Shaw Center for the Arts Tours

Shaw Center for the Arts featuring modern architecture
Shaw Center for the Arts
Shaw Center for the Arts which includes a fountain
Shaw Center for the Arts
Shaw Center for the Arts featuring theater scenes and interior views


Discover a vibrant schedule of art, music and theater events at this contemporary performing arts center in downtown Baton Rouge.

The Shaw Center for the Arts is Baton Rouge’s all-encompassing cultural center for art, entertainment and food. The center offers a platform for artists, groups, students and tourists to create and be part of wide-ranging performing and visual arts experiences. The Shaw Center for the Arts has art schools, galleries, theaters and restaurants, all sharing a contemporary space close to the eastern banks of the Mississippi River.

Visit permanent and temporary exhibitions at the center’s galleries, which showcase works by local and international artists. Both galleries are factions of the Louisiana State University. The Museum of Art has a collection of over 6,500 objects, including British portraiture, Chinese jade carvings and Newcomb College Pottery. Browse experimental displays designed to excite, intrigue and provoke reactions at the Glassell Gallery.

Choose from an eclectic agenda of events put on by various theater companies at the Manship Theater. The New Venture Theater puts on productions by theatrical communities from all backgrounds and levels of society. Hartley-Vey Theaters welcomes well-known acts such as Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears.

Get hands-on and live out your theatrical dreams at the center’s non-profit schools. You’ll find activities and workshops to encourage the artistic talents of all ages.

Take a break at the selection of cafés and restaurants. Pick up a coffee and light snacks to eat on the go or dine at a grill house. The terrace of the rooftop seafood restaurant has uninterrupted views over the Mississippi River.

The Shaw Center for the Arts spreads across almost an entire city block in the southwest section of downtown Baton Rouge. It’s a short walk from major city attractions, including Louisiana Art & Science Museum and Old State Capitol. Public buses stop close to the center’s entrance. Metered parking is available on the surrounding streets and at a nearby parking garage.

The center is open daily and general admission is free. Fees are applicable for the events and exhibitions at the individual venues. Visit the Shaw Center for the Arts official website for more information.

Plan a trip to see Shaw Center for the Arts

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Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Baton Rouge Airport
L'Auberge Casino Hotel Baton Rouge

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Shaw Center for the Arts

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

4 out of 5
201 Lafayette St, Baton Rouge, LA
Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center
WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection

WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection

3.5 out of 5
150 3rd Street, Baton Rouge, LA
WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection
Bally's Baton Rouge Hotel

Bally's Baton Rouge Hotel

3.5 out of 5
102 France St, Baton Rouge, LA
Bally's Baton Rouge Hotel
Origin Baton Rouge, a Wyndham Hotel

Origin Baton Rouge, a Wyndham Hotel

3 out of 5
101 ST FERDINAND STREET, Baton Rouge, LA
Origin Baton Rouge, a Wyndham Hotel
Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown by IHG

Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown by IHG

3.5 out of 5
200 Convention St, Baton Rouge, LA
Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge Downtown by IHG
Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown

3 out of 5
260 Third Street, Baton Rouge, LA
Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown

2.5 out of 5
462 Lafayette St., Baton Rouge, LA
Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown
StayAE - High Rise

StayAE - High Rise

3.5 out of 5
440 on Third, Baton Rouge, LA
StayAE - High Rise
StayAE - Flamingo House

StayAE - Flamingo House

3 out of 5
420 N 6th St, Baton Rouge, LA
StayAE - Flamingo House
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Shaw Center for the Arts

While visiting the Shaw Center for the Arts in Baton Rouge, you can enjoy a variety of activities including live music, running, and football. Explore the vibrant arts scene featuring art galleries and local restaurants that celebrate the culture. Don't forget to check availability for events and exhibitions to enhance your experience at this cultural hub.

Food and drinks

Discover local flavors at The Gregory, where fresh seafood and Southern dishes delight the palate. Stroll the charming cobblestone streets of downtown Baton Rouge to find boutique shops and enjoy a gourmet coffee at French Market Bistro, a perfect stop for food lovers.

Shopping

At the Shaw Center for the Arts, enjoy nearby shopping at Corporate Square Mall, just 4 miles away, offering a mix of family-friendly and business vibes. Only 7 miles away, Mall of Louisiana features a diverse shopping experience. If you're up for a drive, Denham Springs Antique Village is 14 miles away, perfect for unique finds.

Recreation

At Tiger Stadium, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of college football. Hooper Road Park offers a serene escape with walking trails and picnic areas, perfect for relaxation. Howell Park Golf Course provides a scenic outdoor experience, ideal for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of karting at Rockstar Racing, located 9 miles from the Shaw Center for the Arts. Feel the adrenaline rush as you race against friends in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for adventure seekers looking for some competitive fun in Baton Rouge.

Nightlife

Start your evening at Raising Cane's River Center, a vibrant theater just 0.2 miles away, perfect for culture and family entertainment. Then, try your luck at the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino, only 0.4 miles away, where romance and city vibes await.

Find the best attractions near Shaw Center for the Arts

While visiting the Shaw Center for the Arts in Baton Rouge, explore nearby attractions like urban parks, historic houses, and civic government buildings. Enjoy cultural experiences suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss popular spots such as the Louisiana State Museum, Mall of Louisiana, and the Washington Monument, making your trip a well-rounded adventure filled with history and local charm.

  • Louisiana State University: Located just 3 miles from the Shaw Center, this historic university boasts beautiful architecture and a vibrant campus life, immersing you in the rich culture and traditions of Louisiana.
  • Louisiana State Capitol: A mere 0.7 miles away, this impressive civic building offers stunning views from its observation deck, along with historical exhibits that highlight the state's political heritage and cultural significance.
  • Southern University and A&M College: Situated 5 miles from the Shaw Center, this modern university showcases a dynamic atmosphere with a focus on community engagement and education, reflecting the city's vibrant spirit.

Best time to go to Shaw Center for the Arts

Visitor numbers around Shaw Center for the Arts is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Shaw Center for the Arts is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
October69.8°F (21.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shaw Center for the Arts

To save money during your visit to the Shaw Center for the Arts in Baton Rouge, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Louisiana State University and the Mall of Louisiana. For accommodations, the cheapest months are July and December to January. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting prices and filtering for eco-certified options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for better deals, and consider joining the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cashback offers. Look for hotels with good availability and flexible payment options to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shaw Center for the Arts are July and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Moreover, you can refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Shaw Center for the Arts with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.