Louisiana State Exhibit Museum Reviews

If you are interested in art, history or natural history this museum should be top of your list. The building is a spectacular example of late 30s architecture with the most elaborate, complete, educational dioramas imaginable. You get to step back into Louisiana's past and experience all the agricultural and industrial workings of the time. Additionally there are historical and natural historical collections well displayed. There are ample comfortable benches to utilize to rest or absorb the beauty before you. We could not have been more pleased.

The Louisana State Exhibit Museum is on Greenwood Road, near the intersection of I-20 and Highway 171. It is only a few minutes north of I-20 and adjacent to the State Fairgrounds. The museum and its gardens are impressive and certainly worth a visit for any TripAdvisor Traveler going through Shreveport. This museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a "Top Shreveport Attraction." Admission is free and there is ample parking on the museum grounds.

The museum has a circular layout ("A Museum in the Round") and includes a variety of exhibits relating to Louisana, United States, and American Indian history and culture. Two of the largest exhibits and those of greatest interest to me were the museum's world-renowned collection of dioramas presenting "Louisana in Minature" and its extensive collection of autographs and letters of famous Americans. The collection of autographs and letters include signatures/documents signed by many of our pre-Civil War Presidents and other prominent Americans from the 18th and 19th Centuries. Also, of special interest were the museum's large collection of Indian crafts and artifacts, its many gardens, and the huge Rotunda Map of Louisana located near the entrance to the museum.

To complete the tour and walk around this "Museum in the Round" takes an hour or more, but provides visitors with an interesting history of Louisana, especially the northwestern part of the state. Staff members were most helpful and very knowledgeable regarding the museum's many exhibits and added to the enjoyment of "our afternoon visit."

The museum does an excellent job of presenting the history and culture of Louisana in a clear and very understandable manner. TripAdvisor Travelers wanting to know more about the history and culture of this state will greatly enjoy their visit to the Louisana State Exhibit Museum and I highly recommend this museum to them.

This is a nice little museum and has a lot more than I expected inside as it's free admission. Don't pass up on the small history lesson for the best price: FREE!

I was really impressed by the variety of historical items and paintings at the museum. The fresco mural in the entrance was breathtaking and the staff was very friendly. You can make it all the way around the building in about 30 minutes. Highly recommended.

This museum is free of charge and very informational and loaded with Louisiana history. This is a definite stop if you are in Shreveport.

High end, nice displays tell the story of the local area and there is lots to see here. They also have special displays that change but the stand out are the dioramas which are very well done.

Beware this museum closes at 4pm...

The architecture is wonderful, a WPA construction. The interior is pleasing and easy to navigate (round) with fun and educational dioramas and exhibits about the region's social and economic history.

The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Deco style building and is beautifully maintained. There are extensive exhibits about the history of Louisiana, famous native sons, and about anything else you can imagine about the state. The dioramas are very well done, as are all the exhibit here. The museum is free and well worth a stop.

Great variety of historical items, art including a number of Clementine Hunter works, dioramas explaining all local industries (good for kids), and special exhibitions. Most impressive was the collection of Caddo Nation artifacts, including a 30 ft cypress long boat from AD 1035.

Another fantastic hidden gem in Shreveport. The Louisiana history is fascinating. Also, the changing exhibits are always something the whole family will enjoy. The architecture of the building is also very interesting. Make sure to stop in if you are in Shreveport.

We were in Shreveport and decided to stop in this little museum. I say it is average based on size, depth of information and interactivity. It is a unique building and took about an hour to walk the entire circle and really take in the displays. The dioramas are better than average, and do a nice job of telling some Louisiana history. The multiple influences into the state's culture could have been explained fuller, but overall a nice quick summation of major history points. Not much to touch or interactive with, but it was laid out well, clean, staff friendly and worth the hour. We made a small donation upon leaving.

Husband had biz trip to Shreveport. I tagged along in order to see the "sights" -- which if you don't gamble are few and far between in Shreveport. This quirky museum is worth the stop, even if you're driving through Shreveport and just need a break. The dioramas of Louisiana industry are really interesting -- in that "early 20th century vision of U.S. industriousness" sense. I also enjoyed the few exhibits on Mardi Gras and the presidential autograph collection. Overall, well worth the stop.

Free to take the family and learn about the history of La. Stuff that you will not find anywhere else. Great Artwork!

