Visiting Baton Rouge without a Car

Question

Hi,

I plan to visit Baton Rouge for the weekend to run the Louisiana Half Marathon in January.

Do I need to rent a car if I simply want to stay in Baton Rouge for the race?

Thanks.

Answer

Baton Rouge is a fairly walkable city, especially around the downtown area, so it is possible to visit without a car, particularly if you're staying near the Louisiana Half Marathon start/finish line and other key locations. Here are some options and considerations to help you decide if you need to rent a car:

1. Where You Stay:

Downtown Baton Rouge: If you stay in or around downtown Baton Rouge, you’ll be in proximity to many of the race-related activities, restaurants, and the Louisiana Half Marathon start/finish line. You can easily walk to local restaurants, cafes, and attractions like the Louisiana State Capitol and the Old State Capitol.
Hotels Near the Baton Rouge Riverfront: Hotels near the Mississippi Riverfront or along North Boulevard are conveniently located for the race and will provide easy access to the event, as well as nearby dining and entertainment options.
Race Day Logistics: The Louisiana Half Marathon typically starts and finishes in downtown, so staying nearby will eliminate the need for a car to get to the event.

2. Public Transportation and Ride Shares:

Public Bus Service: Baton Rouge has a local bus system (Baton Rouge Transit), which can get you to different parts of the city. However, buses are less frequent on weekends and may not be the most convenient option during your stay, especially if you have tight timelines.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are available in Baton Rouge and can be an easy way to get around, especially if you need to travel outside the downtown area or to the race expo before the event. These services are quite reliable in the city.

3. What You Can Do Without a Car:

Race Activities: The Louisiana Half Marathon race weekend typically includes an expo and various events all within the downtown area, so you won’t need a car for the race itself.
Restaurants and Bars: There are plenty of dining options in downtown Baton Rouge, from casual spots to more upscale restaurants, many of which are within walking distance if you stay centrally located.
Attractions: The Louisiana State Museum, the USS Kidd, and the Baton Rouge Riverwalk are all in or near downtown and can be easily accessed on foot or via a short ride-share trip.

4. Potential Need for a Car:

If You Want to Explore Beyond Downtown: If you’re interested in exploring Baton Rouge outside of the downtown area, like visiting LSU, the Baton Rouge Zoo, or nearby plantations, renting a car would be the most convenient way to get around. However, for a weekend trip centered around the half marathon, a car might not be necessary.
Traveling to/from the Airport: Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) is about 10 miles from downtown. If you prefer more flexibility, you may want to consider an Uber or Lyft from the airport to your hotel.

Conclusion:

If you're focused on the race weekend and plan to stay in downtown Baton Rouge, you likely won’t need a rental car, as many places will be walkable, and ride-sharing services can take you anywhere you need to go. However, if you’re looking to explore areas outside of downtown, or if your accommodation is far from the race activities, renting a car could be a convenient option.