Amtrak’s Crescent Service makes traveling by train between Charlotte and New Orleans a picturesque travel option. Charlotte is known as the Queen City, and New Orleans is the Crescent City, and the train services portions of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi during this journey. This guide is for travelers of all types. It includes information for travelers making the journey to enjoy the sights along the travel route. It includes information for travelers avoiding flying. It even includes information for the history lover. It is a well-rounded traveling guide for making the journey along the Crescent Service.
Why Take the Train From Charlotte to New Orleans?
Selecting Amtrak for the trip from Charlotte to New Orleans offers a level of comfort and convenience that other modes of travel cannot. From Charlotte to New Orleans by air, there’s the unpleasant and lengthy experience of having to wait in security, and your luggage being lost or delayed. By road, there are cramped quarters and the inability to move around. However, travel by train provides large, spacious seating and the option to walk around and stretch your legs, not to mention large windows to take in the scenery outside.
The Crescent route traverses the Southern landscape and the splendor of the rolling hills of Georgia, the river valleys of Alabama, as well as the bayous and swamps of Louisiana. For many, the train adds an element to the trip that makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Key reasons travelers choose this train route include:
- No more security stress or tedious liquid limits like those at airports.
- More baggage is allowed compared to airline travel.
- Seating is more comfortable and spacious compared to planes and buses.
- The views are even better during the day and at night.
- You don’t have to travel far from the train station to get to downtown New Orleans.
- You can actually get some work done or possibly even some sleep on the way.
If you appreciate comfort and a good view more than fast travel, you should definitely take the train from Charlotte to New Orleans.
Which Amtrak Trains Run from Charlotte to New Orleans?
Travelers from Charlotte to New Orleans can take advantage of the Crescent (Train 19 southbound) on Amtrak. The Crescent is a long-distance train running from New York City to New Orleans. It runs through Charlotte and New Orleans, which makes them both prime stops along the long-distance train’s route.
Crescent Route Highlights:
- The Crescent connects New York, Washington, D.C., Charlottesville, Charlotte, Atlanta, Birmingham, and New Orleans.
- This train is one of Amtrak’s long-distance, overnight trains.
- There are Coach Class, Business Class (offered on some segments), and Sleeper Cars (Roomettes and Bedrooms) on board.
- Cafe Car access is available for Coach Class passengers, and there are Lounge Cars available for Sleeper passengers. The Lounge is exclusive to Sleeping Car passengers and Dining Car passengers.
| Train | Route | Frequency | Class Options |
| Crescent (Train 19) | New York → New Orleans (via Charlotte) | Once daily | Coach, Business, Roomette, Bedroom |
| Crescent (Train 20) | New Orleans → New York (via Charlotte) | Once daily | Coach, Business, Roomette, Bedroom |
Because the Crescent is the only train providing service for the corridor, you should schedule your trip according to its one scheduled daily departure in each direction.
Charlotte to New Orleans Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
The Crescent operates one time per day in each direction. Therefore, passengers have one departure window to choose from. Being aware of scheduled departure times is essential to booking your transport and place to stay at your trip’s start and end.
| Direction | Approximate Departure | Approximate Arrival | Frequency |
| Charlotte → New Orleans | Evening (around 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM) | The following evening (around 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) | Once daily |
| New Orleans → Charlotte | Morning (around 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM) | The following morning (around 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM) | Once daily |
Travelers heading south typically leave Charlotte in the evening, spend the night on the train, then arrive in New Orleans the following evening after traveling through Georgia and Alabama in the daylight.
There are a few things to consider when planning your trip:
- Always check schedules at amtrak.com, as times may vary with the season or due to track work.
- Be at Charlotte’s train station 30 to 45 minutes before departure.
- Missing the train means waiting another 24 hours, as this train only runs once a day.
How Long is the Train Ride from Charlotte to New Orleans?
