Dooley Patrick, DDS

Louisiana's Old State Capitol has a long and winding history that is nothing short of dramatic. The fortress-like structure stood strong and impressive until it was gutted by fire in the Civil War. After recovering and returning to its original purpose, the building fell into disrepair in the early 1930s following the installation of a newer, less-storied building as the state's capitol. A concerned group of citizens worked hard to rebuild it and the old capitol now houses a wide variety of interactive exhibits that tell the state's sometimes controversial but never uninteresting story. The Old State Capitol is a must-see attraction for history buffs visiting Baton Rouge.

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum explores some of nature's most dramatic wonders both from the inside and the outside. On the inside, you can enjoy a vast array of interactive exhibits as well as see movies about volcanoes, among others. Aside from the galleries inside, peer at the galaxy outside in the Rene W. Pennington Planetarium located within the museum. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop to select an item or two that will remind you of your adventurous day at the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. It's the ultimate art attraction in Baton Rouge.

Baton Rouge Blues Week is usually held every May and features some of the best local, regional and national blues musicians who all convene to pay homage to this highly regarded music genre that was born in this part of the world. The blues festival takes place in Repentance Park in downtown Baton Rouge, and its central location makes it easy to enjoy not only the music but convenient access to restaurants and lodging. So getting a case of the blues is actually a really good thing when it's Baton Rouge Blues Week!