Taking the Train from Atlanta to New Orleans: A Practical Guide

Traveling by train from Atlanta to New Orleans isn’t as simple as boarding one direct line, but it can still be a scenic, relaxing way to make the trip if you know how the routes work and how to plan around them.

This guide walks you through all the realistic train options from Atlanta, how to connect to New Orleans, what to expect at and around Atlanta’s rail stations, and when it might make sense to mix train travel with buses or flights.

Is There a Direct Train from Atlanta to New Orleans?

The key thing Atlanta travelers need to know:

• There is currently no direct passenger train from Atlanta to New Orleans.
• Atlanta is served by the Amtrak Crescent, which runs New York–Atlanta–New Orleans, but:
  • It does not run daily in both directions in every schedule cycle
  • Schedule and service patterns can change over time
• When service is running in both directions as designed, Atlanta passengers can typically:
  • Board the Crescent at Atlanta Peachtree Station
  • Ride it straight through to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Because long-distance routes can be adjusted, it’s wise to:

• Check current Crescent schedules
• Confirm that it is operating on the dates and in the direction you need

If the Crescent isn’t operating in a way that works for your dates, you’ll need to consider connection-based options.

Main Train Route: The Amtrak Crescent

Where You Board in Atlanta

Atlanta Peachtree Station (ATL)
1688 Peachtree St NW
Atlanta, GA 30309

This is Atlanta’s only Amtrak station. It’s a small, straightforward facility in the Brookwood area, between Midtown and Buckhead.

Getting to Peachtree Station:

• MARTA connections:
  • The station isn’t directly on a MARTA rail line.
  • Common approach:
    • Take MARTA rail to Arts Center, Midtown, or Lindbergh Center station.
    • From there, use a local bus, rideshare, or taxi to reach Peachtree Station.
• Driving:
  Many travelers from the suburbs (Sandy Springs, Marietta, Decatur, etc.) drive and get dropped off. Parking around the station is limited and can be tight during busy periods.

Typical Route Overview (When Fully Operating)

When the Crescent is running Atlanta–New Orleans:

• Departure: Late evening or night from Atlanta Peachtree Station
• Arrival: Next morning or around midday at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

You travel through parts of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi before reaching Louisiana, with views of small towns, forests, and river areas along the way.

Onboard Experience (General Expectations)

The Crescent usually offers:

• Coach seats – Standard, reserved seating with reclining chairs and legroom.
• Business class (on some segments) – More space, quieter car, and sometimes extra amenities.
• Sleeping accommodations (when available on your segment) – Roomettes or bedrooms for overnight comfort; these usually include some meals in the dining car.
• Food & beverage options – Café car with snacks, light meals, and drinks.
• Power outlets – Generally available at or near seats.
• Wi‑Fi – May be available but can be spotty, especially in rural areas; don’t rely on it for critical work.

📝 Tip for Atlantans: Because departure is often late, many locals grab dinner in Midtown or Buckhead beforehand and treat the first part of the ride as quiet, unwind time.

When There’s No Convenient Direct Train: Connection Strategies

If the Atlanta–New Orleans stretch of the Crescent is not operating as needed (or seats are limited), you have a few realistic options that still involve significant train travel.

1. Atlanta to Birmingham or Meridian by Train, Then Bus/Car to New Orleans

Atlanta travelers can often still ride a portion of the Crescent route and connect the rest of the way:

• Atlanta → Birmingham (Amtrak) → Bus/Car to New Orleans
• Atlanta → Meridian, MS (Amtrak) → Bus/Car to New Orleans

From Birmingham, AL or Meridian, MS, travelers commonly:

• Use an intercity bus service
• Arrange a rental car
• Combine shared rides or local transit

This hybrid approach lets you keep a good portion of the scenic train ride while still reaching New Orleans on your own schedule.

2. Atlanta to a Major Hub, Then Long-Distance Train

Another strategy is to:

• Travel from Atlanta to a larger hub city by bus or flight (for example, Washington, D.C., New York, or another Southern city), then
• Board another long-distance Amtrak route that reaches New Orleans

This typically adds time and complexity, so it’s better for travelers who:

• Really value the train experience
• Want to combine New Orleans with another major city on the same trip

Comparing Travel Options from Atlanta to New Orleans

Many Atlanta residents compare train vs plane vs driving vs bus before committing. The table below summarizes typical tradeoffs, assuming the Crescent is running directly:

*Times are general ranges; actual times vary by day, route, and conditions.

