Louisiana’s capital city of Baton Rouge is home to two iconic college campuses—Louisiana State University and Southern University—that offer a sample of the classic American university experience. Here’s what to see and where to go to make the most of your visit.
Louisiana State University (LSU)
One of the most-visited spots in Baton Rouge, the historic campus of LSU is filled with eye-catching architecture, lakes, and green spaces amid towering oaks and impressive magnolias. Top attractions include the 6,000-year-old LSU Campus Mounds, the 102,000-capacity Tiger Stadium (home of the LSU football team and known affectionately as “Death Valley”), and the habitat of LSU’s live mascot, Mike the Tiger.
And that’s not to mention football gamedays in the fall, which are a one-of-a-kind experience. Tailgating starts hours before kickoff, and the smell of jambalaya and meat on the grill wafts through campus. Ninety minutes before the game starts, the football team, LSU cheerleaders and the 235-member Golden Band from Tigerland march from the Greek Amphitheater to Tiger Stadium.
Sports fans can also check out LSU’s national-champion baseball and women’s basketball teams, who also draw huge crowds during their seasons.
Southern University
Southern University and A&M College—known locally as simply Southern University—is one of the largest schools in the HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) system. Located in Northern Baton Rouge overlooking the Mississippi River, Southern is a nationally recognized research university that also has highly rated nursing and law programs.
Notable attractions on campus include the Southern University Museum of Art, which is dedicated to African and African-American art, as well as the photo-worthy Red Stick sculpture.
Southern has a sports culture all its own, too, with 13 Division I teams including successful baseball and football programs.
