Located to the south of Baton Rouge and north of Gonzales, Prairieville is the ideal getaway if you’re looking for a taste of modern suburban lifestyle. The growing town has plenty to offer, with local eateries, sports bars, shopping centers, and wide, open spaces for children. The green surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, and warm small-town hospitality are a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life - something you might want to savor for a day or two, or more.
Here are some of the best things to keep you busy in Prairieville.
1. Bayou Manchac
About a 12-minute drive away from Prairieville lies the 18-mile (29 kilometer) waterway that separates Ascension from the parishes of East Baton Rouge. The natural green surroundings of Bayou Manchac open up lots of outdoorsy activities for nature lovers, like walking paths, biking trails, and picnic spots. The water bodies of the bayou and the nearby lakes make for a busy paddling and fishing scene, and you’ll see plenty of locals carrying their canoes or patiently waiting for a catch.
Bayou Manchac
Address: Southeast Louisiana, USA. 5.2 miles (8.4 kilometers) from Prairieville
2. The Flea Market of Louisiana
A shopper’s delight, this flea market in Prairieville has managed to retain its old-fashioned charm while incorporating modern wares. Conveniently located 5 mins from the State Fairgrounds, this place is easily the largest open-air market in the whole of Louisiana, with over 400 booths, selling everything from plants to jewelry, birth stones to scented soaps, and a huge variety of food and beverages. The free admission (9 am - 5 pm) has both locals and tourists flocking to this place by the dozens, which sees the bustling marketplace engaged in community camaraderie, amid good-natured bargaining.
The Flea Market of Louisiana
Address: 15545 Airline Hwy, Prairieville, LA 70769, USA
Website: The Flea Market of Louisiana
3. Painting with a Twist
This one’s for the creative lot, who are looking to spend a fun evening doing what they love - paint. But here’s where the ‘twist’ comes in. Walk in to this fun zone, armed with light snacks and your favorite beverage (can be beer, wine or coffee) and, by the end of it, you’ll be heading home (or to your hotel), with your own masterpiece, with some help from the instructors. This no-pressure creative space attracts amateurs along with seasoned painters, because of its sheer fun factor, and it is highly popular for private parties and team-building exercises.
Painting with a Twist
Address: 17540 Airline Hwy, Prairieville, LA 70769, USA
Website: Painting with a Twist
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
Bedroom with Private Bath #1
Prairieville, Louisiana, United States
Cooks Dream House
Prairieville, Louisiana, United States
Comfy Cozy, by Karen & Roy! Private 2 Bdrm Retreat
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
4. Southwood Park
Not a tourist hotspot, this quiet little spot offers a relaxing ambiance, amid suburban greenery. Located behind the Southwood Village subdivision, this green space houses a ball field, with night lights, a basketball court alongside a barbecue pavilion, and a children’s playground. Stop by this serene space for a romantic walk in the park, to expend some of your toddler’s abundant energy, or even to spend some quality alone time.
Southwood Park
Address: 14318 Parkview Dr, Prairieville, LA 70769, USA
5. Fred's on the River
Located along the Amite River, this riverfront bar is popular with locals and tourists, alike. The outdoor seating provides a splendid view of the flowing water and green surroundings - just the place to catch up with your buddies or spend time with family, over a few drinks. Fred’s bar is known to have hosted many a fireworks night (a favorite among locals) and live music, making this one of the most thrumming, buzzing places in town. However, currently, the bar is closed for a few weeks, due to recent flooding, but the owners promise a grand reopening, real soon. And if you’re around by then, it’s a must-visit.
Fred's on the River
Address: 18158 Rushing Rd, Port Vincent, Louisiana
6. Madrid Nighclub
This Latino club tops the night scene in Prairieville. Exuding an authentic vibe of Madrid’s charm and friendliness, this hotspot is bound to jazz up your evenings, particularly if you like dancing. Walk in with your partner or your gregarious gang of friends, for a fun night laced with refreshing cocktails and groovy music. With weekly ladies’ nights and talented DJs, belting out a mix of Reggaeton, Salsa, Mambo, and Trap Latino among others, you’ll be dancing the night away.
Madrid Nighclub
Address: 17388 Airline Hwy, Prairieville, Louisiana
7. Prairieville Park & Playground
This stretch of green is ideal for your kids to spend some time outdoors, running around and playing games in the warm sunshine. Located about a quarter mile (.4 kilometers) east of the town post office, the park comes with a basketball court, a playground, and two barbecue pavilions and pits. A concession stand, with restrooms, is also available for use. The park spaces in Prairieville are an essential part of the coveted suburban lifestyle, and this one, along with others, provides the much-needed wide, open space for little humans to thrive in.
Prairieville Park & Playground
Address: 384030 Hwy 929, Prairieville, Louisiana 70769
Dabble in some small-town fun in Prairieville
If the warmth and laid-back life of a small town appeals to you, head to Prairieville - the lovely community wedged between Baton Rouge and Gonzales - that offers the perfect blend of a relaxing holiday and touristy days. Let your kids loose in the wide open parks, indulge in languid strolls, go fishing and paddling at a riverside camp, unleash your creative genius at quirky art classes, go dancing to groovy music, or simply unwind at a riverfront pub. The small, underrated town life offers all this and more for your stressed-out soul and is just the place to recharge your batteries, before returning to the predictability of bustling city life.