Capitol Park Museum

Louis Armstrong, Mardi Gras, the Mississippi River - all these iconic elements come to mind when you think about Louisiana. Why not explore a museum that celebrates this incredibly vibrant state and its rich history? Capitol Park Museum offers a panoramic exploration of this fascinating state that kids and adults alike will find both educational and enthralling.

At Capitol Park Museum, kids can delve into how a myriad of ethnicities and nationalities came together to form Louisiana's rich cultural tapestry. From American Indians and Spanish and French colonists to Acadians from Nova Scotia and enslaved Africans, every group has left an indelible mark on the region. The museum's exhibits capture these diverse influences, offering an immersive experience into Louisiana's past.

The museum features thematic exhibits that cover history, industry, and culture, with two permanent exhibits: Grounds for Greatness: Louisiana and the Nation, and Experiencing Louisiana: Discovering the Soul of America. One of the highlights for kids is the 48ft wooden shrimp trawler and the two-row sugar cane harvester, showcasing the state's agricultural and aquatic wealth. Additionally, an oil rig model demonstrates Louisiana's critical role in the nation's energy industry, while a rare Civil War submarine provides a glimpse of history not often seen.

Exhibits on slave markets, resistance, and revolt offer a poignant glimpse into the unfathomable plight and resilience of Africans, with even a re-creation of a holding cell's atmosphere, where individuals destined for auction once lived. Don't miss the museum's tribute to Louisiana's contribution to jazz music, featuring Pete Fountain’s clarinet, Buddy Guy’s guitar, and an expansive Louis Armstrong exhibit. With so much to see and experience, a visit to Capitol Park Museum promises an enriching and unforgettable day out for the entire family!