Your Complete Guide to New Orleans's Rail Packages

Why Choose a Rail Tour in New Orleans?

Exploring New Orleans by rail offers a unique blend of convenience, history, and charm. The city’s historic streetcars are a living part of its heritage, providing a leisurely way to see famous districts without the hassle of driving or the exhaustion of walking. For longer journeys, Amtrak provides a comfortable alternative to flying, allowing you to see the changing American landscape from a whole new perspective.

Whether you're looking for a short city tour or a multi-day trip, rail travel lets you relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Popular New Orleans Rail Packages

In New Orleans, "rail packages" typically refer to two distinct types of travel: the local streetcar network and the national Amtrak service.

The Historic Streetcars

These are a must-do for any visitor. The three main lines provide an affordable and charming way to explore the city's most famous neighborhoods. The packages are simple: you buy a pass for unlimited rides on all three lines.

• St. Charles Avenue Line: The world's oldest continuously operating streetcar line. This route takes you past grand, oak-lined mansions of the Garden District and Uptown, offering a true taste of old-world New Orleans.

• Canal Street Line: Runs from the French Quarter to City Park and cemeteries, making it a convenient way to see major attractions outside the city center.

• Riverfront Line: Follows the Mississippi River, connecting the French Market with the Aquarium of the Americas and other downtown sites.

Amtrak Tours and Packages

Amtrak’s passenger rail service, operating out of the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, offers a different kind of rail package. While these are not traditional "tours," travel agencies often bundle Amtrak tickets with hotels and activities in other cities.

• The Crescent: A daily overnight service connecting New Orleans to New York City. The trip is a scenic journey through Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas, a great way to experience the charm of the American South.

• The City of New Orleans: An overnight service connecting New Orleans to Chicago, passing through Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky. This route is famous for inspiring the classic song by Arlo Guthrie and offers a unique perspective on the Mississippi River Valley.

Who Are These Packages For?

• Seniors: The streetcars are a relaxing and easy way to see the city. They are slow-paced and provide a comfortable alternative to walking.

• History Buffs: The historic nature of the streetcars and the multi-day Amtrak routes provide a deep connection to the history of American transportation and the regions you pass through.

• Travelers on a Budget: Streetcars are one of the most affordable forms of sightseeing in New Orleans. Amtrak tickets can be more expensive than flying, but they are often included in travel packages that provide great value.

• Families: Kids love riding the iconic green streetcars, and the experience provides a sense of adventure for all ages.

Planning Your Rail Package: Tickets, Routes & Logistics

• Streetcar Passes: Don’t buy single-ride tickets. The best deal is the Jazzy Pass from the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA). You can buy a 1, 3, or 31-day pass on the RTA's app. You can also buy passes at some major hotels and kiosks.

• Boarding a Streetcar: The cars stop at designated stops. Be ready to board quickly and have your pass or exact change ready. You board at the front and exit at the front or rear.

• Amtrak Tickets: Book your Amtrak tickets well in advance, especially for sleeper cars or during holidays. You can book directly through Amtrak's website or through a travel agent who can create a full package.

Sample Itineraries: From a Day Trip to a Grand Journey

• Day Trip: Exploring New Orleans by Streetcar

  • Morning: Board the St. Charles Avenue streetcar near the French Quarter. Ride the full length of the line to see the mansions of the Garden District.

  • Afternoon: Get off at St. Charles and Washington Avenue to explore the Garden District on foot. Grab lunch at a local café, then hop back on for the return trip.

  • Evening: Transfer to the Canal Street line to see the city lit up, ending the night with a stroll through the French Quarter.

• Overnight Trip: The Crescent to Atlanta

  • Day 1: Board Amtrak’s The Crescent in New Orleans in the afternoon. Enjoy dinner in the dining car and watch the scenery change as you travel through Alabama and Georgia. Settle into your coach or sleeper seat for the night.

  • Day 2: Arrive in Atlanta in the morning. Spend the day exploring the city's attractions, like the Georgia Aquarium or the World of Coca-Cola, before heading back.

FAQs and Final Tips

• Are the streetcars safe? Yes, the streetcars are a very safe form of public transportation. Just be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

• How much do streetcar passes cost? A 1-day Jazzy Pass costs around $3, a 3-day pass is $8, and a 31-day pass is $55.

• Are the streetcars wheelchair accessible? Yes, all streetcars are accessible with ramps or lifts.

• Can I pay with cash on the streetcar? Yes, but you must have exact change. Drivers do not make change.

• What's the best time to ride the streetcars? Early morning or late afternoon are great times to avoid the midday crowds.

• How long are the Amtrak journeys from New Orleans? The trip to Chicago on The City of New Orleans takes about 19 hours, while the trip to New York on The Crescent takes about 30 hours.

• What kind of amenities are on the Amtrak trains? Amtrak offers coach seats, roomettes, and bedrooms. All trains have a café car, and the long-distance trains have a full dining car for meals.

• Can I bring my own food on Amtrak? Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks.

• Are Amtrak trains always on time? Amtrak shares tracks with freight trains, so delays can happen. It's best to be flexible with your schedule.

• Where is the Amtrak station in New Orleans? The station is the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, located at 1001 Loyola Ave, a short taxi or streetcar ride from the French Quarter.
  
  Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of the city or embarking on a long-distance adventure, New Orleans's rail packages offer a classic and memorable way to travel. All aboard for your next journey.