Amtrak’s Crescent Train 20 runs from New Orleans to Birmingham. It departs the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal around 9:10 am and takes roughly 8 hours and 15 minutes to cover the 354-mile journey to Birmingham, usually arriving around 5:24 pm. Central Time. There is only one of these departures each day with no connections.
This guide covers all of the information you need to plan this trip, including schedules, how long it takes to get to each stop, what the tickets cost, the amenities on the train, how the train compares to driving, taking the bus, or flying and what you can do when you get off the train. You can quickly compare the information in the tables.
| Detail | Information |
| Train name | Amtrak Crescent (Train 20, northbound) |
| Departure station | New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL) |
| Arrival station | Birmingham, AL (BHM) |
| Approx. departure time | 9:10 a.m. (Central) |
| Approx. arrival time | 5:24 p.m. (Central) |
| Distance | About 354 miles |
| Travel time | About 8 hours 15 minutes |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Seat types | Coach and First-Class Viewliner sleeper |
| Food | Dining car and lounge car onboard |
Why Take the Train From New Orleans to Birmingham?
Driving from New Orleans to Birmingham can be difficult and exhausting with the long and winding 340-mile trip on I-59 and I-20. There is no traffic and no stops to worry about. You can read, eat, work, or just relax and take in the scenic Deep South. Many travelers enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
- You save time. The drive between the two cities can take from 5.5 to 6 hours, and there are long and very truck-heavy stretches of I-59. You can arrive at your destination rested for a game, meeting, wedding or other event.
- You get more space. The roomy coach seats give you more legroom than a bus or airline seat, and you are free to get up, walk around, and use the restroom at your convenience.
- You get to enjoy the scenery. The Crescent takes you through long stretches of the Deep South,th including Southern Mississippi, small and rural railroad towns, winding rivers and the hills of Alabama. The train goes through parts of the South that are rarely accessible by car, giving you a different side of the South than what you normally see.
- Onboard dining and work are permitted. There’s a dining and lounge car. Coach seats are big enough for a laptop. The day schedule means you don’t have to sit upright to work.
- The fare can be quite good, especially if booked early. Trains between New Orleans and Birmingham can be competitive with the cost of gas, parking, tolls and the wear and tear on your car. Add the stress the train saves you, and it usually wins.
- It’s definitely more sustainable. Passenger rail usually produces fewer carbon emissions per passenger mile than flying or driving.
- It’s very historic. The Crescent has its roots in the Southern Railway’s famous New York to New Orleans service. It offers a glimpse of classic, long-distance rail travel.
| Traveler type | Why the train works |
| Leisure travelers | Scenic route, relaxed pace |
| Families | Space to move, no driving stress, kids can walk around |
| Students | Easy trip between college towns without a car |
| Remote workers | Comfortable seat and power outlets for working |
| Seniors | No driving fatigue and easier boarding with assistance |
| Football fans | A popular choice on game weekends for Alabama and LSU fans |
Which Amtrak Trains Run from New Orleans to Birmingham?
The only Amtrak service that runs between New Orleans and Birmingham is the Crescent, which operates as Train 20 northbound. The Crescent connects New York City and New Orleans. From there, it splits into Train 19 southbound and Train 20 northbound.
The Crescent takes a roundabout route to New Orleans that spans a total of 1,377 miles and 10 states, as well as the District of Columbia. Along the way, it serves major metropolitan areas like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. In the South, it serves smaller but still important metro areas like Charlotte and Atlanta. In between some of those areas are smaller stops, like Birmingham and Meridian.
| Feature | Details |
| Service type | Long-distance, daily |
| Train numbers | 19 (southbound), 20 (northbound) |
| Route | New York City to New Orleans |
| Full route length | About 1,377 miles |
| Equipment | Amfleet coaches, Viewliner sleepers, dining and lounge cars |
| Booking | Reserved seating; reservation required for coach |
Reservations. Seats on the Crescent are reserved. Just keep in mind to check your ticket for your car and seat number.
Are there other direct options? No. Amtrak’s other train out of New Orleans, the City of New Orleans, runs north to Chicago through Mississippi and Tennessee and does not serve Birmingham. The Sunset Limited runs west to Texas and California. You can transfer to either of these trains at New Orleans if your travel plans extend further.