Riding the train from Charlotte to New Orleans is a lengthy, overnight, long-distance trip. The train passes through four states, and the total trip generally takes 17 to 19 hours, depending on the level of freight traffic and other variances in schedule and train operation.
| Segment | Approximate Distance | Approximate Travel Time |
| Segment | Approximate Distance | Approximate Travel Time |
| Charlotte to Atlanta | ~250 miles | ~5.5-6.5 hours |
| Atlanta to Birmingham | ~160 miles | ~3-3.5 hours |
| Birmingham to New Orleans | ~340 miles | ~7-8 hours |
Factors That Affect Travel Time:
Freight trains aggressively set the schedule for most of the Crescent’s route. Given that freight and passenger trains share tracks, the Crescent’s schedule is often flexible to the freight’s schedule.
- Gulf Coast weather is a major inconvenience to passenger trains, given the impact on the timely departures and arrivals of scheduled trains.
- With stops for leg stretching, scheduled stops along the way add to the total journey time.
- Taking the Crescent is part of the appeal for many passengers and provides the opportunity to relax, sleep, and enjoy the Southern landscape.
New Orleans – Union Passenger Terminal – NOUPT for Passengers
Your Charlotte to New Orleans Train journey ends at the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOUPT), the main terminal for all transportation in New Orleans. Currently located within the city, NOUPT is conveniently located near the center of New Orleans.
Key Facts About NOUPT:
Address: 1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
- NOUPT is the name of both the Amtrak and Greyhound facilities in the city.
- The station has an attended ticket counter and waiting areas with baggage services.
- Roughly 1.5 miles from the French Quarter, taxis and rideshare services get you there in no time, as do local buses.
| Facility | Available at NOUPT? | Details |
| Ticket Counter | Yes | Staffed during train arrival/departure hours |
| Baggage Check | Yes | Checked baggage service is available |
| Restrooms | Yes | Available in the main terminal |
| Food/Vending | Limited | Vending machines; nearby restaurants within walking distance |
| Taxi/Rideshare Access | Yes | Pickup zone directly outside the terminal |
| Public Transit Connection | Yes | RTA bus routes nearby |
Being centrally located makes NOUPT one of the more convenient major train stations in the South. Visitors are able to arrive at many of New Orleans’ top attractions shortly after arriving at the station.
Key Stops Between Charlotte and New Orleans
The Crescent makes a number of important stops between Charlotte and New Orleans. Passengers are able to get on and off the train and see these Southern cities along the way.
Major Stops Along the Route:
| Stop | State | Notable Features |
| Spartanburg | South Carolina | Gateway to the Blue Ridge foothills |
| Gainesville | Georgia | Known as the “Poultry Capital of the World” |
| Atlanta (Peachtree Station) | Georgia | Major Southern hub, connection point |
| Anniston | Alabama | Historic Civil War-era town |
| Birmingham | Alabama | Alabama’s largest city, with a civil rights history |
| Tuscaloosa | Alabama | Home to the University of Alabama |
| Meridian | Mississippi | Historic railroad town |
| Hattiesburg | Mississippi | University town, Southern charm |
Each of these destinations captures the character of the diverse American South. Several of these, e.g., Atlanta and Birmingham, connect onward travel to further Amtrak destinations.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Train fare from Charlotte to New Orleans, courtesy of Amtrak, varies based on demand and how early you book, as well as which class you choose.
Approximate Price Ranges:
| Class | Approximate Price Range | Meals Included? |
| Coach | $90 – $180 | No |
| Roomette (Sleeper) | $250 – $450 | Yes |
| Bedroom (Sleeper) | $450 – $750+ | Yes |
Best Ways to Save Money:
Buy Early: Saver fares are cheaper the earlier you buy. They go up as trips approach, especially for sleeper cars that often sell out. Buy 4-6 weeks in advance.
Travel Midweek: Departures on either Tuesday or Wednesday are less expensive on average compared to Weekend departures.
Use Amtrak Guest Rewards: Long trips become cheap when you save up enough points from Amtrak Guest Rewards.
Avoid High-Peak Holiday Travel: Traveling for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Mardi Gras makes trips most expensive, no question.
