LSU football game weekend
Never been to Baton Rouge and wanting to see a night game at Tiger Stadium. Looked at the schedule and believe 10/11/25 vs A&M could be best option. Need advice on the following questions:
- Best hotels close by near nightlife.
- Shuttle service to and from the game besides Uber/Lyft.
- Tailgate options before the game.
- Best seats to experience the stadium.
- Best bars in a safe area.
- Any other must see/do while we’re there for the game would be great.
Thank you
Attending an LSU football game at Tiger Stadium is an unforgettable experience, and Baton Rouge has a lot to offer for game day weekend. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit for the October 11, 2025, game against Texas A&M:
1. Best Hotels Close to Nightlife:
For a fun and lively experience near the nightlife, here are some hotel options close to downtown Baton Rouge and Tiger Stadium:
- The Watermark Baton Rouge - A chic, boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge, just a short drive from Tiger Stadium. It's within walking distance of local bars, restaurants, and attractions.
- Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center - Another downtown option offering a comfortable stay with easy access to nightlife. It’s close to the Mississippi River and offers scenic views and amenities.
- Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown - Located near the downtown area and LSU, Hotel Indigo offers a more contemporary feel, with local art and a convenient location for nightlife.
2. Shuttle Service to and from the Game (Besides Uber/Lyft):
While Uber and Lyft are popular options for getting to Tiger Stadium, here are some additional options for shuttle service:
- LSU Game Day Shuttle - LSU offers a Game Day Shuttle service for fans heading to Tiger Stadium. These shuttles run from various locations around Baton Rouge to the stadium, including popular spots like the Perkins Road overpass.
- Tailgate Express - A popular shuttle service for LSU games, Tailgate Express offers direct routes from downtown Baton Rouge to the stadium. It’s a convenient and fun way to get to the game without worrying about parking.
- Private Shuttles - Many hotels and local services offer private shuttle rentals for game day. It might be worth checking with your hotel to see if they offer this service or if they can recommend a local provider.
3. Tailgate Options Before the Game:
Baton Rouge’s tailgating scene is legendary, especially on a night game at Tiger Stadium. Here are a few tailgate options:
- The PMAC (Pete Maravich Assembly Center) Lot - A prime tailgating spot with a great atmosphere, offering a mix of private tailgates and public spaces where fans can join in.
- The Parade Grounds - Located just outside the stadium, this is the heart of LSU’s tailgating scene. It’s a large area filled with tents, food, music, and fans. If you’re looking for the ultimate tailgate experience, this is the place to be.
- Private Tailgates - Many alumni groups, fraternities, and other organizations host private tailgates around the stadium. If you’re looking to get more involved, consider reaching out to an LSU alumni group or other local organizations to join a private tailgate.
4. Best Seats to Experience the Stadium:
To experience the true atmosphere of Tiger Stadium, the best seats are in the following sections:
- West Upper Deck (Sections 601-613): These seats are in the middle of the stadium, offering a great view of the field and the rowdy student section.
- East Lower Deck (Sections 104-112): These seats are closer to the field and put you right in the heart of the action. It’s a great place to feel the excitement of the game.
- The Club Level: For a more premium experience, the Club Level provides access to exclusive amenities and a more comfortable atmosphere while still being close to the action.
5. Best Bars in a Safe Area:
Baton Rouge has a vibrant bar scene, especially around the downtown area and LSU campus. Here are a few options:
- The Chimes - A Baton Rouge classic located near LSU, The Chimes is a favorite among locals and students. It’s known for its extensive beer selection and outdoor patio, perfect for pre-game or post-game drinks.
- Happy's Irish Pub - A great spot downtown offering live music and a lively atmosphere. It’s a friendly, safe option with a great mix of locals and visitors.
- The Royal Standard - Located just a short drive from LSU, this bar is popular for its relaxed atmosphere and upscale vibe. It’s great for a quieter drink before or after the game.
6. Other Must-See/Do in Baton Rouge:
Aside from the game, here are a few things to check out during your time in Baton Rouge:
- Louisiana State Capitol: Visit the tallest capitol building in the U.S. and take an elevator to the observation deck for great views of the city and the Mississippi River.
- LSU Rural Life Museum: If you enjoy history and culture, the LSU Rural Life Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Louisiana’s past with exhibits on farming, architecture, and more.
- The Old Governor’s Mansion: A historic site in Baton Rouge, this mansion offers tours where you can learn about Louisiana’s history and its political past.
- Baton Rouge Zoo: If you have extra time and enjoy nature, the Baton Rouge Zoo is a nice spot to explore, offering exhibits on wildlife from around the world.
With the combination of LSU football, vibrant nightlife, local bars, and plenty of southern hospitality, you’re sure to have a memorable weekend in Baton Rouge. Enjoy the game and all the excitement that comes with it!