Do the trains run every day? Yes, the Crescent operates daily in both directions. Just keep in mind to confirm the date of travel on Amtrak.com, as holidays and special events can impact this.
Train From New Orleans to Birmingham Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
The Amtrak Crescent departs New Orleans only once a day, at about 9:10 a.m. It arrives in Birmingham at 5:24 p.m. The train only runs once a day, so if you miss it, you’ll have to wait until the next day to catch it again.
| Station | Approx. time |
| New Orleans, LA | 9:10 a.m. |
| Slidell, LA | 10:02 a.m. |
| Picayune, MS | 10:27 a.m. |
| Hattiesburg, MS | 11:35 a.m. |
| Laurel, MS | Around noon |
| Meridian, MS | Early afternoon |
| Tuscaloosa, AL | 3:09 p.m. |
| Birmingham, AL | 5:24 p.m. |
Frequency: There’s just one train per day. With shorter routes, you might expect two departures in each direction, but not with the Crescent. This means you have to time your whole day around this one train.
When to arrive: Usually, boarding for the Crescent opens well before the departure time. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to an hour to get to the Union Passenger Terminal. Sleeper passengers have access to a lounge where they can wait.
Return trip: For a round trip, take the Train 19 out of Birmingham at 1:03 p.m. This train gets you to New Orleans at around 9:12 p.m. and works well if you’re planning a visit to New Orleans and staying overnight in Birmingham.
| Direction | Train | Leaves | Arrives |
| New Orleans to Birmingham | 20 | About 9:10 a.m. | About 5:24 p.m. |
| Birmingham to New Orleans | 19 | About 1:03 p.m. | About 9:12 p.m. |
Delays. Amtrak uses tracks owned by freight railroads, and freight always has right-of-way. Expect delays and build in flexibility if you have a tight connection in Birmingham. Amtrak’s website and app have a feature with the status of trains, and you can check the status on your way to the station.
Train From New Orleans to Birmingham Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
Driving from New Orleans to Birmingham takes around 5 and a half hours. Taking the Amtrak Crescent takes a little over 8 hours. The train covers 354 miles, making stops along the way through Louisiana and Mississippi.
Why do people prefer taking the train instead of driving? For one, you have the comfort of a seat, and if you’re hungry, you can always stop by the dining car. Of course, it costs a pretty penny to do that, but it’s a more comfortable experience compared to driving, and you don’t have the stress of navigating the route. The route the train takes is also more scenic as it winds through small towns compared to the more direct route driving takes.
| Mode | Approx. time | Notes |
| Amtrak Crescent | 8 hr 15 min | Scenic, no driving |
| Car | 5.5 to 6 hr | Depends on traffic and stops |
| Bus | 6 to 8 hr | Varies by operator |
| Flying | 1 to 1.5 hr in the air, plus airport time | Limited nonstop service, often connecting |
What affects travel time?
- Shared track. Freight trains share the track and can slow Amtrak.
- Weather. Flooding and hurricane season can slow train travel.
- Long stops. Longer stops for boarding occur in places like Meridian and Tuscaloosa.
- Track work. Track repairs can slow down a train.
Time zones. New Orleans and Birmingham are both on Central Time, so no need to adjust your watch.
Productive time. Plan your time on the train to be productive. Eat a meal, work, take a nap and read a book all before you get to your next activity. You could even watch the scenery go by. Treat the time on the train as part of your travel day.
Birmingham Station for Passengers
Amtrak’s Birmingham stop (station code BHM) is in downtown Birmingham on Morris Avenue. It is close to the city center, Railroad Park, and the Negro Southern League Museum. The station is a good starting point for exploring the city because many major attractions are nearby.
| Feature | Details |
| Station code | BHM |
| Location | Downtown Birmingham, Morris Avenue area |
| Checked baggage | Available |
| Ticketing | Digital tickets and station support |
| Accessibility | Assistance available; request in advance |
| Nearby | Railroad Park, Negro Southern League Museum, Sloss Furnaces area |
Getting Around from the Station. There are plenty of ride-share options (i.e., Uber, Lyft) from the Birmingham station. Taxis, local buses and rental cars are other options. Many hotels and the Civil Rights District are only a short ride from the station.
Meeting Passengers. If your passengers are picking you up, let them know your train might be a couple of minutes early or late. The best way for your driver to time your arrival is to check the live status of your train on Amtrak.com or the app.