The museum was very interesting with scenes and models depicting various la industries. It has a section dedicated to the poverty point Indian archeological area. A real ancient canoe that was found in a river bank is housed here. There was an art show that included art drawn by local school artists that was excellent. My brother and sister in law and I were only able to see half. We'll see the other part on my next visit.

One of a kind museum...original fresco paintings. Illustrates historical living in Louisiana. Informative and interesting especially for families.

I didn’t know what to expect when I placed this on our Shreveport itinerary, but we enjoyed this place a lot and probably spent at least 1½ hours here. This museum opened in 1939, with the highlights being 18 miniature dioramas of agricultural and industrial scenes meticulously created by artists with the Works Progress Administration (WPA). The tiny figures featured in the complex scenes are made of beeswax. Some of the dioramas (especially the ones about cotton and sugar cane) show mid-century realities and attitudes that are considered racist today, but they reflect their time. In the case of cotton, the written descriptor explains that subsequent mechanization means that is no longer harvested in the way shown. The dioramas are on the outer walls of the circular building, and there are large 2-D art works up above, and other exhibits down the center and on the inside walls. The exhibits include everything from Civil War Cannonballs, Mardi Gras costumes, a mastodon tusk, butterflies and other insects of Louisiana, and even a portion on how the dioramas were made. There’s a courtyard in the center of the building with a fountain, that is only accessible through the door near the guard station, not far from the main entrance. A west wing of the building houses recent artworks by local high school students, and many of them are very good. There’s also an exhibit on the Caddo Indians with a 1,000-year-old dugout canoe (which looks a lot like the 1,300-year-old dugout canoe we saw last summer at the Norwegian Maritime Museum in Oslo). The building’s east wing has a theater, but nothing was being shown while we were there. The four-panel fresco in the building’s entry vestibule is also impressive. Other pluses for this museum were that admission is free, and while many Shreveport attractions seem to be closed on Mondays, this museum was open.

This is a must see museum if you are new to Louisiana. A wonderful mix of current and ancient history. Exquisite dioramas and a great collection of artifacts. Best of all - it is free. Don't miss this one

Free, quiet walk through the history of Louisiana. Lots of artifacts, pictures, and diorama's of the agriculture, the war of 1812, statehood, the La. Purchase and Civil War memorabilia. Takes about and hour to go through. There is a theater but it was not running during my visit. Close to Libby Glass Outlet store.

This museum was completed in 1939 as one of the New Deal's Public Works projects. For lovers of architecture you really must see this museum if nothing else than for its historical significance. The huge fresco on the exterior of the front entrance was created by famed muralist Conrad Albrizio. This circular building houses a permanent collection of 22 scale dioramas which portray life in Louisiana during the 1940's; they showcase the agriculture, industry and natural resources of the state in a snapshot of that time period. I remember being fascinated by them as a child during school field trips. The museum also houses Native American artifacts from local tribes as well as regional and national history artifacts. It also hosts art exhibits by local artists and the occasional traveling art or history exhibit. This is a great museum for a family outing.

Very good State museum. Good place to get a History of Louisiana...good for schools to take children to for a good history lesson

I use to come here often when I lived in Shreveport. I loved all the tiny people and the coy pond. A must see if you are visiting this area.

I love this place, the diorama's are awesome. There is such a ton of History here, that a person could spend hours looking. There are rooms on both ends that ever changing . Very inexpensive.

this is a great museum. love all of the attention to details

I was at the State fair and the Museum was part of it. Very educational to the local area. It explained the different periods of time up to present.

A great collection of items relating and addressing the history of the state of Louisiana. I liked the mini replica of how cotton and sugar cane were harvest.

This is free and would be worth it even if they charged a reasonable fee. The dioramas are extremely well done and there are many beautiful paintings. Of special interest are all the original hand signed documents by famous US people in history. These are not from just Southerners but also Abraham Lincoln and many others. Nice self paced viewing.

This visit doesn't take a long time but should not be missed. They have hand carved dioramas depicting different parts of Louisiana history and regions. We had a nice visit and look forward to coming back.

The famous and historical dioramas are amazing here. You can learn a lot about life in Louisiana and the south. The art shows in the side gallery are usually well done also. We always take out of town guests here to make sure they understand why we live in the South. Life is good and not as hectic. Call or check webpage to make sure they are open. It is worth the trip.

I can remember going here as a child with my grandparents. Now I'm taking my own kids. I love looking at all the exhibits and artifacts. It is always great to learn about history.

