First Free Sunday in Baton Rouge: Explore Local Museums

Looking for fun and enriching free things to do in Baton Rouge? The monthly First Free Sunday in Baton Rouge offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s rich culture, art, and history completely free of charge. Held on the first Sunday of every month, this program gives locals and visitors access to some of the best museums in Baton Rouge without the cost of admission. 

First Free Sunday began as a way to make arts and cultural experiences more accessible to everyone in the community. Whether you’re passionate about Louisiana’s vibrant history or simply looking for a family-friendly weekend outing, this event invites you to slow down and enjoy what makes Baton Rouge so unique. Spend the day wandering through interactive exhibits, admiring local art, or learning something new — no ticket required! 

Below, we’ve organized the participating museums into helpful categories so you can plan your perfect Sunday itinerary. 

Art Museums 

Louisiana Art & Science Museum 
Blending creativity and discovery, LASM offers rotating art exhibits, interactive science galleries, and a planetarium, all in a historic train station setting. 

LSU Museum of Art 
Located in the Shaw Center for the Arts, this museum showcases both traditional and contemporary works, with a focus on Southern artists and regional collections. 

Cary Saurage Community Arts Center 
A vibrant hub for visual and performing arts, the center features gallery space, studios, and exhibitions spotlighting local talent. 

History Museums 

Louisiana’s Old Governor’s Mansion 
Step into the “White House of the South” and explore lavish rooms, vintage furnishings, and fascinating stories from past governors. 

Louisiana’s Old State Capitol 
This Gothic-style marvel houses a museum of political history and breathtaking stained-glass interiors overlooking the Mississippi River. 

Magnolia Mound 
An authentically preserved plantation home, Magnolia Mound provides a glimpse into 18th-century life with guided tours, artifacts, and gardens. 

Cultural & Science Centers 

Capitol Park Museum 
This immersive museum offers a deep dive into Louisiana’s diverse cultural heritage, from Mardi Gras and jazz to civil rights and industry. 

LSU Center for River Studies at the Water Campus 
This innovative research facility features an impressive 10,000-square-foot physical model of the Mississippi River Delta, demonstrating river management and coastal restoration efforts. 

Please visit each museum’s website for specific hours, which may vary.