Travel Coach for the Cheap: Coach Class is best for budget travel when an overnight sleeper isn’t necessary.
| Tip | Potential Savings | Best For |
| Book 4-6 weeks early | Up to 35-40% | All travelers |
| Choose Coach over Sleeper | 50-70% cheaper | Budget travelers |
| Travel midweek | 15-20% | Flexible schedules |
| Avoid Mardi Gras/holidays | Avoids a 30-50% surge | All travelers |
| Use Guest Rewards points | Points-based savings | Frequent travelers |
Onboard Amenities on the Charlotte to New Orleans Train
Given that this is an overnight long-distance trip, the Crescent has many amenities that help keep its passengers comfortable for almost a full day of travel.
Amenities by Class:
| Amenity | Coach Class | Sleeper Class (Roomette/Bedroom) |
| Reclining Seats | Yes | Yes (private cabin) |
| Power Outlets | Yes | Yes |
| Free Wi-Fi | Yes (limited) | Yes (limited) |
| Café Car Access | Yes | Yes |
| Dining Car Access | No (pay separately) | Yes (included with fare) |
| Bedding/Linens | No | Yes |
| Private Bathroom | No | Yes (Bedroom only) |
Additional Onboard Features:
- Coach passengers can find a selection of snacks, sandwiches, and drinks at the Cafe Car.
- Those in Sleeper can find the Dining Car and enjoy complimentary meals at all the stops for the duration of the journey.
- The large windows that line the cars allow passengers to take in the stretches of beautiful nature that the South offers.
- The seats found in Coach are much larger and have more recline and legroom as opposed to traditional economy seating on flights or long travel by bus.
- Considering the distance, those traveling on the nearly 18-hour journey with the desire to have more comfort, sleep, and meals are advised to book Sleeper accommodations.
Charlotte to New Orleans Train vs. Other Travel Options
While planning your travels from Charlotte to New Orleans, it is a good practice to compare train travel with the rest of the available travel options.
| Mode | Travel Time | Approx. Cost | Comfort | Convenience |
| Amtrak Train | ~17-19 hours | $90-$750+ | High | Direct to downtown, no security hassle |
| Flight (with layover) | ~4-6 hours total | $150-$400+ | Medium | Airport transfers required |
| Bus | ~17-20 hours | $80-$150 | Low | Multiple stops, less comfort |
| Car | ~10-11 hours | $120-$180 (gas) | Medium | Flexible but tiring |
Overall Comparison:
Flying is the ideal solution since it is the fastest; however, there are a limited number of direct flights, and layovers are an added concern. There is also the added time to travel to and from the airports.
Driving is the most flexible solution, but it is also the most time-consuming, with almost 11 hours of driving time. Fuel costs and tolls are an added expense.
Traveling by bus is the lowest-cost option, but it offers the least comfort for the longest duration of travel.
Traveling by train offers the best combination of comfort, beautiful scenery, and convenience. Train travel is especially great for those who are not in a time-sensitive situation and who want to avoid the hassle of traveling by air.
For those who prioritize comfort and a relatively unique, scenic experience, traveling by train is the best option, despite the longest duration.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Charlotte to New Orleans Route
It might be your first time taking this lengthy Amtrak trip. Some prep will make the process run a lot smoother.
Helpful Tips:
- What to Bring: All the Right Things: Traveling overnight can be draining, especially on long distances. So be smart. Pack things like chargers, pillows, and your favorite entertainment, plus snacks.
- Better Sleep on the Train: Buying the right tickets makes a difference. If you can afford it, buy a sleeper car ticket instead of a coach ticket for better quality sleep.
- Snacks Save the Wallet: The Café Car has food, but it will cost you. Bring some snacks to save some cash.
- Batteries, within Reason: Outlets exist, but a backup for a long journey like this is beneficial.
- Layers: It’s important to be comfortable, and clothing that adjusts to the temperature helps.
- Entertainment is Good: The Internet is inconsistent out in the sticks, so bring downloads of your entertainment along for the ride.
- Arrive Early, Just in Case: Travel is the unpredictable constant. Padding time for checking in and bags at Charlotte Station helps keep it under control.
What to Do When You Arrive at Union Passenger Terminal – NOUPT, New Orleans
Nearing its destination at NOUPT, your train pulls you closer to some of the best excursions in the nation.
