Top Rated Attractions in Baton Rouge

Built in the 19th Century on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Louisiana Old State Capitol is today a popular museum and event venue. The building is unique in the area because of its Gothic architecture and castle-like facade. The Museum of Political History, located inside, contains information about Louisiana’s early years as a state as well as the occasional traveling exhibit.

The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge is one the tallest capitol building in the nation and is a National Historic Landmark. The seat of government for the state, it is home to the Louisiana state Senate and House of Representatives. Not the original Capitol Building in Baton Rouge, construction of the current capitol was championed and facilitated by former Governor Huey Long in the 1930s, and was the unfortunate site of his assassination later on. Spread over 30 acres (12.14 hectares), the capitol building consists of the towering skyscraper tower and also contains the Louisiana Capitol Garden and its ten miles of pathways.

As far as museums go, this one has a highly interesting concept that lets you explore native life in Louisiana during the 19th and early 20th Centuries. The Rural Life Museum has highly rated facilities and ranks among the top outdoor museums in the country. Visitors can explore the impeccably recreated houses and artifacts that were used during the time. The folk architecture section is worth a special mention and should not be missed.

Home to the LSU School of Art Glassell Gallery, Manship Theatre and LSU Musuem of Art among many other cultural and performance venues, Shaw Center for the Arts is the place to be for those looking to explore the culture of Baton Rouge. Whether for watching a live performance by local artists or for hosting an event, no matter what you are looking for, Shaw Center for the Arts is the place to be. This venue is also home to different cafes and restaurants serving local staple.

Paying respect to men and women of the armed forces who died in war, this is a must-see attraction in Baton Rouge. Named after the Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, this ship is a WWII Fletcher class destroyer. Apart from the vessel, you can even see a P-40 aircraft and over 40 models of various ships at the Veteran Museum. Roam the decks and interiors of the ships and know its history and the part it played in World War II.

Housed inside a warehouse, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum (L.A.S.M) enjoys a scenic location around the banks of the splendid Mississippi River. The permanent collections are the real stunners - however its roving exhibitions are quite impressive too. Stop by the ancient Egypt Gallery which boasts a real mummy as well as an ancient tomb. Interactive and life-like exhibits enrapture the little kids who can't get enough of the action. Workshops, classes, nature trails, vacation camps and lectures contribute to a comprehensive educational program.