The Play List: Things to do for families in Baton Rouge

Andonie Museum

If your family is filled with Tigers sports fans, then this is one museum they’ll truly enjoy. It exists for one purpose only: to tell the story of LSU sports. With thousands of pieces of sports memorabilia and other artifacts relevant to the university’s history, it offers a historical perspective on one of Baton Rouge’s favorite teams. 3828 W. Lakeshore Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 578-3828. andoniemuseum.org

Artistico Express

Feeling creative? Artistico Express is a “paint your own” pottery studio. Call ahead to make sure there’s space, but the happy and talented staff welcome walk-ins most days. Pick a vase or platter of your choice, or schedule a party and make your own pieces. Your sales associate will offer any guidance needed to assure you and your family are content with your artwork. 962 O’Neal Ln., Suite E, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 756-4996. artisticoexpress.com

Barnes & Noble

No matter which location is your favorite, Barnes & Noble can keep you and your family occupied for hours. Events like story times, book signings, readings and performances are held daily at both the CitiPlace and Perkins Rowe stores. It’s an excellent way to get your family unplugged and off the couch. Two locations in Baton Rouge, at Perkins Rowe and CitiPlace. (225) 766-1337. barnesandnoble.com

Baton Rouge Music Studios

Has someone (or everyone) in your family been bitten by the music bug? Baton Rouge Music Studios provides lessons in group or individual format, teaching the appreciation and understanding of all aspects of music, whether you just want to learn a few chords or you’re planning to be the next pop sensation. 10631 Hillary Court, Baton Rouge, LA 70810, (225) 769-6225. brmusicstudios.com

Baton Rouge Zoo

They say we take those things closest to us the most for granted, and that’s definitely true of BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo. They’ve got everything from tigers to tortoises, plus fish-feeding stations and a petting zoo area for the little ones. Make a reservation for the white tiger tram—it’s a lifesaver in the heat. 3601 Thomas Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70811. (225) 775-3877. brzoo.org

Bluebonnet Swamp

Baton Rouge does a good job of hiding its wetland roots, but one place in town peels away the urban cover and shows the marshy truth. BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp offers educational wildlife exhibits plus miles of trails that take you right into Mother Nature’s realm. Kids and parents alike will enjoy seeing more animals than you ever thought lived in the city, including turtles, raccoons, rabbits, opossums, snakes, armadillos, squirrels, foxes, coyotes, deer, otter and other creatures—all from a safe distance, of course. 10503 N. Oak Hills Pkwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 757-8905. brec.org

Cajun Lagoon

When a splashpark simply won’t do, take your wet-n-wild cravings to the new Cajun Lagoon, a giant inflatable challenge course floating on water. Even the beach volleyball court floats here! This watery addition to the city is sure to get the kids excited—and get the parents a little pumped, too. 32347 Louisiana 16, Denham Springs, LA 70726, (225) 505-6436. cajunlagoon.com

Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge

Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge offers some of the most active wildlife viewing available, plus a chance to see the National Champion bald cypress tree, perhaps the largest of its kind at a height of 83 feet, a diameter of 17 feet, and 56 feet around. 11757 Ferdinand St., St. Francisville, LA 70775. (601) 442-6696. fws.gov/catisland

Cottonwood Books

If Barnes & Noble is the equivalent of a literary big box store, then Cottonwood is the antidote, offering that Mom and Pop feel with expertise second to none. Owner Danny Plaisance has been operating this hidden gem since 1986. The store boasts around 35,000 used and rare books, plus more than 7,000 hand-picked new titles. Avoid the anonymity of giant, impersonal bookstores and stop by Cottonwood. You’ll be supporting local businesses—and you might just meet your literary match wandering through this eclectic store. 3054 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 343-1266. cottonwoodbooksbatonrouge.com

Cypress Mounds Baseball Complex

Looking for a major league experience with a minor league price tag? Take the family to Cypress Mounds Baseball Complex, home to eight uniquely constructed baseball/softball fields plus the Miracle Field, which is handicap accessible so that all children can enjoy themselves. Just want to watch the show? There are games going on all the time, and guests are welcome. 1430 Gardere Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70820. (225) 757-5550. cypressmounds.com

