Amtrak has revealed that starting August 18, the Mardi Gras route connecting Mobile and New Orleans will run twice daily.

The travel time for this journey is approximately four hours, according to Amtrak.

Trains will depart at 6:30 AM and 4:30 PM, with brief stops at Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis. Morning departures will reach New Orleans by noon, giving travelers a chance to attend afternoon Saints games and return on the train that leaves around 5 PM.

Round-trip fares range from $30 to $80 on the Amtrak website. The early trip on the 18th is likely to sell out, but there will be available seats for evening departures.

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimson noted the strong interest from city councilors, emphasizing the community’s commitment to maintaining this service.

Mobile’s City Council has allocated $3 million to support the service for three years, with funding assistance from the Alabama Port Authority and Governor Kay Ivey’s office.

Amtrak President Roger Harris encouraged early ticket purchases, highlighting the unique opportunity to travel by train along the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time in almost 20 years. He mentioned this is a great chance for fall football fans, holiday trips in November and December, and the Mardi Gras season.

The company is also offering daily discounts for children, veterans, students, and seniors, enhancing the appeal of booking Mardi Gras services, alongside triple travel points for the first three months of operation.

Aboard the train, passengers can choose from business and coach seats while enjoying local food options, spacious reclining seats, and a complimentary Wi-Fi menu. Each traveler can bring two carry-on bags up to 50 pounds and one personal item. Pets are welcome, provided they meet the weight requirements.

The service will connect with three other routes in New Orleans, allowing travel to destinations including Chicago, Jackson, Michigan, and Memphis, along with services to Atlanta and Los Angeles.