LSU Burden Museum & Botanic Gardens

The LSU Burden Museum & Gardens consists of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, LSU Rural Life Museum and Windrush Gardens, all of which are situated in the heart of Baton Rouge.

LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens

Explore Baton Rouge’s very own secret garden at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, a university-supported research facility full of several woodlands, gardens, wetlands, trails and more. The Trees and Trails trail system alone accounts for three miles of exploration, and Mother Nature ensures different seasonal blooms around the gardens throughout the year.

LSU Rural Life Museum

Step into 18th and 19th century rural Louisiana at the LSU Rural Life Museum. Dedicated to preserving history with exhibits featuring items and materials used by early working-class Louisianans, this museum spans over 25 acres and is divided into four parts with 32 total outbuildings. Every building tells its own story through architecture, complemented by educational resources to advance our knowledge on Louisiana’s agricultural heritage.

Windrush Gardens

Steele Burden poured all of his energy into his self-taught passion for art and landscape architecture, making the intricate designs and intentional plant placements of the Windrush Gardens his life’s work. In the wintertime, the landscapes are transformed into a magical experience of Louisiana Lights, an immersive light festival with themed nights that attracts visitors from all around the country.

Visiting the Gardens

The Burden Museums and Gardens are the perfect family-friendly, outdoor activity. Keep these points in mind when planning your visit and remember to enjoy the beauty of nature!

  • Various parking areas are located near the attractions.
    • Gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m., with grounds remaining open until 5 p.m. every day of the week.
    • There are various holiday closures: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
  • The Botanic Gardens are free for everyone to self-guide themselves through.
  • The LSU Rural Life Museum charges an admissions fee, granting access to every outbuilding, the grounds and the Windrush Gardens.
    • Two hours at the Rural Life Museum are recommended for the optimal experience. 30-45 minutes should suffice for the Windrush Gardens.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and leisure wear if you’re planning to see it all. The grounds will have you exploring for miles!
LSU Burden Museum & Botanic Gardens
The LSU Burden Museum & Gardens consists of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, LSU Rural Life Museum and Windrush Gardens, all of which are…
Attractions
Baton Rouge is a city where culture, history, and adventure come together, offering an exciting array of attractions that showcase its…
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