Varsity Theater band performing in Baton Rouge; credit Visit Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Arts
Old Governor’s Mansion
DESCRIPTION: Built by Huey Long in 1930 to be “Louisiana’s White House”, the Old Governor’s Mansion is now headquarters of the Foundation for Historical Louisiana. Reopened to the public in 1999 after restoration, it features furnishings and artifacts from nine Louisiana governors, a grand ballroom, French wallpaper, crystal chandeliers, plus an eye-catching marble staircase.
ADMISSION: Around $10, Children under 5 Free
DAYS & HOURS: tours Tue-Fri 10a-4p
ADDRESS: 502 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA MAP
PHONE: 225-387-2464
WEBSITE: http://www.oldgovernorsmansion.org
Old State Capitol
DESCRIPTION: Gothic architectural treasure was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975. The 150-year-old statehouse with a grand stairway has withstood war, fire, scandal, bitter debate, abandonment and many a “colorful” Louisiana political event. Today, you can experience a multimedia presentation, interactive exhibits, political research library, political memorabilia, film and videotapes of the state’s colorful leaders.
ADMISSION: Free
DAYS & HOURS: Mon-Sat 9a-4:30p, Sun Noon-4:30p
ADDRESS: 100 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA MAP
PHONE: 225-342-0500
WEBSITE: http://www.sec.state.la.us/osc
LSU Shaw Center for the Arts
DESCRIPTION: Towering high on a bluff above the Mississippi River, lies a realization of how visual and performing arts stimulate both culture and economic growth in a city. Inside the glass skin of the 125,000 square-foot facility resides a art museum, and an acoustically brilliant Manship Theatre seating 325, LSU Museum of Art showcasing more than 17,000 square feet of exhibition space. The facility houses touring and permanent collections and seats 325 people. Designed in the spirit of a London West End space, the Manship includes an orchestra level and two balconies, a magnificent audio system, a large fly house and automated orchestra pit to feature some of the region’s most exciting up and coming artists. The LSU School of Art Gallery, featuring exciting works from the faculty and students of Louisiana State University are also on display; lastly, the LSU Museum Store, PJ’s Coffee House and Wine Bar, Capital City Grill and spectacular rooftop Tsunami Japanese restaurant make this a must visit site. Indoor parking is available.
ADMISSION: varies by venue and event
DAYS & HOURS: Tue-Sat 9a-11p; Sun 11a-5p
ADDRESS: 100 Lafayette Street, Baton Rouge, LA MAP
PHONE: 225-346-5001
WEBSITE: http://www.shawcenter.org
