Burden Botanic Gardens Swamp Trail
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LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden

4.5
·119 reviews·Baton Rouge, United States

Explore 5 miles of serene walking paths, a fragrant rose garden, and unique wetlands at this beautiful, free-to-enter botanical oasis.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Tranquil and uncrowded

CrowdLow
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Burden Botanic Gardens Swamp Trail

LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Tranquil and uncrowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 5 miles of serene walking paths, a fragrant rose garden, and unique wetlands at this beautiful, free-to-enter botanical oasis. InstagramReddit

4.5
(119 reviews)

"This place is Beautiful and free to enter. the walking trails are very well kept."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Free Entry, Enjoy the Stroll

Most of the gardens are free to enter, perfect for a relaxing walk.

🎟️ Book Special Events Early

Tickets for events like the Corn Maze sell out fast! Book online in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walking Trails

Walking Trails

Throughout the gardens

Meander through 5 miles of well-maintained paths, offering serene escapes and beautiful scenery year-round.

Reddit
Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Designated Rose Garden area

A fragrant and colorful display of roses, perfect for a leisurely stroll and photo opportunities.

Instagram
Wetlands Area

Wetlands Area

Designated Wetlands area

Explore the unique ecosystem of the wetlands, offering a different perspective on Louisiana's natural beauty.

Instagram
Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Various locations within the gardens

From festive holiday lights to a challenging corn maze, these ticketed events offer unique seasonal fun.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, But Plan for Special Events

Most of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden are free to explore, making it a budget-friendly outing. However, popular seasonal events like the Corn Maze or Louisiana Lights require pre-purchased tickets and can sell out quickly. Check their website for event schedules and booking information to avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

Best Times for a Peaceful Stroll

While generally free and uncrowded, visiting during weekdays or early mornings offers the most tranquil experience. Weekends can see more families, especially during special events. If you're seeking a quiet escape, aim for a weekday afternoon. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Tranquil and uncrowded
Crowd
Low
When
October weekends
Why
Corn Maze & fall fun
Crowd
High
When
December evenings
Why
Louisiana Lights event
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ Tickets are NOW ON SALE for Louisiana Lights in Baton Rouge! ✨💡 Get ready to take an enchanting stroll through thousands of dazzling holiday lights at Burden Museum & Gardens. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with magical photo ops around every corner, s’mores to roast, and best of all, it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. 📅 November 28 – December 30, 2025 🎄 ...
@visitbatonrouge
19.2K likes • 316.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Free Entry, Enjoy the Stroll

Most of the gardens are free to enter, perfect for a relaxing walk. TikTokReddit

🎟️ Book Special Events Early

Tickets for events like the Corn Maze sell out fast! Book online in advance. Instagram+1

Great place to take a person on a DATE AND ITS FREE !!!!!! #garden #batonrouge #fyp #louisiana #lsu
@ianlienimsoloaded
6.4K likes • 91K views
Can you make it through the winding path between the stalks at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens? 🤠🌽 This Saturday is your last chance to take in the fall feels at the Corn Maze at Burden ‼️Try to make your way through the confusing twists and turns of the maze before picking a pumpkin from the patch or rolling around in tons of kernels in the corn crib. There’s also a petting zoo to experience, ga...
225batonrouge
60 likes • 4.7K views

📸 Photo Pass for Portraits

Professional photos of people require a photo pass from the visitor center. Reddit

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

Shaded trails are great, but bring sunscreen and hats for open areas. Instagram

It looks much easier from above. LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens' Corn Maze at Burden is open every weekend in October. See photos at the link in our bio.
theadvocatebr
39 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Free Entry, Enjoy the Stroll

Most of the gardens are free to enter, perfect for a relaxing walk. TikTokReddit

🎟️ Book Special Events Early

Tickets for events like the Corn Maze sell out fast! Book online in advance. Instagram+1

📸 Photo Pass for Portraits

Professional photos of people require a photo pass from the visitor center. Reddit

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

Shaded trails are great, but bring sunscreen and hats for open areas. Instagram

🌱 Check for Plant Sales

LSU AgCenter often hosts plant sales; a great place to find unique plants. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden for its beautiful, well-maintained walking trails and free admission, making it a highly accessible and enjoyable natural escape. While some find certain areas less spectacular than anticipated, the overall experience is praised for its tranquility and family-friendly atmosphere, especially during special events. TikTokReddit

"This place is Beautiful and free to enter. the walking trails are very well kept. They allow Photography, but if you are taking professional photos of people you need to buy a photo pass from the very friendly staff at the visitor center. the museum was great too."