Round 1930s building in Shreveport is an old-style museum with dozens of detailed dioramas depicting history, industry and commercial activities. Also a wide variety of exhibits covering many different subjects, and an art exhibit when we were there. Worth a visit if you are interested in Louisiana history.

The museum covers history of Louisiana and is so interesting for children. Each area is done so that children can understand .

We there at the end of the State Fair. Loved the museum!!! Louisiana is to be commended for not charging admission to these exhibits. Many states charge ROYALLY for admission to most/all of their features.

This museum is housed in a beautiful, immaculate Art Deco building, built in 1937. The building itself is just as great as the museum, which is filled with very informative dioramas that must have been loads of fun to build back in the day.

I would definitely recommend this place to history buffs an Art Deco fans.

This museum is located at the Louisiana State Fairgrounds in Shreveport. If you're in the area stop by and take a look. It's very interesting and doesn't cost a fortune to visit. It is circular in shape so, you basically end where you began. You'll probably spend a few hours here.

I remember visiting the La. State Exhibit Museum with my parents and grandparents when I was growing up. So much to see and learn there! This museum has many interesting and unique exhibits. The old building has a special atmosphere. Visiting this museum will become a special and treasured memory!

This museum had lots of interesting dioramas, artifacts, and things from LA. There was a lot to see. The parking was plentiful and it was free to get into.

There can be no doubt that the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is one of the most singular collections in North America. Its fresco-enhanced art-decor facade, its heroic shaping as a circular, torus ambulatory, and its astounding collection of Louisiana lifestyle artifacts will surely leave any reasonable visitor at once shaking his or her head with wonder but also with bewilderment. Surely this is one of the most richly miscellaneous collections that the museum culture ever created; splendid early-twentieth-century dioramas depicting Louisiana agrarian life and rare holograph letters from the colonial period jostle against ancient native American artifacts, displays of fishing lures and, in one case, even a box of dish detergent. The lack of any effort at interpretation is at once liberating and also dis-empowering. It is as if the organizers of these exhibits--or, more accurately arrays--believed that the sheer variety and abundance would carry the day. Unfortunately, the display installation--mostly glass cases either lined up in a row or placarded against the walls--are extremely old-fashioned. The museum itself is thus caught in a nostalgia for the early days of curatorship; it is a once a monument to a period in connoisseurship (when collections of curiosities were thought self-sufficient) and also a tragic study in missed opportunity. The artifacts from north Louisiana excavations (from the ancient settlements of Caddo and Poverty Point peoples) alone would merit a major exhibition in a first-class museum but here are displayed rather like items stacked high in a big-box hardware store. The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum has a huge amount to offer but it needs to get past its strange, upside-down self-obsession: the apparent thought that unaided novelty alone can qualify for excellence. Especially needful are some well-conceived interpretative materials and signage.

This was an awesome place to go to learn about Louisiana. My 13 yr old daughter and I had a great time looking at all of the exhibits they had. The best part was that it was free.

Nice museum, so many interesting items to see. I recommend this if you are interested in learning a little about Louisiana's history. Doesn't take much time and is easy to get around. The part of town is not very nice, just be aware of that. They do close early so make plans to go earlier in the day.

Recently attended a high school class reunion function here and everyone was pleasantly surprised at what an impressive setting this was!

Lovely little museum. The cypress canoe was an unexpected surprise (I think it's time to remaster the film about it though) and the dioramas were wonderfully done. Plus - and I cannot stress this enough - the numerous benches are a great idea, especially as we were there with a nonagenarian. The little random bits were interesting, too.

But you need a gift shop.

Hadn't been here in for about 55 years and was very surprised with the amount of history and so many items to look at. Would recommend people to take the time to go see and take the kids also. The pictures and items go back 100's of years.We went on a Monday and there was no fee to enter.

Fantastic Museum,murals,pictures,dioramas.
Story about Louisiana.
Im spend 3 hours in museum and back next day.
No admission charge.
Amazing persons work in Museum.
Go.

You will learn much about Louisiana at this museum...a great place to take the whole family, they will enjoy it.

Want to learn something about Louisiana? The Loisiana State Exhibit Museum is the place to go. You can learn about farming habits, wildlife in Louisiana, Louisiana culture and more.

This place is truly a hidden gem in Shreveport! I came here briefly on a Monday morning to find it open and was amazed at what they had to offer. The exhibits, especially those on Louisiana agriculture, are amazing! I loved the model of salt mining in southern Louisiana! The staff are very friendly and eager to help, not to mention the place is extremely clean. I'll definitely be coming back again soon and often!

