Stay Overnight On An Old WWII-Era Destroyer Here In Louisiana At The USS KIDD

Right along the Baton Rouge Riverfront Plaza, the USS Kidd is one of the most interesting places you’ll ever spend the night. The only surviving US destroyers still in WWII configuration, the USS Kidd not only offers daily tours where you can climb aboard the Fletcher-class destroyer, but you and about 20 of your friends can spend the night, too.

Berthed on the Mississippi River and in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge, the USS-Kidd is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Greater Baton Rouge Area.

Self-guided tours are offered daily.

During the tour, you can climb aboard the ship and get a feel for what life was like for the men and women who lived on the vessel during her heyday.

Explore above the deck ...

... and then head down below the 376-foot destroyer to see all of the controls, bunks, kitchens, and more.

You can even have a little fun roleplaying.

Fun fact: in naval terms, a destroyer is a specific type of warship intended to escort larger vessels in a convoy, or battle group, and protect them.

Not only does the USS Kidd offer tours, but you can also spend the night here.

What a unique idea for a slumber party, birthday party, or team outing!

There are a few things you’ll need to know before you make your reservation.

First, there’s a minimum of 20 people required to make a reservation, and everyone needs to be 6 years old or older. The Kidd also requires a ratio of one adult per eight children, so plan accordingly!

Remember, these vessels have many narrow hallways and narrow ladders ... you'll have a difficult time getting large bags and suitcases to your room, so pack lightly!

There may be other groups onboard the ship during your sleepover, but if you want the vessel all to yourself, you can.

Larger groups of 100 or more will have the vessel exclusively to themselves, with no other overnight groups on board.

Once you board the ship, your group will be given a room to get settled in.

From there, you'll go over some safety protocols and receive a guided tour of the Kidd with full explanations of the many battles this beauty has fought and her many decorations. Then, you'll get "free period" until lights out (midnight) where you can explore the vessel on your own, just make sure to use the buddy system!

In the morning, you'll wake up for the flag-raising ceremony before leaving the destroyer.

Head to the gift shop to pick up a souvenir to remember this special occasion!

Ready to book one of the most memorable nights of your life? Head over to the USS-Kidd's website where you can learn more about the overnight camping program. If you've ever visited the Kidd, let us know in the comments!