Passenger rail has officially returned to the Mississippi Gulf Coast after nearly two decades, as Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras Service begins welcoming travelers to Coastal Mississippi. The twice-daily route, connecting New Orleans and Mobile with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, marks a transformative moment for the region’s tourism and economy. Amtrak Mardi Gras Service

With seamless access by rail, visitors from across the U.S. and abroad can now experience Coastal Mississippi’s renowned beaches, vibrant festivals, world-class gaming, cultural treasures, and celebrated culinary scene more easily than ever before.

“After nearly two decades, passenger rail is returning to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, opening the door for visitors from neighboring states and around the world to discover our region in an entirely new way,” said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism.

“The Mardi Gras Service creates a seamless connection for international travelers arriving in New Orleans or Mobile to explore the beauty, charm, and hospitality of our coast by rail. This long-awaited milestone is not only a win for our residents and returning guests, but also a transformative step for our tourism industry and the future of our region.”

Coastal Mississippi, renowned for its warm hospitality, stunning beaches, world-class gaming, rich cultural attractions, and exceptional culinary scene, is poised to showcase one-of-a-kind experiences for travelers coming from New Orleans to Mobile and beyond.

“Every year, Mississippians attracts visitors from around the world, but most of our guests come from nearby states. The Mardi Gras Service will help us welcome even more of our neighbors. This long-awaited rail line will increase tourism, boost interstate commerce, and further develop the potential of our coastal economy,”

said U.S. Senator Roger F. Wicker, whose leadership helped spearhead efforts for the return of passenger train travel to the region over the last two decades.

The timely launch means more options for travelers to access several of the region’s biggest festivals, concerts, and special events, including Coastal Mississippi’s Annual Cruisin’ the Coast, Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, and more. Experiencing Coastal Mississippi has now become more accessible than ever.

Amtrak – DRPT Virginia

Fares & Discounts

• Starting fares are just $15 one-way for adult coach between the endpoints (New Orleans ↔ Mobile)
• Fares for shorter segments—for example, between New Orleans and Gulfport or Biloxi—are even lower
• Discounts regularly apply for children (ages 2–12), students, seniors, veterans, military personnel and families, and various group sizes

Schedule & Travel Time

• The service offers two daily round trips, departing both directions between New Orleans and Mobile
• The full journey covers 145 miles and takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes.
• Sample schedule (per the latest publicly-shared timing):

– From New Orleans: Departs at 7:35 a.m. and 5:31 p.m.

– From Bay St. Louis: Arrivals at about 8:57 a.m. / 6:58 p.m., departs 8:59 a.m. / 7:00 p.m.

– Continues through Gulfport, Biloxi, Pascagoula, and arrives in Mobile at approximately 11:18 a.m. / 9:14 p.m.

Onboard Experience

• Expect Coach and Business Class seating, free Wi‑Fi, an on‑board café, overhead baggage racks, and pet-friendly accommodations (small pets allowed in carriers for an additional fee)