Station guide · LA, USA
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal is a 1954 modernist station serving as a major southern hub for multiple Amtrak routes and various intercity bus services.
- Station
- New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
- City
- New Orleans, LA
- Code
- NOL
- Routes
- 4
At a glance
- New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, a 1954 modernist station that also serves intercity buses
- The Loyola Avenue streetcar runs from outside the station toward the French Quarter
- Terminus for the City of New Orleans, Crescent, Sunset Limited and Mardi Gras Service
Built in 1954, New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal features a distinctive modernist design. It acts as the primary rail gateway to the city and the wider region. The station functions as a terminus for all Amtrak services that call here, meaning trains begin or end their journeys at this location. It also handles intercity buses, creating a combined transportation center for travelers arriving in Louisiana. The terminal provides a straightforward starting point for exploring the city. Passengers can easily connect to local transit options right outside the doors.
Trains from New Orleans
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset Limited | New Orleans to Los Angeles | Three times a week in each direction |
| City of New Orleans | Chicago to New Orleans | Daily in each direction, overnight |
| Crescent | New York to New Orleans | Daily in each direction |
| Mardi Gras Service | New Orleans to Mobile | Two round trips a day |
As of 2026, the station is the terminus for the Sunset Limited, the City of New Orleans, the Crescent and the Mardi Gras Service. The Sunset Limited runs to Los Angeles three times a week in each direction, taking about 46 to 48 hours end to end. The City of New Orleans provides a daily overnight service to Chicago, with a journey time of about 19 to 20 hours. The Crescent travels daily to New York, taking about 30 hours. The Mardi Gras Service offers two round trips a day to Mobile, which takes about 3 hours 20 minutes. Popular direct trips include Atlanta to New Orleans taking about 10 hours to 12 hours 30 minutes.
Getting to and from the station
The terminal is well integrated into the local transportation network. The Loyola Avenue streetcar runs directly from outside the station toward the French Quarter, providing a simple route into the historic center. Since the station also serves intercity buses, travelers can transfer between rail and road services in one location. If you are catching an early departure, allow plenty of time to navigate the area. Always check local transit websites for the latest streetcar schedules and any service changes before you travel. Taxis and ride shares are usually available nearby for destinations not covered by the streetcar.
Around the station
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal is situated close to the heart of the city. The nearby Loyola Avenue streetcar offers a direct link toward the French Quarter, known for its historic architecture and vibrant music scene. Visitors can easily reach major hotels, restaurants and cultural sites from the station. The central location means many of the famous neighborhoods are just a short transit ride away. The immediate area around the terminal is primarily commercial, so you may want to head toward the French Quarter or the central business district for a wider variety of dining options.
Station tips
- Review our Amtrak and VIA booking tips to secure the best fares for your journey.
- Familiarize yourself with the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before packing for your trip.
- Use the Loyola Avenue streetcar for a quick connection toward the French Quarter upon arrival.
- Read our guide if it is your first time on Amtrak to know what to expect on board.
Popular trips from New Orleans
Questions travellers ask
How long does the train take from Chicago to New Orleans?
The City of New Orleans travels from Chicago to New Orleans in about 19 to 20 hours. This is an overnight service that runs daily in each direction as of 2026.
Can I take a direct train from Los Angeles to New Orleans?
Yes, the Sunset Limited operates directly from Los Angeles to New Orleans. The journey takes about 46 to 48 hours end to end. As of 2026, this train runs three times a week in each direction.