Passport to Explore

LSU College of Science Passport to Explore programPassport to Explore is a year-long annual program for K-8th grade explorers that curates science outreach activities led by individuals and units within the LSU science community, as well as community events in the Baton Rouge area.

Participation

Students in K-8th grade sign up to participate in the program through the registration form linked below. Those who sign up will track the activities or "destinations" (listed below) they participate in by submitting them through the "stamp submission" form. This is how you earn digital "stamps." Towards the end of the year, students will be awarded prizes for completing activities. Note: You will be required to upload a photo from the destination/activity OR write a 2-5 sentence summary of your experience for it to count towards your completed activities.

Register Here

STAMP SUBMISSION

Faculty/units participation

We offer LSU STEM faculty and units the opportunity to advertise their outreach activities through the Passport to Explore program. 

Participating parties will be able to describe the infrastructure of Passport to Explore as needed, i.e., in the Broader Impacts sections of NSF proposals, in service materials, etc. Passport to Explore will be highlighted on social media and other community-focused outward facing communications. 

To include your event/activity in the Passport to Explore program, complete the submission form below for consideration. You can submit at any time during the year.

SUBMIT DESTINATION FOR CONSIDERATION


Passport Destinations

Be sure to check back because destinations may be added throughout the year.

Date Specific Events General Locations

Date Specific

Event Name Date Time Location Audience Description Additional Details

LIGO Science Saturdays: Energized!

January 6, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

LIGO Livingston

General

On the first Saturday of every month from 10 AM - 4 PM, visitors are welcome to experience the LIGO Science Education Center's Science Saturdays. These events are FREE, and you can just drop in anytime between 10 and 4 pm.More Info: https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/LA/page/Science-Saturdays  

 

Science Academy: Your Personal Skygazing Kit

January 6, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Swamp Bird Walks

January 6, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Stargazing in the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium

January 6, 2024

January 13, 2024

January 20, 2024

January 27, 2024

10:00 a.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

General

Join us for STARGAZING under the dome of the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium on Saturdays at 10 AM! Learn about the stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky during the interactive presentation, then sit back for a featured show for all ages.Included in general admission (free for members); admission price paid at the door.

 

Science Academy: Plate Tectonics

January 13, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

BASF's Kids' Lab

January 13, 2024

11:00 a.m.1:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Ages 6-12

Explore the science of chemistry during these 45-minute hands-on workshops for young scientists ages 6-12 and their accompanying adults. Have fun learning and enjoy a different experiment each month! The January workshop is Playful Polymers. Each participant will also receive a cool branded tote bag that includes a lab apron and safety glasses.     More Info: https://www.lasm.org/events/upcoming-events/basfs-kids-lab

Fill out a Reservation Form by the Thursday prior to your desired session. You may also register on-site the day of the program, as space permits.BASF's Kids' Lab workshops are included with the price of general admission (and are always free to members).

BASF's Kids' Lab

January 14, 2024

1:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Ages 6-12

Explore the science of chemistry during these 45-minute hands-on workshops for young scientists ages 6-12 and their accompanying adults. Have fun learning and enjoy a different experiment each month! The January workshop is Playful Polymers. Each participant will also receive a cool branded tote bag that includes a lab apron and safety glasses.     More Info: https://www.lasm.org/events/upcoming-events/basfs-kids-lab

Fill out a Reservation Form by the Thursday prior to your desired session. You may also register on-site the day of the program, as space permits.BASF's Kids' Lab workshops are included with the price of general admission (and are always free to members).

Craft Corner at the Swamp

January 19-20, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Looking to express yourself through some nature-themed crafts while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Swamp? Join us quarterly as we host Craft Corner and provide a variety of fun and interactive crafts for you to complete with us or take home to work on at your leisure. This program is included with your general admission.

 

Science Academy: ISS Expedition 5

January 20, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Studio Saturday: Etching Art Workshop with Meagan Moore

January 20, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Ages 12+

Join us for our next Studio Saturday Art Class on Saturday, January 20, from 10 AM – 12 PM, led by local artist and scientist Meagan Moore! Participants will be able to explore the dreamscapes they wish to see in themselves for the new year by etching, carving, or painting their goals into gold hexagonal mirrors like those of the James Webb Telescope. More Info: https://www.lasm.org/events/upcoming-events/studio-saturday-meagan-moore

Registration required. 

