Call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak's web site in the "Resources" section below. On the web site, you can book your train reservations via Amtrak's Fare Finder. You can also navigate the site if you have a PDA, Blackberry or other handheld device.
If you ordered your tickets online or by phone, pick them up at a ticket agent or at one of the Quik-Trak kiosks that can be found at many Amtrak locations (you'll need to enter your reservation number). If you've booked your trip far in advance, you can also request that your tickets be mailed to you.
Reserve a coach seat for this relatively short train trip, approximately $60 for a one-way ticket. Bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to save money.
Anticipate sightseeng right away: as the train leaves the station you will see the Chattahoochie River. In Alabama, watch for the statue of Vulcan over Red Mountain. (This 56-foot high icon is the tallest cast-iron statue in the world.)
Expect the train to stop at three major stations on your half-day trip to New Orleans.
Take in the bayou country of Louisiana lurking on the horizon.
Exit the train at the Union Passenger Terminal. You will be in the Central Business District at 1001 Loyola Ave.
Make a point to view the famous history mural spanning the wall of the train terminal's renovated waiting area.
Take advantage of early bird parking specials if you will be driving. Motorists get a discount when they park before 9:00 a.m. in most French Quarter commercial lots.
Travel around the city via streetcar, bus or taxi. To hop in a taxi at the train station, visit the main terminal.
