For those flying into Louisiana:
The Baton Rouge Airport (BTR) is a short drive to downtown and most hotels offer a shuttle. It’s a rather small airport (SLO still has it beat though) so it’s fairly quick getting in and out.
New Orleans Airport (MSY) is about an hour from Baton Rouge and can sometimes offer cheaper deals. Guests could easily rent a car and spend a day or two after the wedding checking out New Orleans. If it is anyone’s first time give us a call – we have plenty of places to suggest!
Places to SEE downtown:
*Capitol Building - Ride the elevator to the top for the best views of downtown Baton Rouge. You can also check out the first floor to find the bullet hole where Huey P. Long was killed.
* Old State Capitol - The original state capitol building, it now has an exhibit that shows the history of the building and an impressive show about the ghost of the State Capitol.
*Louisiana State Museum - The museum houses a pretty good exhibit about the history of Louisiana, along with changing exhibits. It's rather modern building for Baton Rouge so you can't miss it. (It's also located right next to our old apartment!)
Places to EAT downtown:
* Stroube's Chophouse - Absolutely delicious meals. We love them because most of their stuff is local - they cure their meats, make their own butter, and the veggies are grown around the area. Shrimp and Grits, the Bleu Cheese Wedge, and the Duck Braised ribs are always great picks.
* Little Village - One of the first places I ate with Travis here in Baton Rouge. Great Italian food all around - make sure you get the loaf of bread!
* Tsunami - A sushi restaurant located at the top of the Shaw Center. This place has amazing views of the Mississippi River and great places to sit outside for a drink. Travis loves the John Breaux Roll!
Places to DRINK downtown:
* Boudreaux's and Thibideaux's - see if you can say that one! Located on Third Street, it's only a block from the hotels and quite the take on Louisiana culture. From 21 to 71 you can find every age inside this bar, along with some awesome music and a great balcony overlooking the street.
* Red Star - This bar (no food) is the closest thing to my good ole' Frog & Peach from the college days. A chill atmosphere with some of the best karaoke on the right night. (F.Y.I. - If the establishment doesn't serve food you can still smoke inside here)
* Lucy's - Deemed a retired surfer bar, this is Louisiana's take on baja style. It's a restaurant by day (so no smoking!) but by night it turns into a hoola-hooping bar with a a great area to sit outside. Make sure you order the shark attack, or if you're up for it, the worm-infused tequila!