Geaux Science Explorations: STEM Story Time

January 27, 2024

10:30 - 11:45 a.m.

Bluebonnet Library

Main (Goodwood) Library

Eden Park Library

K-3rd grade

The LSU College of Science invites children in kindergarten through third grade to explore the worlds of math and science through an exciting science story time adventure led by some of the university’s top scientists and mathematicians. Each story time is followed by a fun, hands-on activity that allows the young scientists to feed their curiosity and take an even deeper dive into a math and science discovery.More Info: https://www.lsu.edu/science/engagement/stem-story-time.php

Registration is required: Register Here

STEM Expansion

January 27, 2024

3:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 12-17

Tween and Teen scientists will get hands-on with STEM activities focusing on Stellar Astronomy! Certificates will be earned, and a section of archived experiments, some not seen in over fifteen years (and some never performed on site) take place.

EBR Parish residents $15
Out-of-parish residents $18.
Advanced registration via WebTrac required, search for activity #531993 at https://register.brec.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/SPLASH.html

BASF's Kids' Lab

January 27, 2024

11:00 a.m.1:00 p.m.3:00 p.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Ages 6-12

Explore the science of chemistry during these 45-minute hands-on workshops for young scientists ages 6-12 and their accompanying adults. Have fun learning and enjoy a different experiment each month! The January workshop is Playful Polymers. Each participant will also receive a cool branded tote bag that includes a lab apron and safety glasses.     More Info: https://www.lasm.org/events/upcoming-events/basfs-kids-lab

Fill out a Reservation Form by the Thursday prior to your desired session. You may also register on-site the day of the program, as space permits.BASF's Kids' Lab workshops are included with the price of general admission (and are always free to members).

BASF's Kids' Lab

January 28, 2024

1:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

Ages 6-12

Explore the science of chemistry during these 45-minute hands-on workshops for young scientists ages 6-12 and their accompanying adults. Have fun learning and enjoy a different experiment each month! The January workshop is Playful Polymers. Each participant will also receive a cool branded tote bag that includes a lab apron and safety glasses.     More Info: https://www.lasm.org/events/upcoming-events/basfs-kids-lab

Fill out a Reservation Form by the Thursday prior to your desired session. You may also register on-site the day of the program, as space permits.BASF's Kids' Lab workshops are included with the price of general admission (and are always free to members).

LIGO Science Saturdays: Attraction

February 3, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

LIGO Livingston

General

On the first Saturday of every month from 10 AM - 4 PM, visitors are welcome to experience the LIGO Science Education Center's Science Saturdays. These events are FREE, and you can just drop in anytime between 10 and 4 pm.  More Info: https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/LA/page/Science-Saturdays

 

Swamp Bird Walks

February 3, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Stargazing in the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium

February 3, 2024

10:00 a.m.

Louisiana Art & Science Museum

General

Join us for STARGAZING under the dome of the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium on Saturdays at 10 AM! Learn about the stars and constellations in the local nighttime sky during the interactive presentation, then sit back for a featured show for all ages.Included in general admission (free for members); admission price paid at the door.

 

Science Academy

February 3, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy

February 10, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy

February 17, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Star Party: Viewing the Moon, Jupiter & the Orion Nebula

February 18, 2024

8:00 p.m.

Landolt Astronomical Observatory on the roof of LSU's Nicholson Hall

General

FREE stargazing event: Join us in LSU's Landolt Astronomical Observatory on the roof of Nicholson Hall as we view Moon phase: Waxing Gibbous (1 day past 1st quarter). Other targets: Jupiter, Orion Nebula, Messier 79.

For weather updates check LAOatLSU on Facebook & Twitter (X). If the weather is mostly cloudy, there will not be any observing, as there will not be any celestial body to see.

https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

Admission is free and you need not bring anything. The observatory was built in the late 1930's and is not handicapped accessible.

