Rise and shine! The train leaves from Houston just after 6 A.M. You'll arrive in New Orleans by 4 P.M., with time to relax for a bit before enjoying a fabulous Cajun dinner.
Book your ticket early by going online (visit the link in Resources below) or by calling 1-(800)-USA-RAIL (872-7245). If you wait until last minute to buy a ticket at the station, the train might be sold out.
Book sleeper accommodations if you think you'll need to nap. Sleeper cabins require an additional accommodations fee, but they offer added privacy and comfort.
Get dropped off by a friend or take a cab to the Southern Pacific Station in Houston. It's located downtown at 902 Washington Avenue and is easy to find.
Grab a cab outside the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal main entrance where they line up. The French Quarter is just a few minutes away.
Pack appropriately. Amtrak policy permits only 2 pieces of carry-on baggage per passenger, not including small personal items like purses and laptops. You'll have to check additional items.
Plan ahead. You can check 3 pieces of luggage for free. Additional items will cost you $10 each. Passengers cannot check more than 6 pieces of luggage total.