Free museum in a beautiful building, it doesn't get much better than that. The inside has the stereotypical history stuff, but the wholly mammoth tusk & the Indian canoe exhibit stands out! Also they incorporate student art contests that are on display. Nice to see a museum get involved with the community

The Louisiana Museum is a great way ft the history buff to spend a hot afternoon. Arrive early enough to spend some time outside to appreciate the WPA era design and detail. Then take time to circle the museum first taking in the detailed dioramas depicting life in Louisiana and the state's commerce. Then circle. Another to to view the historical exhibits from the state. The museum is dated when compared to today's electronic interactive museums, but the displays themselves are appropriate to the museum's atmosphere. Be aware the gates close at 4 PM.

Very well presented history of the state including political, economic, social, and natural history. The explanation and presentation of the oil industry was excellent. The paintings and original art were not just beautiful but also well presented. Just remember to look up because many of them are hanging above the exhibits.
However, the Native American history of the state was grossly under represented especially given Louisiana’s rich Native American heritage. There was not a single mention of Poverty Point or the fact that Louisiana is home to a World Heritage Site. The whole world knows about our Native American heritage, it should at least be mentioned in a state exhibit.

The parking at the museum was very easy. There was no charge to go into this museum. After visiting this museum I have learned a lot. I didn't know Louisiana had so many different industries. The old photos and the figurines were excellent. The museum is a round circle and you are back at the beginning before you know it. There was quite a bit to see and enjoy. This is a hidden gem and is well worth the trip.

A major feature is a series of 21 dioramas depicting life in the past, up to the late 1930's and early 1940's (when the dioramas were created). They are a reminder that life was not always as easy as it is today, showing people as they worked in agriculture and industries of the state in days gone by. Another feature exhibit shows a native American village. Other exhibits show objects of interest, including a cypress dugout canoe. One display case contains newspaper articles about Huey Long (check your history books if this name does not ring a bell -- even this Yankee has heard of the infamous Huey Long). Unfortunately little or no "hands on" stuff for the kids -- the building was opened in 1939, a little before such things became popular. Adults, on the other hand, should really enjoy the history to be found in the exhibits. Plan on spending a couple hours here as a minimum. There is enough variety in the exhibits and displays to pique the interest of most everyone.

The exhibits are unashamed to show racism in Louisiana on full display. I was surprised to see zero white people working in the fields in the 1940s but only working in a role as an overseer. My only request is to add some new displays and show other scenes of black life in Louisiana other than field workers. I felt insulted to show this museum to my children.

What a great place. The dioramas were so well done and very interesting. The building itself is wonderful. Well worth your time.

We really enjoyed our visit here. We learned so much about Louisana's history and about its environment. It also had a little art section that was enjoyable. We loved visiting here.

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is a wonderful 30s era building containing period murals & dioramas of Louisiana history & produce. Don't miss the fabulous Native American exhibits including a huge dugout canoe recovered from the riverbed of the Red River! Unique donut-shaped structure ensures you can't get lost!

We went to the museum for a quick trip. I highly recommend for school age to adults. Very educational. They have recently renovated it.

You will be amazed by the artful detail and three dimensional affect of the dioramas. Each is done such explicit detail you'll think you looking at a real like situation. Portrayals of early life in Louisiana and collections of artifacts are throughout the facility. Free parking and free admission. This is definitely worth the time. Allow 1-2 hours to enjoy all the features.

This is a gem of a museum. The building itself is lovely and well maintained. A variety of exhibits - something for everyone. Not crowded. Plan to spend a pleasant 2 hours. Free.

Believe it or not, this museum is free!! I was skeptical because it was free, but the exhibits were authentic and educational.

To take a break, enjoy a leisurely stroll inside (with plenty of benches to stop for anytime you want to rest), THIS IS THE TICKET.

My family (3 adults 3 children) visited the museum for 2 hours (wish we could stay longer!) and thoroughly enjoyed the experience! Wonderful exhibits; knowledgeable and courteous staffers. The attention to details and facts about the state of Louisiana was incredible. A must-visit for Shreveport-Bossier, LA!