Geaux Science Explorations: Kids' Day at the Museum

February 24, 2024

10:30 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

LSU Museum of Natural Science

4th-6th grade

The LSU Museum of Natural Science and LSU College of Science invite girls in grades 4 through 6 to apply to LSU’s Kids' Day at the Museum.Participants will meet new, like-minded friends, get a behind-the-scenes tour of the LSU Museum of Natural Science, learn from LSU College of Science student organizations through hands-on science activities, AND snack and chat with some of LSU's top scientists.

 

Science Academy

February 24, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

STEM Expansion

February 24, 2024

3:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 12-16

Advanced demonstrations and topic extensions for an older teen crowd. Archived experiments including some not seen in over fifteen years, are joined with timely, cutting-edge demos and concepts. Certificates earned by participants. Registration closes the Friday before class.

Register: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/stem-expansion/8690

LIGO Science Saturdays: Math Madness

March 2, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

LIGO Livingston

General

On the first Saturday of every month from 10 AM - 4 PM, visitors are welcome to experience the LIGO Science Education Center's Science Saturdays. These events are FREE, and you can just drop in anytime between 10 and 4 pm.  More Info: https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/LA/page/Science-Saturdays

 

Swamp Bird Walks

March 2, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Science Academy: Galaxies

March 9, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy: Rock & Minerals

March 16, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Astronomy on Tap - Baton Rouge

March 20, 2024

7:00 p.m.

Varsity Theatre

General

Join us for an enlightening journey from the solar eclipse to Mars at this month's Astronomy on Tap Baton Rouge.
   
Speaker 1: LSU Associate Professor Tabetha Boyajian - Unveiling cosmic wonders: The Total Solar Eclipse 2024

Uncover the science and significance of this rare celestial event on April 8, 2024, as well as its beauty and viewing logistics. Dr. Boyajian will present how studying the observations of eclipses & objects beyond our solar system helps us understand our universe.
   
Speaker 2: LSU biochemistry undergrad Sophia Matylis - Potatoes on Mars?

What are some of the obstacles of growing plants in Space and what would we need to do to overcome these obstacles? Genetic modification of crops may offer the solution.

More Information: https://www.facebook.com/aotbatonrouge/

Star Party: Viewing the Moon, Jupiter & the Orion Nebula

March 23, 2024

8:30 p.m.

Landolt Astronomical Observatory on the roof of LSU's Nicholson Hall

General

FREE stargazing event: Join us in LSU's Landolt Astronomical Observatory on the roof of Nicholson Hall as we view Moon phase: Waxing Gibbous (1 day past 1st quarter). Other targets: Jupiter, Orion Nebula, Messier 79.

For weather updates check LAOatLSU on Facebook & Twitter (X). If the weather is mostly cloudy, there will not be any observing, as there will not be any celestial body to see.

https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

Admission is free and you need not bring anything. The observatory was built in the late 1930's and is not handicapped accessible.

Science Academy: Constellations

March 23, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

LSU Saturday Science: Unveiling cosmic wonders: The Total Solar Eclipse

March 23, 2024

1:00 p.m.

East Baton Rouge Parish Libary

General

Unveiling cosmic wonders: The Total Solar Eclipse April 8, 2024
   LSU Saturday Science @EBRPL
   
   Dr. Tabetha Boyajian, associate professor, LSU College of Science, will talk about the total solar eclipse happening on April 8, 2024. She will cover the science and significance of this rare celestial event, as well as its beauty and viewing logistics. She will present how studying the observations of eclipses of objects beyond our solar system helps us understand our universe.

More Info

 

Discover Hilltop's Wildlife: Family Field Day

March 24, 2024

1:00 p.m.

LSU Hilltop Arboretum

General

Bring the family to LSU Hilltop Arboretum on March 24 for a field day! Explore the water, land, and sky with Master Naturalists to see what amazing wildlife and plants we can find.

Free! Please pre-register online at https://lsu.edu/hilltop/programs/adult/family_field_day.php.

