• Amtrak is launching a new passenger route in 2025 connecting Mobile and New Orleans, with stops in Mississippi.
• The new Mardi Gras Service will run twice daily with stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.
• Amtrak also offers existing routes through Mississippi, including the Crescent (New Orleans to New York) and the City of New Orleans (New Orleans to Chicago).

All aboard!

Amtrak is launching a new line on the Gulf Coast. After two decades, the rail service has announced plans to restore regional passenger routes. This one will connect New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, with several stops in Mississippi.

Here’s what we know so far and where you can catch a ride in the Magnolia State.

What is Amtrak?

Amtrak is the nation’s passenger rail service, offering long-distance and regional train routes across the U.S.

According to its website, it operates in 46 states and three Canadian provinces, with 300 trains running daily to more than 500 destinations.

Amtrak trains can hit speeds of up to 150 mph.

What other services does Amtrak provide?

Amtrak doesn’t just run its national routes. It also partners with state governments and local agencies in 17 states to operate shorter, regional routes, typically to nearby cities. Those routes are called state-supported corridors, and the state partially funds them.

Additionally, Amtrak helps train services for four commuter rail agencies, which provide daily services for people traveling between suburbs and cities.

Where in Mississippi can you catch Amtrak services?

Mississippi Amtrak stations currently follow one of two lines.

The Crescent route travels between New Orleans and New York, hitting Atlanta on the way.

Stops include:

The City of New Orleans route runs from New Orleans to Chicago.

Stops include:

What is the new route coming to the Gulf Coast in 2025?

Amtrak announced in a Facebook post that their new Mardi Gras Service will launch in 2025. The service will have twice-daily trains between New Orleans and Mobile.

There will be four stops along the route:

• Bay Saint Louis.
• Gulfport.
• Biloxi.
• Pascagoula.

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@gannett.com.

Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with Gannett/USA Today. Email her at bbolden@gannett.com.