The City of New Orleans is an Amtrak train route operating between Chicago, Illinois, and New Orleans, Louisiana. This iconic train journey traverses a distance of approximately 934 miles (1,503 kilometers), offering passengers a scenic and convenient travel option through the heart of America’s musical heritage and diverse landscapes.
Route and Stops
The City of New Orleans route connects major urban centers and smaller towns across six states: Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The train’s path generally follows the historic Illinois Central Railroad corridor.
Key stops and stations along the City of New Orleans route include:
| State | City | Station Name |
| Illinois | Chicago | Chicago Union Station (CHI) |
| Illinois | Homewood | Homewood Station (HMW) |
| Illinois | Kankakee | Kankakee Station (KKI) |
| Illinois | Champaign-Urbana | Champaign-Urbana Station (CHM) |
| Illinois | Mattoon | Mattoon Station (MAT) |
| Illinois | Effingham | Effingham Station (EFG) |
| Kentucky | Fulton | Fulton Station (FUL) |
| Tennessee | Newbern-Dyersburg | Newbern-Dyersburg Station (NBN) |
| Tennessee | Memphis | Memphis Central Station (MEM) |
| Mississippi | Greenwood | Greenwood Station (GWD) |
| Mississippi | Yazoo City | Yazoo City Station (YZC) |
| Mississippi | Jackson | Jackson Station (JAN) |
| Mississippi | Hazlehurst | Hazlehurst Station (HZL) |
| Mississippi | Brookhaven | Brookhaven Station (BRH) |
| Mississippi | McComb | McComb Station (MCB) |
| Louisiana | Hammond | Hammond Station (HDM) |
| Louisiana | New Orleans | New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL) |
Note: This table lists the primary scheduled stops. For the most current and complete list of stops, it is advisable to consult the official Amtrak website.
Stations
The City of New Orleans utilizes various types of stations, ranging from major transportation hubs to smaller community stops.
- Chicago Union Station (CHI): The northern terminus, Chicago Union Station, is a grand Beaux-Arts style station providing connections to numerous Amtrak routes and local transit options. It offers a range of amenities for travelers.
- Memphis Central Station (MEM): A historic station in downtown Memphis, offering connections to other transportation modes and access to city attractions.
- New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL): The southern terminus, this station is a modern facility in downtown New Orleans, providing connections to local transportation and access to the city’s French Quarter and other points of interest.
- Smaller Stations: Stations in towns like Homewood, Kankakee, Champaign-Urbana, and others are typically smaller facilities, offering basic amenities for passengers boarding and alighting the train.
Station amenities can vary. Major stations usually provide restrooms, waiting areas, ticketing services, and sometimes food and retail options. Smaller stations may have limited facilities. Travelers are advised to check the specific station details on the Amtrak website for information on accessibility, parking, and available services.
Schedule
The City of New Orleans operates daily in both directions. The typical schedule is as follows:
| Direction | Train Number | Departure City | Departure Time | Arrival City | Arrival Time | Approximate Duration |
| Northbound | 58 | New Orleans | 1:45 PM | Chicago | 9:00 AM (Next Day) | 19 hours 15 minutes |
| Southbound | 59 | Chicago | 8:05 PM | New Orleans | 3:56 PM (Next Day) | 19 hours 51 minutes |
Note: Schedules are subject to change. It is essential to verify the current timetable on the official Amtrak website or through their mobile app before planning travel. Factors such as track maintenance, seasonal adjustments, and operational conditions can affect train timings.
Booking Tips
Booking tickets for the City of New Orleans train can be done through several channels:
- Amtrak Website: The official Amtrak website (https://www.amtrak.com/) is the primary platform for booking tickets, viewing schedules, and accessing real-time train status.
- Amtrak Mobile App: Amtrak provides a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, enabling users to book tickets, manage reservations, and receive travel updates on the go.
- Telephone: Reservations can be made by calling Amtrak’s customer service line.
- Station Ticket Offices: Tickets can be purchased at staffed Amtrak stations.
Tips for Booking:
- Advance Booking: Booking tickets in advance, particularly for popular travel times or during peak seasons, is recommended to secure better fares and seat availability.
- Fare Types: Amtrak offers different fare types, such as Value, Flexible, and Premium. Value fares are typically the most economical but may have restrictions on changes and cancellations. Flexible and Premium fares offer more flexibility.
- Deals and Discounts: Check the Amtrak website for any ongoing promotions, discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, or AAA members.
- Consider Sleeper Cars: For overnight journeys, consider booking a sleeper car for enhanced comfort and privacy. Sleeper car accommodations range from roomettes to bedrooms and include meals and other amenities.
- Seat Selection: When booking, if possible, select your preferred seat location. Window seats are often favored for enjoying the scenery.
- Check for Service Advisories: Before traveling, check the Amtrak website or app for any service advisories or alerts that may affect the City of New Orleans route, such as delays or cancellations.
- eTicketing: Amtrak utilizes eTicketing. Passengers can typically use a mobile eTicket or print their ticket at home.
Onboard Experience
Passengers aboard the City of New Orleans can expect a range of onboard amenities, although specific offerings may vary. Common features include:
- Seating: Coach class seating provides reclining seats with legroom and overhead lighting. Sleeper cars offer private accommodations with beds, restrooms (in some rooms), and lounge access.
- Dining Car: A dining car or café car is typically available, offering meals, snacks, and beverages for purchase. Passengers in sleeper cars usually have meals included in their fare.
- Sightseer Lounge Car: Many Amtrak long-distance trains, including the City of New Orleans, feature a Sightseer Lounge car with panoramic windows, providing enhanced views of the passing scenery.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi service is available on many Amtrak trains, but connectivity can vary, particularly in more rural areas along the route.
- Restrooms: Restrooms are located in each car.
- Checked Baggage: Checked baggage service may be available at select stations. Check Amtrak’s baggage policy for details and any applicable fees.
Accessibility
Amtrak aims to provide accessible travel for all passengers. Most stations and trains are equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities. It is advisable to contact Amtrak in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs and ensure appropriate arrangements can be made.
Conclusion
The City of New Orleans train offers a significant rail travel option connecting the Midwest to the Deep South. By understanding the route, schedule, station information, and booking procedures, travelers can effectively utilize this service for both practical transportation and a unique travel experience. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Amtrak website.
Additional Sources for Guide
- Amtrak Website: https://www.amtrak.com/home offers the most up-to-date schedules, fares, and onboard service details.
- New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA): The RTA website (https://www.norta.com/) offers route maps, schedules, and fare information for navigating New Orleans via public transportation.
- Wikipedia – City of New Orleans (train): This Wikipedia page (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Orleans) provides background information on the train’s history and route.