How to Plan Your Train Trip from Atlanta

1. Check Current Amtrak Schedules

Because long-distance schedules can shift, Atlanta travelers should:

• Verify:
  • Whether the Crescent is running between Atlanta and New Orleans on your specific dates
  • Direction and exact departure/arrival times at Atlanta Peachtree Station
• Confirm:
  • Whether coach, business, or sleeper options are available for your date
  • Any service advisories or disruptions affecting the route

2. Choose Your Class of Service

For Atlanta–New Orleans, many travelers choose:

• Coach if:
  • You’re cost-conscious
  • You don’t mind sleeping in a reclining seat for an overnight schedule
• Sleeper accommodations if:
  • You want a bed and privacy
  • You’re treating it like a rolling hotel night
  • You value included meals and a quieter environment

🧷 Local tip: If you live in metro Atlanta and book a sleeper, consider packing a small overnight bag separate from larger luggage so you aren’t juggling big suitcases at the relatively compact Peachtree Station.

3. Plan Your Local Transit on the Atlanta Side

Because Peachtree Station is not on MARTA rail, build in extra buffer time:

• From Midtown or Downtown hotels:
  • 10–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic
• From Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL):
  • MARTA rail from the Airport Station to Arts Center or Midtown
  • Then rideshare or taxi to Peachtree Station
  • Total transit time: ~45–70 minutes, depending on wait times and traffic

Aim to arrive at the station at least 30–45 minutes before departure, more if:

• You’re unfamiliar with the station
• You’re traveling with children or large luggage

What to Expect at Atlanta Peachtree Station

Unlike an airport, Peachtree Station is:

• Small and basic – Primarily seating, restrooms, ticketing area
• Not a large retail hub – Food options are limited directly inside
• Located on a busy corridor – Peachtree Street NW has significant traffic at many times of day

Before you arrive:

• Eat beforehand or bring snacks and water
• Print or download any tickets and confirmations
• Prepare for a simple boarding process (no TSA-style security, but staff may check tickets before boarding)

Arriving by Train in New Orleans

New Orleans’s main passenger station is:

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL)
1001 Loyola Ave
New Orleans, LA 70113

From there:

• You can usually find:
  • Taxis, rideshare pickups, and some local transit options
• Popular visitor areas like the French Quarter and Central Business District are a short ride away.

If you are returning to Atlanta by train:

• Pay close attention to the departure time from New Orleans
• Plan to arrive at the station early, especially during busy travel periods or events

When Is the Train a Good Choice for Atlanta–New Orleans?

Choosing the train from Atlanta to New Orleans makes the most sense if:

• You enjoy the journey as part of the trip, not just the destination
• You want to avoid driving long distances
• You like the idea of an overnight ride where you can read, sleep, and watch the scenery
• The Crescent schedule lines up well with your dates and direction

It may be less ideal if:

• You’re on a very tight schedule
• You need guaranteed early-morning arrival or mid-day return windows
• You prefer short, direct flights and don’t mind airport routines

Practical Tips for Atlanta Travelers

• Check schedules early: Long-distance trains have fewer departures than planes or buses.
• Book popular dates in advance: Holidays, major events in New Orleans, and spring/fall weekends can sell out or see higher fares.
• Pack for comfort: Light blanket or sweater, headphones, and a small pillow can make overnight riding from Atlanta more pleasant.
• Prepare for flexibility: Weather, freight traffic, and other factors can affect timing on long routes; build some cushion into your first and last days.
• Think about your return: Decide early if you’ll take the train both ways or return to Atlanta by flight, bus, or car.

For Atlanta residents and visitors who value a slower, more scenic way to reach the Gulf Coast, making the trip by train from Atlanta to New Orleans can be a memorable option—as long as you understand the Crescent’s schedule, plan your local transit to Peachtree Station, and build in a bit of flexibility around your travel days.