Craft Corner at the Swamp

April 5-6, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Looking to express yourself through some nature-themed crafts while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Swamp? Join us quarterly as we host Craft Corner and provide a variety of fun and interactive crafts for you to complete with us or take home to work on at your leisure. This program is included with your general admission.

 

LIGO Science Saturdays: Shadows

April 6, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

LIGO Livingston

General

On the first Saturday of every month from 10 AM - 4 PM, visitors are welcome to experience the LIGO Science Education Center's Science Saturdays. These events are FREE, and you can just drop in anytime between 10 and 4 pm.  More Info: https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/LA/page/Science-Saturdays

 

Swamp Bird Walks

April 6, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Zippity Zoo Fest

April 6-7, 2024

9:30 a.m. - 5:00 a.m.

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

General

It's BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo's 54th Birthday!More Info: https://brzoo.org/events-rentals/calendar/zippity-zoo-fest

 

Geaux Science Explorations: Our Earth, Our Laboratory

April 13, 2024

9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

LSU Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex

7th-8th grade

Students in grades 7 and 8 are invited to apply for Geaux Science Explorations: Our Earth, Our Laboratory — a day of fun earth and energy science activities led by some of LSU's top geologists. Learn about geology research at LSU, lunch and chat with LSU geologists and students, and explore LSU geology research labs. 

Applications Due March 22

Apply Here

Bioblitz 2024

April  26-27, 2024

TBA

TBA

General

Grab your field guides and boots and join BREC naturalists and local scientists as we explore and document the diversity of life, or “biodiversity”, of Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center. You can participate by attending a scheduled hike, helping to document species with local scientists around the park, meet local groups and organization that work to protect the natural spaces of Louisiana, practice hands on sampling, participate in live animal encounters, and more! For more information and to register for hikes and workshops, please go to brec. org/bioblitz.

 

Science Academy

April 27, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Swamp Bird Walks

May 4, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Science Academy

May 4, 2024

May 11, 2024

May 18, 2024

May 25, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Swamp Flashlight Night

May 10, 2024

5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

Ages 3+

We welcome you to enjoy the Swamp at night by visiting us during our Swamp Flashlight Night! Staff will be facilitating live animal encounters throughout the event. Enjoy a self-guided leisurely night hike with your family and friends or join a guided hike for an additional fee; space is limited so registration in advance is preferred and done by calling our front desk. The swamp trails can be really dark at night, so don’t forget to bring a flashlight. If you don’t have one, check out our gift shop for some options. Closed-toe shoes and insect repellant are recommended. Please note that admission to the trails ends at 8:15 p.m.

General admission fees apply

Swamp Birthday Party

May 18, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Happy Birthday to us! Happy Birthday to us! We’ll be celebrating 27 years of connecting people to nature on Saturday, May 18. Join us to enjoy all-day fun including live animal encounters, crafts, games, and birthday cake while it lasts. Best of all, enjoy FREE ADMISSION!

 

Swamp Bird Walks

June 1, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Science Academy: Radical Radioactivity

June 1, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy: Solar Maximum II

June 8, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/index.cfm/event/science-academy 

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

LSU Geology Summer Camp

June 20-21, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

LSU Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex

4th - 8th grade

Bust out your magnifying glass and come along to help solve the mysteries of geological history. Kids will get a chance to learn about the history of geology by participating in experiments that replicate major milestones in the development of modern geologic thought. 

This camp is a free, two-day summer camp open to 4th - 8th graders. Space is limited so register early before spots fill up.

Register Here

Swamp Bird Walks

July 6, 2024

7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Join us for extended morning hours on the first Saturday of every month to check out the feathered friends that call Bluebonnet Swamp home. Led by a member of the Baton Rouge Audubon Society, visitors enjoy a morning hike through the forest and swamp while identifying various bird species. Bird-watching techniques and identification tips are also discussed. Beginners are welcome. Field guides and binoculars are optional but recommended. For more information on birding and the Bluebonnet Bird Monitoring Project, visit braudubon.org.More Info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/swamp-bird-walks/8728

 

Craft Corner at the Swamp

July 12-13, 2024

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center

General

Looking to express yourself through some nature-themed crafts while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Swamp? Join us quarterly as we host Craft Corner and provide a variety of fun and interactive crafts for you to complete with us or take home to work on at your leisure. This program is included with your general admission.

