieces, while providing an impressive view of the Mississippi River at its ticket desk. Near City Park, the Knock Knock Children’s Museum tempts young’uns with interactive exhibits that burn off that special brand of kid energy. Finally, the Baton Rouge Gallery features exceptional regional contemporary art and opportunities to add affordably priced works to add to your collection.
Cool off with frozen treats at the new LSU Dairy Store
Now in a larger location on South Campus Drive, the LSU Dairy Store welcomes visitors for a taste of the university’s dairy heritage. Available by cup or cone, the ice cream here is one of the city’s best bites. One lick reveals a thick and rich texture, thanks to milk from the Holstein herd at the LSU AgCenter’s Southeast Research Station in Franklinton. Sample flavors like the iconic Tiger Bite with swirled Golden Vanilla and Blueberry, Cherry Chocolate Chip or several fall flavors that riff on LSU opponents.
Pick up merch
You’ve come to town in LSU-themed regalia, but why not leave in a trendy Baton Rouge tee? Sweet Baton Rouge is the place for stylish graphic T-shirts with sassy and edgy Louisiana themes. Shop the brand in its Perkins Rowe storefront or in the lobby of the downtown Origin Hotel.
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Brunch, brunch, brunch
Raise a post-game bloody mary to the Tigers in a town that loves brunch as much as winning. Elaborate egg-centric dishes, stacks of fluffy pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, biscuits, and shrimp and grits are among the options found the morning after at the many local restaurants serving brunch. Try well-trod spots like Elsie’s Plate & Pie, Mason’s Grill, Mansurs on the Boulevard and The Chimes.
Shop the farmers market
The leisurely Saturday morning that comes with night games means time to visit the 28-year-old Red Stick Farmers Market, where dozens of vendors sell goodies like fresh produce, farmstead goat cheeses, handmade baked goods, and jams and pickles. It’s a great place to grab a quick breakfast and do a little shopping before settling into football festivities.
This article was originally published in 225 Magazine’s 2024 Tiger Pride edition.