Inside the channel-glass skin of the 125,000 square-foot facility resides a stunning art museum, as well as one of the most intimate and acoustically brilliant theatrical spaces in the southern United States. Towering high about the Mississippi River, the fifth floor of the structure houses the LSU Museum of Art in grand fashion. A dramatic museum space, the Museum sprawls the entire length of the Shaw Center, showcasing more than 17,000 square feet of exhibition space. The spacious facility houses touring and permanent collections. Seating 325 people, the Manship Theatre is truly a magical venue for musicians, dancers and actors alike. Designed in the spirit of a London "West End" space, the Manship includes an orchestra level and two balconies, a magnificent audio system, a large fly house and automated orchestra pit. Adjacent to the theatre are two state-of-the-art black box theatres, as well as a spacious contemporary art space "Brunner Gallery", which will feature some of the region's most exciting up and coming artists.

Also located within the Center is the LSU School of Art Gallery, featuring exciting works from the faculty and students of Louisiana State University. Rounding out the Shaw Center is an exciting combination of retail and restaurant destinations, including the LSU Museum Store, PJ's Coffee House and Wine Bar, casual plaza dining space "Capital City Grill" and spectacular rooftop Japanese restaurant..