Accessibility. Passengers requiring assistance with boarding and mobility should notify Amtrak in advance to ensure staff can arrange for support at the station.
Other tips for the Birmingham station.
- Have your ride arranged in advance if you arrive in the evening.
- If you have checked bags, take pictures of them.
- If you have a hotel nearby, ask about shuttle service or early check-in.
Key Stops Between New Orleans and Birmingham
The Crescent makes six stops between New Orleans and Birmingham: Slidell, Picayune, Hattiesburg, Laurel, Meridian and Tuscaloosa. The stops give travelers an opportunity to stretch their legs and explore some interesting towns along the way.
| Stop | State | Known for |
| Slidell | Louisiana | Gateway to the Northshore, close to Lake Pontchartrain |
| Picayune | Mississippi | Gateway to the Pearl River area and the Gulf Coast region |
| Hattiesburg | Mississippi | University of Southern Mississippi, “Hub City” |
| Laurel | Mississippi | Historic downtown, fame from HGTV’s Home Town |
| Meridian | Mississippi | Union Station, arts and music history |
| Tuscaloosa | Alabama | University of Alabama, football culture |
Slidell, Louisiana. Slidell is the first stop after New Orleans. Slidell is home to some of the best views on this route, as the Amtrak crosses Lake Pontchartrain. The Northshore region is known for swamp tours, and Slidell is a central location to access Lake Pontchartrain.
Picayune, Mississippi. The next stop is Picayune. Picayune is known for the Pearl River and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Most travelers don’t get off here, but it’s worth acknowledging as your first stop in Mississippi.
Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Next is Hattiesburg. Hattiesburg is a college town known for the university and arts in Mississippi. It’s a good place to stop for food and to stretch your legs.
Laurel, Mississippi. The next stop is Laurel-a small town with a nice historic district. HGTV Home Town is set in Laurel, and it’s worth visiting if you are a fan of the show.
Meridian, Mississippi. The last stop is Meridian, the main rail junction and Union Station in East Mississippi. The city is a stop on the Thruway bus line. Meridian has a lot of arts, entertainment, and performing arts.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama. As the home of the University of Alabama, the Tuscaloosa Amtrak stop sees a lot of visitors on Saturdays during football season. If you want to visit the stadium and/or the university campus, this is your closest Amtrak option. It is approximately one hour west of Birmingham by train.
Scenery along the route. The best scenery is riding north from New Orleans, as you cross Lake Pontchartrain. The route is then rather uneventful, but just before you reach Birmingham, you see some nice hills and tree-covered scenery.
Can you get off along the way? Yes. Stopovers are allowed on some tickets, but with the Crescent only running once a day, a stopover means a full day there. Plan your trip carefully if you want to stopover in Meridian or Tuscaloosa.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Tickets for Amtrak’s coach service from New Orleans to Birmingham cost around $30-100 if bought in advance. Tickets can be cheaper or more expensive at different times depending on demand. Sleeper tickets are costlier. Fares for all tickets increase as the travel date approaches and as seats sell, so buying in advance helps with cost.
| Fare type | Typical range | Notes |
| Coach, Saver fare | Often lowest | Book early, limited seats |
| Coach, standard | Mid-range | More flexible |
| Coach, last-minute | Highest coach | Busy dates cost more |
| Sleeper (Roomette) | Several times coach | Includes meals, mostly unnecessary for a daytime trip |
Variables that influence price
- Date of booking. Fares usually go up as departure approaches.
- Season. Times of high demand such as Mardi Gras, Jazzfest, football weekends and holidays are peak times.
- Day of week. Midweek travel can be cheaper than Friday and Sunday.
- Fare class. For some classes, flexibility and cost tradeoff.
Ways to save
- Booking early. Amtrak releases tickets a few months in advance. Booking as early as possible usually gets the lowest fares.
- Flexible dates. Use Amtrak’s calendar view to see fares for multiple dates.
- Look for discounts. Amtrak provides senior, military/veteran and child discounts. Check the current discounts at Amtrak.com to see if you are eligible.
- Travel off-peak. Avoid weekends of big festivals and major football games.
- Use Amtrak rewards. Earn rewards for every trip and use them later.
- Watch for sales. Amtrak has promotional fares.
