USS Kidd Veterans Museum
Explore a historic Fletcher-class destroyer and dive into naval history with engaging exhibits and unique traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
USS Kidd Veterans Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic Fletcher-class destroyer and dive into naval history with engaging exhibits and unique traditions.
"An iconic place where you can take great photos, it’s not expensive, and best of all—pets are allowed!"
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 45 mins in the museum & 1-1.5 hrs on the ship. Take your time to see details!
☀️ Prepare for sun exposure
Walkways to the ship are uncovered. Bring water & sun protection on hot days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
USS Kidd Destroyer
The Ship Itself
Explore a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the first ships of the US Navy. Imagine life at sea on this historic vessel.
Naval History Exhibits
Museum Building
Discover scale model ships, military artifacts, and tributes to soldiers and officers. Learn about naval history.
Kamikaze Plane Remains
Museum Building
See the poignant remains of a kamikaze plane and a Japanese aviator's flight suit, a powerful reminder of WWII.
Pirate Exhibit
Museum Building
Uncover the intriguing connection between Captain Kidd and the ship's unique pirate flag tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Ship Accessibility & Dry Dock
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 45 mins in the museum & 1-1.5 hrs on the ship. Take your time to see details!
☀️ Prepare for sun exposure
Walkways to the ship are uncovered. Bring water & sun protection on hot days.
🅿️ Parking considerations
Limited parking at the front. Nearest lot is a block away.
💰 Check for discounts
Ask about discounted rates if the ship is dry-docked for repairs.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for 45 mins in the museum & 1-1.5 hrs on the ship. Take your time to see details!
☀️ Prepare for sun exposure
Walkways to the ship are uncovered. Bring water & sun protection on hot days.
🅿️ Parking considerations
Limited parking at the front. Nearest lot is a block away.
💰 Check for discounts
Ask about discounted rates if the ship is dry-docked for repairs.
🐶 Pet-friendly policy
Pets are welcome in both the museum and on the ship!
📸 Photo opportunities
The ship and exhibits offer great photo ops. Capture the history!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the USS Kidd Veterans Museum to be an interesting and informative experience, particularly enjoying the chance to explore the historic destroyer. The museum's exhibits are praised for their detail and historical significance, with many appreciating the unique pirate flag tradition. While some note the ship's accessibility limitations and potential for crowds, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting it as a great stop for history buffs and families.
"This museum is very interesting. It features a display of scale model ships, a tribute to soldiers and officers, weapons, and a lot of history. The tour of the museum can be completed in about 45 minutes. Then you can continue your visit on the museum ship, the USS Kidd (DD-661), a Fletcher-class destroyer that was one of the first ships of the United States Navy. The tour inside the ship can take about an hour to an hour and a half, especially if you follow all the signs and take your time to observe the details. It’s an iconic place where you can take great photos, it’s not expensive, and best of all—pets are allowed in both locations."
Karla Paredes
"We enjoyed the USS Kidd Veterans Museum. This is an average sized, two-story museum with lots of displays. We found the Japanese aviator’s flight suit and the remains of the kamikaze plane to be very interesting. There are also a collection of naval uniforms and two fighter jets on display as well as a small gift shop."
Louis and Elaine
"Small museum, but packed with memorabilia and a lot of information. First off, since the ship was being dry-docked for repairs, there was a discounted price. Second, all the information in all of the cases and next to the pictures is very informative. One thing I did find confusing was is the pirate exhibit, whose name is the same, Kidd, is that a relative of the ome who had the ship(s) named after him? I understand there is a lineage, given that his wife, after his death wanted the pirate flag flown on the ship. Other than that, it's a cute little place packed with information."
Gair Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The USS Kidd Veterans Museum is located in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana, along the Mississippi River. It's easily accessible by car, and there is limited parking directly in front of the museum, with additional parking available nearby. 
Yes, there is limited parking available directly in front of the museum. If this lot is full, there are other parking lots within a block's distance.
Information on public transportation routes to the USS Kidd Veterans Museum can be found on the local transit authority's website. It's advisable to check schedules in advance.