The State Exhibit Museum was built in 1939 as a part of the New Deal WPA program and features two terrific WPA style murals on the front of the building which are often overlooked because the parking for the building is on the back.
The museum is on the La State Fairgrounds which is in a part of town that is not as desirable or well-kept as it once was. The fairgrounds is being used for storage and filming by at least one movie company so there might be some additional excitement when you're there.
You might even recognize the museum itself from the recent movie, "Mad Money." It was used as the bank the protagonists "rob."
Admission is free and it is open 7 days a week as I recall, 9 or 10 till 4 weekdays and 12-4 Saturday and Sunday.
The museum features several random collections from leading citizens of days gone by, artifacts from prehistoric civilizations in the area, and the biggest draw for school kids and children of all ages is the dioramas, from lifesize wildlife to 1/12 scale models of Louisiana agriculture and industry. Especially fascinating are the salt mine, refinery and cotton gin dioramas.
It is definitely worth the trip and covers science, history, business, and technology. Bring several hours worth of curiosity and you will not be disappointed.

Besides the building itself being pretty cool as it is a ring and has some great art work, the series of exhibits are well displayed and cover a wide variety of topic in LA history.

Has some real good displays that will take you back in time

lots of glass displays of farms, oil fields etc. Not very excited about those as I Would have like to viewed more historical/confederate stuff - they did have papers/letters from several famous figures including Daniel Boone, Sam Houston, Davy Crockett, Robert E Lee, Grant etc. And a 21,000 year old tusk from a wooley mammouth, wow.

It's quite an impressive building and exhibit considering it's free for sure I'm happy I visited well worth it and probably will be back just alone to see the Boure-Davis automobile

This museum contains a lot of history about Shreveport and the surrounding areas. I have enjoyed this museum since I was a child.

I attended a fundraiser at this Museum in the fall of 2015. I have forgotten how great the Museum is. Last time I visited I was in High School. Great trip for the family

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is located with easy access from I-20. Ample and free parking is available right outside the museum.

The structure itself dates from 1939 and is a very beautiful circular building. Among the numerous exhibits are an interesting series of scale dioramas, showing daily life in Louisiana at this time. The history of the state and life around the river are other highlights, which also include a beautifully restored Bour-Davis car.

The museum is definitely worth a visit, and admission is free.

A definite must-see when visiting the Shreveport/Bossier City area is the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum, with its wonderful dioramas and exhibits. We really enjoyed the few hours we spent reading about Louisiana history, from early Native Americans to relatively modern times (1980s). The museum is spotless and all the exhibits are very informative and well done.

One of North Louisiana's hidden treasures. Don't miss seeing this museum.... Incredible educational displays for the entire family to enjoy and knowledgeable staff ready to help. Outstanding!

This museum is a must see for out of towners. Wayne Waddell is the Director of the Musuem and has done a wonderful job. He has arranged to have many traveling expositions nationally as well as internationally. As a little boy I remember staying hours inside just looking at the many diaramas depicting life in Louisiana as it was in the early 1900`s.

The Louisiana State Exhibition Museum is a magnificent monument to the idealism of the New Deal located on the edge of the State Fair Grounds.

Built by federal funds as part of the Roosevlt administration's PWA the LSEM is a cool time capsule whose original purpose is still very much on display 75 years later.

The building was designed to house an incredible collection of dioramas that portrayed Louisiana life during the Great Leap Forward as we call it around here.

The dioramas are still here and ready to entrance another generation of school children and teach them about the vast natural resources of Louisiana that are exported around the country and world.

Architecture and fans of that old weird roadside America will love the LSEM. Moderne is a state of mind.

Visit all of the local artists exhibits that make Shreveport an artsy place. Especially see the ML Vinck engravings. All the staff are so very helpful (ask for Nita).

This museum is all about Louisiana. Admission is free to this amazing place that features whatever you want to know about the state from the Indians that originally inhabited Louisiana to the time the museum opened. There are dioramas, items on display, lots of information about the exhibits including QR codes that can be scanned for more in depth info. It takes at least two hours to do the museum justice.

I went to the museum for an art exhibit but it had been a while since I had visited. It is really a hidden gem for Shreveport.

The dioramas are a fascinating expression of history and life in Louisiana, and the building itself is a beautiful example of early 20th century Art Deco Design

We enjoyed visiting this museum that was opened in 1939. It has a very unique building layout with many dioramas, murals, and artifacts. The staff are very nice and edgar to talk about the museum.

Hidden gem. Very interesting and informative. Well presented exhibitions. Worth a visit.Takes about 1 to 2 hours to do your visit justice.

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is one of my favorite places in Shreveport-Bossier to visit. The dioramas are spectacular and the art exhibits are always fantastic.

At one time, this was the world's largest round museum. I am not sure if it still carries that distinction though. The exhibits are truly captivating and tell stories of the history of Louisiana. Lots of relics and dioramas to enjoy, all on the same level (floor).

