How To Book Amtrak Mardi Gras Train (2025 Guide)

Q: Q2. What’s the best Amtrak route for Mardi Gras travel to New Orleans?

The most popular Mardi Gras routes are: Amtrak Crescent (New York to New Orleans via Atlanta) City of New Orleans (Chicago to New Orleans via Memphis) Sunset Limited (Los Angeles to New Orleans via Houston) The Crescent is ideal for East Coast travelers, while the City of New Orleans is perfect for the Midwest.

Q: Q3. When should I book Amtrak tickets for Mardi Gras 2025?

Ideally, book at least 30 to 60 days in advance . Mardi Gras is one of the busiest travel times in New Orleans, and Amtrak tickets (especially sleepers) sell out quickly. Booking early helps secure better seats and lower fares.

Q: Q4. How much does the Amtrak Mardi Gras train cost?

Prices vary based on your departure city and class: Coach Class : Starting around $50–$150 Business Class : $150–$250+ Sleeper Rooms : $300–$800+ (includes meals) Use Saver Fares, Guest Rewards points, or discount codes to save more.

Q: Q5. Can I bring costumes, beads, or large bags on the Amtrak train?

Yes! Amtrak allows: 2 carry-on bags (up to 28 lbs each) 2 checked bags (on select routes) Mardi Gras beads, costumes, and decor are fine as long as they fit within luggage limits. For large costume props or instruments, check Amtrak’s oversized luggage policy.

Let the Good Times Roll On Rails!

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is unlike any celebration in the world colorful parades, hypnotic jazz, vibrant costumes, and beaded joy fill every corner of the city. But instead of navigating airport lines or long road trips, imagine this: you roll straight into the Big Easy with comfort, style, and a festive spirit already in motion.

That’s the magic of the Amtrak Mardi Gras Train a scenic, laid-back, and unforgettable way to travel to the heart of the celebration. Whether you’re boarding from NYC, Chicago, Atlanta, or L.A., Amtrak offers direct routes to New Orleans just in time for Carnival season. In this guide, you’ll learn how to book Amtrak Mardi Gras train tickets the smart way, including the best routes, dates, and insider tips to get the most value in 2025.

What Is the Amtrak Mardi Gras Train?

While not an official train by name, the Amtrak Crescent, City of New Orleans, and Sunset Limited lines are all popular during Mardi Gras season. These routes become unofficial “Mardi Gras trains” as they bring in thousands of revelers to New Orleans every February and March.

With many passengers dressed in beads and costumes and onboard vibes already festive, the ride feels like Mardi Gras before you even arrive.

Mardi Gras 2025 Train Schedule Highlights

Here are the top three Amtrak lines that take you to Mardi Gras:

Amtrak Crescent – New York → Atlanta → New Orleans
(Runs daily | Ideal for East Coast & Southeast travelers)
City of New Orleans – Chicago → Memphis → New Orleans
(Runs daily | Best for Midwest travelers)
Sunset Limited – Los Angeles → Houston → New Orleans
(Runs 3x/week | Great for West Coast travelers)

🚨 Pro Tip: Book at least 30–60 days in advance for Mardi Gras week (Feb 25 – Mar 4, 2025) to ensure seat availability.

How to Book the Amtrak Mardi Gras Train (Step-by-Step)

If you’re wondering how to book Amtrak Mardi Gras train tickets with ease you’re in the right place. Booking your seat to New Orleans for Mardi Gras is simple, fast, and can be done entirely online. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you plan your journey:

✅ Step 1: Visit the Official Amtrak Booking Platform

Head to www.amtrak.com or download the Amtrak mobile app on your smartphone. This is where you’ll search for routes, view pricing, select seats, and confirm your Mardi Gras travel itinerary.

✅ Step 2: Enter Your Travel Details

Departure City: Choose your nearest Amtrak station (e.g., New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, etc.)
Arrival Station: Select New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL)
Dates: Pick travel dates that align with Mardi Gras week (Feb 25 – Mar 4, 2025)

💡 Tip: Book at least 30–60 days in advance. Trains sell out fast during Mardi Gras season!

✅ Step 3: Choose Your Train Route

Depending on where you’re coming from, select the most direct and scenic Amtrak route:

Crescent Line – for East Coast travelers (New York → Atlanta → NOLA)
City of New Orleans – for Midwest travelers (Chicago → Memphis → NOLA)
Sunset Limited – for West Coast/Southwest travelers (L.A. → Houston → NOLA)

Each route offers its own vibe and scenic views, so explore your options before locking in.

✅ Step 4: Pick Your Travel Class

Amtrak offers different classes depending on your travel style and budget:

Coach Class – Budget-friendly with comfortable seating
Business Class – Extra space and quieter cars
Sleeper Rooms – Private roomettes or bedrooms with meals included and more privacy

🛌 For overnight rides or long hauls, Sleeper Rooms are worth the upgrade especially during festive season travel.