 

Science Academy: Computers Through History

September 7, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/science-academy-fall

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy: Computer Anatomy

September 14, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/science-academy-fall

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Landolt Astronomical Observatory - Public Viewing

September 14, 2024

8:30 p.m.

Roof of Nicholson Hall, LSU Campus

General

Main Targets -  Moon phase: Waxing Gibbous (3 days to Full). Other targets: Saturn

More Information: https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

 

Science Academy: Computer Languages

September 21, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/science-academy-fall

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Science Academy: Spooky Session

October 5, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/science-academy-fall

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

Landolt Astronomical Observatory - Public Viewing

October 19, 2024

9:00 p.m.

Roof of Nicholson Hall, LSU Campus

General

Main Targets - Moon phase: Waning Gibbous (2 days past Full). Other targets: Saturn

More Information: https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

 

Boo at the Zoo

October 19-20, 2024October 26-27, 2023

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo

General

On October 19 + 20 + 26 + 27, the Zoo invites participants to Boo at the Zoo, Presented by Hancock Whitney! Participants should wear their best costumes and enjoy a fun & fall-festive day at the Zoo! Regular Zoo admission applies. Free for Members. Admission gates open 9:30 am - 4:00 pm.More Info: https://brzoo.org/events-rentals/calendar/boo-at-the-zoo?occdate=2024-10-26

 

Landolt Astronomical Observatory - Public Viewing

November 1, 2024

8:30 p.m.

Roof of Nicholson Hall, LSU Campus

General

Main Targets - Moon phase: Waning Gibbous (1 day past Full). Other targets: Jupiter, Saturn

More Information: https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

 

Science Academy: Jupiter

November 23, 2024

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Highland Road Park Observatory

Ages 8-12

Cadets are brought into the wonderful world of astronomy and given an exciting chance to explore gravity, simple machines, stars, spacecraft, meteors, the Earth-Moon system, asteroids and comets, and the electromagnetic spectrum.More info: https://www.brec.org/calendar/detail/science-academy-fall

Registration closes the Friday before each class.$5 for EBR Parish Residents$6 for out-of-parish residents

"Star Party"
Landolt Astronomical Observatory - Public Viewing

December 7, 2024

8:00 p.m.

Roof of Nicholson Hall, LSU Campus

General

Main Targets - Moon phase: First Quarter Moon. Other targets: Jupiter, Saturn

More Information: https://www.lsu.edu/physics/about/observatory.php

For more information and updates on how weather may affect the public nights please follow them on instagram @lao.lsu

If the weather is mostly cloudy, there will not be any observing, as there will not be any celestial body to see. Admission is free and you need not bring anything. The observatory was built in the late 1930’s and is not handicapped accessible.

 

General Locations

Location Days Open Hours Address Admission
LSU Museum of Natural Science Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. LSU Main Campus, Foster Hall Free Admission
LSU Hilltop Arboretum Monday - Sunday dawn to dusk (daylight hours) 11855 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 Free Admission
LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens Monday - Sunday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 4560 Essen Ln (I-10 at Essen Lane), Baton Rouge, LA 70809 Free Admission
BREC Highland Road Park Observatory Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 13800 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 Free Admission
BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo Monday - Sunday

Monday - Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Sunday: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

3601 Thomas Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70807

Adults/Teens - $8.75

2-12 - $5.75

1 & under - Free

Louisiana Art & Science Museum Wednesday - Sunday

Wednesday - Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

100 River Road South, Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Adults - $12

Children - $10

Seniors (65+) - $10

*Free the first Sunday of the month

Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center Tuesday - Sunday

Tuesday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

10503 N. Oak Hills Parkway, Baton Rouge, LA 70810

2 and younger: Free

3-17: $2

18-64: $3

65 and older: $2.50

Full-time college students with ID: $2.50

Knock Knock Museum Tuesday - Sunday

Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

1900 Dalrymple Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70808

Visitors - $14

0-23 months - Free

 

Please contact Valerie Stampley with any questions.

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