Riding Amtrak to New Orleans

Taking Amtrak to New Orleans can mark the beginning of a fantastic adventure! My first trip to the “Crescent City” was inspired by my love of trains—I booked the City of New Orleans for the journey, not knowing I’d also fall in love with the destination.

I still miss strolling the streets, people-watching, admiring the architecture, and sipping an adult beverage. What could be better than starting your day with beignets, grabbing a Po Boy for lunch, and letting spontaneity decide your dinner plans? And, of course, you can’t beat the soundtrack of New Orleans—the music is everywhere.

Perhaps you’re organizing your trip for Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest, or you might yearn for a getaway to experience the city’s vibrant energy. Instead of battling traffic, searching for parking, or dealing with airport stress, why not let Amtrak handle the journey?

With three routes to the Big Easy, Amtrak gets you close to the action, making it easy to explore as soon as you arrive. One of my favorite moments is stepping off the train and taking that short, scenic walk to my hotel—it’s the perfect way to ease into the city’s rhythm.

Amtrak Long-distance Routes to New Orleans

Currently, Amtrak offers three long-distance trains that take passengers to New Orleans from the East Coast, West Coast, and the Midwest.

These trains will transport you to or from the New Orleans Union Passenger Station.

This station is within walking distance of the French Quarter and the Warehouse Arts District, and taxis, rideshares, and public transportation are accessible just outside the door.

These trains offer:

* The family rooms are available only on the City of New Orleans and Sunset Limited trains.

This next section briefly overviews each train and provides links for more information to help you plan your next adventure.

City of New Orleans – Chicago to New Orleans

If you’re coming from the Midwest, the City of New Orleans is your direct route. This overnight train runs from Chicago through cities like Memphis and Jackson before rolling into New Orleans.

The best part of this train journey is crossing the bridge over Lake Pontchartrain. If you look out as you travel over the estuary, it feels like the train is a cruise line.

• More information about Amtrak’s City of New Orleans
  • Superliner equipment
  • Flex dining from the café car
  • Sightseer Lounge/observation car

Learn more about the City of New Orleans.

Crescent – New York to New Orleans

Travelers from the East Coast can board the Crescent, which starts in New York City and passes through Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Atlanta, and Birmingham before arriving in New Orleans. 

This train provides stunning views from the bustling Northeast to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Southern landscapes.

• Additional info on Amtrak’s Crescent
  • Viewliner equipment
  • Flex dining from the dining car
  • No observation car

Learn more about the Crescent.

Sunset Limited – Los Angeles to New Orleans

Coming from the West Coast? The Sunset Limited provides a unique cross-country journey from Los Angeles through Texas and Louisiana before arriving in New Orleans. Note that this train only runs three times a week.

This train offers several views depending on the length of your journey. If you travel through the Chihuahua desert, look for the Prada Store!

• Additional information on Amtrak’s Sunset Limited
  • Superliner equipment
  • Traditional Dining in the dining car
  • Sightseer Lounge/observation car

Learn more about Amtrak’s Sunset Limited.

Amtrak Regional Trains to New Orleans: Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service

Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras Service offers twice-daily trains between New Orleans and Mobile, making stops along Coastal Mississippi in cities like Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, and Biloxi.

Traveling the Gulf Coast is fun and scenic. Amtrak provides regional routes to New Orleans, offering comfortable Coach Class seating and a café car for snacks. It’s ideal for day trips, weekend getaways, or enhancing your visit to New Orleans with a coastal adventure.

Why Take Amtrak to New Orleans?

• No Stress Over Parking—Parking can be a headache and relatively expensive in New Orleans, as in many larger cities.
  • Arriving by train puts you close to many places you want to visit, eliminating the need to search for a parking spot. You can walk, or take rideshares, taxis, and public transportation, which are just a few steps away.
• A Relaxing Ride–Skip the airport madness and long TSA lines.
  • On Amtrak, you can relax, enjoy a snack, and watch the scenery pass by.
• Pack More—Unlike airlines, Amtrak allows passengers to bring a personal item and two carry-ons. Some stations allow passengers to check two bags for free.
  • But the lighter you pack, the easier things can be for you.

Tips for a Smooth Amtrak Experience

• Book Early—New Orleans can be bustling off and on throughout the year, and Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest are popular times to visit. Trains can fill up quickly, and hotel prices increase and fill up fast. Book your tickets as soon as possible for the best prices and availability.
• Consider an upgrade – If you’re coming from a long distance, an overnight train with a Roomette or Bedroom will make your trip more comfortable.
• Check Luggage Policies—Amtrak’s generous baggage policy allows you to bring multiple bags, but checking restrictions is a good idea to avoid surprises.
• Arriving at the station early allows you to navigate and check your bags if necessary, as Chicago Union Station, LA Union Station, and others can become quite crowded.
  • The lounge is available to sleeper car passengers who start in LA, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, or Washington, D.C. There is also a sleeper car passenger waiting lounge in New Orleans.

Booking Your Amtrak Trip

Amtrak makes booking your trip easy.

• You can book by using:
  • Amtrak.com
  • The Amtrak app
  • Calling 1-800-USA-Rail (1-800-872-7245)

If you prefer packages, check with your travel agent or a company specializing in train travel.

Thinking about your NOLA trip? Take a look at the Beyond Bourbon Street Podcast.

Whether it’s your first time in New Orleans or you’re a returning visitor, planning a trip to the Big Easy can be overwhelming—there’s just so much to see and do! That’s why I recommend checking out Beyond Bourbon Street.

Mark Bologna hosts this podcast and website, which offers insider tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to experience New Orleans like a local. Beyond Bourbon Street is a fantastic resource for making the most of your visit, from the best spots for beignets to hidden gems beyond the French Quarter.

I have been listening to this podcast for years, and it helps me when I miss New Orleans!

If you’re coming for Mardi Gras, listen to their 2025 Mardi Gras preview episode for expert insights on parade schedules, must-see events, and how to navigate the city during Carnival season.

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Final Thoughts on Taking Amtrak to New Orleans

Taking Amtrak to Mardi Gras is an adventure in itself and can be much less stressful than other modes of transportation. Many stretches of these routes offer beautiful scenery, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

The train ride is a big part of the fun for me, and I hope it can also be for you. Whether traveling solo, with friends, or with your entire Krewe, Amtrak has options to suit your plans.

I’ve taken all these trains over the years and found them a fantastic way to get to and from New Orleans. But if taking the train both ways doesn’t work for you, flying home is always an option—no judgment here! Travel should fit your needs.

Ready to ride the rails to the Big Easy? Book your Amtrak to New Orleans trip today!

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Kev