- For this trip, you may want to skip the sleeper. Since The Crescent is a daytime route, coach is probably enough.
Children. Many Amtrak trains allow children under 2 to ride for free on an adult’s lap, and children between 2 and 12 usually receive a reduced fare. Check the website for the most recent policies when making your reservation.
Refunds and changes. Fare rules are different for each fare. To be on the safe side, plan your trip using more flexible fares. For changes, use the Amtrak app.
Baggage. Amtrak allows passengers to bring a lot of baggage for free. Carry-on bags and personal items are free, and checked baggage is available for purchase at select stations (New Orleans, Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, for example).
Onboard Amenities on the Train From New Orleans to Birmingham
Crescent trains have coach seats, as well as cars for lounging, dining and sleeping. Taking Amtrak is much better than flying or taking the bus because you have more space even when you are in coach.
| Amenity | Details |
| Coach seats | Wide, reclining, extra legroom, reserved |
| Power outlets | Available at coach seats |
| Dining car | Full meal service |
| Lounge car | Sandwiches, snacks, drinks |
| Sleeping cars | First-Class Viewliner Roomettes and bedrooms |
| Restrooms | On every car |
| Baggage | Overhead racks, luggage areas |
| Wi-Fi | Not reliably available on long-distance trains |
Seats. Wide reclining seats with footrests can be found on the Crescent. Seats are outfitted with overhead bins;n large baggage can be checked at the car entrances. Seats are reserved giving you your own space for the duration of the trip.
Dining car. The dining car serves meals on the train. Meals for coach passengers come at an additional cost. Sleeper passengers get their meals as part of their ticket. If you plan on using the dining car, be sure to let the staff know the day before so you can be added to the list.
Lounge car. The lounge car is a great place to grab a snack or a drink and gives travelers great views of the countryside. The Lounge car can also be used as a work area or social area to meet new people.
Sleeping cars. Viewliner has Roomettes, as well as bedrooms, which can be used for long trips. These sleepers come with lounge and meal amenities. Passengers using these cars leave from New Orleans and can use the lounge located there as well.
Connectivity. Cell service is not reliable and Wi-Fi is limited on long distance routes. You can download media on your device to use during your trip.
Tips for comfort:
- Pack a light jacket as cars can get chilly.
- Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks.
- Bring a neck pillow.
- Charge your phone and other electronics before your trip.
- Keep your ticket electronically either on your phone or in a screenshot.
Pets. Amtrak’s pet policy allows pets on shorter trips and sets a maximum journey length of about 7 hours. Because the New Orleans to Birmingham route is longer than this, pets can’t travel on this leg of the journey, though service animals can. Check the policy when booking your tickets.
Accessibility. Amtrak offers passengers with disabilities or limited mobility seating near the threshold of the train for easier access as well as assistance. Ask for this when booking.
Train From New Orleans to Birmingham vs. Other Travel Options
New Orleans to Birmingham trains take longer than the driving or flying options, but still may be good if you want to see more of the scenery, relax, and not stress about things like driving. See below for more info.
| Factor | Train | Car | Bus | Plane |
| Travel time | About 8 hr 15 min | 5.5 to 6 hr | 6 to 8 hr | 1 to 1.5 hr flight plus airport time |
| Comfort | High | Medium | Medium | Low to medium |
| Scenery | Excellent | Good | Fair | Limited |
| Stress | Low | Medium to high | Low | Medium to high |
| Cost | Low to moderate | Fuel and parking | Often lowest | Varies, often higher |
| Frequency | Once daily | Anytime | Several per day | Limited or connecting |
| Productivity | High | None | Medium | Low |
Train vs. Driving. Faster and more control over your schedule with driving, but you also carry the stress of parking, fuel costs, and everything else. Taking the train is better to relax and work. Also better for solo travelers with the not having to drive hours thing.
Train vs. Bus. A bus ride is usually cheaper and more frequent than a train ride. However, a bus offers less legroom and fewer amenities. The train offers more room and you can walk around.
Train vs. Flying. There are not many nonstop flights between New Orleans and Birmingham, so many itineraries require a connection. Traveling by air has a ton of things you have to do before and after the flight that kind of shrink the time you’re actually in the air, and the train takes you right from the downtown of one city to the other.