Enchanted Mansion

Most people aren’t aware that Baton Rouge has its own doll museum. The Enchanted Mansion, a non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing dolls as art, boasts special exhibits, unique characters and antique dolls, as well as space for parties. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience. 190 Lee Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 769-0005. enchantedmansion.org

Exerfit Family Fitness

If your family is looking for a way to get fit together, check out Exerfit, offering classes for both kids and adults. Exerfit will teach your family how to live a healthier lifestyle through workouts, nutrition and fun. It’s a bonding experience that will create lasting impressions on your family’s future health. 7222 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 769-4363. exerfitbr.com

Forest Community Park

It’s not hard to find a fun and exciting park in Baton Rouge, but the Forrest Community Park on South Harrell’s Ferry comes pretty close to being perfect. It’s a got a splash park, hiking trails, a fishing pond and even an attached dog park for canine family members. Families can pack a lunch, bring a blanket and while away a day together with no stress and lots of great memories. 13900 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. brec.org

Fountains at the Shaw Center

After your family has absorbed as much state history as you can stuff in them, take a refreshing walk to the fountains outside the Shaw Center. These erratic bursts of water squirting out of the ground have a tendency to cause unrestrained joy in children … the only problem is trying to keep your kids dry if the fountains aren’t your final destination for the day.

Global Wildlife Center

If the kids aren’t impressed by seeing animals at a distance, it’s time to pack up the van and take them to the Global Wildlife Center. As they say, “It’s Africa in Louisiana.” You’ll be loaded into a safari-style wagon and driven around more than 900 acres of free-roaming wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, bison, camels and exotic fowl. Kids love being able to feed the animals by hand. Parents are less excited about the slobber, but all is safe and fun. 26389 Louisiana 40, Folsom, LA 70437. (985) 796-3585. globalwildlife.com

Highland Road Park and Observatory

Take your kids to see the stars! The Highland Road Park and Observatory offers the chance to get up close and personal not only with our solar system, but with the experts who know it best. There are public viewings every Friday and Saturday night and a monthly Sky Viewing Plus, which involves demonstrations, activities, a sky tour and even a marshmallow roast. 13800 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 768-9948. bro.lsu.edu

It’s My Party

Are the kids bored and bouncing off the walls? Give them somewhere more fun to bounce—take them to It’s My Party, an indoor inflatable playground featuring a 24-foot tall slide, extensive obstacle courses and bouncing castles so the children can play to their hearts’ content—and the parents can enjoy a few moments of well deserved relaxation. 7872 Anselmo Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 768-8171. itsmypartyla.com

Jambalaya Park

If you’re trying to beat the heat, Jambalaya Park in Gonzales is the place to go. It’s home to an expansive “sprayground” that’s sure to elicit squeals of delight, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a shady amphitheater. Make sure to bring a picnic lunch so the family can enjoy the whole day at the park. 1015 E. Cornerview St., Gonzales, LA 70737. (225) 647-9564. facebook.com/jambalayaparkpool

Kliebert’s Turtle and Alligator Farm

The self-acclaimed “Original Swamp People,” the Klieberts have nearly nine decades of alligator- and turtle-farming experience. On your tour, you’ll see more than 47,000 turtles of all kinds and more than 300 alligators in their natural habitat. The whole family will be impressed as your guide hand-feeds the gators, then introduces you to their Nile crocodile and their 17-foot python. 41083 W. Yellow Water Rd., Hammond, LA 70403. (985) 345-3617. kliebertgatortours.com

The Lakes at LSU

Kids love the lakes near LSU, and why not? There’s water, sand, plenty of room to run and play, and ducks—lots and lots of ducks. Bring a loaf of bread for the cheapest thrill a dollar or so can buy. Let the kids get surrounded by hungry, honking waterfowl while they dole out the snacks, but watch out for the geese.

