Amtrak Mardi Gras Service Launches with Scenic Journey from Mobile to New Orleans
On a crisp Monday morning, the highly anticipated Amtrak Mardi Gras Service officially commenced its inaugural journey, with a three-car train departing from downtown Mobile at 6:30 a.m. This new service is set to connect Mobile with New Orleans, offering travelers a scenic route through several picturesque stops along the way, including Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis. The train arrives at the Union Passenger Terminal in New Orleans by 10:13 a.m., providing a convenient and immersive way to experience the city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and world-renowned cuisine.
New Orleans is renowned for its rich history, particularly in the French Quarter and the lively streets of Bourbon Street. Visitors can easily reach these iconic areas via taxi or rideshare services. Once there, they can explore a wide range of attractions, from airboat tours through the bayou to jazz cruises on steamboats and guided tours of the Garden District. For those interested in the city’s spooky side, there are also numerous haunted bars, homes, and themed experiences to discover.
For a more relaxed and scenic way to explore the city, the New Orleans streetcar system offers an excellent alternative. The Union Passenger Terminal is conveniently located along the Rampart-Loyola streetcar line, and the St. Charles streetcar provides easy access to the Central Business District, Uptown, and the Garden District. A single ride costs $1.25, while a “Jazzy Pass” allows unlimited travel for $3. Discounts are available for seniors, disabled individuals, and children aged 5-18.
If you prefer to avoid the bustling French Quarter, there are still plenty of attractions within walking distance of the train station, especially if the weather is pleasant. Here are five must-visit spots:
1. National World War II Museum
Located just a 6-10 minute walk from the terminal, this museum is one of the most comprehensive collections dedicated to the history of World War II. Admission starts at $36 for adults, with discounted rates for seniors. A second-day ticket is available for $15, making it ideal for those who want to fully explore the exhibits. Inside the museum, visitors can enjoy dining at The American Sector Restaurant & Bar, while nearby, the Cochon Butcher offers a variety of Cajun sausages that have been featured on the Netflix show “Somebody Feed Phil.”
2. Titanic: An Immersive Voice Experience
Located at the Scottish Rite Temple on Carondelet Street, this interactive exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the fateful final hours of the Titanic using virtual reality technology. The experience lasts 60-90 minutes and costs $24.90. Nearby, Seaworthy, a seafood restaurant housed in a Creole cottage built in 1832, is a great spot to grab a meal after the exhibit.
3. New Orleans Civic Center
This historic venue, originally known as The Shubert, was renovated in 2011 and now hosts a variety of performances, including ballet and Halloween-themed events like Dana & Greg Newkirk’s Haunted Objects. It is located in the heart of the Central Business District.
4. Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Situated next to the World War II Museum, the Ogden Museum houses the largest collection of Southern art in the country. Adult tickets are $15, with discounts for seniors. The museum currently features works by six artists who reflect on the impact of Hurricane Katrina, 20 years after the storm devastated the region.
5. Champions Square and Sports Venues
Adjacent to the Union Passenger Terminal, Champions Square is an outdoor amphitheater that serves as a hub for pre-game events and concerts. It is also near the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, home to the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans respectively. These venues will host professional football and basketball games throughout the year.