What To Do Once You Land:
Retrieve Your Baggage: After you check your bags, make your way through the terminal to baggage claim.
Find Your Ride: Outside the terminal, taxis and rideshare services await to transport you to your accommodations or to the French Quarter.
Board the Bus: If you prefer to go the more economical route, the RTA buses that leave from the station will take you anywhere else in the city.
Best Attractions To Visit Nearby:
| Attraction | Approx. Distance from NOUPT | Highlight |
| French Quarter | ~1.5 miles | Historic streets, jazz music, Bourbon Street |
| Caesars Superdome | ~0.5 miles | Iconic sports and event venue |
| National WWII Museum | ~1 mile | Award-winning historical museum |
| Garden District | ~2.5 miles | Beautiful historic mansions |
| Mississippi Riverfront | ~1.5 miles | Scenic walks and riverboat tours |
They generously welcome you with culture, food, and music, rewarding you with the long train journey from Charlotte to New Orleans the second you step off the platform.
Booking Your Charlotte to New Orleans Amtrak Ticket
Booking your Amtrak ticket from Charlotte to New Orleans is easy and can be done through a couple of different methods.
Booking Your Ticket
- Go to amtrak.com and search for tickets from Charlotte to New Orleans, then pick your travel date and class.
- Download the Amtrak App to book tickets, view e-Tickets, and manage your trip from your mobile device.
- Call 1-800-USA-RAIL to book and receive assistance for your Sleeper reservations.
- Go to the Charlotte Amtrak Station ticket office to make a reservation in person or for any inquiries.
| Booking Method | Convenience | Best For |
| Amtrak Website | High | Most travelers, comparing fares |
| Amtrak App | Very High | Mobile booking and e-tickets |
| Phone Booking | Medium | Sleeper bookings, special assistance |
| Station Counter | Medium | In-person support |
Because the Crescent is only operational once a day and the Sleeper capacity is also restricted, booking several weeks ahead is highly suggested, especially in peak times like Mardi Gras or holidays that are major holidays.
Best Time to Travel from Charlotte to New Orleans by Train
The season impacts how you enjoy it, the price, and how comfortable the Crescent is from Charlotte to New Orleans. With the Crescent passing through various climates in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, the time of year is indeed important.
Traveling in the Summer is highly to be avoided. Traveling in the peak tourist months and New Orleans’ summer heat can be highly uncomfortable. The time of year you choose can have a big impact on pricing, comfort, and experience along this route.
Best Months to Travel:
Your overall experience, comfort, and the value you get from this route can vary significantly depending on when you decide to travel.
Spring (March to May)
- Charlotte and New Orleans both have typically mild weather, as they lack the extreme summer humidity.
- The best time for traveling as the comfortable range of temperatures is between 60°F and 75°F.
- There will be fewer weather-related travel disruptions than during hurricane season.
- The springtime festivals happening in New Orleans, like the French Quarter Festival, create a wonderful opportunity for experiencing the city’s culture and events.
- The beautiful blooming scenery along the travel route makes travel worthwhile.
- Demand for travel is at an average level, making ticket prices a fair amount.
Fall (September to November)
- During September through November, many consider this time among the best for travel. The weather, especially in the southern U.S., tends to be both cool and dry.
- Traveling by rail becomes more desirable during this season since the intensity of hurricanes becomes of little concern.
- Comfortable temperatures also mean comfort during the journey.
- There is some autumn foliage along the rail route, and every year it makes traveling by rail more scenic.
- Fall offers the best travel opportunities with many events and festivals in New Orleans.
- You also have a good value of low travel costs with good weather reliability.
Winter (December to February)
- Charlotte’s winter is cold but mild in comparison to New Orleans
- Fewer travelers outside of holidays mean more affordable flights
- Winter weather in the southeastern US is unpredictable, and flexible plans can help with delays
- Perfect for travelers trying to avoid busy and expensive summer travel
- Winter season means heavy tourism for Mardi Gras (February) and requires advanced planning
- Less sunlight means views may be limited during parts of journeys
Summer (June to August)
- In both cities, high temperatures and high humidity create uncomfortable travel conditions, with 90-degree weather a common occurrence.
