Every city has places that never show up in the glossy guides but always come up when locals give advice. Here are a few Baton Rouge spots that belong on that list.

The Pink Elephant Antiques

Walk in for a quick look and walk out two hours later. The Pink Elephant fills its space with rotating collections from Louisiana antique dealers, so no two visits are the same. Go on a slow weekend afternoon, and don't go in with a plan.

Baton Rouge Succulent Co.

Tucked away at 7276 Highland Road, this shop does more than sell plants. It offers classes and a monthly plant subscription, which makes it a good spot for anyone who has killed a few succulents and wants to get it right.

Phil's Oyster Bar happy hour

Phil's, at 4335 Perkins Road, isn't exactly a secret, but its weekday happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. still feels like one. Think $2 domestic drafts, $4 boudin balls and $5 Yum Yum Shrimp. The restaurant is closed Sundays, so plan a weekday stop.

Sin-A-Bites at Willie's

Fried bread pudding pieces tossed in cinnamon sugar and served with white chocolate sauce. They're on the weekend brunch menu at Willie's on Coursey Boulevard, and once you try them, they'll be a regular order.

Burden beyond the maze

Most people only visit Burden on Essen Lane for the corn maze, but the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens there are worth a slower visit. Membership even gets you discounted Corn Maze tickets.

The real secret

The best hidden gems are often the places you already drive past. Next time you see a spot you've always wondered about, stop in.

Explore a little, ask questions and tell us your favorites. We're always adding to the list.