Too many times I have heard the words (usually from spoiled New Orleans kids) "Baton Rouge is so boring" or "I hate this damn place, there's nothing to do." God, do I hate when people say this because it's not true in the least. Sure, for the most part it's a college town, but at the same time it's the second-largest city in Louisiana. There's a lot more than just LSU.

I'm not even from this state and I don't think it's the most exciting place in the world, but there are still plenty of things to be appreciated here including yummy restaurants, scenic spots and places to just hang out. I want to give Baton Rouge the credit it deserves.

So listen up haters. Here's a list I've gathered of not-so-boring things to do in the Red Stick. 

1. Explore the Levee. I put this at the top of my list because I discovered this one over the summer and it was one of my most memorable nights. The sunset was breathtaking and it's the perfect place to reflect and get away. Bring some friends and try to compete for the best sunset pic on Instagram. (Just kidding, please don't do this last thing.) 

2. Highland Road Park Observatory. This goes along with the levee in terms of being completely mind-blowing. It's brought to the public by LSU's Department of Physics and Astronomy and even has a large, rotating telescope that is open to anyone and everyone. I saw the rings of freakin' Saturn through this thing so it is a definitely a must see.

3. Perkins Rowe. This one has nothing to do with star gazing or sunset-watching, but if you're in the mood for a little (window) shopping, this is the place for you. Although some of the shops are a little pricey for a college student budget, it's a nice piece of scenery and offers a movie theatre and some restaurants that accept the Nike shorts and T-shirt attire. Which leads to my next spot...

4. Shlittz and Giggles. Hands down, the best pizza I've had in Baton Rouge. It's located only five minutes from campus, so if you and five friends decide to seek an emotional outlet, you'll spend approximately $7 each for two pizza pies. So save the tears, girl, and dip that crust into the greasy garlic sauce. 

5. Caliente. Any LSU student knows and will go here on any occasion. No one should ever turn down quality Mexican food in the first place, especially when their quesadillas and margaritas are on point every. single. time. Save the Everclear and Fireball for the pledges and take advantage of the killer marg deals they offer everyday of the week. 

6. Mr. Ronnie's Famous Hot Donuts. The name speaks for itself. Skip the Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru and indulge (at any hour) in these babies. They don't call 'em famous for nothing. 

7. Highland Coffee. This may just seem like any other coffee shop but oh no it is not. Located literally five steps away from LSU, this is the perfect study/relax spot for anyone wanting a change of atmosphere. It consists of a quaint courtyard right outside, personable employees and music that will get you right in the study zone. The authentic coffee and the interesting customers makes for an enjoyable experience.

8. The LSU "Beach." We pass this gem everyday, yet no one gives it a second glance. I wouldn't recommend wading in the water, but the sand is perfectly fine for laying out and sunbathing. It's the closest thing we have to any type of body of water so we shouldn't take it for granted. 

I hope there was at least one that you had never heard of because I've been here for over a year now and just discovered some recently and I know there's so much more to explore. Baton Rouge is NOT New Orleans and we would be ecstatic if you'd stop comparing the two in such a negative tone. Every city has unique things to offer and, gosh darn it, this place needs more appreciation.