Things to Do in Baton Rouge with Kids

The big “B.R.” may not be as well-known as the Big Easy, but Louisiana’s beautiful capital is a mighty town on an even mightier river with a rich past and vibrant cultural scene. More importantly, it’s a family-friendly playground where history and fun meet. So, whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll swiftly discover that finding things to do in Baton Rouge comes easy.

Start your Baton Rouge adventures with trips to the city’s “wildest” places. First, spend an afternoon (or a whole day) at the Baton Rouge Zoo, the top year-round attraction in town. From colorful flamingos and macaws, to massive eastern black rhinos and majestic tigers, the zoo’s 800 wild residents—along with all the interactive exhibits and special events—make for the perfect kid-friendly outing. Looking for more tiger action? Stop by Mike the Tiger’s Habitat on the western side of the Louisiana State University campus to say “hello” to the real big cat mascot who resides there. It’s free to visit! And for more wildlife experiences coupled with adventure in the Great Outdoors, discover the miles of kid-friendly hiking trails and indoor animal exhibits at the 103-acre Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center. It’s an impressive (and inexpensive) way you and the little ones can learn all about environmental issues and the site’s conservation efforts. Admission is only $3 for adults, $2 for kids 3-17 and $2.50 for students and seniors.

In addition to watersports on the Big Muddy and swamp tours in Bluebonnet and other bayous around town, Baton Rouge offers outdoor enthusiasts several opportunities to get in touch with nature without leaving the city. The LSU AgCenter Botanic, for instance, is a free attraction that has over 5 miles of serene, kid-friendly walking paths through over a dozen themed gardens. The Children’s Garden and StoryWalk Loop are particularly terrific for gardeners of all ages to explore and learn. Hilltop Arboretum is also admission-free and offers an even more tranquil, all-ages experience throughout its 14 beautiful acres of native Louisiana plants and trees. Be sure to stop by the “cathedral” and sit beneath the dense green canopy of trees for a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. For a slightly more rugged experience, take the kids for a hike or a fishing adventure through Blackwater Conservation Area. This free-to-visit conservation area in the northeast corner of town is one of the city’s most renowned nature sites and is home to lots of local flora and fauna—including alligators—so be sure to stay on the marked paths.

If you happen to have any young history buffs in tow on your Baton Rouge vacation, you’ll find the city is ripe with things to do and see. Start at the USS Kidd Museum and a self-guided tour aboard the decommissioned Fletcher-class destroyer. It’s recognized as one of the most authentically restored vessels in the world and is the only ship of her kind that’s preserved in its World War II configurations. After disembarking, head over to the attached Veterans Museum to explore all the artifacts and exhibits covering U.S. naval history. Admission is free for kids under five! Next, head over to Louisiana’s Old State Capitol. The over 165-year-old castle-like structure is free to visit and stands as a testament to Louisiana’s rich history. As soon as you step inside this National Historic Landmark, you’ll be amazed by the staggeringly beautiful stained glass interior dome and gothic architecture. Explore the many exhibits and stick around for one of the kid-friendly events. Finally, spend an afternoon of family-friendly, hands-on learning at the LSU Rural Life Museum. Explore over 30 historic outbuildings across 25 acres, as well as the most extensive collection of artifacts and cultural items from 18th and 19th century rural Louisianans. The complete self-guided tour takes about three hours and admission is free for kids six and under.

Educational experiences abound in Baton Rouge—and there’s no shortage of fun to be had while learning. Kids up to eight years old can experience the magic of hands-on, interactive play across 18 “learning zones” at the Knock Knock Children’s Museum. From the Bubble Playground and Storybook Climber, to the Art Garden and Knock Knock Maker Shop, the youngest members of your family will find no shortage of mind-expanding, good-for-your-brain fun to be had here. For the older kids and teenagers (plus the adults) in your group, spend a day at the world-class Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Permanent collections include an Ancient Egypt exhibit, a giant solar system model, and a Discovery Center for the little ones. Plus, there’s an impressive planetarium that features a 60-foot domed theater and several stunning shows that take you from the center of our solar system and into the vast reaches of the universe. And if you plan your visit on the first Sunday of the month, you’ll find admission is free!

When warmer weather rolls in and you need a break from the heat (and humidity), take the family for an exciting, splash filled day at Blue Bayou Water Park. Get wet and wild on over a dozen waterslides, a lazy river, a massive wave pool and the world’s largest tornado slide—the Azuka. Or, if you’d rather stay dry while getting your thrills, head to Dixie Landin’ just across the street. Here you’ll find several exciting rides, including the adrenalin-pumping Ragin’ Cajun boomerang roller coaster. Your day pass covers both parks and kids under 35 inches in height get in free! Or, head over to Liberty Lagoon for even more water park fun the whole family can enjoy. And if mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages and arcade games are more your speed, check out Celebration Station.