Expert Tips for Avoiding Weekend Traffic During Baltimore Marathon and Comic-Con Events

Downtown Baltimore is set to be a hive of activity as the 25th annual Baltimore Running Festival and Baltimore Comic-Con take place. These events, happening this weekend, will impact traffic with temporary road and lane closures.

Comic-Con and Running Festival: Event Details

The Baltimore Comic-Con is slated for October 17-19, 2025, hosted at the Baltimore Convention Center on West Pratt Street. The organizers are collaborating with the city and the Baltimore Running Festival to provide the best travel advice for attendees. Public transport is highly recommended for those heading to Comic-Con, with the light rail system offering a convenient stop at the Pratt Street Convention Center.

Meanwhile, the Baltimore Running Festival features several races, including a full marathon, commencing on October 18. Over 14,000 runners are expected. Events start at various locations and times across the city.

Travel and Parking Tips

• Use mass transit, like the MTA Metro SubwayLink, which will remain operational.
• Pre-purchase parking through Spot Hero for convenience.
• Expect service disruptions on the Charm City Circulator routes between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on October 18.

Impact on Traffic and Road Closures

Baltimore’s Department of Transportation has issued detailed guidance on the temporary changes. Residents and visitors should anticipate significant delays due to road closures and traffic stops which aim to ensure safety.

Key closures include:

• Pratt Street from Charles to Light Streets from 9 p.m. on October 17.
• Several races commencing from Light & Pratt Streets, Paca & Camden Streets, and Pratt & Calvert Streets between 7:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Parking Restrictions and Advice

• No parking on specified streets from 8 p.m. on October 17 through 6 p.m. on October 18.
• Ensure compliance with posted restrictions to avoid tickets and towing.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

On October 18, from 2 a.m. through 4 p.m., commercial vehicles, including tanker trailers, will be restricted from the downtown and Inner Harbor areas. Images and cabs are exempted from this restriction.

Affected Streets

• Fayette Street from Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to President Street.
• President Street from Aliceanna to Fayette Streets.
• Key Highway from Light to McComas Streets.

Stay informed and plan accordingly to make the most out of the weekend’s events while minimizing travel disruptions.