We went to this museum today with our kiddos on a whim. I can't believe how cool it was! And it's free! Lots to look at, lots to learn, very friendly staff. This was earsily our favorite place in Shreveport.

Could be more experiential, needs color updated displays, historical data very interesting, location is in bad area do Shreveport .

I have always loved coming here since I was a little girl. The exhibits are really neat and it is very interesting. It is a must see for families and a learning experience. When the State Fair is in town I never miss this exhibit. It is a tradition for me.

The permanent and changing displays will fascinate and amuse you. And when your children's attention wanes they can have great fun running round and round the circular hall! Just kidding - I think! See the website for a schedule of exhibits. We have been here multiple times - one time they had a T-rex skeleton!!! The architecture of the building makes a visit well worthwhile!

• Fascinating La. History
• Amazing Pre-history
• Amazing Dioramas

http://www.sos.la.gov/tabid/241/Default.aspx

Very unique museum. The dioramas are meticulous and fascinating. Definitely worth a trip. The hours are odd so call ahead.

many dioramas that depict life in Louisiana in the 1930's...plus rotational art exhibits in a wing building...and it is free

A little dated some of the things to see look like they really have been on display since the time of the new deal but some great exhibits overall and a beautiful building. I went here on a rainy day in early March and I was the only visitor. I had the place to myself and spent some time there.

Built in the 1930s, the Louisiana state exhibit museum is an interesting building on its own. The museum is circular. Around the outer are dioramas depicting Louisiana abundant resources. And interesting note is that the diorama figures are made of bee's wax. Another very interesting exhibit is the large collection of historical signatures ranging from Napoleon George Washington. Well worth a couple hour visit!

It is chock full of a variety of exhibits. There are plenty of dioramas to stare at. We liked the Mardi Gras area with old parade outfits. The staff is sweet and helpful. Kids had fun wandering and exploring.

There is a modest admission charge. The day we went the power was out but restored in about 45 minutes but the elevator remained out of service so we missed the top floors. Two 70 year olds, here, plus a teen.
Exhibit had artifacts and diorama from all periods and industries and societies. Impressive. I recommend an afternoon for this. A great food truck is parked across the street for lunch, you know, just in case.

A worthwhile stop for adults and families with pre-teen and older children.
The museum has extensive dioramas, intricately & beautifully executed, of the entire state's economic history. What was expected to be a quick visit turned into 2 1/2 hours viewing a wide-ranging array of fascinating artifacts, exhibits and displays in a lovely old building. An added delight was the Hoover Watercolor Society Annual Juried Art exhibit. No admission charge for the museum or the art exhibit.
*The huge stuffed alligator lacks a descriptive card... who was he, how did he come to be at the museum?

I don't know where the previous reviewer is coming from -the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is not run down by any stretch of the imagination. Built in 1937 as a WPA project, it is an art deco lovers must see. Lots of wonderful dioramas showing Louisiana agriculture and industry as it was in the 1930's & 40's. Plus older historical artifacts from the multitude of cultures that have existed in the state. Strictly low-tech; no glitzy flat screens, interactive displays, or trendy PC preaching. The building itself is of great historical interest - it was (to me) like stepping back in time to a past Louisiana.

We didn't actually get to go in. Had no idea it would be closed on Saturday. Sign on gate stated museum is closed Sat and Sun.

In elementary school we used to take field trips to this museum. I could have stood for hours looking at the diaramas -- miniature scenes of life in Louisiana. Forty+ years later they still fascinate me. There are traveling exhibits that are displayed here, and the building itself is beautiful and has an interesting history. Be sure to read about the frescoes on the front of the building.

Way back in those field trip days, there was an alligator named Charley Bob that lived at the museum. The last I heard he was still alive, but he's been moved to another location.

This is a great attraction for everyone. Kids will enjoy it as much as the adults.

During our recent visit from England, UK to New Orleans, we visited Louisiana State Museum where the ground floor exhibitions, pictures and videos was all about the devastation, floods and aftermath from Hurricane Karina which hit New Orleans in 2005.
The upper floor of the museum is a fabulous focus in the famous New Orleans Mardi Gras... with lots of the beautiful costumes worn over the years and an insight into the many Krews and Queens eyc who have ever participated in this annual event. The next Mardi Gras will be in Spring 2020.
There is an admission fee to this museum but if you are on one of the Gray Line Walking Tours then admission is included in the tour price

The Caucasian older woman with shortish grey hair with glasses at the front desk was extremely rude. She had an attitude as soon as we came in. She told us aggressively that we couldn't have our drinks (there was a sign that we missed) but she could have addressed it in a more professional way. She then made us get two adult tickets for our 13 year olds because they didn't have ID? Great museum, horribly rude woman.

