Epic LSU Football Weekends in Baton Rouge
Whether donning purple and gold to cheer on the LSU Tigers or traveling with the visiting team, Baton Rouge has much to offer fall football fans all season long.
Here’s what you need to know when visiting Baton Rouge this weekend.
At a Glance
- Louisiana State University’s football team plays at Tiger Stadium on its Baton Rouge campus during the college football season from September to December.
- Hotels in downtown Baton Rouge are popular accommodations during football weekends at LSU. Visitors can explore campus landmarks and nearby restaurants before and after the game.
Where to Stay in Baton Rouge
Accommodations are likely to fill up fast for home-game weekends, but the downtown area, with hotels such as the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown and The Watermark, are ideal locations for access to the weekend's activities. Sonesta ES Suites Baton Rouge is within walking distance of the LSU campus. There are also a variety of hotels along the College Drive and Acadian corridors.
Things to Do if You’re in Town for an LSU Game
Arrive in town on Friday and head downtown, where you can park the car once and spend the day on foot exploring attractions such as the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, the Capitol Park Museum, and both the new and old Louisiana State Capitol Buildings.
As the day winds down, head to City Hall Plaza downtown for the free concert series, Live After Five. This eight-week, family-friendly series runs on Fridays in the fall and features different bands playing everything from zydeco to funk and soul. Food and beverages are also available.
Find more live music at Third Street’s bars, popular among the college and young professional sets. Or stop by the Shaw Center for the Arts and catch a show at Manship Theatre. The entertainment venue for live music, theater and dance also screens a mix of independent, art and family films.
Where to Eat in Baton Rouge
While downtown, head up to Tsunami. This rooftop sushi restaurant has a great outdoor patio for drinks and views of the Mississippi River.
Just a short ride from downtown, the Mid-City Arts and Entertainment District is thriving with restaurant options. Head over to Government Street and pop into Elsie's Plate & Pie for homemade savory and sweet pies, among other local delicacies. Or try Rocca Pizzeria for Italian fare blended with some Louisiana kick. And if you're a vegetarian or vegan, MJ's Café is a must-try for fresh, farm-to-table, plant-based meals.
Before game-day tailgating kicks off, head to Coffee Call for a beignet breakfast. Other options for dining before or after the game include The Chimes outside the North Gates of LSU, TJ Ribs and Louie's Cafe. The Perkins Road Overpass also offers a mix of locally owned bars and boutiques good for passing the time on game day.
LSU Game-Day Tips
Even if you don’t have a ticket to the game, you can take part in the festivities. Stroll through campus on North Stadium Drive, and don’t miss watching the players walk down Victory Hill. Later, the band marches down Victory Hill while playing “Pregame.” While you’re there, don't miss the chance to stop by and see Mike VII, LSU's live tiger mascot.
LSU Game-Day Parking
Find free public parking in the Hayfield and Levee lots off of River Road and Gourrier Avenue.
A complete LSU football schedule is available here.
Frequently Asked Questions about LSU Football Weekends
What makes LSU football weekends in Baton Rouge special?
LSU football weekends are known for their unmatched energy, massive tailgating culture, and citywide celebration atmosphere. Baton Rouge transforms into a full weekend event where fans gather for food, music, traditions, and game day rituals centered around LSU’s Tiger Stadium.
What should I do before an LSU football game in Baton Rouge?
Before the game, visitors often explore LSU’s campus, visit Mike the Tiger’s habitat and join tailgating parties. Many fans also arrive early to enjoy local food, live music, and pre-game traditions like the Golden Band from Tigerland marching down Victory Hill.
Do I need a ticket to enjoy LSU game day?
No. Even without a game ticket, visitors can still enjoy tailgating, campus traditions, live music, and the game day atmosphere around LSU. Many of the most popular experiences—like tailgates and marching band performances—are open to the public.
What time should I arrive for LSU game day activities?
It’s best to arrive early in the day, especially for home games. Tailgating starts hours before kickoff and continues throughout the day, with campus activity increasing significantly by late morning and early afternoon.
Where should I stay for an LSU football weekend?
Downtown Baton Rouge and hotels near LSU’s campus are the most convenient options. Staying nearby allows easy access to tailgating, restaurants and game day transportation, since traffic and parking become very busy on home game weekends.