Leo’s Rollerland and Iceland

Leo’s Rollerland offers what might be the country’s largest indoor rollerskating ring, with an Olympic-sized ice-skating arena open during cooler months. Your family will love wheeling around the wood floors to great music, playing in the arcade and spending time together in a unique environment. 1717 N. Airway Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70815. (225) 925-9186. sk8leos.com

Liberty Lagoon

Get a little wet and wild with the family at BREC’s answer to giant, impersonal water parks. Liberty Lagoon is fun, affordable and manageable chaos. If it’s adrenaline you’re after, the Purple Plunge, Yellow Lunge or Gator Bowl are sure to get any family member’s heart rate jumping. Moms and dads might find the Lazy River, with its 435 feet of slow-flowing water, more their speed. Either way, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the lagoon. 111 Lobdell Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70806. (225) 923-3202. libertylagoon.com

The Little Gym

If your little one is still a tiny tyke, then sign up for classes at the Baton Rouge Little Gym. The place has everything from Mommy and Me classes to dance, karate, gymnastics and sports skills courses. This non-competitive form of learning and engagement stimulates children’s development. 5735 Essen Ln. #100, Baton Rouge, LA 70810. (225) 757-9930. thelittlegym.com

Louisiana Arts and Science Museum and Planetarium

The LASM offers a little something for everyone, with changing art galleries, interactive science exhibits and even an Ancient Egypt wing featuring mummies and more. The adjacent Irene B. Pennington Planetarium showcases thrilling interplanetary displays, light and music shows and Imax films that take the traditional theater-going experience to an entirely new level. 100 S. River Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 344-5272. lasm.org

Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center

This interactive children’s learning center is heaven for little ones from toddlers up to 10 years of age. Exhibits let kids be kids, encouraging them to touch, feel and create while learning about Louisiana culture. Innovative displays will pique their curiosity, from the Center’s Creation Station, which allows your little one to access his or her inner artist, to the Hot Air Balloon Display that offers the sensation of flying without the worry of leaving the ground. 113 North Cypress, Hammond, LA 70403. (985) 340-9150. lcdcofhammond.org

LSU campus

Picnic on the parade grounds for a memorable but fun and inexpensive summer day. Bring a kite, your bikes and any other outdoor goodies you might have and let the kids run wild at one of the most iconic locations in the state. With ample green space and a great backdrop, it’s one of the best places in the city to just cut back and relax. 3357 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802. (225) 578-3202. lsu.edu

LSU Museum of Natural Science

This small museum is tucked away in a corner of Foster Hall on LSU’s campus, but its history is much more illustrious than its location might suggest. There are several habitat dioramas, as well as more modern and interactive exhibits on fish species and research done in Antarctica. It’s small, appealing and easy to navigate with children. 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803. (225) 578-2855. museum.lsu.edu

Magnolia Mound

Magnolia Mound provides your family with a glimpse of life on an early-1800s-era working plantation. Of particular interest to kids is the kitchen garden and explanations of how food was typically prepared during this time period. 2161 Nicholson Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 343-4955. brec.org/magnoliamound

Mike’s Habitat at LSU

While you’re near campus, take the family to visit Baton Rouge’s favorite big cat, Mike the Tiger, in his palatial digs. This Bengal tiger mix enjoys more than 15,000 square feet of space, including flowing water features and lush vegetation. In the heat of the summer, you may just catch him frolicking in his swimming hole or batting around one of his giant toys before catching a cat-nap in one of his shady corners. mikethetiger.com

Miniature Golf at Celebration Station

Sometimes kids just need to burn off excess energy, and sometimes parents want to join in the fun. Celebration Station provides a safe, fun-filled environment that allows the entire family to cut loose and enjoy themselves. There are more than 100 arcade-style games to choose from, as well as batting cages, miniature golf, go carts and other activities. Check the website for coupons and special events. 10111 Gwenadele Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 924-7888. celebrationstation.com

Old Hickory Railroad

Treat your family to a six-mile ride on a live steam locomotive. The Old Hickory Railroad in Jackson features a steam engine plus two open coaches. Renovations are underway and should be completed in late 2013 or early 2014. In the meantime, you can check out the impressive display of model trains, with 10 different sets for your enjoyment. <strong>3406 College St., Jackson, LA 70748. (225) 634-7397. <a href=”http://louisianasteamtrain.com” target=”_blank”>louisianasteamtrain.com

Old State Capitol

Make learning Louisiana history fun for the kids with a trip to the Old State Capitol, where the beautiful stained-glass dome will catch their eyes, the dynamic display of Huey Long’s rise to power and fall from grace will captivate their minds, and the story of the ghostly girl who’s rumored still to walk the hallways will spark their curiosity. 100 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70801. (225) 342-0500. louisianaoldstatecapitol.org

Perkins Road Community Park

Another BREC facility offering an adrenaline rush, the Perkins Road Community Park boasts one of the most action-packed areas in town. Loaded with a skate park, BMX track, rock-climbing tower and other, slightly more tame amenities, it lets your family get a little more extreme than you might actually be comfortable with. 7122 Perkins Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. brec.org

