Discover America’s Best-Preserved WWII Destroyer in Louisiana’s Capital City
Step aboard the legendary USS KIDD Veterans Museum and experience naval history like never before! Moored majestically on the Mississippi River in downtown Baton Rouge, the USS KIDD is a WWII Fletcher-class destroyer and National Historic Landmark, restored to its 1945 configuration. Visitors may tour through 80% of the ship, on 5 levels, making this one of America’s most authentic and immersive naval museum experiences.
What to Expect
The USS KIDD Veterans Museum offers an unparalleled journey through American naval history:
The Historic USS KIDD Destroyer: Named after Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, who died on the bridge of his flagship USS Arizona during the 1941 Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, this magnificent vessel earned the nickname “Pirate of the Pacific” during its distinguished World War II service.
Comprehensive Museum Exhibits: The USS KIDD Veterans Museum displays include a P-40 aircraft, ship models, full-scale replica of gun deck of Old Ironsides, the Louisiana Memorial Plaza a memorial to all Louisiana service members lost in combat, and a Corsair A-7E jet as a memorial to Vietnam Veterans.
Interactive Learning Experience: The shoreside museum includes a P-40 aircraft, military ship models, WWI trench exhibit, the Louisiana Veterans Hall of Honor, and traveling exhibits relating to Louisiana’s and her citizens’ military contributions.
Unique Overnight Adventures: For the more adventurous traveler, enjoy an educational overnight stay while camping aboard the USS KIDD. You’ll gain firsthand experience of close-quarters living and learn about the courage displayed by our service members.
Louisiana Memorial Plaza: Honor fallen heroes at this moving memorial dedicated to all Louisiana service members lost in combat, featuring a Corsair A-7E jet as a memorial to Vietnam Veterans.
Baton Rouge and Surrounding Area
The USS KIDD Veterans Museum is perfectly positioned in the heart of Baton Rouge’s vibrant downtown riverfront district. Attractions such as the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, USS KIDD, North Boulevard Town Square, and the River Center, are all within sight from one of North America’s most important rivers. While you’re exploring the area, visit these nearby attractions:
- Louisiana’s Old State Capitol – A striking Gothic-Revival castle built in 1847, this architectural marvel now houses the Museum of Political History and offers fascinating exhibits about Louisiana’s political heritage. The castle-like structure stands majestically on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.
Website: https://www.sos.la.gov/HistoricalResources/HistoricBuildings/OldStateCapitol/Pages/default.aspx
- Louisiana Art & Science Museum – Located on the riverfront near the USS KIDD, this engaging museum features interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows, and rotating art collections. It’s the perfect complement to your naval history experience with hands-on learning opportunities for all ages.
Website: https://lasm.org/ - Capitol Park Museum – This comprehensive museum showcases Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits covering everything from Mardi Gras traditions to the state’s diverse natural history. Visitors can explore Louisiana’s unique story from prehistoric times to the present day.
Website: https://www.louisianastatemuseum.org/museums/capitol-park-museum/
- L’Auberge Casino & Hotel Baton Rouge – Experience world-class gaming, dining, and entertainment at this premier riverfront destination. The casino offers exciting gaming action alongside upscale restaurants and live entertainment venues for a complete leisure experience.
Website: https://www.lbatonrouge.com/
A Rich Naval Heritage Worth Discovering
USS Kidd (DD-661), a Fletcher-class destroyer, was the first ship of the United States Navy to be named after Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd. Admiral Kidd was the first US flag officer to die during World War II and the first American admiral ever to be killed in action.
Kidd (DD-661) was launched on 28 February 1943 by Federal Shipbuilding & Drydock Co., Kearny, New Jersey, sponsored by Mrs. Isaac C. Kidd, widow of Rear Admiral Kidd. The destroyer was commissioned on 23 April 1943. During World War II, the ship distinguished itself in numerous Pacific Theater operations, earning battle stars for its heroic service.
The vessel served from 1943 through 1946 in the Pacific, then from 1951 through 1964 during the Cold War. In 1986 Kidd was designated a National Historic Landmark, as the best-preserved World War II destroyer of her class. She is now a museum ship, berthed on the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and is the only surviving US destroyer still in her World War II configuration.
The museum officially opened in 1982 and for nearly 40 years, the Museum and the USS KIDD, a National Historic Landmark and the Museum’s largest artifact, have served as a reminder to the people of Louisiana of the service and sacrifices of our state’s veterans.
Recent Restoration: On 25 April 2024, Kidd began her journey to a shipyard in Houma, Louisiana, for her first major preservation project since her arrival in Baton Rouge, ensuring this historic vessel will continue educating future generations about naval heritage.
Ready to explore this remarkable piece of American naval history? Visit the official USS KIDD Veterans Museum website for current exhibitions, tour times, and special events. Located at 305 South River Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802. Phone: (225) 342-1942.
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