LSU Museum of Art Shaw Center for the Arts Baton Rouge
Discover Louisiana's art and culture at the LSU Museum of Art within the vibrant Shaw Center for the Arts, featuring diverse exhibitions and performan...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission & art activities
LSU Museum of Art Shaw Center for the Arts Baton Rouge
Best Time
Free admission & art activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Louisiana's art and culture at the LSU Museum of Art within the vibrant Shaw Center for the Arts, featuring diverse exhibitions and performances.
"A cultural hub with art, food, and music, not to be missed!"
Free Entry for Students
Show your LSU Tiger Card for free admission to the museum! :ticket:
Check for Free First Sundays
Enjoy free entry and art activities on the first Sunday of each month. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
LSU Museum of Art Exhibitions
5th Floor, Shaw Center for the Arts
Discover diverse collections, from American Impressionism to local Louisiana artists like Clementine Hunter.
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Manship Theatre Performances
Shaw Center for the Arts
Catch a variety of shows, from music to theater, in this intimate venue with great acoustics.
Galleries at LSU
Shaw Center for the Arts
Explore additional art spaces within the center, showcasing a range of artistic expressions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Student Perks & Free Entry
Beyond the Art: A Cultural Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry for Students
Show your LSU Tiger Card for free admission to the museum! :ticket:
Check for Free First Sundays
Enjoy free entry and art activities on the first Sunday of each month. :moneybag:
Explore the Whole Center
Don't just visit the museum; check out the theater and other galleries. :art:
Consider Event Seating
Be mindful of specific seats in the Manship Theatre that may have obstructed views. :seat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry for Students
Show your LSU Tiger Card for free admission to the museum! :ticket:
Check for Free First Sundays
Enjoy free entry and art activities on the first Sunday of each month. :moneybag:
Explore the Whole Center
Don't just visit the museum; check out the theater and other galleries. :art:
Consider Event Seating
Be mindful of specific seats in the Manship Theatre that may have obstructed views. :seat:
Convenient Parking Nearby
Plenty of parking is available right next door to the Shaw Center. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the LSU Museum of Art and the Shaw Center for the Arts as a vibrant cultural hub, highlighting the diverse art collections, engaging exhibitions, and the welcoming atmosphere. The convenience of onsite dining and the Manship Theatre adds to its appeal, though some specific theatre seats have noted view obstructions.
"With 2 fabulous restaurants (CCG in 1st Floor & Tsunami on 6th floor, a theater, 2 studios, LSU Museaum of Art on 5th Floor & several Art galleries throughout the building there is always something going on for the whole family to enjoy."
Christi Ainsworth
"I would so l easily give this place 5 Stars with one exception. In the Manship Theater there a handful of bad seats. 99% of the rest are great! With the exception of those extremely few bad seats. You can see and hear the performances from various angles and you will not be disappointed.
I accept responsibility for the seat I selected, because other seats were available at the time.
I chose a place in the balcony, furthest toward the end, closest to the stage. Thinking this would put me at a place where I could watch the performance from a great angle. Unfortunately. There are stage lights that block 1/2 to 2/3rds of the view from that spot. If it weren’t for the stage lights at that particular location, the view would be fantastic.
Again, it was my choice. Next time, I’ll simply avoid one any those seats next time. There’s only 4 such seats in the arena. So again, all the rest are great. I’ve been to previous shows there and have been greatly satisfied with the seating.
My advice to the Manship Theater is to either remove those 4 seats and just have an open space there. Or perhaps rearrange the stage lights in such a way as to not block the view to the stage from that particular location.
With that said. The atmosphere, service, access to seating, staff, bartenders, cleanliness and of course the quality of the shows there are 5 Star all year long.
There’s plenty of parking right next door. The facility is also conveniently located near restaurants, shops, lounges as well as the eternally scenic Mississippi River. It’s also directly across from the Watermark Hotel. And nearby other 5 star Hotels. My personal favorite is the Watermark. One of the very best hotels in the South."
Peter Duffield
"Granddaughter took her prom pictures. Enjoyed every moment."
shelia perkins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The LSU Museum of Art is located on the 5th floor of the Shaw Center for the Arts in downtown Baton Rouge. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available right next door to the Shaw Center for the Arts, making it convenient for visitors.
The Shaw Center for the Arts is conveniently located near several hotels, including the Watermark Hotel, making it walkable for guests staying in the area.
While specific public transport routes can vary, driving or ride-sharing services are common ways to get from the LSU campus to the downtown Shaw Center.
The Shaw Center is generally accessible, with elevators to reach the museum on the 5th floor and other levels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
LSU students get free admission with their Tiger Card. General admission details can be found on their official website, and 'Free First Sundays' offer free entry for all. 