Playmakers

Since 1982, the Playmakers have been delivering high-quality theatrical productions to young audiences around Louisiana. This engaging acting troupe knows what kids like, so both you and your children will thoroughly enjoy the show. 100 Lafayette St. #227, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. (225) 389-7246. playmakersbr.org

Pretend Play Party

Let the kids go wild at Pretend Play Party. You pay one flat fee to enter—no quarters or tokens necessary. It has more than 4,000 square feet of play space and a wide variety of puzzles and games, as well as activities meant to engage a child’s imagination. Bring a picnic lunch or take a short break to visit one of Denham’s nearby eateries. 738 S. Range Ave., Denham Springs, LA 70726. (225) 664-7529. pretendplayparty.com

Public Library

In the digital world we live in, it’s easy to overlook the extensive public library system we have in Baton Rouge, and the many programs and events they host. But it’s an absolute lifesaver for families with kids who are always bored. Not only are there books, videos and games available for children to check out, there are also craft days, story times and interactive events scheduled regularly at various branches. Multiple locations throughout East Baton Rouge Parish. ebrpl.com

Quarters

If you’re in the market for full-on entertainment immersion, or if your kids span a wide range of ages, Quarters of Baton Rouge might be the place that solves all your planning problems. This venue is 40,000 square feet of sensory overload, with a bowling alley, laser tag, a giant arcade and even a billiards room. If you can handle the pandemonium, you’ll have a blast. 4530 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816. (225) 930-4912. quartersbr.com

Rock Star Go Cart Racing

If you’re tired of the same old summer routine, pack the kids up and take them to the city’s only indoor go cart facility. Rock Star Go Cart Racing offers European-designed go carts that will test your driving skills and your nerve. 1855 Airline Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70817. (225) 214-0045. rockstarracing.net

Rural Life Museum

Journey back to a simpler time at LSU’s Rural Life Museum, where 19th-century Louisiana is preserved through a number of structures and exhibits throughout the grounds, including the 25 acres of Windrush Gardens. Special events are held year-round, but the museum is open daily. 4560 Essen Ln., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. (225) 765-2437. rurallife.lsu.edu

Tunica Hills

Sometimes, getting back to nature is just what the doctor ordered. Take the scenic drive to St. Francisville, stopping at the old general store just at the entrance to the park, then set out for a solid hike around the hills. With crystal-clear creeks, dazzling waterfalls and plenty of wildlife, a visit to Tunica Hills ensures you have one happy family—and one quiet ride home. Old Tunica Road, St. Francisville, LA 70775. (225) 765-2360. louisianatravel.com

Visiting the Levee

Looking for a fun, safe place to let the kids burn off some summertime energy while you relax? Baton Rouge’s downtown levee park offers just such a space, with great views of the mighty Mississippi. Have a seat on one of the benches and watch your family frolic or plan a picnic on the green.

Whole Foods

It’s not just for grocery shopping anymore. Whole Foods is a culinary experience and a low-fuss way to expand your child’s palate without spending a fortune. Stroll through on the weekends, take advantage of free samples of fruits, veggies, cheese and other snacks, and take part in the store’s regular kid-friendly events. Top it off with an all-natural gelato, and you’ve just spent some enjoyable summer family time—all in glorious A/C. 7529 Corporate Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 218-0452. wholefoodsmarket.com

Work/Shop BR

Work/Shop Baton Rouge offers an interactive art experience geared toward encouraging a sustainable arts community in the city. Check their website often, as classes are added regularly, but many are geared toward couples and accept students of all ages. Learn how to work with clay by hand or using a potter’s wheel, paint like an Impressionist and even make your own videos. 7353 Highland Rd., Suite C., Baton Rouge, LA 70808. (225) 630-4318. workshopbr.com

Young Chefs Academy

The Young Chefs Academy is the ticket to your little chef’s heart. Here, they’ll learn food safety, basic recipes and even etiquette, plus how to cook everything from main courses to sides and desserts. Parties are available, and parents are welcome to watch the show. Who knows—before long, you may have some help in the kitchen. 7970 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. (225) 928-2022. youngchefsacademy.com

Want more things to do? Check out the lists below.

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