While the museum building itself is generally accessible, the USS Kidd ship is a historic warship and may present challenges for visitors with significant mobility issues. Walkways to the ship are paved but uncovered.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official USS Kidd Veterans Museum website or call ahead to confirm their current hours of operation before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are generally reasonable. Visitors have noted that there might be discounted rates if the ship is undergoing dry-dock repairs. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current admission fees.
While advance booking might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check the museum's website, especially during peak seasons or for special events, to see if advance ticket purchase is recommended or required.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as military personnel or seniors. Additionally, as mentioned, a dry-docking for repairs can sometimes lead to a discounted admission price.
Yes, pets are allowed in both the museum building and on the USS Kidd ship, making it a great option for pet owners.
A typical visit can take around 45 minutes for the museum exhibits and an additional 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the USS Kidd ship thoroughly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a variety of naval history exhibits, including scale model ships, military artifacts, uniforms, and a tribute to soldiers and officers. The main attraction is touring the USS Kidd (DD-661) destroyer.
The USS Kidd is a Fletcher-class destroyer, one of the first ships of the US Navy. Touring the ship allows you to envision life at sea and explore its various decks and compartments.
Yes, the museum features interesting exhibits like the remains of a kamikaze plane and a Japanese aviator's flight suit, as well as a unique pirate exhibit connected to the ship's history and the Kidd family.
The USS Kidd is a real warship and undergoes periodic maintenance. It may be dry-docked for repairs, which could affect interior access. It's advisable to check its status before your visit.
The USS Kidd is docked along the Mississippi River, offering beautiful views of the river and the surrounding Baton Rouge landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the USS Kidd Veterans Museum and on the ship. It's an iconic place with many great photo opportunities.
The exterior of the USS Kidd destroyer, the various exhibits inside the museum, and the views of the Mississippi River from the ship all offer excellent photographic potential.
While general photography is permitted, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in areas where it might be disruptive or prohibited.
Drone usage is typically subject to local regulations and museum policies. It's best to check with the museum directly regarding any restrictions on drone operation.
Capturing the scale of the destroyer, the detailed exhibits, and the historical artifacts are highly recommended for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ship itself might not be fully accessible for very young children or those with strollers, the museum building provides plenty of engaging exhibits. The pet-friendly policy is a huge plus for families traveling with their furry companions. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as the walkways to the ship can be exposed.
⚓ History Buffs & Military Enthusiasts
You'll find extensive information on naval operations, ship models, and artifacts that bring history to life. The unique story of the pirate flag adds an intriguing dimension to the naval history presented. It's a place where you can spend hours absorbing the rich narratives of service and sacrifice.
📸 Photographers
Consider capturing the textures of the metal, the narrow passageways, and the panoramic views from the ship's decks. The unique pirate flag and the poignant WWII exhibits also provide visually interesting elements to photograph. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any specific photography guidelines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The USS Kidd: A Fletcher-Class Destroyer
+1Visiting the ship allows you to step back in time and experience what life was like for the sailors who served aboard. You can explore the various compartments, from the engine room to the living quarters, and gain an appreciation for the cramped conditions and the dedication required to operate such a vessel. The ship's dry-docking for repairs is a testament to its ongoing preservation efforts, ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.
Interestingly, the USS Kidd is the only U.S. Navy ship authorized to fly the Pirate Flag. This unique tradition stems from the ship being named after Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who was killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor. His wife, after his death, requested that the pirate flag be flown on the ship in his honor, a tradition that continues to this day. This adds a fascinating layer to the ship's already rich history.
Exploring the Museum's Exhibits
The museum also features a significant collection of military memorabilia, including uniforms, weapons, and personal accounts from veterans. A particularly poignant exhibit showcases the remains of a kamikaze plane and a Japanese aviator's flight suit, serving as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. These exhibits are designed to educate and honor the service of all those who have defended the nation.
One of the more unusual and engaging exhibits is the Pirate Exhibit, which ties into the ship's unique tradition of flying the pirate flag. This section explores the lineage and the story behind this distinctive maritime custom, adding an element of intrigue and storytelling to the museum's offerings. The combination of historical artifacts, personal stories, and unique traditions makes the USS Kidd Veterans Museum a comprehensive and engaging destination.
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