Amtrak’s New Mardi Gras Route Completes First Full Week of Service
Last week, on 18 August, Amtrak officially launched its Mardi Gras Service, reconnecting New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama. This twice-daily service marks the first passenger rail route along the Gulf Coast in nearly two decades.
Last week, on 18 August, Amtrak officially launched its Mardi Gras Service, reconnecting New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama. This twice-daily service marks the first passenger rail route along the Gulf Coast in nearly two decades.
The new line revives a corridor dormant since Hurricane Katrina halted service in 2005.
On August 16, an invitation-only inaugural run took place, hosting approximately 300 guests. The formal public debut followed on 18 August, with tickets selling out immediately.
The service covers ~145 miles between New Orleans and Mobile, making stops at Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis. The journey takes roughly 3 hours and 43 minutes.
Fares begin at just 15 USD one-way, with discounts for children, students, seniors, veterans, military, and groups.
