Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge has a lot of old world charm and yet is very cosmopolitan. The multicultural city displays historic influences of Spanish, French, African and American Indian. The cuisine, architecture, art, and music all display the rich heritage that makes up Baton Rouge. Baton Rouge is Louisiana's state capital and home to Louisiana State University. If you want to try something different, visit Baton Rouge.
New Orleans, along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, is also a city with strong multicultural influences. Renowned for its annual Mardi Gras celebration, New Orleans also has a history embedded in French, Spanish and Native American cultures. Early American history is also prevalent as New Orleans was keenly involved in the Civil War. Another well know fact about New Orleans is its battle against Mother Nature. Being the focal point of hurricanes throughout history, one of the most notable is Katrina; New Orleans has stood its ground and fought back each and every time. New Orleans offers adventure, exploration, celebration, old world charm, modern appeal and something for everyone. What is the distance between Baton Rouge to New Orleans? About 80 miles.
Baton Rouge to New Orleans by Plane
The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) has flights to four locations: Houston, TX (IAH); Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW); Charlotte, NC (CLT) and Atlanta, GA (ATL). There are no direct flights from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. However, since the four destinations that Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport serves are large hub airports you can virtually fly anywhere. American Airlines offers a flight to New Orleans International Airport (MSY) through Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Fares start at $492. There are several flights a day so you should be able to find one that meets your schedule. The trip averages about 5 hours including the layover.
Although the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport is small it still offers the amenities of a large airport including curb-side check-in; food court; shops; shoe shine; business center and ground transportation. There is ample parking at the airport with daily rates starting at $12 for a 24-hour period. The airport also offers a drivers assistance program; battery starts, flat tire inflation and change; vehicle escort; lost car services; and dispatch services.
Baton Rouge to New Orleans by Bus
Greyhound offers daily trips to New Orleans from Baton Rouge. Fares start at $11 one way. There are multiple trips per day from early morning to evening. The trip averages 1½ hours. Greyhound offers several amenities including free Wi-Fi; roomy reclining seats; on board restroom; air conditioning; large panoramic windows; and overhead storage bins. Taking the bus is a great way to travel; it removes the stress of driving and allows you to enjoy the views as you travel.
By Private Transfer
Limousine Livery has locations in both Baton Rouge and New Orleans. They offer private transportation from one venue to another in sedans, vans, and other vehicles depending on your needs.
Baton Rouge to New Orleans by Car
The most direct route to drive to New Orleans is on I-10. The route is about 82 miles. Another route would be to take I-12 east to the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Take Exit 63. The drive across the lake is about 24 miles and is the longest bridge over water in the world. This drive allows fabulous views of the lake as you traverse the bridge.
By Bicycle or Walking
The trip by bicycle will be mostly flat between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Google Maps details a route from Baton Rouge to New Orleans that is 94 miles long and slated to come in under 8 hours.
Bike Baton Rouge has three routes they detail on their website. These trails are of various lengths. The "Fast & Furious" is about 86 miles. The other two are 106 and 132 mile respectively. These two follow the Mississippi River – one on the east side and one on the west side.
There are a number of walking trails in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. No formal walking trails between the two cities have been established. However, you could easily follow the biking routes. Walking may as much as 26 hours so plan accordingly.
A visit to Louisiana will make a lasting impression. So many cultures converging in one area; the sights, sounds and tastes will electrify your senses. Plan your trip and take in all that Baton Rouge and New Orleans have to offer.
Things to do in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge offers many great sights to explore. USS Kidd Veterans Museum is the home of a real destroyer battle ship used in World War II and now a memorial to our veterans. This is a chance to touch and feel a piece of American history. Walk the decks. See the ship up close and personal. Admission prices are $10/adult and $6/child. The memorial is open daily
Louisiana Art & Science Museum has varying exhibits throughout the year. At this writing there is The Origins of Animation and A Universe in Glass. There are also several permanent exhibits including Ancient Egypt; Solar System; Planet Tower; and Universe Gallery. The museum also has a planetarium that hosts a variety of shows with themes such as dinosaurs, butterflies; space, and historical expeditions. For kids of every age there are hands-on galleries. Finally, the museum is home to collections of American and European Art; Louisiana Modern and Contemporary Art and the works of regional and national photographers. The museum is closed on Mondays. Admission prices are $9/adult and $7.50/child. Parking is available on the street or in nearby lots.
Moving toward the outer edges of Baton Rouge is Blue Bayou Water Park; a place to splash, play and have some good old family fun. Tickets are $36.99 for adults and $29.99 for kids. Kids under 35” tall are free.
Cajun Pride Swamp Tours located near the intersection of I-10 and I-55 offers you an experience like none other. The swamp tour will take you to the back country of the Manchac Swamp; you will see wildlife, learn about the swamp and have some exciting adventures. Open daily except for Christmas Day, the tickets start at $49/adult and $25/child.
Things to Do in New Orleans
The world renowned French Quarter offers so many things to see, do, and taste. This colorful section of New Orleans is home to the famous Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral; New Orleans African American Museum; Audubon Nature Institute including a butterfly garden and an aquarium; and don’t forget the restaurants and fantastic nightlife. Enjoy the tastes of Cajun, Creole, French, Seafood, and more with many establishments offering outdoor seating as well. Take in the sounds of Jazz, Blues, Hip Hop, Rock and so much more. The French Quarter is a definite experience you must add to your itinerary.
Longe Vue House & Gardens is an historic estate featuring a stunning home and spectacular gardens. An interactive garden is also on site for children. Open daily; tours begin at $12/adult and $8/child. There is also a gift shop on site.
New Orleans is home to several celebrity chefs, one of the most popular is Emeril Lagasse. Chef Lagasse has three restaurants in New Orleans: Emeril’s Restaurant, Nola Restaurant, and Emeril’s Delmonico. Another celebrity chef is John Besh. Chef Besh boasts nine restaurants that all specialize in a southern fare. His restaurants include Restaurant August; Besh Steakhouse; Lüke; La Provence; Domenica; Pizza Domenica; Johnny Sanchez; and Borgne.
There are over 200 hotels in New Orleans from which to choose; luxury, romantic, family, budget, and historic. There is a hotel that will fit your requirements.
There is a lot to see and take in when visiting New Orleans; plantation homes and mansions; museums; historical places; scenic views at Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.