Shaw Center for the Arts, Baton Rouge

The Shaw Center for the Arts is a modern landmark that blends breathtaking architecture with cultural richness. Completed in 2005 and spanning an entire city block along the Mississippi River, this striking structure merges the old and the new: an Art Deco “Auto Hotel” façade anchors the sleek, translucent channel-glass volume above - a collaboration between Schwartz/Silver Architects and local firm Eskew+Dumez+Ripple. With its shimmering exterior and cantilever design, the Shaw Center has earned numerous accolades, including an AIA National Honor Award and recognition as Louisiana’s best-designed museum.

Inside, art and performance occupy center stage. The LSU Museum of Art on the fifth floor showcases a diverse collection ranging from Southern pottery and Chinese jade to contemporary photography, with free admission on the first Sunday of every month. Nearby, the Alfred C. Glassell Jr. Gallery displays emerging and student works from LSU’s School of Art. Just footsteps away, the intimate Manship Theatre hosts an eclectic mix of concerts, plays, dance performances, and film screenings.

Beyond exhibitions and shows, the Shaw Center offers a complete cultural experience. Dining options include rooftop sushi at Tsunami and upscale casual fare at Capital City Grill, all set against a dramatic river backdrop. The glass-enclosed River Terrace provides an elegant space for weddings, receptions, and events overlooking the city skyline.

Whether you're exploring gallery halls, attending a theatrical performance, or savoring a waterfront meal, the Shaw Center for the Arts stands as a dynamic hub of creativity, bringing together visual arts, live entertainment, education, and culinary delights in one inspiring destination.