If you’re planning to run a marathon in Louisiana, don’t miss out on these races which are consistently rated the best by those who have run them.
Jazz Half Marathon – New Orleans
Take a run through the Big Easy, and do something for your soul. The proceeds from this race go to the Cancer Program at Children’s Hospital. It’s been named one of the best half marathons in the nation as well! To top it all off, New Orleans in October is sublime. Click here to read more about the Jazz Half Marathon.
The Course
The course touches a number of desirable New Orleans destinations. Start at historic Jackson Square in the French Quarter, then run down tree-lined St. Charles Avenue (wave to the streetcar!), past the Garden District and its impressive mansions. The course then continues back down St. Charles, through the Central Business District, and finishes in front of Jackson Square.
Image Source: Nola.com
Reviews
“This was such a fun race! The course was flat as a pancake, which was nice, since it was my first half marathon. Water stations every couple miles were always well staffed, and had plenty of water and Gatorade. Live jazz every couple miles kept things entertaining, and the spectators were great and super encouraging. I loved the after party-beer and jambalya are definitely the best post race food ever, even at 9 in the morning.” – Allyson P., Yelp Review
“The course itself is really pretty and takes you through both Kentucky and Cincinnati. It also is more on the challenging side (this isn’t a flat course), which could be a plus or a minus, depending on how you feel about hills.” – Rachael, Yelp Review
Louisiana Half Marathon – Baton Rouge
This event bills itself as more than a race. It’s a “culturally rich” festival in the capital of Louisiana. There’s something here for everybody, with running, food, dancing, and music. Click here for dates and registration info.
The Course
The race begins at the Louisiana State Museum in downtown Baton Rouge. Runners then continue through the garden district. Runners then continue through the campus of the Louisiana State University and near Tiger Stadium, then loop around University Lake before returning to the state capitol for the finish line.
Image Source: thelouisianamarathon.com
Reviews
“I’m going to be honest that I’m a little reticent to say great things about the race because I want it to stay a secret (selfish, I know). But they deserve kudos so here goes. It’s amazingly coordinated, the finish festival highlights the best of local culture and food, community support is as good as I have seen anywhere- if not better- and it’s a great course to run strong while enjoying beautiful scenery. Thanks for the great visit. I’m sure it won’t be my last!” – Amalia C., Facebook Review
“Add to your must run list. Great course, especially in and around LSU as well as the old neighborhoods. Small, but enthusiastic crowds. It’s like the neighbors just needed a reason to get together on their lawns and have a party, and you are that reason.” -D.P., Marathonguide Review
Rock N Roll New Orleans Half – New Orleans
The Rock n Roll New Orleans Half Marathon is the Big Easy’s entry in the Rock n Roll race series, which seeks to immerse participants in the music of the host city. New Orleans has more than its share to offer, which turns this race into a 13-mile street party. Be sure to check out the post-race Finish Line Celebration. Click here to learn more.
The Course
Rock n Roll has put together a majestic run through some of the most beautiful parts of the city, including St. Charles Avenue and the French Quarter. The race moves through Uptown, the French Quarter, and the Central Business District, then culminates in Mid-City near City Park.
Image Source: runrocknroll.com
Reviews
“Great organization! Awesome run, warm, flat, plenty of bathrooms, great crowd, fun runners, great music.” – Emily H., Facebook Review
“Loved the race. The Expo was good….the course was great!! Long line at the shuttles after the race, but they were organized and the line moved quickly.” – John M., Facebook Review
Zydeco Half Marathon – Lafayette
There’s more to Louisiana than New Orleans, and Acadiana is something you have to see. This race celebrates the Cajun heritage of western Louisiana.
The Course
This is a fast, flat course beginning and ending on Jefferson Street in Downtown Lafayette. Reviewers rave about the great on-course support. The Finish-Line Festival offers food and music. It’s a Cajun party! Did we mention it’s flat? Check out the elevation map of the course:
Image Source: findmymarathon.com
Reviews
“I signed up to run with a friend and I was not disappointed. Nice flat course, friendly volunteers and first responders, and for me, great weather. I recommend it!” – D.J, Marathonguide.com Review
“I really loved the overall experience of running Zydeco! It wasn’t nearly as crowded as my previous Marathons which made it more special. Having my family right there at the finish line when I ran through was a treat. The overall quaintness of the race and town made this by far the best Marathon I have ran!” – J.L., Marathonguide.com Review
Big Easy Running Festival – New Orleans
The Big Easy Running Festival puts a new spin on the New Orleans half marathon. Rather than beginning on the East Bank and wending its way through Uptown, the race begins on the West Bank and takes advantage of one of the most spectacular views in the city. Click here to learn more or to register.
The Course
The race begins on the west bank of the Mississippi and crosses the Crescent City Connection, then continues through the Garden District. The views of the Mississippi River from the top of the span of the CCC are stunning. After passing the Treme and Bayou St. John, it finishes in the Central Business District.
Image Source: bigeasyrunfest.com
Reviews
“Big Easy Running Festival was awesome! The HM course was beautiful, there was food aplenty even when I finally made it in, they had big tubs of Ice Cold CocaCola in cans waiting for me and the post-race party rocked!!” – Carolyn G., Facebook Review
“Wonderful and interesting route with great staff and volunteers!! And finishing in Champion Square with Cowboy Mouth was the Icing on my cake! Maybe my favorite 1/2 marathon ever!!” – Rebecca S., Facebook Review