Photo courtesy ZAZA Nail Boutique.

The inRegister staff shares our favorite hidden gems in the Capital Region

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Beyond the must-see places and well-known eateries, Baton Rouge has dozens of hidden gems. These are the kinds of places that feel like a touch of magic because of their authenticity and charm. The owners know your name, or the destination itself offers a repreive off the beaten path.

Keep reading for the quiet sanctuaries, neighborhood favorites and retail havens that the inRegister team members return to time and time again.

Lucy Rose

“Brand new to BR (just made 1 year in August), women’s and children’s boutique on Highland by French Market Bistro. They have two locations in New Orleans that have been around for 10 years but finally made their way to Baton Rouge, and they are not one to skip! They have the cutest gifts, amazing price points and a super sweet children’s corner full of gameday and seasonal outfits, gifts and more. Owned by two sisters who have impeccable taste and a passion for people. You’ll feel like family the second you walk through the door!” 

— Sadie Fury, sales director

Ava Cafe

Ava Cafe vermicelli noodles, featured as the dish of the month in October 2017. Photo by Jenn Ocken

“They have the BEST Lemongrass Tofu Vegetable Pho, perfect if you’re feeling under the weather. Put on your radar for the upcoming cold and flu season.”

— Sadie Fury, sales director

Dawson Creek Greenway

Cayenne Pizzolato during a walk on the Dawson Creek Greenway.

“This is my favorite destination for an early morning walk with my little ones! It is a 1.75-mile, fully paved walking trail that winds through the BREC Perkins Road Park along Dawson Creek. I love how easy it is to make pit stops at multiple playgrounds and clean restrooms all while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. The perfectly paved trail dotted with park benches is underrated for those of us pushing strollers and managing two or more toddlers. I enjoy basking in the sun as we stroll through the expansive field before enjoying the shady portion right alongside the creek. It’s such a hidden gem because it offers all the fun and adventure of a nature hike with the ease of a Sunday morning stroll.”

— Bre Pizzolato, managing editor

Movies at Manship Theatre

“After seeing the documentary, Natchez, at the Manship Theatre this past spring, it has become my favorite hidden gem for an elevated movie night. Showing timely films for each season (including a few Halloween movies next month), but only a limited number, the theatre feels fancier than your average Cinemark, and the rarity of showings makes it all the more special. On occasion, they also offer special screenings featuring a Q&A or discussion afterwards with the filmmaker, or someone who had a part in the filmmaking process. In addition to the classic movie snacks, they have a full bar, wine and more. It is one of the best movie experiences I have ever had!”

— Sally Grace Cagle, associate editor

ZAZA Nail Boutique

Photo courtesy ZAZA Nail Boutique.
“I’ve been going there for so long that all of the girls know me, and they always make me feel so special the second I walk through the door. At this point, they even know that I’m probably getting the same OPI gel color I get every time, Mod About You.
One of my favorite things about Zaza is all of the little details that make it feel different from a typical nail salon. They have the prettiest intricate flower decorations throughout the salon, and they change them every month to match the season or upcoming holidays. It always smells amazing too, especially because they carry the best-smelling body lotions and oils.
I obviously love leaving with fresh nails, but what really keeps me coming back is how welcoming everyone is and how special they make me feel every single time. It’s truly one of my favorite little Baton Rouge spots!”
— Savannah Saia, sales intern

The LSU Hilltop Arboretum 

“The Hilltop Arboretum was within walking distance of my childhood home in Baton Rouge. I just remember how peaceful and quiet it was. I always loved standing on the patio, walking over the wooden bridges and down the hill. I learned to use my first camera here by taking pictures of all the different leaves and plants. We had special occasions like family photos here growing up, but we also just made pit stops after I learned how to ride a bike and could make quick trips over there. If I brought a close friend there, I’d tell them it’s the best spot for finding a little pocket of stillness in such a busy city.”
— Avery Williams, editorial intern

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