Getting Around Baton Rouge, LA

There are several transportation options for visitors in the downtown Baton Rouge area. While sidewalks are ample in the downtown area, they are nonexistent in some other parts of the city. Those who plan to travel anywhere outside the immediate downtown area are better off renting a car or taking a taxi. Bus service is limited outside of the downtown area.

Baton Rouge's bus system is called CATS, or Capital Area Transit System. The majority of routes run in the downtown and business areas. Fares, schedules, routes and maps can be viewed on their website. Since the routes do not cover the city entirely, it may be difficult to get to or from the downtown area. Routes are not as frequent as they are stated on the website and the estimated times are sometimes off by 10 or 15 minutes, making it difficult to gauge a trip.

For those who need only one or two transports in the city during their visit, a taxi is the best choice. There are also rental cars and limousines that can be hired on an hourly basis from private companies. To get a taxi, whether downtown or in other areas, call at least two hours in advance to guarantee a pick-up and drop-off.

Rental cars are the most reliable and stress-free option for transportation - and the most affordable. Every major rental car company, including the popular discount rental companies, can be found near downtown Baton Rouge. Anyone who wants to rent a car must have a valid driver's license or state-issued identification card. A major credit card is also required for reservations, although most companies allow the final charges to be paid on a debit card instead, if travelers so desire. When driving around downtown Baton Rouge, keep the parking situation in mind. It is difficult to find free street parking; even the metered spaces are scarce. Parking garages are plentiful, but are very expensive. Always have plenty of extra cash and change for parking meters and garages.