Which is right for you?
| If you value… | Choose |
| Speed | Car |
| Lowest price | Bus or an early Saver fare |
| Comfort and scenery | Train |
| Flexibility | Car |
| Working during travel | Train |
| No driving | Train |
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the New Orleans to Birmingham Route
New to train travel? Arrive at the station on time. Pack snacks. Dress in layers. Expect your scheduled departure to leave a bit earlier or later than expected. Refer to the following checklist for your first train trip.
Before you travel
- Book early. Seat and fare availability increases with earlier bookings.
- Check the schedule. Review the schedule a few days prior to departure for any changes.
- Get the Amtrak app. It has your electronically ticket and shows the status of trains in service.
- Know the ID requirements. Bring a government-issued photo ID.
- Know the baggage rules. Review size and weight restrictions for your baggage.
At New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
- Arrive a minimum of 45 to 60 minutes prior to departure.
- Follow signs for boarding and listen for announcements.
- Check that you are boarding Train 20 Northbound.
- The train backs into the New Orleans station, so you may board earlier than expected.
| Item | Why |
| Light jacket | Cars can be cold |
| Snacks and water | Save money and stay comfortable |
| Charger and power bank | Outlets can be limited |
| Headphones | Make quiet time easier |
| Book, tablet or laptop | Fill the long hours |
| Neck pillow | Handy for naps |
| Small bag for essentials | Keep valuables at your seat |
Onboard etiquette
- Keep conversations and phone calls short and quiet.
- Listen to music and videos with headphones.
- Don’t block aisles with your luggage.
- Always follow crew instructions.
- Be nice to others and share the ride.
Seat tips: Many passengers like the lake and green hill views on the way to Alabama and enjoy sitting on the side with the better views. Ask the crew if you are unsure.
Safety tips: Keep valuables with you. Never leave your baggage unattended. Be careful walking between cars.
Expect some variation: Trains run behind schedule. Bring patience and do not plan super tight connections the same day.
What to Do When You Arrive at Birmingham Station
There is a lot to see and do around Birmingham. With an important role in Civil Rights history, a booming food scene, and outdoor activities, you will want to arrive in the afternoon to eat dinner and explore for the rest of the day, then be ready to sightsee the next day.
| Attraction | Why visit |
| Birmingham Civil Rights Institute | Powerful exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement |
| 16th Street Baptist Church | Historic landmark of the movement |
| Kelly Ingram Park | Memorial park with sculptures |
| Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument | National Park Service site in the Civil Rights District |
| Vulcan Park and Museum | The giant cast-iron statue and city views |
| Sloss Furnaces | Historic ironworks turned museum |
| Railroad Park | Downtown green space, near the station |
| Birmingham Museum of Art | Free admission, strong collection |
| Rickwood Field | Often called the oldest professional ballpark in America |
| Negro Southern League Museum | Baseball history |
Food. Birmingham’s food scene has been recognized nationally and for good reason. Expect all types of Southern and barbecue cooking, as well as seafood. Be on the lookout for creative, chef-driven restaurants. The Avondale, Lakeview and Pepper Place neighborhoods are great for eating out and walking around.
Where to stay. For hotels in Birmingham, you can’t go wrong staying in the downtown area. Many hotels are in the Civil Rights District and Railroad Park area and are walking distance to restaurants and other attractions.
Getting around. Rideshare is probably your best bet as a visitor. Taxis and rental cars are available and a few attractions are close enough to walk to once you’re downtown.
| Time | Activity |
| Morning | Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 16th Street Baptist Church, Kelly Ingram Park |
| Lunch | Downtown or Avondale |
| Afternoon | Vulcan Park or Sloss Furnaces |
| Evening | Dinner in Lakeview or Pepper Place |
Games and events. There are concerts and sporting events in Birmingham throughout the year. There are also various festivals. Depending on what is happening in the city, hotels can fill up fast. Be sure to check the calendar before you travel.
Day trips. You can reach Tuscaloosa, Huntsville and various state parks from Birmingham, but you will need your own transportation.
Booking Your Train From New Orleans to Birmingham Amtrak Ticket
You can book the New Orleans to Birmingham Amtrak ticket on Amtrak.com, the Amtrak mobile app, by phone or at a staffed station. Booking online or in the app is usually the quickest and cheapest method.
Step-by-step Booking
- Go to Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak App.