An awesome selection of local and state art, history, and artifacts. Staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.
Truly worth a trip for visitors and locals!

My new favorite museum, the dioramas are definitely a must see the detail is wonderful. The building is also interesting.

Very nice place to visit. I went for the Art Deco building, and dwelled because of the displays. I am biased because i love dioramas, though. Staff was nice and the history was interesting. Did I mention the dioramas? They were great!

I have to say this museum is certainly one of a kind. Its goal is to immerse the visitor in all things Louisiana, from culture, history, wars, industry, civil war, artists, native Americans, politics. I never knew all the agribusiness in this state. The museum is beautiful and has its own unique history. My husband is from Louisiana and added so much to the visit, but if you are new to Louisiana, go even if you are not from there. The building is well laid out and is hands on, quiet and thought provoking. The exhibits and the pieces are amazing, and there is a separate area where they have other artists showing their work. The museum is completely devoted to Louisiana. We met the Curator and she was a delight to speak with! We were there at least 3 hours and enjoyed every minute. Highly recommend.

Lots of interesting and well done diaramas explaining many facets of Louiiana history and industry.
Circular layout makes the tour easy. Next to Independence Stadium on US 80 near I-20 at the Fair grounds .
Special exhibits alo make it even more interesting.
A good place to see if in town for a game, the fair or the casinos

I spent most weekends with my grandmother when I was a kid and we would normally end up at the museum. I loved this place. Now fast forward more years than I would like to admit and I found myself visiting the museum. It brought back so many fond memories and the place is way more interesting now that I am grown. The art exhibit was from the art teachers in our area and was very impressive. I encourage everyone to take a couple hours out of their busy day and visit. Believe me, you'll learn something.

Definitely a wonderful place. Love the dioramas, you will never see better ones, they are the most authentic I have ever seen. It is a great little museum that can be seen within a few hours. Area of town is not the greatest but going in the daylight should not worry you. The staff is friendly and very helpful to meet any needs or fulfill any request you would have.

Fun for the whole family, travel back in LOUISIANA’s past history to present day. Located at the LOUISIANA STATE FAIR Graond.

The guides were excited to show us around and give us a few pointers. Definitely something to check out if you live in Louisiana.

The Louisiana State Exhibit Museum is a neat little window into the state and region's past. A neat set of dioramas line the walls throughout much of the circular exhibit space. The real gem, however, is the annex, which contains the largest display of prehistoric/pre-European artifacts in the area. Although you can go throughout the year, touring the Exhibit Museum is a nice way to spend a bit of time if you've found yourself at the Louisiana State Fair, which is literally steps away.

I'm in town for work, swung through this museum on my departure day - loved it! Granted I'm a history buff. But they have some priceless treasures on display and plenty to read - if you're interested in Louisiana history, you'll really dig this place.

Immaculate facilities. Very clean. You could spend 30 minutes or 2 hours. The local art display (temporary) was a nice little surprise. Because the building is round (1/8 mile) I recommend doing one lap for the outer perimeter then another for the inner. The staff was knowledgeable, pleasant and pretty good looking too. If nothing else, anyone who lives near there should at least go once to get a little local history in their lives.

Oh and its free!

we love this museum. I've been going since I was small child in the 1970s and have the pleasure of introducing my children to this little treasure. It is a treat to see the Faberge' egg-inspired pieces and I love to go at Christmas time when they have the different trees decorated by local elementary schools. I also enjoy the dioramas. The craftsmanship of the hand carved pieces and detail is so hard to find these days. Thanks for this place! I miss Charlie the alligator.

As a child my mom brought us here many times and we never were bored. 55 years later, it is still outstanding with nothing looking old or worn out. All ages would love the detailed displays. Friendly staff, beautiful building and outstanding dioramas. All schools should take field trips here!

Some ready neat, educational, and interesting things here. A lot of stuff is old but well done.

The art exhibit that was going on was really neat

Far to many people pass up the Louisiana State Exhibit, Not realizing what treasures the museum hold's. It is filled with model's of the life and time's of the people of Louisiana. The business and farms that made the state what it is today, All laid out for you to enjoy in miniature scale. This great state all laid out for the learning and enjoyment, Do not miss this on your next trip to Shreveport.

