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The Varsity Theatre is a familiar place for several well-known performers. As a matter of fact, a total of 55 Grammy winners have graced its stage since 1991. The Varsity strives to constantly deliver the best in live music entertainment for Baton Rouge. Genre doesn't matter, as some of the biggest names in country and pop music have lit up the entertainment venue's marquee. But that's not to say that you won't hear some of the scene's best up-and-coming acts; you can tell all of your friends that you heard them at the Varsity before they were famous.

Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion has, in a sense, gotten a second chance. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is a breathtakingly beautiful structure that also serves as the headquarters for the Foundation for Historical Louisiana. The home has a dramatic history all its own. The structure was built in 1929 by Huey P. Long and served as the governor's residence until 1963 when a new structure was built. The house museum now houses rare artifacts, documents, and other relics of Louisiana's history and features regular tours headed by highly knowledgeable guides. The venue is also available for private parties, family gatherings and weddings.

Since 1959, Circle Bowl has been racking 'em up for several generations of bowling lovers. Find your place on one of the 32 lanes and go for as many strikes as you can while the kids enjoy some time in "Action Alley," a dizzying game room that features the latest games and interactive fun. Circle Bowling is the perfect place to practice on your game by yourself or bring the whole family. Also, it's a great place for birthday parties, special events and fund raisers. Other great amenities include a big snack bar, Galactic Bowling, a Pro Shop and open play pricing.

The Afton Villa Gardens stand as proof that there can be beauty among the ruins. These breathtaking gardens rest on the terraced ruins of the palatial home built by Susan Barrow in 1849. These are 250-acres of trees, plants and flowers that line a winding walking trail. Take a stroll along this gorgeous path that always proves to be a calming, restorative exercise no matter what the season. And speaking of seasons, when spring brings the flowering and budding of these plants and trees, it also brings throngs of nature lovers to see the indescribable outdoor beauty unfold right before their eyes.