Riding the Gulf Coast Rails: Your Complete Guide to Amtrak's Mardi Gras Service
Discover the new Amtrak Mardi Gras Service connecting New Orleans to Mobile. Experience scenic Gulf Coast rail travel with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.
By BeachLoco Editorial
🚂 Quick Stats: Amtrak Mardi Gras Service
For nearly two decades, Gulf Coast travelers faced a simple but frustrating reality: if you wanted to explore the string of charming coastal towns between New Orleans and Mobile, you had to drive. Hurricane Katrina knocked out passenger rail service in 2005, and the scenic route along Mississippi's sugar-white beaches fell silent.
Now, the whistle blows again. The Amtrak Mardi Gras Service has restored the romance of Gulf Coast rail travel, offering twice-daily round trips through some of the South's most beautiful coastal scenery. This isn't just transportation—it's a journey worth taking for its own sake.
Why Take the Train?
Let's be honest: you could drive from New Orleans to Mobile in about two and a half hours. But here's why the train is infinitely better:
Skip the traffic, skip the tolls. The I-10 corridor can be a slog, especially during peak travel times and event weekends. On the train, you relax while someone else handles the route.
See what you'd miss from the highway. The Mardi Gras Service tracks hug the coastline, offering views of marshlands, bayous, beach boulevards, and Gulf waters that the interstate simply cannot match. Watch egrets take flight from cypress swamps. Catch glimpses of shrimp boats heading out at dawn. See the iconic Biloxi Lighthouse from a perspective few travelers experience.
Arrive relaxed, not road-weary. Work on your laptop, read a book, or simply gaze out the window with a coffee from the café car. The generous legroom and freedom to move around make the journey genuinely enjoyable.
Seriously affordable. With fares starting around $15-24, the train often costs less than the gas and tolls you'd spend driving—and that's before you factor in the wear on your car and your nerves.
The Route: City by City
The Mardi Gras Service makes six stops, each offering its own distinct Gulf Coast flavor. Whether you're riding the full route or hopping off for a day trip, here's what awaits at each station:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Your journey begins or ends at the magnificent New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, a 1954 Art Deco landmark in the Central Business District. From here, the French Quarter, Garden District, and all of New Orleans' legendary attractions are just a streetcar ride away. If you're planning a New Orleans beach gateway, the Mardi Gras Service opens up the entire Mississippi coast as your playground.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
The first Mississippi stop delivers instant small-town charm. Bay St. Louis is an artists' colony with a walkable downtown packed with galleries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants. The waterfront along Beach Boulevard invites leisurely strolls, and the town's creative spirit makes it a perfect day-trip destination or overnight stay.
Gulfport, Mississippi
Gulfport is Mississippi's second-largest city and the coast's commercial hub. The harbor area buzzes with activity—fishing charters, casino resorts, and Jones Park's splash pad and beaches draw families year-round. It's also your gateway to Ship Island, where ferries depart for pristine barrier island beaches and Civil War-era Fort Massachusetts.
Biloxi, Mississippi
Biloxi is the heart of Mississippi's Gulf Coast. This is where casino resorts meet authentic fishing village heritage. Tour the Biloxi Lighthouse (one of the only lighthouses standing in the middle of a highway), sample the freshest Gulf seafood, or try your luck at one of the waterfront casinos. The Mardi Gras celebrations here rival anything outside New Orleans.
Just east of Biloxi, the charming town of Ocean Springs is a short rideshare away—don't miss its renowned arts district and the Walter Anderson Museum.
Pascagoula, Mississippi
Mississippi's easternmost coastal city offers a more laid-back vibe. Pascagoula is a shipbuilding town with deep-rooted Cajun and Creole influences. The Pascagoula River is the largest unimpeded river system in the lower 48 states—kayakers and nature lovers take note. The Scranton Floating Museum tells the story of the region's maritime heritage.
Mobile, Alabama
The eastern terminus delivers one of the South's most underrated cities. Mobile claims the original American Mardi Gras (sorry, New Orleans), stunning antebellum architecture, and a walkable downtown packed with restaurants and live music venues. From here, Gulf Shores and the Alabama Gulf Coast beaches are just 45 minutes south.
Planning Your Journey
Booking Tips: Reserve through Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app for the best fares. Flexible tickets allow changes without fees—worth it if your plans might shift. Business class upgrades are modest in price and offer meaningful perks.
Best Seats for Views: The Gulf is on the south side of the tracks for most of the route. Heading east toward Mobile, grab a seat on the right side of the train. Heading west to New Orleans, sit on the left. The most dramatic coastal scenery appears between Gulfport and Biloxi.
What to Pack: Bring a light jacket (train cars can run cool), your camera, snacks if you prefer them to café car options, and a sense of adventure. Power outlets are available at most seats.
