Resident's Guide
This guide is for researchers spending several weeks or months at TIAMS. It gives a practical starting point for living and working in Baton Rouge while participating in an institute program.
Before You Arrive:
- Confirm program dates and TIAMS contact
- Review housing options and commute
- Arrange travel to Baton Rouge
- Complete visitor/international paperwork through the appropriate LSU office
- Share accessibility or family needs early
Campus Life
LSU’s flagship campus is known for its live oaks, green spaces, and Italian Renaissance-inspired architecture. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Quad, Memorial Tower, Greek Theater, LSU Campus Mounds, Mike the Tiger’s habitat, and Tiger Stadium. The LSU visitor guide, interactive campus map, and campus walking tour can help guests plan their visit.
Campus life includes public lectures, performances, art exhibitions, festivals, athletic events, and other activities listed on the LSU Events Calendar. Visitors can also explore LSU Libraries, campus dining, the LSU Lakes, and recreation opportunities; access to University Recreation depends on membership or guest-pass eligibility.
Getting Around LSU
LSU's Tiger Trails Transit system serves campus and nearby areas, with current route information and real-time
tracking available through LSU transportation resources. Baton Rouge is generally
car-oriented, so longer-stay visitors should consider whether a rental car, personal
vehicle, rideshare, bicycle, or a combination fits their housing location.
Food & Coffee Near TIAMS
The first floor of OISB includes Big Chicken, Peet's Coffee, and the LSU Dairy Store. Additional dining is available in the nearby Student Union and around campus.
Living in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge offers everything from historic neighborhoods to suburban communities. For a shorter commute to LSU, consider Southdowns, University Acres, College Town, or areas along Highland Road, Nicholson Drive, and Burbank Drive. The Garden District, Mid City, and downtown provide easy access to restaurants and cultural attractions, while Bocage, Bluebonnet, and Siegen offer more suburban amenities but may involve heavier rush-hour traffic. Explore neighborhood maps, LSU transportation options, and CATS bus routes before choosing housing. Major health systems include Our Lady of the Lake, Baton Rouge General, and Ochsner Baton Rouge. Fitness and recreation options include LSU University Recreation and BREC facilities and programs.
Experience Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge blends college-town energy with Louisiana food, music, and year-round festivals and community events. Explore local restaurants and coffee shops or discover the city’s museums, galleries, and cultural events. Outdoor favorites include the LSU Lakes, Mississippi River levee, and BREC parks. For weekend travel, New Orleans, Acadiana, St. Francisville, and the Atchafalaya Basin are all within easy reach; find ideas through Explore Louisiana.
