Welcome to LSU and Downtown
A thriving urban enclave of art, culture, and academia.
Buzzing with creative energy and scholarly inspiration, LSU and Downtown Baton Rouge set the stage for a life of curiosity and adventure. From the historic beauty of Downtown’s Spanish Town and Beauregard Town to the majestic Louisiana State University campus, these dynamic areas offer residents endless possibilities for play and work. Ideal for everyone from university students and young professionals to professors and retirees, these beautiful Baton Rouge enclaves are alive with art exhibits, sporting events, live theater, and an impressive network of lush walking trails.
The South is known for warm hospitality, and Baton Rouge is no different. If the accent here doesn’t charm you, the manners of these cultivated residents certainly will. Friendly and welcoming, Downtown and the LSU area seamlessly blend small-town affability with cosmopolitan style, creating an ideal atmosphere for raising kids and making lifelong friends. Architecture in this leafy town is as diverse as the community, with Italian Renaissance, Acadian, and Mediterranean styles basking under those gorgeous canopied trees.
What to Love
- Picturesque views of the Mississippi
- Urban vibrance and high walkability
- A thriving arts and entertainment scene
- A warm, close-knit community
- Access to prestigious academics
People & Lifestyle
With urban style and city sophistication, Downtown Baton Rouge inspires creativity and adventure. Residents adore the vibrant arts scene and can often be found enjoying the area’s exquisite cuisine before heading out for a night at the theater or art gallery. Health and well-being are also a focus in this energetic town, and the walking trails, lined by mossy live oaks, provide a whimsical background for morning jogs.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
With an international craft beer list and elevated gastropub fare, The Chimes has been an LSU tradition for over 25 years, delighting diners with Southern specialties like crawfish fries and shrimp and grits. The Little Village Restaurant adds Louisiana flair to classic Italian cuisine, while Tsunami dazzles with artfully plated sushi, creative cocktails, and stunning rooftop vistas. Quaint and unpretentious, Louie’s Cafe has a long history as one of LSU’s most beloved breakfast spots. A retro vibe and elevated fares, like the Eggs Louisianne with crawfish and spiced butter, make this kitschy diner a must-try. Take family dinners to the next level at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, a lively scratch kitchen with Cajun-inspired pub fare. Stop in to watch the game with the kids, or make a night of it with friends – from the Cajun queseaux to the Bayou pasta with crawfish sauce, the decadent menu is sure to please every palate.
Things to Do
In the land of LSU, the possibilities are endless. Game Day happens at Tiger Stadium, the intimidating venue which has been nicknamed “Death Valley” and is considered one of the greatest places to play and watch football. Wear your Tiger colors and cheer on not only football, but tennis, basketball, soccer, and more at this iconic arena. As the home of legendary LSU, Downtown is a bastion of not only sports, but culture and arts, and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum encourages hands-on creativity. Bring the kids for an exciting day of interactive exhibits, play, and renowned artwork and discoveries. Start date night at Baton Rouge’s premier performing arts center, Manship Theatre, and enjoy the drama and beauty of plays, dance, and music. Thursday and Saturday mornings in Baton Rouge provide the chance to peruse the Red Stick Farmers’ Market. Whether you’re looking for organic produce and fresh seafood to create a gourmet dinner at home, or a delicious array of snacks and prepared food for a family picnic in the park, this open-air, producer-only market showcases the best locally grown ingredients and artisan goods.
Schools
Downtown is home to Louisiana State University, one of the nation’s most established and prestigious four-year universities, as well as a selection of excellent schools, including:
