Amtrak Mardi Gras line: A Gulf Coast winter escape

Amtrak Mardi Gras line offers winter travelers a straightforward way to see the Deep South by rail. The new Gulf Coast line runs between New Orleans and Mobile, tying together big-city culture and smaller coastal towns where the air stays mild, the pace slows, and beaches tend to stay quiet in the off-season.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Rather than packing for biting cold, riders can plan around average daytime temperatures of about 65°F well into March. It’s a simple mix: comfortable rail travel, white sand close by, and an easy city-to-coast connection that makes it possible to pair live music, regional cuisine, and unhurried beach time in one trip.

Why the Amtrak Mardi Gras line fits winter travel?

The New Orleans to Mobile route is built around leisure-friendly stops instead of a single must-see endpoint. You can start in a major cultural hub, step off in a quieter waterfront town, then continue down the line—without needing a car for the whole journey.

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Winter also changes the feel of the coast. With the off-season in full effect, shorelines tend to stay calm, and the overall vibe is slower—better for long walks, low-key afternoons, and a break from crowds.

Mississippi Gulf Coast stops worth getting off for

Mississippi’s coastline has become an unexpected winter draw since the line launched, bringing in rail visitors who might otherwise default to Florida. The stations create several different “choose-your-own” stops along the way.

Bay St. Louis stands out for its restored waterfront and a local mix of shops and music. Gulfport delivers classic beach-town energy with easy access to soft sand. Biloxi adds casinos, full-service hotels, and broad white beaches that still feel open in the cooler months. Farther east, Pascagoula offers a quieter coastal vibe—and it’s known as Jimmy Buffett’s hometown.

Because this trip lands in the off-season, lodging can be a major advantage. Many coastal properties see steep discounts in January and February, so it’s often the best window to watch hotel rates if you want the strongest deals.

New Orleans and Mobile as cultural anchors

At the western end of the line, New Orleans is the obvious magnet: food, live music, festivals, and historic neighborhoods keep the calendar busy. For many travelers, it’s also the easiest airport to fly into before continuing by train.

Mobile anchors the opposite end with a waterfront that feels more industrial and historic than tourist-forward. The city also claims a distinct place in Mardi Gras history, with attractions that include the Carnival Museum.

Mardi Gras 2026 dates are listed as:

• New Orleans: January 6 – February 17

• Mobile: January 30 – February 17

Ridership, fares, and what the onboard experience is like

The line has seen rapid adoption in its early months. Amtrak reports roughly 46,000 passengers since launch in its Amtrak media update on Amtrak Mardi Gras Service demand, and Railway Supply also notes the strong early performance in its coverage of Amtrak Mardi Gras Service drives Gulf Coast demand. Extra capacity has been added for busy periods, including peak sporting events.

Pricing can be especially attractive for short regional trips. Mobile to New Orleans fares have been as low as $30 one-way, making quick weekend hops possible without turning the journey into a major expense.

Onboard amenities are commuter-friendly while still comfortable. Riders can expect no middle seats, free Wi-Fi, generous legroom, reclining chairs, and a café open to Coach and Business passengers.

Full stop list and practical planning tips

The stations, in travel order, are:

• New Orleans

• Bay St. Louis

• Gulfport

• Biloxi

• Pascagoula

• Mobile

(Stop names and order match the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service timetable (PDF).)

Practical tips:

1. Book early for holiday weekends and Mardi Gras season.
2. Check hotel rates in January for the best deals.
3. Pack layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons.

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