Places to visit in Baton Rouge, LA.
If you happen to find yourself in the state of Louisiana, then be sure to make your way down to Baton Rouge. It’s got a great food scene, some good museums, and beautiful nature trails—not to mention that it’s a fun city with plenty of cultures. If you’re looking for fun outdoor and indoor activities, check out our list of things to do in Baton Rouge below.
USS KIDD Veterans Museum
The USS KIDD Veterans Museum features military artifacts and intricate model ships in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is open Mon-Sun and is located on the Mississippi River.
During World War II, the USS Kidd served as a destroyer. It earned twelve battle stars for her service. It is the only Fletcher-class destroyer preserved in its original configuration. In addition, it is the only one to retain her World War II appearance.
During her service, the USS Kidd defended heavily damaged aircraft carriers during the Okinawa campaign. It also screened landings and provided fire support to soldiers in Leyte Gulf. The ship was involved in numerous attacks by enemy planes. It also rescued downed pilots.
Louisiana’s Old State Capitol
Located in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s Old State Capitol is a historic building that tells the story of Louisiana politics. It was built between 1847 and 1852. Today, the building serves as a museum and education center that provides visitors with an overview of Louisiana’s political history.
James Harrison Dakin designed the building in the Gothic Revival architecture style. He incorporated an elliptical dome in the main structure and placed the Senate chambers on the second floor. The design was a success, but it was not without its critics.
The exterior of the building is constructed from gray stone. A tan stucco has been used to repair the surface. A stained glass dome caps the rotunda. The building also has a spiral staircase.
BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo
Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo is the largest urban zoo in the state. This 147-acre garden-like facility is home to over 1,400 animals worldwide. In addition, the zoo offers several special events and attractions throughout the year.
Aside from its animal inhabitants, the zoo is also involved in research efforts. One of the more exciting initiatives involves a collaborative project involving endangered species of hornbill birds from Southeast Asia. The zoo’s involvement is expected to be complete by the fall of 2023.
The zoo has also participated in 30 international Species Survival Plans (SSPs). The zoo has successfully reintroduced the Golden Lion Tamarin into the wild as part of the program.
There are dozens of special events and exhibits at the zoo each year. These include the Giants of the Islands, the Safari Playground, and the L’Aquarium de Louisiane. These are all exemplary examples of the modern zoo’s role in conservation and education.
Louisiana Art & Science Museum
Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum is a nonprofit organization that serves the Gulf Coast region. It is a vital cultural resource for the community. In addition, it provides programs and educational opportunities for the general public, including K-12 students.
The LASM is a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers. Its educational offerings are developed in partnership with educators and curriculum specialists from the East Baton Rouge Parish school system. It also is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
The museum’s collection includes thousands of artworks, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to American and European art. It also features a planetarium, one of the largest in the southeastern United States. The planetarium features weekly Stargazing, large-format films, and visual music shows.
City-Brooks Community Park
Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, City-Brooks Community Park is excellent for a family outing. It is a 154-acre community park with a variety of attractions. These include a swimming pool, sports fields, tennis courts, a fishing lake, and a meditation labyrinth.
The original pool was a lively attraction in the old days and remained a symbol of the neighborhood’s past. When the pool closed in 2010, it was reopened as a much smaller pool, focusing more on teaching kids how to swim.
The Capital One Tennis Center is also one of five major tennis centers in the state. This facility includes lighted courts, racquet and ball machine rentals, and instruction.
The City Park Municipal Golf Course is a 40-acre course that was built in 1926 and designed by Tom Bendelow. It is a beautiful course that offers a small bayou and mature trees.
