Attractions and places to see around Merrydale, a community located near Baton Rouge, Louisiana, provide access to a variety of cultural and natural experiences. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Mississippi River, numerous lakes, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore sites that reflect Louisiana's rich heritage and engage in outdoor activities. The region offers a blend of urban parkland, historical architecture, and natural landscapes.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highlight • Monument
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Highlight • Historical Site
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Situated on a bluff overlooking the river, the Louisiana Old State Capitol is a striking Gothic Revival building often described as the "Castle of Baton Rouge." Built between 1847 and 1852, it served as the seat of state government until the current capitol opened in 1932.
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On the banks of the mighty Mississippi in downtown Baton Rouge, you'll find Sing the River, a unique interactive sculpture by artist Po Shu Wang. This shimmering, reflective installation—not unlike "The Bean" in Chicago—is not only a visual spectacle but also a musical work of art. What makes it special? The sculpture is connected to sensors in the river that measure water level and current. This data is converted into sound, making the river "sing." Visitors can also interact by speaking into the sculpture or pressing buttons, creating a dialogue between humanity and nature.
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University Lake is one of six lakes on the LSU campus. It is a popular spot for various recreation activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling.
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The USS Kidd is a retired WWII era Fletcher-class destroyer that now serves as a museum. SHe is the only remaining Fletcher-class destroyer that was not modernized and currently sits in the same configuration as in AUgust of 1945.
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This is a big, important park with lots to do for everyone. One of its main features is a large lake. The park also has a 9-hole golf course that's quite old, built in 1926, and is known for its pretty scenery and rolling hills.
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Warship transformed into a museum housing naval history exhibits and memorials.
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Castle-like former government building that now houses a museum of Louisiana political history. Opening hours: Saturday 09:00 - 15:00 Sunday closed Closed on Mondays Tuesday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m Friday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
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Merrydale, located near Baton Rouge, offers several natural spaces. You can visit University Lake, one of six lakes on the LSU campus, popular for walking and cycling. Another option is City-Brooks Community Park Lake, a large lake within a significant park that also features a golf course. Additionally, the Botanical gardens, owned by LSU, showcase a diverse array of flora.
Yes, a prominent historical site is Louisiana’s Old State Capitol. This striking Gothic Revival building, often called the 'Castle of Baton Rouge,' now houses a museum of Louisiana political history. You can also experience the unique interactive sculpture Sing the River on the banks of the Mississippi in downtown Baton Rouge, which converts river data into sound.
The area around Merrydale is great for outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on various trails, including loops around University Lake and City Park Lake. For hiking, there are several options, such as the easy 'Intermediate Loop' or 'Learning Tree Trail'. Find more details and routes in the guides for Running Trails around Merrydale and Hiking around Merrydale.
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. University Lake and City-Brooks Community Park Lake are popular for walks and recreation. The Botanical gardens offer a pleasant natural environment for all ages. The interactive sculpture Sing the River is also a fun and engaging experience for families.
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. Trails like the 'Intermediate Loop,' 'Learning Tree Trail,' 'North Pond Loop,' 'Black Swamp Trail,' and 'City-Brooks Park Greenway' are all rated as easy. You can find more information and detailed routes in the Easy hikes around Merrydale guide.
The Baton Rouge area, including Merrydale, experiences hot and humid summers. Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) generally offer more pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring attractions. Winters are mild, making it possible to visit year-round, though some outdoor trails might have seasonal considerations.
Yes, the interactive sculpture Sing the River in downtown Baton Rouge is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering an inclusive experience on the Mississippi River banks.
Absolutely. The area is well-suited for jogging and running. Popular routes include loops around University Lake and City-Brooks Community Park Lake. You can explore various distances and difficulties, from moderate to difficult, by checking the Running Trails around Merrydale guide.
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The lakes, like University Lake and City-Brooks Community Park Lake, are loved for their recreational opportunities and scenic views. The unique architecture and historical depth of Louisiana’s Old State Capitol also receive high praise.
Yes, City-Brooks Community Park Lake is known to have parking available, making it convenient for visitors to access the park and its amenities.
The Merrydale area, being close to Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River, features a mix of urban parkland, lakes, and botanical gardens. You'll find serene lake environments, managed forest areas within the Botanical gardens, and riverfront views, particularly near the Sing the River sculpture.
While not exactly 'hidden,' the interactive sculpture Sing the River offers a truly unique outdoor experience. It's an artistic installation that uses sensors in the Mississippi River to create sounds, allowing visitors to interact with the river in a novel way. It's a blend of art, nature, and technology.


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