After some unexpected hiccups, arguably, Amtrak’s most exciting new route in years is officially set to launch in August.
We at Travel Off Path have reported on numerous hidden gems spread across the coastal South ready to take the main stage with more recognizable names like Mobile and New Orleans.
People are thrilled for a new way to hit the beach, flashy casinos, and down-home towns whipping up Southern staples across Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
It’s being reported that tickets for Amtrak’s Mardi Gras route are selling out faster than a plate of beignets at Café du Monde, and that’s saying something!
Set to launch August 18th, you won’t be able to hop aboard the inaugural ride, but there will be plenty of opportunities as Amtrak’s Mardi Gras revamp is here to stay this time after a 20-year hiatus.
Connecting 2 Historic Southern Icons
It’s safe to say we all remember Hurricane Katrina and how it ravaged not only the iconic city of New Orleans but also the surrounding area.
As a result, Amtrak was forced to pull the plug on its Sunset Limited line as tourism came to a screeching halt in 2005.
20 years later, Amtrak is set to relaunch a new variation of the route with a new name, yet showcasing many of the same spots, excluding Texas.
Amtrak has been serving New Orleans, but skipping some of the most overlooked coastal gems in the South.
Now, travelers will have a chance to discover up-and-coming beach towns as well as a pair of America’s most storied cities, New Orleans and Mobile — 2 destinations with fascinating attractions, world-class eats, and charming streets.
The new Mardi Gras route was slated for launch last month, but you know how things go…
Needless to say, bureaucracy can be a headache, but it’s officially ready to roll come August.
While you’d be wasting your time trying to collect beads, the route lives up to the name as both New Orleans and Mobile are both deeply rooted in the South’s most sought-after block party.
In fact, Mobile was the birthplace of Mardi Gras, even boasting a fun Mardi Gras-themed Carnival Museum.
Mississippi’s Time To Shine
No matter if you’re starting or ending your journey in New Orleans or Mobile, the meat of the route takes place in Mississippi — dare we say America’s trendiest state?
Not only is the real estate market piping hot, but the “Magnolia State” is gaining newfound hype for vacations too.
We’ve covered numerous Mississippi destinations ranging from riverside romps to surging coastal gems anchored by posh new resorts.
Travelers will have a chance to visit numerous white-sand hideaways along Mississippi’s underrated coast.
In total, there are 4 stops in Mississippi:
- Bay St. Louis
- Gulfport
- Biloxi
- Pascagoula
Pascagoula is likely the one you’ve never heard of before, but it was named the South’s ‘most affordable’ beach destination.
If white sand, no crowds, and affordability aren’t a selling point, what is?
There’s no doubt this underrated beach town is far more than just a train stop with the vibrant Flagship District, gleaming shores, and sensational seafood straight from the source.
Cost & Amenities: What To Expect On Board Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Train
Whether you want to enjoy a night out on Bourbon Street, beach-hop through Mississippi, or discover deep-rooted historical attractions in Mobile, perhaps the best news of all is Amtrak’s low fares to do so.
On July 1st, Amtrak announced end-to-end fares start at just $15 for one-way tickets, and even less for short hops (say, Gulfport to Pascagoula).
When you’re chugging along through Mississippi, you’ll definitely want to snag a window seat to take in the coastal scenery.
The good news is that it’s a 50/50 shot as there are no middle seats on the new route, plus seats recline so you can unwind with ample legroom before a sun-soaked beach day or visualize hitting the jackpot at one of Biloxi’s many casinos.
There is free wifi to upload your awesome photos in real time or to start your day with Wordle like I do, not to mention cafè service in both Coach and Business classes.
Click here for baggage allowance.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
The Travel Off Path Advantage: Your Travel Toolkit
Subscribe To Our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.