Mike the Tiger

CAGED TIGER

One of the things that makes LSU one of the coolest campuses in the SEC is the Tiger Habitat.  On your way to the stadium, be sure to check out Mike the Tiger VI -- the famed live Bengal Tiger which serves as the graphic image of all LSU athletic teams -- in his palatial residence located between Tiger Stadium and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

FUN FACT: In the mid-1980's, pranksters cut the locks on Mike IV's cage and freed him in the early-morning hours just days before the annual LSU-Tulane clash. Mike roamed free, playfully knocking down several small pine trees in the area, before being trapped in the Bernie Moore Track Stadium where police used tranquilizer guns to capture and return the Bengal Tiger to his home.

La. Old State Capitol

What to do in Baton Rouge

Louisiana State University is located in Baton Rouge, the Louisiana state capital.

Kickoff's not until 8 p.m., so if you're looking for something to do before launching into your tailgate, check out some of these Baton Rouge sites.

·         Louisiana Old State Capitol (free) - "The Castle on the River" is the state's political history museum, and if you know anything about Louisiana politics, well you can imagine what's in there.  Get the down-lo on Huey P. Long and his political career as governor, senator, and his assassination.  Politicos can learn more about the state's unique politics which still operates under a French system of Napoleonic rule. 

·         Louisiana Arts & Science Museum - is a great place for Gator kids.  The museum features a range of IMAX films including movies on stars, the universe, dinosaurs.  It's also home to a permanent Mummy exhibit and planetarium.  For those looking to shed a few pounds, an interactive scale will tell you how much you'd weigh on other planets -- and not surprisingly, we'd weigh much less on Venus.

          Louisiana State Museum (free) - Never been to Louisiana before?  Get an intro at this free museum where you can learn more about the history of jazz and see how Mardi Gras is celebrated around the state ... chickens anyone?

Best Kept Secret?  Check out Tony's Seafood - home of Lousiana Fish Fry products.  At this open market you can pick out fresh catfish, crawfish, shrimp and more for your pre-game grillin' needs.

Postgame?  After the game, head to "Walk-ons" within walking distance of the south gate of campus.  Or try "Chimes" just beyond the north gate of campus to sample its "around the world" beer tap.  You'll also find night spots in downtown Baton Rouge.

Also, you can find additional brochures and information on at www.visitbatonrouge.com.