In the United States, New Orleans, Louisiana, the cradle of jazz, the home of Mardi Gras, and famed for its incredible southern cuisine, is one of a kind. With beautiful architecture, an incredible music scene, delicious Creole food, and the Mississippi River, it is easy to fall in love with and become addicted to the Crescent City.
There is no better way to arrive in the Big Easy than by train.
Amtrak’s approach to New Orleans, crossing the long causeway across Lake Pontchartrain, is a lovely view that is unique to train travel. City arrival is breathtakingwon’t won’t need to get stressed waiting in a plane for the luxury to arrive or sit in traffic.
Everything you need to know to plan the best train travel to and from New Orleans is in this guide. What trains go to New Orleans, how much do they cost, how to buy a ticket, what the train station is like, and all the tips and tricks to get the best travel experience.
Why Take a Train to New Orleans? Top Reasons to Choose Rail: You’re
You’re deciding between flying, driving, or taking a train from New Orleans? Let us explain why train travel is the ideal choice for the majority of visitors:
1. A Truly Iconic Arrival
The journey to New Orleans by train is something of a moment in and of itself. The ride thLouisiana’siana’s bayou landscapes, and over Lake Pontchartrain, is breathtaking -it’s a film-like entrance into one of the most famous cities. It’s impossible to experience this via car or plane.
2. No Airport Hassle
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is approximately 15 miles away from the French Quarter. If you add TSA queues, baggage claims,s as well as a taxi that costs between $35 and $50 or a rideshare service to the downtown area, traveling can be more expensive and stressful than initially. Trains drop you directly within the city.
3. Skip the Traffic
The journey towards New Orleans – especially from Texas or the Southeast involves traveling through I-10 and I-12 traffic jams, locating expensive Downtown parking ($25-$40/day), as well as having to deal with fatigue from driving. Trains handle all the above for you.
4. Comfort ThCan’tanes Can’t Match
Amtrak long-distance trains come with spacious, reclined seats with plenty of legroom, big, wide windows that open up to tcaféorld, a café car and a full eating service. When traveling overnight Sleeper cars provide separate rooms with fold-down beds, and meals are included, so that the travel itself is an integral part of your vacation.
5. Affordable Fares
Amtrak Saver fares to New Orleans are often surprisingly low. For cities like Chicago, Houston, or Atlanta, Coach tickets typically cost less than 50 dollars. If you include the cost of parking, baggage charges, and transfers to airports, coach travel is often more affordable than traveling by air in terms of the total cost of the trip.
6. Sustainable Travel
Train travel generates a small portion of the carbon dioxide that is generated by flying or driving on your own. The train ride to New Orleans is one of the greenest travel choices that you could take.
7. Wi-Fi and Power Outlets
Enjoy your work or entertain yourself when you’re on the move. Amtrak trains running through New Orleans offer free Wi-Fi as well as power outlets in the majority of seating areas, which is perfect for remote workers as well as students and those who enjoy entertainment.
Which Trains Go to New Orleans? Major Rail Services Explained
Three major long-distance routes are available out of New Orleans, Amtrak’s most critical southern hub.
| Train Name | Route | Frequency | Best For |
| City of New Orleans | Chicago ↔ New Orleans | 1 round trip daily | Midwest travelers |
| Crescent | New York ↔ New Orleans | 1 round trip daily | East Coast travelers |
| Sunset Limited | Los Angeles ↔ New Orleans | 3x per week (each direction) | West Coast travelers |
City of New Orleans – The Iconic Midwest Route
One of Amtrak’s most famous train routes, the City of New Orleans, is made famous by the Arlo Guthrie song. The route, CChicago’sUnion Station, takes the path south through Illinois, Memphis, and Mississippi on its way to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal. The trip takes about 19-20 hours and has options for both coach and sleeper cars, along with a full dining car. The trip is quite scenic as it travels through the classic American heartland.
Crescent – The East Coast Connection
The Crescent is available for New Yorkers who want to take the train to New Orleans. The Crescent takes about 30-31 hours for its route from New York through Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama. Scenic views of the Appalachian foothills and the Deep South show the train’s route on the way to New Orleans. Like the City of New Orleans, the Crescent has sleeper cars and a dining car available.
Sunset Limited – The Southern Transcontinental
The trip on the Sunset Limited takes about 48 hours to cover the route from Los Angeles to New Orleans through the Southwest. The views along the Limited’s route cover quite beautiful scenes of the desert and the Gulf Coast. Make sure to plan, as this train does not run every day.
Popular Train Routes to New Orleans From Major US Cities
| Origin City | Train | Approx. Duration | Direct? |
| Chicago, IL | City of New Orleans | ~19-20 hours | Yes – Direct |
| New York, NY | Crescent | ~30-31 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Washington, D.C. | Crescent | ~25-26 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Atlanta, GA | Crescent | ~13-14 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Los Angeles, CA | Sunset Limited | ~48 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Houston, TX | Sunset Limited | ~9-10 hours | Yes – Direct |
| San Antonio, TX | Sunset Limited | ~13-14 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Memphis, TN | City of New Orleans | ~7-8 hours | Yes – Direct |
| Boston, MA | Lake Shore Limited + Crescent | ~35-38 hours | Via NYC |
| Miami, FL | Silver Star/Meteor + Crescent | ~30-34 hours | Via various |
Key Insight: Many US cities offer rail service only with a Chicago connection. New Orleans is served by three long-distance routes from the Midwest, East Coast, and West Coast, making New Orleans one of the most rail-served cities in the South.
NYC to New Orleans Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
Of all the Amtrak routes, the Crescent has got to be one of the best, taking you on a scenic ride through the East/South of America.
The Route: New York → New Orleans on the Crescent
| Stop | Approximate Time |
| New York Penn Station (depart) | ~2:15 PM daily |
| Philadelphia, PA | ~3:40 PM |
| Washington, D.C. | ~6:00 PM |
| Charlotte, NC | ~11:30 PM |
| Atlanta, GA | ~4:30 AM |
| Birmingham, AL | ~7:00 AM |
| New Orleans, LA (arrive) | ~7:45 AM (next day) |
Times are approximate and subject to change. Always verify at amtrak.com.
Total Journey Time
Relax for approximately 30-31 hours – departing NYC in the afternoon and arriving in New Orleans the following morning.
NYC to New Orleans Train Tips
| Tip | Details |
| Book a Sleeper Car | A Roomette transforms this overnight trip into a luxury experience – beds, privacy, and meals included |
| Depart on a Weekday | Tuesday/Wednesday departures offer the lowest coach fares |
| Book 6-8 Weeks Ahead | Saver fares sell out fast on popular departure dates |
| Book as One Ticket | Ensures connection protection and automatic rebooking if delayed |
| Bring Entertainment | 30 hours is a long trip – download movies, books, or podcasts in advance |
Estimated Ticket Costs: NYC → New Orleans (Crescent)
| Class | Approximate Price Range |
| Coach (Saver) | $79 – $149 |
| Coach (Flexible) | $150 – $250 |
| Roomette Sleeper (meals included) | $300 – $600+ |
| Bedroom Sleeper (meals included) | $600 – $1,200+ |
New Orleans Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
Have you ever tried train? Here’s what you require for the smoothest New Orleans journey:
- Make sure you arrive at Station Early: Station Early Plan to arrive a minimum of 20-30 mins prior to departure. In the case of long-distance trains, 30 to 45 minutes are ideal for allowing the time needed for baggage check-in and platform boarding.
- Install the Amtrak App: Free Amtrak.app is a great traveling friend. It showticket’sicket’s e-ticket and train’s movements in real time and also sends delay alerts to your smartphone directly.
- Sleeper cars are worth it for long Routes: you’re driving between New York or Los Angeles and need a roomette sleeper, a Roomette sleeper can be a game changer. A private room, folding beds, and meals that are included in the dininmake makes this long trip truly pleasurable and not just something Caféendure.
- Café Car vs: Dining Car The three New Orleans trcafé have a café car that sells food, sandwiches, and drinks. Thercafé also has a café car for drinks. City of New Orleans and Crescent have dining cars that serve hot meals that are available for sleeper passengers at no cost, with a purchase option for coach passengers.
- Pack layers: Amtrak trains can be chilly in the winter, particularly at night. Light jackets or blankets are always an excellent idea, especially for sleeper trains in which the AC may be running cool.
- Window seats are worth it. The way from New Orleans thLouisiana’siana’s swamps and bayous can be truly breathtaking. The window seats located on the left (when traveling south iOrleans’seans’s City of New Orleans) offer some stunning views.
- Station Location Perfect New Orleans Union Passenger: Terminal is situated on 1001 Loyola Avenue – just 15 minutes to The French Quarter, the CBD, as well as The Garden District. The best areas of the city can be reached immediately.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to New Orleans
Direct Routes (No Transfer Required)
| Origin | Train | Travel Time |
| Chicago, IL | City of New Orleans | ~19-20 hours |
| New York, NY | Crescent | ~30-31 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | Crescent | ~25-26 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | Crescent | ~28-29 hours |
| Charlotte, NC | Crescent | ~18-19 hours |
| Atlanta, GA | Crescent | ~13-14 hours |
| Los Angeles, CA | Sunset Limited | ~48 hours |
| Houston, TX | Sunset Limited | ~9-10 hours |
| Memphis, TN | City of New Orleans | ~7-8 hours |
Connecting Routes (Via Transfer)
| Origin | First Train | Transfer Point | Second Train |
| Boston, MA | Lake Shore Limited | New York | Crescent |
| Miami, FL | Silver Star | Various | Crescent |
| Seattle, WA | Coast Starlight | Los Angeles | Sunset Limited |
| Denver, CO | California Zephyr | Chicago | City of New Orleans |
| Minneapolis, MN | Empire Builder / Borealis | Chicago | City of New Orleans |
| Detroit, MI | Wolverine | Chicago | City of New Orleans |
Pro Tip: Always book multi-leg journeys as a single Amtrak itinerary at amtrak.com. This way, if your first train is delayed and you miss a connection, Amtrak will automatically rebook you at no additional cost.
Business Class vs Coach on New Orleans Trains
Make the most of your trip by budgeting for the best possible experience, depending on the length of your journey and the type of cabin you select.
| Feature | Coach | Business Class | Roomette Sleeper | Bedroom Sleeper |
| Seat Type | Standard reclining | Premium wider seats | Private room, 2 beds | Larger private suite |
| Legroom | Standard | Extra | N/A (beds) | N/A (beds) |
| Power Outlets | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Meals Included | No | Complimentary beverages | Yes – all meals | Yes – all meals |
| Privacy | Shared car | Shared car (dedicated section) | Private room | Private suite |
| In-Suite Restroom | No | No | No (shared) | Yes |
| Refundable Ticket | No (Saver) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Budget travel | Short-medium routes | Overnight comfort | Maximum luxury |
Which Should You Choose?
- Chicago or Memphis between Chicago and Memphis, New Orleans (under 20 hours): A coach will be at ease. You can upgrade to Business Class to get more space and drinks for free.
- New York or Atlanta to New Orleans (20-31 hours): The use of a Roomette sleeping bag is highly advised. A long journey on coaches can be exhausting,g and a roomette provides real sleep and includes meals.
- Los Angeles to New Orleans (48 hours): The Bedroom sleeping arrangement is the best option for this epic trip. Private suites, including a shower and an in-suite full-service dining vehicle, ensure that the trip is one to remember.
New Orleans Train Station: Everything You Need to Know
Station Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Official Name | New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal |
| Amtrak Station Code | NOL |
| Address | 1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113 |
| Phone | (504) 528-1610 |
| Hours | Open daily – staffed during train arrivals/departures |
Station Facilities
| Facility | Available? |
| Ticket Office / Agent | Yes – fully staffed |
| Waiting Room | Yes – large, air-conditioned |
| Checked Baggage | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes (ADA accessible) |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Parking | Yes – on-site lot |
| Taxi / Rideshare Pickup | Yes – designated area |
| Bus Connections | Yes – RTA buses |
| Food & Bevecafés | Yes – café inside station |
| Accessibility Features | Fully ADA compliant |
| Luggage Storage | Yes |
| ATM | Yes |
Getting from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Key Destinations
| Destination | Distance | Best Option | Approx. Cost/Time |
| French Quarter | ~1.5 miles | Rideshare / Streetcar | $8-$12 / 10-15 min |
| Garden District | ~2 miles | St. Charles Streetcar | $1.25 / 20 min |
| Bourbon Street | ~1.7 miles | Rideshare / Taxi | $10-$15 / 10 min |
| Convention Center | ~1 mile | Walk / Rideshare | Free walk / 5 min ride |
| Warehouse Arts District | ~0.5 miles | Walk | 5-8 min walk |
Loyola Avenue is a central area for many attractions that New Orleans has to offer. The legendary St. Charles Streetcar line, known for being one of the oldest streetcar lines in the world, has a station just a few feet away and can take you to the Garden District and Uptown at a low price.
How to Book Train Tickets to New Orleans: Step-by-Step Guide
Method 1: Book Online at Amtrak.com (Best Option)
- Visit amtrak.com
- Select “Find a Train” in the upper navigation
- Select the city of departure as well as New Orleans, LA (NOL)
- Choose your date of travel as well as the number of people you wish to accompany.
- Select “Find trains” to see the available trains.
- Pick your favorite train and class of fare (Saver Value, Value Business, Sleeper, or Saver)
- Sign in to the Amtrak Guest Rewards account and check out as an Amtrak Guest Rewards member.
- Input payment and passenger details
- Confirm that the e-ticket is sent immediately via email
- Display your’s e-tickeonto your mobile when you go to the station. No printing required
Method 2: Amtrak App
Get the no-cost Amtrak application (iOS/Android). The same booking process is available on the website, with a real-time tracker of trains as well as delay alerts.
Method 3: Call Amtrak
Dial 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). A fee for booking a phone call might be applicable.
Method 4: At the Station
Tickets for walk-ups are sold at the staffed ticket booth that is staffed. However, walk-up fares are usually higher than the price online in advance.
Smart Booking Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
| Book 6-8 weeks ahead | Saver fares are limited and sell out quickly |
| Travel mid-week | Tuesday/Wednesday fares are typically cheaper |
| Join Amtrak Guest Rewards (free) | Earn points toward free travel on every trip |
| Book connecting trips as one ticket | Automatic connection protection if delayed |
| Check the “Deals” page on Amtrak.com | Flash sales and weekly specials appear here regularly |
| Use AAA/Senior/Student discounts | 10% off for eligible passengers |
New Orleans Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Ticket Price Guide by Route
| Route | Saver Coach | Flexible Coach | Roomette Sleeper | Bedroom Sleeper |
| Chicago → New Orleans | $49 – $89 | $99 – $179 | $200 – $450 | $400 – $800 |
| New York → New Orleans | $79 – $149 | $150 – $260 | $300 – $600 | $600 – $1,200 |
| Washington D.C. → New Orleans | $69 – $129 | $130 – $230 | $260 – $520 | $520 – $1,000 |
| Atlanta → New Orleans | $39 – $79 | $80 – $150 | $180 – $380 | $360 – $720 |
| Los Angeles → New Orleans | $89 – $179 | $180 – $320 | $380 – $750 | $750 – $1,500+ |
| Houston → New Orleans | $29 – $59 | $60 – $110 | $150 – $300 | $300 – $600 |
Prices are approximate and vary by date, season, and availability. Check amtrak.com for current fares.
Understanding Amtrak Fare Types
| Fare Type | Refundable? | Changeable? | Best For |
| Saver | No | No | Flexible budget travelers |
| Value | Partial credit | Yes, with fee | Most everyday travelers |
| Flexible | Yes – full refund | No fee | Business travelers, uncertain plans |
| Sleeper (Roomette/Bedroom) | Mostly yes | Varies | Overnight long-distance journeys |
Ways to Save Money on New Orleans Train Tickets
- The best time to book is early- tickets are announced first and are gone fast. Six to eight weeks is the ideal time.
- Mid-week travel: The Tuesday and Wednesday departing times are usually more affordable han weekends.
- AAA Discount – AAA members receive 10% off on all Amtrak travel. Use your coupon code during checkout.
- Senior Discount (65+) – passengers over 65 receive 10% off most tickets.
- Student Discount – Students who have a valid Student Advantage card can enjoy a 10% discount
- Children’s Fares – Children aged 2-12 travel for 50% off when they are accompanied by an adult.
- Amtrak Guest Rewards. It’s free to join – Earn 2 points for every dollar spent and then redeem them to get complimentary travel or upgrades.
- Flash Sales – @Amtrak’strak’s social media, or sign up for emails to be alerted of limited-time promotional offers.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans by Train: SeasonaTravel. There’s’s
There’s something special happening in every season in New Orleans, which is a year-round destination. This is your seasonal guide:
| Season | Weather | Top Events & Attractions | Train Demand | Fare Level |
| Spring (Feb-May) | 60-80°F | Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest | Very High | Highest |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 85-95°F | Essence Fest, Satchmo SummerFest, local vibe | Moderate | Medium |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 65-80°F | Voodoo Fest, Oktoberfest NOLA, cooler weather | Moderate | Lower |
| Winter (Dec-Jan) | 45-65°F | Holiday events, quieter streets, festive atmosphere | Lower | Lowest |
Spring: Peak Season – Book Way Ahead
Spring in New Orleans is beautiful and busy – Major events are happening like Mardi Gras (Feb/March) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Apr/May). They are events that showcase New Orleans to the rest of the country, so tickets and hotels book up fast. Book 4 months ahead for Mardi Gras spots. Book 2-3 months ahead for Jazz Festival travel.
Summer: Hot but Rewarding
New Orleans is not the best in the summer.- It’s hot and humid, and really uncomfortable. It does bring the Essence Festival (The biggest African American cultural Festival in the country). Hotel prices go down because the crowds go down (except for the Essence Festival), and train fares go down for the whole summer.
Fall: The Sweet Spot
The best months out of the year to visit are in the Fall from September to November. The weather gets nice, prices for trains go down, and there are many festivals to enjoy, like the Voodoo Festival. The secret is out, but there are way fewer crowds.
Winter: Best Deals, Festive Atmosphere
The holidays are beautiful in the French Quarter, and the prices for the trains are lower during the holidays. New Year’s Eve in New Orleans is a big event, so book for the end of the year ahead of the rest of the year to get the best deals. The rest of the year, prices are great, and the atmosphere is calm, but the city is so festive.
Train vs Bus vs Car to New Orleans: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
| Factor | Train (Amtrak) | Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | Car (Personal/Rental) |
| Travel Time from Chicago | ~19-20 hours | ~22-24 hours | ~12-13 hours |
| Travel Time from NYC | ~30-31 hours | ~30-34 hours | ~19-21 hours |
| Cost from Chicago | $49-$179 | $35-$80 | $80-$120 gas + tolls |
| Comfort Level | High – reclining seats, dining car | Low | Variable |
| Scenic Experience | Excellent – bayou & heartland views | Limited | Highway scenery |
| City-Center Arrival | Yes – 1 mile from French Quarter | Yes – near downtown | No – parking needed |
| Eco-Friendliness | Best | Good | Least |
| Wi-Fi & Power Outlets | Yes | Sometimes | N/A |
| Luggage Allowance | Generous | Limited | Unlimited |
| Downtown Parking Cost | N/A | N/A | $25-$40/day |
| Overnight Option | Yes – sleeper cars | Limited (uncomfortable) | Yes (hotel stop needed) |
| Best For | Comfort, scenic travel, long distances | Absolute minimum budget | Road trips, multiple stops |
The Verdict
Between Chicago and New Orleans, the City of New Orleans train is very hard to beat. The 19-hour journey in a Roomette sleeper, which includes meals, a private room, and a view of the Mississippi River, is a whole experience.
For travelers coming from the East Coast, the Crescent train is a more enjoyable alternative to the 20+ hour bus ride. Relative to the Crescent train, the cost of a plane ticket (with baggage fees) and the time wasted at the airport are hard to justify.
The only real benefit that traveling by personal car offers is for road trip lovers and people packing an excessive amount of luggage. However, a trip to New Orleans is almost always more expensive ($25-$40 per day) and almost always more of a hassle in regard to parking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1: Do you have any direct Amtrak train service to New Orleans?
Yes! City of New Orleans (Chicago), Crescent (New York/D.C. ), and Sunset Limited (LA/Houston) all are available to New Orleans directly.
2: How long does the train ride from Chicago from Chicago to New Orleans take?
Around 19-20 hours on the City of New Orleans -every day service, with sleeper or coach choices.
3: What is the New Orleans train station called?
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (code: NOL), 1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113.
4: How much will a train ticket from Houston to New Orleans cost?
The Coach Saver fare ranges from $29 (Houston) up to $149 (NYC). Sleeper roomettes range from $ 150 to $ 600 depending on the route.
5: Is it possible to take a train that goes from New York to New Orleans?
Yes, the Crescent operates daily, NYC to New Orleans direct. Travel time: 30-31 hours.
6: Does New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal have parking?
Yes – on-site parking lot available. There are off-site alternatives nearby to accommodate longer stays.
7: Do sleeper trains run from New Orleans?
Yes! The City of New Orleans, Crescent, and Sunset Limited all offer Roomette & Bedroom sleepers with all meals includeWhat’s
8: What’s the baggage allowance on trains going to New Orleans?
Two carry-ons are free (50 pounds each) and 2 personal items. Bags that are checked at the NOL can be taken with a charge.
9: How can I travel from the New Orleans station to the French Quarter?
Rideshare (~$10), Taxi (~$12), or take the St. Charles Streetcar ($1.25). French Quarter is just ~1.5 miles from the city.
10: Is traveling by train from New Orleans safe?
Yes, Amtrak is secured thanks to its personnel who are trained, and there is security at NOL. The standard travel safety guidelines apply.