This building on its own is a gem from the PWA projects of the late 1930s. Giant agricultural-themed murals at the entry way are extremely characteristic of the art of the time. The circular building will bring you back to your start point. The outer ring has dioramas of agricultural, mining, papermaking and other industries that the state is/was known for. The catch? All of these date from the 30s-40s, when the place was built. So while a modern showcase at the time, these scenes are now historical in nature, and interesting in that light. There is a small exhibit on how the models were made, and some molds for the beeswax figurines. The inner ring exhibits follow the human and natural history of the state with highlights on explorers, government, and the like. East and west galleries hold rotating exhibits featuring local artists and Indian artifacts, even a rare dugout canoe. Very interesting when you realize how long people have been living and flourishing here. Friendly staff will assist you in finding anything you are particularly interested in.

Quiet building with many historical artifacts, actual cotton bales, swords, exhibits describing how agrilculture works.

OLD and very very run down. This place is truly only for the most hardened history buffs. The A/C routinely goes out here during the Summer and it gets HOT.

I have been here many times from my childhood to adulthood and it never gets old for me. I love looking at all the exhibits from days gone by.

Cars and trucks were manufactured in Shreveport in the early 1920's! This and many other interesting facts about Shreveport and the state are documented.

Lots of dioramas representing various industries and early life in Louisiana are on display along with photographs,widely varied exhibits, and documents. The West Wing showcases Poverty Point and the Caddo Nation. You can find everything from John Hancock's signature to arrowheads.

For history buffs, the museum is a good bet. It is open from 9:00 to 4:00, Monday - Friday and admission is free.

Wonderful old art deco building with fabulous exterior frescoes and great interior dioramas created more than 50 years ago. Plus other interesting displays and exhibits. Great way to soak up some Louisiana history.

We were a party of 8 with kids 7 - 13 years old. This was a nice musuem that told a lot of history. We enjoyed seeing all of the displays, and even took photos with the alligator (and we did not touch it). I did not think the two oldest boys would be interested in it, but all I heard out of their mouths was "wow, that's cool". I loved the way the museum was round, it made it fun and easy to go through. I would really recommend this to anyone!

This museum is free and really worth a visit. Fantastic dioramas and large frescos of historical life in Louisiana. From a Native American exhibit to Battle of New Orleans, it had great artifacts. Visited for a temporary exhibit of paintings of local artists which was really nicely done. Give this museum a visit if you find yourself in Shreveport.

The place has improved dramatically under new leadership at the board level and now it is truly a great place to spend some time at.

Worth your time for sure!!!!

I visited the Louisiana State Fair Museum during the Louisiana State Fair It has a wonderful collection of Louisiana history, including the rock salt mining, sulfur mining, petroleum mining, civil war, and interesting facts about the Huey Long era exhibits. The Black history piece from the mid 1800's is awesome. It is a Louisiana's treasure from North to South La. This attraction is free to the public.

What a surprise it's a fantastic museum. Beautiful murals , pictures, and a lot of really interesting exhibits. We had a great time. They even have a Pinball exhibit. The oldies but goodies. So much for you to see, so go and enjoy. Something for everyone. Don't miss this , and it free.

Lots of interesting displays of 19th & 20th century Louisiana history. Although the diarama displays are old fashioned, they are very well done artistically and quite informative. Also on display are many Louisiana historical artifacts including a low production, locally manufactured, brightly colored automobile that was produced around 1910 to compete with Ford's black-only Model T.

I've been going there since I was a child. Never get tired looking at intricate dioramas. Very well maintained and offers something for all ages. Handicap access. Free. You won't be disappointed!

I love old art deco buildings. This is a wonderful example of the period. The building is circular and this is charming as one wanders through the exhibits. I found the GPS is a bit confused to find the place, and seems to take you to the back fence. Don't be alarmed. just move around to the front and enjoy. The museum is free. It has so much about Louisiana it could take a short novel to cover what is in the building. the mini dioramas were particularly well done and the information very informative. Take a couple hours to tour. It was a wonderful break from the hot muggy weather on the day I visited. This is a nice stop for sure.

Spent about 1 1/2 hours here. The building is round shaped so you walk around in a circle. A history of the State in dioramas and many exhibits. Another thing I found interesting was quite a collection of signed documents and autographs from the signers of the Declaration of Independence and early presidents and others. This was one of many museums I have been to and I found it interesting and worth the stop.