- Since this is peak hurricane season, expect high probabilities of weather delays and route disruptions.
- Expect deals to increase in competition due to high overall travel in the summer.
- Air conditioning keeps trains comfortable, but the wait in the station can be uncomfortable.
- This is the busiest travel season for families, so it is best to book tickets well in advance.
- Afternoon thunderstorms can be frequent, especially in southern states. These can impact schedule adherence.
Holidays and Special Occasions
- Booking spikes are seen during Thanksgiving and Christmas to New Year travel.
- Mardi Gras is the most popular travel season for New Orleans.
- Prices rise within these time periods, so we suggest making reservations as early as possible.
- Trains may operate at full or near-full capacity. As a result, even fewer seats will be available as the date approaches.
Weekday vs. Weekend Travel
- Departures on weekdays often have better prices and less congested travel.
- Weekend travel experiences higher demand due to leisure travel, especially during festivals.
- Monday and Tuesday departures are most preferred due to business travel, but holiday travel makes weekday departures most congested.
Booking Tips Based on Season
- For the best fares in fall and spring, plan your trip at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
- For Mardi Gras and other significant holiday travel, aim to book at least 2 months in advance.
- Travel in the winter off-season (holidays excluded) typically means better ticket prices.
- Be aware of weather warnings in summer and early fall. Hurricane season affects rail travel on the Gulf Coast.
Overall Recommendation
- October to November is the best time to fly. Fall weather is nice, and there are fewer flight delays for more affordable prices.
- Spring is a good season for travelers, since the weather is more comfortable and there are plenty of events to attend.
- There are a few hurricane seasons after the summer months that cause flight issues, so it’s best not to travel during the summer.
- People who fly to Mardi Gras should book travel early and expect to spend a lot.
| Time Period | Weather | Crowd Level | Recommended? |
| Oct-Nov | Mild | Moderate | Excellent choice |
| Feb-Mar (non-Mardi Gras) | Mild | Low-Moderate | Good choice |
| Apr-May | Pleasant | Moderate | Great choice |
| Jun-Aug | Hot/Humid | High | Book early if traveling |
| Mardi Gras Season | Variable | Extremely High | Book months ahead |
| Dec Holidays | Cool | High | Book well in advance |
For the most pleasant travel and the lowest fares, Spring and Fall are the best recommended seasons with comfortable travel weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is there a direct train from Charlotte to New Orleans?
Yes, Amtrak services take passengers directly from Charlotte to New Orleans, although there are a few stops along the way.
Q2. How long is the train ride from Charlotte to New Orleans?
A direct train service will take approximately 12 hours to complete the journey from Charlotte to New Orleans.
Q3. How much does a train ticket from Charlotte to New Orleans cost?
Train tickets can cost anywhere from $90 to $450, depending on the class of ticket, the number of stops, and the time taken to reach the destination.
Q4. Does the Charlotte to New Orleans train have sleeping accommodations?
Yes, the Amtrak services from Charlotte to New Orleans include sleeping accommodations, with options ranging from Roomettes to Coach class.
Q5. How many times a day does the train run from Charlotte to New Orleans?
The train runs once a day, and this must be taken into consideration when planning a trip along that route.
Q6. Where does the train end up in New Orleans?
The train pulls into the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOUPT). It’s about a mile and a half away from the French Quarter at 1001 Loyola Avenue.
Q7. How scenic is the train ride from Charlotte to New Orleans?
The train ride is scenic, passing through beautiful countryside in Georgia and Mississippi and historic towns in Birmingham, Alabama.
Q8. What is the best class for a long train ride?
The best class has to be a Roomette. They provide a private room with bedding and food. Coach class is more affordable, but not as comfortable.
Q9. How much luggage can I bring on the Charlotte to New Orleans Amtrak train?
On Amtrak, the luggage policy allows for two bags and two personal items free of charge. There is also paid checked luggage at some of the stations.
Q10. When is the best time to travel this route?
To avoid the summer and winter holiday crowds, the best time to travel is during the Spring and Fall. The temperature is also better during these seasons.