Tim Stetz

"I had a really high expectations for this botanical Garden especially after visiting the University of Tennessee’s one. I’ve seen multiple post of sunflowers but didn’t see any, not really much flowers at all. This was a little underwhelming but I also feel like I was missing something. Maybe it will improve over the years. Is great for a stroll that is shaded."

Jeanie Roussel

"This place is huge and free! Suitable for trails, or just short visit for flowers."

Uyen DIEP

What People Like

Free admission
Beautiful walking trails
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Highway noise
Variable flower displays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The gardens are located at 4560 Essen Lane in Baton Rouge. They are easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the gardens. During special events, parking might be more congested, so arriving early is recommended. Instagram

Yes, you can use GPS by entering 'LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden' or the address '4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA' into your navigation app. Instagram

Information on public transport can vary. It's best to check local Baton Rouge transit schedules for routes that may service the Essen Lane area. Instagram

The gardens are quite extensive. Pick up a map at the visitor center or use the walking paths to explore different sections. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The general admission to the gardens is free, making it a wonderful accessible attraction. However, special ticketed events like the Corn Maze or Louisiana Lights require separate purchases. TikTokReddit

Admission for the Corn Maze is typically $15 per person, with children 2 and under free. Tickets are usually pre-sale only and can sell out. Instagram+1

Yes, for popular events like the Corn Maze and Louisiana Lights, advance ticket purchase is highly recommended, and often required, as they can sell out. Instagram+1

General garden hours are typically from dawn to dusk, but specific event hours vary. Always check the official LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

It's best to assume tickets for special events are pre-sale only. On-site availability is not guaranteed, so purchasing online in advance is the safest bet. Instagram+1

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Highlights include 5 miles of walking trails, a beautiful rose garden, a serene wetlands area, and various seasonal attractions like a corn maze and holiday lights. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are often family-friendly activities. The Corn Maze event includes hayrides, a petting farm, and a corn crib. There are also playgrounds available. InstagramReddit

Photography is allowed, but professional photo shoots of people require a photo pass purchased from the visitor center. Reddit

The walking paths are generally well-kept, making them suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some natural areas might be less accessible. Reddit

This is a historical exhibit that may have an additional fee to enter and explore. Some visitors find the cost not worth it for the experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the gardens themselves don't typically have a full-service restaurant, special events like Louisiana Lights may offer concessions such as s'mores. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to dine before or after your visit. TikTok

Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. It's a good idea to check the garden's specific policies on outside food and beverages. Reddit

Yes, the gardens are located in Baton Rouge, an area with numerous dining options. You'll find a variety of restaurants along Essen Lane and nearby streets. Instagram

Concessions at events often include seasonal treats. For the Louisiana Lights event, expect items like s'mores. TikTok

Typically, there isn't a permanent cafe. Concessions are usually event-specific. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, personal photography is permitted and encouraged! It's a beautiful place to capture nature's beauty. Reddit

If you are conducting professional photo shoots involving people, you will need to purchase a photo pass from the visitor center. Reddit

The rose garden, wetlands, and any blooming areas offer great photo opportunities. During events, the light displays or corn maze provide unique backdrops. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to contact the gardens directly to inquire about their regulations regarding drones. Instagram

While personal photography is allowed, large professional equipment setups might require special arrangements or permits. Always check with staff if unsure. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden is a fantastic destination for families. The free admission makes it an affordable outing, and the well-maintained walking trails are easy for little legs to navigate. Reddit During special events like the Corn Maze, there are often hayrides, petting farms, and corn cribs that kids absolutely love. Instagram+1 Plus, there are playgrounds, including one conveniently located in the shade, perfect for a break. Reddit