- Enter New Orleans, LA (NOL) as your origin and Birmingham, AL (BHM) as your destination.
- Enter your date and number of travelers.
- Choose your fare and seat type (coach or sleeper).
- Add passenger details and choose any discounts you qualify for.
- Pay securely and get your ticket via email and in your app.
Booking Tips
- Look over the calendar view to find the cheapest date.
- Book as far in advance as your plans allow.
- Create an Amtrak Guest Rewards account to earn points and miles.
- Save your confirmation email and add your ticket to your phone wallet.
- If you are traveling in a group choose your seats carefully.
| Booking method | Pros | Cons |
| Amtrak.com / app | Fast, full fare options | Needs internet |
| Phone | Help from an agent | May have wait times |
| Station ticket office | Face-to-face help | Limited hours, often higher availability issues |
Changing or cancelling. See fare rules for more info. You can modify many tickets through the app. Certain fares do not allow changes.
Group travel. You can call us to inquire about group options if you are traveling with a large party.
Best Time to Travel From New Orleans to Birmingham by Train
New Orleans to Birmingham train journey has its own time window of comfortable travel. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) provides a pleasant weather, scenery and a quieter travel. Winter is the quiet and inexpensive season, but can get a little chilly. Summer is hot and humid, but pleasantly so while in the AC train.
| Season | Weather | Pros | Cons |
| Spring | Mild, warm | Blooming landscapes, festivals | Higher fares at Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest |
| Summer | Hot, humid | School break, long daylight | Storms, hurricane season starts in June |
| Fall | Cool, dry | Football season, great views | Busy weekends on game days |
| Winter | Cool, sometimes cold | Lower fares, fewer crowds | Occasional winter weather |
- Most months. April, May, October, and the beginning of November are the best months to visit due to weather and views.
- Peak Dates. Expect higher fares and more crowded trains on peak travel dates like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, major holidays and big college football weekends.
- Best Day to Travel. Trains are generally less crowded on midweekdays.
- Hurricane Season. The Atlantic Hurricane Season is from June to November. Amtrak service can be impacted by storms and you should consult the forecast and Amtrak service advisories before traveling.
- Departure Times. Because there is only one train a day, your travel time is set. The New Orleans to New York train is the only one of the day and leaves in the morning, so you can get to see the lake and countryside outside of New Orleans before they get dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct train from New Orleans to Birmingham?
Yes, Amtrak’s Crescent (Train 20) runs from New Orleans to Birmingham once a day, with no transfers. It continues to Atlanta, Charlotte, DC, and NYC.
2. How long is the train ride from New Orleans to Birmingham?
The trip to Birmingham takes about 8 hours, 15 minutes. The train covers about 354 miles, and has several stops along the way in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.
3. When does the train leave New Orleans for Birmingham?
The train leaves New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal around 9:10 am, Central Time. Make sure to get to the station at least 45 to 60 minutes before that, and check Amtrak.com for the exact time, as the schedule can change.
4. How much do tickets cost from New Orleans to Birmingham?
Tickets are between about $30 and $100, depending on when you buy them and how busy the day is. Sleeper rooms are much more. Check Amtrak.com for current prices.
5. How many trains are there between New Orleans and Birmingham?
Only one train runs between the two cities each day. The northbound Train 20 leaves in the morning, and the southbound Train 19 from Birmingham leaves in the early afternoon.
6. Which stops does the train make between New Orleans and Birmingham?
The Crescent stops at Slidell, Picayune, Hattiesburg, Laurel, Meridian and Tuscaloosa before reaching Birmingham.
7. Is there food on the train?
Yes, the Crescent has a dining car with full meal service, and also offers sandwiches and drinks in the lounge car. You are also allowed to bring food and drinks on the train.
8. Is Wi-Fi available on the Crescent?
Wi-Fi and cellular service is generally limited on Amtrak’s long-distance routes. You should download movies or work files prior to boarding.
9. Can I bring luggage and pets?
Yes, Amtrak allows both carry-on and checked luggage. Pets are only allowed on shorter routes.
10. Is the train from New Orleans to Birmingham worth it?
Yes, it is a scenic and stress free way to travel the Deep South. There is food service on the Crescent and you have the opportunity to see Lake Pontchartrain. The ride can be long and slow, so it’s not for everyone.