Day Trip Ideas
From New Orleans: Take the morning train to Bay St. Louis for brunch and gallery hopping, then catch an afternoon train back—or continue to Biloxi for a casino evening and return late.
From Mobile: Head west to Biloxi for a beach day and fresh Gulf seafood, catching the return train as the sun sets over Mobile Bay.
Island-Hopping: Train to Gulfport, then ferry to Ship Island for pristine beaches and Fort Massachusetts. Return to Gulfport for dinner before the evening train home.
Connecting Adventures
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal is a gateway to Amtrak's national network. Build a bigger adventure by connecting to:
- City of New Orleans: The legendary route to Memphis and Chicago—a 19-hour overnight journey through the heart of America
- Crescent: Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington DC, and New York City via the Southern corridor
- Sunset Limited: West to Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, and Los Angeles through the desert Southwest
Imagine a Gulf Coast weekend that starts with the Mardi Gras Service, then continues north on the City of New Orleans to explore Memphis. Or a week-long Southern rail loop touching New Orleans, Mobile, Atlanta, and back. The possibilities expand beautifully from this new Gulf route.
The Onboard Experience
The Mardi Gras Service uses Amtrak's comfortable Venture cars with large windows, generous legroom, and modern amenities. Here's what to expect:
Coach Class: Spacious reclining seats with tray tables and power outlets. Overhead storage for carry-ons. Free WiFi throughout the train.
Business Class: Wider seats, extra legroom, priority boarding, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Worth the upgrade for a more relaxed experience.
Café Car: The social hub of the train. Grab a coffee, sandwich, or snack and settle into the lounge area. Regional touches appear on the menu—this is the Gulf Coast, after all.
Practical Tips
Best Times to Travel: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather. Summer brings heat but also peak beach season. Winter is mild on the Gulf Coast—a pleasant escape from northern cold.
Event Weekends: Book early around Mardi Gras, Cruisin' the Coast (October), and major casino events in Biloxi. These routes fill fast when the coast is celebrating.
Exploring the Gulf Coast beaches becomes remarkably easy with rail access. Skip rental car hassles and let rideshares or local transit handle the last mile.
Making It a Multi-Day Trip
The Mardi Gras Service shines as the spine of a multi-day Gulf Coast itinerary. Here's one way to structure it:
Day 1: Arrive New Orleans. Explore the French Quarter and dine on Cajun cuisine.
Day 2: Morning train to Bay St. Louis. Gallery hop and lunch, then afternoon train to Biloxi. Casino evening.
Day 3: Beach morning in Biloxi, explore Ocean Springs for art and lunch. Evening train to Mobile.
Day 4: Explore Mobile—Bellingrath Gardens, the USS Alabama, downtown dining. Or day trip to Gulf Shores beaches.
Day 5: Morning train back to New Orleans, or continue your journey on connecting Amtrak routes.
This car-free itinerary lets you experience the full diversity of the Gulf Coast—Louisiana Cajun culture, Mississippi beach towns, and Alabama Southern charm—all connected by the relaxing rhythm of the rails.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book tickets for the Mardi Gras Service?
Book through Amtrak.com, the Amtrak app, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL. Tickets can also be purchased at staffed stations. Early booking is recommended for best fares.
What's the difference between coach and business class?
Business class offers wider seats with more legroom, priority boarding, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Coach provides comfortable seating at a lower price with access to all onboard amenities.
Can I bring luggage on the train?
Yes—two personal items and two carry-on bags per passenger at no extra charge. Carry-ons must fit in overhead bins or under seats.
Are pets allowed on the Mardi Gras Service?
Small cats and dogs (under 20 lbs with carrier) are welcome for a $26 fee. Service animals travel free.
What are the best seats for Gulf Coast views?
Sit on the south side—right side heading east, left side heading west. Best views between Gulfport and Biloxi.
How early should I arrive at the station?
30 minutes at staffed stations (New Orleans, Mobile), 15-20 minutes at platform stops.
Is there food available on the train?
Yes—a café car offers sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. You may also bring your own food onboard.
Can I take my bike on the train?
Folding bikes welcome as carry-on. Standard bikes may be accommodated—check availability when booking.
What connections are available in New Orleans?
Connect to the City of New Orleans (Chicago), Crescent (Atlanta/NYC), and Sunset Limited (LA/Houston).
Is the train wheelchair accessible?
Yes—fully ADA accessible with wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and level boarding at major stations.
The return of passenger rail to the Gulf Coast isn't just transportation news—it's an invitation. An invitation to slow down, watch the marshlands and beaches roll by, and experience this storied coastline the way travelers did for generations before highways dominated.
Whether you're planning a spontaneous day trip, a romantic weekend getaway, or the first leg of a grand Southern rail adventure, the Mardi Gras Service is ready to carry you there. The whistle calls. The Gulf awaits. All aboard.