Amtrak executives and city officials at the press conference announcing the official start date of Mardi Gras Service. Photo courtesy of the City of Mobile.
Amtrak executives, city officials and excited Mobilians gathered at Government Plaza today, as Amtrak revealed the new Mardi Gras Service will begin twice-daily Gulf Coast routes on August 18, 2025. The new state-sponsored Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will offer convenient morning and evening departures from both Mobile and New Orleans, plus a promotion to introduce Amtrak Guest Rewards to the region.
“We encourage customers to get their tickets now to experience this new, comfortable, and scenic service, and have the first opportunity to travel by train on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in nearly 20 years,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Guests can plan travel for football trips this fall, for November and December holiday travel – and even Mardi Gras Season next year.”
Adult coach fares end-to-end start at $15 each way, less for shorter distances. There are everyday discounts for children ages 2-12, students, seniors, veterans, military personnel and families, small groups, large groups and others.
David Clark, President & CEO of Visit Mobile and South Rail Commissioner, emcees the Amtrak press conference.
“This is an incredible moment for the City of Mobile, as we move from restoring the Amtrak service between Mobile and New Orleans to officially celebrating the beginning of ticket sales,” said David Clark, Visit Mobile President & CEO. “The twice-daily service will provide substantial options for easy and experiential travel for visitors and citizens while creating a new avenue of economic impact for the City of Mobile and Gulf Coast communities.” Clark also serves as an Alabama Commissioner for the Southern Rail Commission (SRC).
Amtrak Guest Rewards “3-3-3” Promotion
Through November 18, 2025, Amtrak Guest Rewards® members can earn triple points on Amtrak Mardi Gras Service travel. To qualify, members must complete three qualifying trips on the service during the three-month promotional period. Once the threshold is met, three times the points will be awarded retroactively for those trips and for all additional qualifying trips taken through November 18. Details are on Amtrak.com.
