Baton Rouge travel guide

Baton Rouge travel guide

National Airports

The main airport serving Baton Rouge is the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). It is located about 4 miles north of downtown Baton Rouge and serves as the primary commercial airport for the Baton Rouge metropolitan area.

Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) offers non-stop flights to several major cities in the United States, including Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and Charlotte, among others. The airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

There are no other national airports in Baton Rouge, but nearby cities such as New Orleans and Lafayette have their own airports that offer additional flight options and may be convenient for some travelers.

Trains in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge does not have a train station served by Amtrak or other passenger train services. The nearest Amtrak station to Baton Rouge is located in Hammond, Louisiana, which is about 50 miles southeast of Baton Rouge.

The Hammond Amtrak station is served by the Amtrak City of New Orleans route, which runs between New Orleans and Chicago. The station offers connections to other destinations across the United States via Amtrak’s national network.

While there are no passenger trains serving Baton Rouge directly, the city does have a rich railroad history and is home to the Louisiana Art & Science Museum’s “All Aboard!” exhibit, which showcases the history of trains and railroading in Louisiana.

Buses in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has a public transportation system called the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) that operates a network of buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. CATS operates fixed-route bus services on 23 different routes, as well as paratransit services for riders with disabilities.

The CATS bus system provides access to many of Baton Rouge’s popular destinations, including Louisiana State University, Southern University, downtown Baton Rouge, and the Mall of Louisiana. The buses operate on a regular schedule throughout the week, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

CATS also offers a mobile app called Route Shout that allows riders to track bus locations, get real-time arrival information, and plan their trips using their smartphones.

In addition to CATS, several private bus companies offer transportation services to and from Baton Rouge, including Greyhound, which operates a bus station in downtown Baton Rouge with connections to destinations throughout the United States.

How to get to Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is located in southeastern Louisiana, about 80 miles northwest of New Orleans. Here are some ways to get to Baton Rouge:

By Air: The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) is the city’s primary airport, with non-stop flights to several major cities in the United States. Alternatively, visitors can fly into the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is about 70 miles southeast of Baton Rouge, and take a shuttle or rental car to reach the city.

By Car: Baton Rouge is easily accessible by car, as it sits at the crossroads of several major highways, including Interstate 10, Interstate 12, and U.S. Highway 61. Driving to Baton Rouge from nearby cities like New Orleans, Lafayette, or Houston is a popular option for visitors.

By Bus: Greyhound operates a bus station in downtown Baton Rouge with connections to destinations throughout the United States. Additionally, the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) provides local bus services throughout the city.

By Train: The nearest Amtrak station to Baton Rouge is located in Hammond, Louisiana, which is about 50 miles southeast of Baton Rouge. From there, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to reach the city.

What is the best time to travel to Baton Rouge

The best time to visit Baton Rouge largely depends on personal preferences and the type of activities you plan to do. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: Baton Rouge has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The summer months (June through August) can be very hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall (March to May and September to November, respectively) are generally more comfortable, with mild temperatures and lower humidity levels. Winter (December to February) is cooler but still relatively mild, with temperatures averaging in the 50s and 60s.

Events and Festivals: Baton Rouge hosts several popular events and festivals throughout the year, including the Bayou Country Superfest (May), the Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival (June), and the Louisiana Renaissance Festival (November to December), among others. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, plan your visit accordingly.

Crowds and Prices: As with many destinations, travel prices and crowds in Baton Rouge can vary depending on the time of year. Summer is a popular time for tourism, which can lead to higher prices and larger crowds. Spring and fall can be good options for avoiding some of the crowds and higher prices while still enjoying mild weather and outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Baton Rouge may be in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are several events and festivals to enjoy.

How to get around Baton Rouge

There are several ways to get around Baton Rouge:

Public Transportation: The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) operates a network of buses throughout Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. CATS buses run on a regular schedule, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. Fares start at $1.75 for a one-way trip, and day passes are also available for $4.

Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft operate in Baton Rouge, offering convenient and affordable transportation options.

Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street or through a ride-hailing app. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled and time of day.

Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in Baton Rouge, including major brands such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise. Renting a car can be a good option for travelers who want to explore the surrounding areas or have greater flexibility in their transportation.

Biking and Walking: Baton Rouge has several dedicated bike paths and pedestrian-friendly areas, making biking and walking popular options for getting around the city. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are also located within walking distance of each other in certain areas of the city.

Overall, there are several transportation options available in Baton Rouge to suit different preferences and budgets.

Accommodations in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge has a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels: Baton Rouge has a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Some popular hotel chains in the city include Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.

Bed and Breakfasts: For a more intimate and unique experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Baton Rouge. These properties often offer charming rooms, home-cooked breakfasts, and personalized service.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals, such as apartments, condos, and houses, are available throughout Baton Rouge. These can be a good option for families or groups who want more space and privacy.

Campgrounds: Baton Rouge has several campgrounds, including the Farr Park Campground, which is located on the banks of the Mississippi River. These are good options for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a budget-friendly accommodation option.

Extended-Stay Hotels: For travelers who plan to stay in Baton Rouge for an extended period, extended-stay hotels offer amenities such as kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and complimentary breakfast.

Overall, Baton Rouge has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. It’s recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons and popular events.