Amtrak Mardi Gras: 5 Must-See Spots Near New Orleans Station

Amtrak Mardi Gras Service Launches, Connecting Mobile to New Orleans

On a crisp Monday morning, the highly anticipated Amtrak Mardi Gras Service officially commenced its journey, marking a new era of travel between Mobile and New Orleans. The inaugural three-car train departed from downtown Mobile at 6:30 a.m., heading toward the vibrant heart of the Crescent City. This scenic route includes stops in Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis, with the train arriving at the Union Passenger Terminal by 10:13 a.m.

Whether travelers are drawn to the lively energy of Bourbon Street or prefer a more relaxed exploration of the city, the Amtrak service delivers them directly to the heart of New Orleans. From there, they can easily access streetcars, iconic museums, and a wealth of culinary experiences.

New Orleans has long been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in the French Quarter and along Bourbon Street. Visitors have several transportation options to reach the Quarter, including taxis or rideshares, which typically cost less than $10. Once there, the city offers an array of sightseeing opportunities, such as airboat tours through the bayou, jazz cruises on steamboats, Garden District tours, and visits to historic cemeteries. For those seeking a spookier experience, haunted bars and homes provide a unique twist on traditional tourism.

The New Orleans streetcar system is another popular option for getting around. The Union Passenger Terminal is conveniently located near the Rampart-Loyola streetcar line, and the St. Charles streetcar connects the Central Business District to Uptown and the Garden District. A single ride costs $1.25, while a “Jazzy Pass” offers unlimited rides for $3. Discounts are available for seniors, disabled individuals, and children aged 5 to 18.

For those who prefer to avoid the French Quarter, there are plenty of attractions within walking distance of the terminal, especially if the weather is pleasant. Here are five must-visit spots:

National World War II Museum

Located about 6 to 10 minutes on foot from the terminal, this museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts. A taxi ride will cost under $10. General admission for adults starts at $36, with discounted rates for seniors over 65. The museum is vast and may require multiple visits to fully explore. A second-day ticket is available for $15.

Dining Tip: The museum features several dining options, including The American Sector Restaurant & Bar. Just three blocks away, Cochin Butcher at 930 Tchoupitoulas St. offers a variety of Cajun sausages. It was featured on the Netflix show "Somebody Feed Phil."

Titanic: An Immersive Voice Experience

This exhibit, held at the Scottish Rite Temple at 619 Carondelet St., allows visitors to step into the story of the Titanic. The experience lasts 60 to 90 minutes and costs $24.90. It is suitable for all ages.

Dining Tip: There are several restaurants near the Scottish Rite Temple in the Central Business District. Across the street is Seaworthy, a seafood restaurant housed in a Creole cottage built in 1832.

New Orleans Civic Center

Located at 510 O’Keefe Ave., this historic venue was originally built in 1906 as The Shubert and underwent a major renovation in 2011. It is the oldest theater in New Orleans and hosts a range of performances, including ballet and Halloween-themed events like Dana & Greg Newkirk’s Haunted Objects.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Situated at 925 Camp St., this museum houses the largest and most comprehensive collection of Southern art. Adult tickets are $15, with discounts for seniors over 65. The museum currently features works by six artists addressing Hurricane Katrina, 20 years after the storm devastated the region.

Champions Square and Sports Venues

Adjacent to the Union Passenger Terminal, Champions Square is a 91,000-square-foot outdoor amphitheater that hosts pre-game events and concerts. Nearby, the Superdome and Smoothie King Center serve as home venues for the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, respectively. These facilities will soon be hosting professional football and basketball games.