✅ Step 5: Apply Available Discounts

Don’t forget to take advantage of any fare reductions:

Amtrak Saver Fares
Amtrak Guest Rewards Points
Student or Military Discounts
AAA or Senior Discounts
USA Rail Pass for multiple stops or extended travel

✅ Step 6: Review and Confirm Your Booking

After selecting your route and class, proceed to:

Enter your passenger details
Review pricing and total fare
Add any extras (e.g., meals, seat preferences)
Secure your booking by paying via credit/debit card or e-wallet

Final Tip: Save Your Ticket

Once confirmed, you’ll receive a digital ticket via email and app.
🔒 Save a copy on your phone and for peace of mind, print one as backup too

💸 How to Get the Best Deals on Mardi Gras Train Tickets

🤑 Smart Travel Tips for 2025:

Book Early: Amtrak’s Saver Fares can save up to 20% if booked in advance.
Use Guest Rewards: Earn or redeem points through Amtrak Guest Rewards.
Travel Off-Peak: Avoid Friday and weekend departures for cheaper seats.
Group Discounts: Traveling with friends? Amtrak offers group rates.
Check Amtrak Promo Page: New deals pop up every month.

🏨 Hotels Near New Orleans Station

Once you roll into New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, you’re already close to the action. Here are a few hotels within 10 minutes:

Holiday Inn Downtown Superdome
Homewood Suites by Hilton
The Troubadour Hotel
Drury Plaza Hotel

Book your hotel early, as Mardi Gras rooms fill up fast.

🎭 What to Expect When You Arrive

Stepping off the Amtrak train during Mardi Gras is like stepping into another world. From the second you hit the pavement:

Parades might already be rolling through nearby streets
Trolley lines and rideshares are ready at the station
Street performers, jazz music, and vibrant locals welcome you instantly

Be parade-ready. Download the New Orleans Parade Tracker App to know where to go next.

“The Amtrak Crescent from Atlanta to New Orleans was part of the party. Everyone was in costume, chatting, and sipping wine by the time we hit Mississippi.”
— Amanda T., Mardi Gras traveler 2024

Top 5 FAQs how to book Amtrak Mardi Gras train

Q1. How do I book Amtrak tickets to New Orleans for Mardi Gras?

You can book tickets on Amtrak.com or through the Amtrak mobile app. Enter your departure city, select “New Orleans (NOL)” as your destination, choose dates around Mardi Gras (Feb 25 – Mar 4, 2025), and pick a train like the Crescent or City of New Orleans. Follow the on-screen steps to select class, apply discounts, and complete payment.

Q2. What’s the best Amtrak route for Mardi Gras travel to New Orleans?

The most popular Mardi Gras routes are:
Amtrak Crescent (New York to New Orleans via Atlanta)
City of New Orleans (Chicago to New Orleans via Memphis)
Sunset Limited (Los Angeles to New Orleans via Houston)
The Crescent is ideal for East Coast travelers, while the City of New Orleans is perfect for the Midwest.

Q3. When should I book Amtrak tickets for Mardi Gras 2025?

Ideally, book at least 30 to 60 days in advance. Mardi Gras is one of the busiest travel times in New Orleans, and Amtrak tickets (especially sleepers) sell out quickly. Booking early helps secure better seats and lower fares.

Q4. How much does the Amtrak Mardi Gras train cost?

Prices vary based on your departure city and class:
Coach Class: Starting around $50–$150
Business Class: $150–$250+
Sleeper Rooms: $300–$800+ (includes meals)
Use Saver Fares, Guest Rewards points, or discount codes to save more.

Q5. Can I bring costumes, beads, or large bags on the Amtrak train?

Yes! Amtrak allows:
2 carry-on bags (up to 28 lbs each)
2 checked bags (on select routes)
Mardi Gras beads, costumes, and decor are fine as long as they fit within luggage limits. For large costume props or instruments, check Amtrak’s oversized luggage policy.

Final Thoughts: Ride into Mardi Gras the Easy Way

Let’s be honest getting to Mardi Gras can be stressful. Flights are packed, hotels are booked, and traffic? Don’t even start. That’s why taking the Amtrak Mardi Gras Train is such a game-changer. It’s more than just transportation it’s part of the celebration.

Now that you know how to book the Amtrak Mardi Gras train, you can skip the airport chaos and enjoy a scenic, comfortable ride straight into the heart of New Orleans. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or turning it into a full-on adventure, this is one ride you won’t forget.

🎭 So grab your beads, choose your seat, and let the good times roll—on rails.

✨ Looking for more unique travel experiences?

If you love exploring places that are a little off the beaten path, don’t miss these two gems:

🎨 Exploring the Rich Cultural Museums in Tulsa, OK – Dive into local history, Black Wall Street stories, and art that brings Tulsa to life.
🌿 Stunning Macro-Botanical Gardens in Lincoln Park IL – A peaceful Chicago escape filled with rare plants, eco exhibits, and Instagram-worthy moments.

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