Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the state’s vibrant capital, is a city steeped in history, culture, and Southern charm. Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, it serves as a cultural and economic hub, blending modernity with a rich heritage. Baton Rouge is home to Louisiana State University (LSU), adding a youthful energy and passion for college sports to the city. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Old State Capitol, the Louisiana State Museum, and the lively downtown area filled with music, dining, and art. Known for its delectable Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as its warm and hospitable atmosphere, Baton Rouge offers a unique taste of Louisiana's distinctive lifestyle.
If you're a local and looking to escape for a weekend, keep reading. With a vast array of short domestic destinations, there are also some international destinations within reach. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for locals in the Modesto California area within a non-stop 4-hour flight. More importantly, these trips are all possible without having to request PTO (for you M-F 9-5'ers), it just depends on what you want to do at your destination.
Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS) - 3 Hour 59 Minute Flight
Why go?
Gambling, Hoover Dam, Death Valley National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, Partying, more Gambling.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Las Vegas
When to go?
Year-Round
Who can fly you there?
Southwest from MSY - See flight deals
Spirit from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $74+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) - 1 Hour 22 Minute Flight
Why go?
Brew pubs, art, nightlife, Mexican food.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Atlanta
When to go?
Year-round
Who can fly you there?
Delta from MSY - See flight deals
Spirit from BTR - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $35+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Pro Tip:
Walk some of the BeltLine and stop at stores, bars, and restaurants.
Austin, Texas (AUS) - 1 Hour 35 Minute Flight
Why go?
Food, Art, Music, BBQ, Tech, Bach Parties, and All-Around Fun!
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Austin
When to go?
Year-Round
Who can fly you there?
Southwest from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $83+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Cancun & Tulum, Mexico (CUN) - 1 Hour 56 Minute Flight
Why go?
Your money goes a long way in Cancun: all-inclusive hotels, nightlife, and activities.
Your money doesn’t go very far in Tulum: boutique hotels (some are grossly overpriced), many hotels have no air conditioning, taxis and bike rentals will try to rip you off.
If you’re looking for clubs and nightlife, go to Tulum Beach.
If you’re looking for culture and less expensive eats, go to Tulum Centro.
Tulum is actually a great experience if you have the right mindset going into your vacation.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Cancun
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Tulum
When to go?
December to April for the best weather.
Avoid March Spring Break travel if you want to be at peace.
Who can fly you there?
Spirit Airways from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $99+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) – 1 Hour 53 Minute Flight
Why go?
Diverse Cultural Attractions, Thriving Food Scene, Outdoor Activities, Sports Hub, Historical Significance, Shopping, Festivals and Events.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Charlotte
When to go?
The best times to visit Charlotte are March–May and September–November.
Who can fly you there?
American from BTR - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $129+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Montreal, Quebec (YUL) - 3 Hour 15 Minute Flight
Why go?
More restaurants per capita than any other North American city.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Montreal
When to go?
Summer
Who can fly you there?
Air Canada from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $200+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Toronto, Ontario (YYZ, YTZ) - 2 Hour 45 Minute Flight
Why go?
Food, people, cleanliness, Hockey Hall of Fame.
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Toronto
When to go?
Summer
Who can fly you there?
Air Canada from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $200+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) - 2 Hour 44 Minute Flight
Why go?
History, sports, cheesesteaks
What to do?
Click here to view The BEST Things to Do in Philadelphia
When to go?
Summer and Fall
Who can fly you there?
American from MSY - See flight deals
Frontier Airlines from MSY - See flight deals
How much will it cost to get there?
Airfare: $79+
Where can you stay?
Who will pick you up?
