Amtrak service between New Orleans and Mobile, Ala., is set to begin on August 18, following years of delay. Amtrak announced it was selling tickets for the train beginning July 1, during a series of media events along the Gulf Coast route. The train will run twice daily, with departures from New Orleans and Mobile every morning and evening. 

“We encourage customers to get their tickets now to experience this new, comfortable, and scenic service, and have the first opportunity to travel by train on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in nearly 20 years,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Guests can plan travel for football trips this fall, for November and December holiday travel – and even Mardi Gras Season next year.”

Amtrak last ran east of New Orleans in 2005, until Hurricane Katrina damaged the route between there and Mobile. While freight service was eventually restored, passenger service never resumed. It took years of negotiations with Amtrak and the two host railroads, Norfolk Southern and CSX, to get the track back. 

Adult coach fares end-to-end start at $15 each way, and less for shorter distances. The train will make five stops in Mississippi, including Bay Saint Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula. 

Visit Amtrak.com for more information.

—Justin Franz