While the main gardens offer a peaceful environment, consider visiting during a family-friendly event for maximum engagement. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as food options are usually limited to special event concessions. TikTok The gardens provide a great opportunity for children to connect with nature in a safe and beautiful setting. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

This is a dream destination for budget travelers! The general admission is free, allowing you to explore miles of beautiful walking paths, a rose garden, and a wetlands area without spending a dime. TikTokReddit Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the greenery, as food options are minimal outside of special events. Reddit

While special events like the Corn Maze or Louisiana Lights have ticket prices, they offer significant entertainment value. TikTokInstagram For a completely free experience, focus on exploring the diverse flora and enjoying the serene atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day out without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden offers a picturesque backdrop for photographers. While personal photography is welcome, professional shoots involving people require a photo pass from the visitor center. Reddit The rose garden is a prime spot for vibrant floral shots, and the wetlands area provides unique natural scenery. Instagram During seasonal events, the holiday lights or the corn maze offer distinct and engaging subjects. TikTokInstagram

Be mindful of the time of day for the best lighting, and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds for more unobstructed shots. Reddit While the gardens are generally peaceful, be aware of the highway noise, which might be a consideration for some types of photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Gardens: Trails and Flora

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden boasts an impressive 5 miles of walking paths, winding through diverse landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the rose garden, a vibrant display of colors and fragrances, and the unique ecosystem of the wetlands area. Instagram These natural settings provide a peaceful escape and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed year-round, with different sections offering seasonal beauty. Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained trails, noting they are easy to walk and suitable for a leisurely stroll. Reddit While some reviews mention not seeing specific flowers like sunflowers during their visit, the overall consensus is that the gardens offer a beautiful and shaded environment for relaxation and exploration. Reddit The Arbor Day events, celebrated in January, highlight the importance of trees and shrubs, further showcasing the garden's commitment to horticultural education. Instagram

For those interested in plant acquisition, the LSU AgCenter often hosts plant sales, which are a popular draw for gardeners looking for unique specimens. Reddit These events are a great way to support the gardens and take home a piece of their horticultural expertise. Remember to check the garden's event calendar for these special opportunities. Reddit

Seasonal Events: Fun for All Ages

Beyond its natural beauty, the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden is known for its engaging seasonal events that draw significant crowds. The Corn Maze at Burden, held every Saturday in October, is a major attraction. Instagram+1 This event typically includes a challenging maze, hayrides, a petting farm, and a corn crib, making it a fantastic outing for families. Instagram+1 Tickets for the corn maze are usually pre-sale only and can sell out, so booking in advance is crucial. Instagram

During the holiday season, the gardens transform into a magical wonderland for Louisiana Lights. TikTok This event features thousands of dazzling holiday lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere with photo opportunities and festive treats like s'mores. TikTok It's a popular way to kick off the holiday spirit. TikTok

These ticketed events offer a different experience from the usual garden strolls and are highly anticipated by the community. Instagram+1 While the general garden admission is free, these special events provide unique entertainment and are a significant draw for visitors looking for seasonal fun. TikTokInstagram

Visitor Experience and Practicalities

The LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden is largely praised for its free admission, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for everyone. TikTokReddit Visitors often highlight the well-kept walking trails and the overall beauty of the grounds. Reddit However, some guests have noted that certain areas might not be as visually spectacular as expected, particularly if they are seeking specific blooms like sunflowers, which may not be present year-round or in abundance. Reddit

For those planning professional photo shoots, a photo pass is required, which can be obtained from the friendly staff at the visitor center. Reddit This policy ensures that the gardens can continue to offer a peaceful experience for all visitors. Reddit While the gardens themselves are free, the rustic village/museum area on the property may have an additional entrance fee, which some visitors find to be not worth the cost. Reddit

Noise from the nearby highway is a minor drawback mentioned by some, but the overall sentiment remains positive, with many appreciating the opportunity for a shaded stroll and the presence of playgrounds for children. Reddit The gardens are a great place for a short visit or a longer exploration, depending on your preference. Reddit

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