Yes, LSU students always get free entry with their Tiger Card. Additionally, the museum hosts 'Free First Sundays' with free admission and activities.
Opening hours can vary, but the museum is typically open during regular business hours on weekdays and weekends. It's best to check the official LSU Museum of Art website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for special events like 'Free First Sundays'.
For general museum visits, advance ticket purchase might not be necessary, especially with free entry for students and on free days. For Manship Theatre events, advance booking is highly recommended.
Free First Sunday is an event where the LSU Museum of Art offers free admission to everyone and often includes art-inspired activities for visitors of all ages.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse collection including American Impressionism, decorative arts, and works by Louisiana artists like Clementine Hunter. They also host rotating exhibitions.
Absolutely! The Shaw Center is a cultural hub with two restaurants (CC's Coffee House and Tsunami), the Manship Theatre, and other art galleries.
Yes, the museum often has art activities during 'Free First Sundays' and the exhibits can be engaging for various ages. The cozy seating areas also make it a comfortable visit.
Most seats in the Manship Theatre offer great views and acoustics. However, a few specific seats, particularly in the balcony towards the ends, may have obstructed views due to stage lights.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's advisable to check signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Shaw Center for the Arts houses two restaurants: CC's Coffee House on the first floor and Tsunami on the sixth floor, offering dining options within the complex.
Tsunami is known for its sushi and Japanese cuisine, offering a dining experience on the sixth floor of the Shaw Center with potential city views.
CC's Coffee House on the first floor is a popular spot for coffee, pastries, and lighter fare, perfect for a quick refreshment before or after visiting the museum.
Typically, museums do not allow outside food and drinks to be consumed inside the galleries to protect the artwork. It's best to enjoy your meals at the onsite restaurants or designated areas.
The Shaw Center is conveniently located near numerous restaurants, shops, and lounges in downtown Baton Rouge, offering a wide variety of culinary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
While specific exhibits may have restrictions, the museum's unique layout, cozy seating areas, and the art itself offer great photo opportunities. The exterior of the Shaw Center and its riverfront location are also picturesque.
Photography policies can vary depending on the exhibition. Always check for signage or ask museum staff for permission before taking photos of artwork.
The Manship Theatre itself, with its stage and seating, can be a visually interesting subject. However, photography during performances is usually prohibited.
The Shaw Center for the Arts, with its modern architecture and riverside location, offers excellent opportunities for exterior photography, especially during sunset.
Drone usage is typically regulated in urban areas and near public facilities. It's advisable to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the Shaw Center.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The museum's layout, with comfortable seating, can make it easier for younger visitors to take breaks. While the Manship Theatre hosts performances, parents should consider the age-appropriateness of shows. For dining, CC's Coffee House on the first floor is a casual option for snacks and drinks that kids will enjoy.
🎓 LSU Students
This makes it an accessible and affordable way to engage with art and culture right in their city. The museum is a great spot for a study break or a relaxed afternoon away from campus. Beyond the museum, the Shaw Center's proximity to downtown Baton Rouge means students can easily access dining options like CC's Coffee House or explore other nearby attractions. The center also occasionally hosts events that might appeal to students, so keeping an eye on their schedules is recommended.
❤️ Couples
Consider visiting during a 'Free First Sunday' for a more interactive experience, or opt for a weekday morning for a quieter, more intimate visit. Combine your museum visit with dinner at Tsunami for a memorable evening, or catch a performance at the Manship Theatre for a complete cultural date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Louisiana's Artistic Soul
Beyond specific artists, the museum's collections span various periods and styles, offering a comprehensive look at American art with a strong regional focus. This commitment to local art makes the LSU Museum of Art a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the unique cultural landscape of Louisiana. The warm and hospitable atmosphere described by visitors further enhances the experience, making it feel less like a formal institution and more like a welcoming gallery.
Whether you're drawn to historical pieces or contemporary expressions, the LSU Museum of Art provides a compelling journey through the artistic soul of Louisiana. The diverse range of exhibitions ensures there's always something new and inspiring to discover, making repeat visits worthwhile.
The Shaw Center: A Multifaceted Cultural Hub
While the theatre offers a fantastic experience, it's worth noting that a few specific seats have been mentioned as having potentially obstructed views due to stage lighting. However, the overwhelming consensus is that the vast majority of seats provide excellent sightlines and acoustics, contributing to a highly satisfying theatrical experience.
This combination of a renowned art museum, a dynamic theatre, and appealing dining options makes the Shaw Center for the Arts a perfect spot for a full day or evening of cultural immersion. Its convenient location near hotels and the Mississippi River further adds to its appeal as a central point for both locals and tourists.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit