Passenger rail returns to the Gulf Coast with new Amtrak Mardi Gras service

Jake Nicholas
Apr 29
2 min read

After nearly two decades, passenger rail is making a long-awaited return to the Gulf Coast. Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras Service is set to launch this summer, introducing twice-daily trains between New Orleans and Mobile with stops in Bay Saint Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.

The state-sponsored Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will offer morning and evening departures from both New Orleans and Mobile, strengthening regional connectivity and celebrating the deep cultural ties between these historic Gulf Coast cities. Inspired by the area’s festive spirit, the service aims to bring a taste of the region’s lively atmosphere to each journey.

Beyond the convenience of local travel, passengers will be able to connect in New Orleans to broader Amtrak routes, including the City of New Orleans line to Chicago, the Crescent to New York via Atlanta, and the Sunset Limited to Los Angeles via Houston and San Antonio. Same-day and next-day connection options will create seamless travel opportunities across the country.

The new rail line is backed by Louisiana and Mississippi, with financial support from the City of Mobile and longstanding advocacy from the Southern Rail Commission. Officials from all three states highlighted the project’s potential to boost local economies, enhance tourism, and offer travelers a more scenic and comfortable alternative to driving.

When service begins, travelers can expect spacious, reclining seats, generous legroom, no middle seats, carry-on allowances for golf bags, and the option to travel with pets. Fares and full schedules will be posted on Amtrak.com once the official start date is announced in the coming weeks.

Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service will mark a major milestone not just for the Gulf Coast but for Amtrak’s expanding network of state-supported routes, which continues to grow as demand for regional rail travel increases nationwide.

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