Ditch the car and explore Coastal Mississippi via train
Catching the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
We have always believed that travel is as much about the journey as the destination. And for this destination, we let the train do the work and arrive refreshed and ready to hit the ground running. With the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service that runs from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Mobile, Alabama, it easy to travel the coast. Since its launch in August 2025, thousands of passengers - including locals and visitors - have taken the line and ridership has surpassed all expectations.
It’s refreshing to witness the areas comeback. For nearly twenty years, there was no passenger train running between New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama, following Hurricane Katrina (2005). Then last August, after a nearly $200 million federal investment and years of advocacy from local leaders, the trains started running again.
Why ride the train?
Turn the travel journey into part of the experience instead of a means to an end.
Forget finding a parking spot. No need to worry about traffic. This alone saves you tons of stress and aggravation and promotes relaxation.
Move around in the cars. Go to the dining car or just wander. No need to sit still.
It promotes conversation or quiet time. Maybe it your travel buddy or a stranger, conversations happen organically. And if you prefer the quiet, there’s that too.
Your hotel is close by. Train stations are usually centrally located, so there’s no long rides or transfers. And, you get to walk into a station that often will often provide a history lesson.
According to Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi, “Early ridership has exceeded expectations, signaling strong visitor interest. Affordable fares make Coastal Mississippi more accessible for weekend, short-, and long-term stays. Future growth includes packaging, partnerships, and last-mile solutions. Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Route didn’t just add transportation, it added access. Rail travelers arrive ready to dine, shop, and experience the region and there has been a significant increase in ridership for special events. Passenger rail helps turn interests into overnight stays.”
The Pearl Hotel is centrally located and provides all the comforts of home.
First stop, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
One of the stops along the route, Bay St. Louis and this is our first stop to enjoy the coast. Our hotel accommodations, the Pearl Hotel, a boutique beachfront hotel on North Beach Boulevard. It overlooks the marina which makes it the perfect morning coffee view. Arrive by train, and arrange for a golf cart pickup. And within minutes, you’re checking into your room. On site is Thorny Oyster restaurant, perfect for seafood but also a winner when it comes to burgers.
Ocean Springs opens Mardi Gras season
Meet me in Ocean Springs
If the Mardi Gras parades beckon you to the coast, you’ll have a jam packed itinerary during the season. Where to stay, the OS HOTEL centrally located downtown. This luxury boutique-style hotel is fresh with the dark and moody touches, from dark blues and greens to a retro Marshall Bluetooth speaker for your tunes. Have coffee in your room in their handcrafted mugs or walk across the courtyard to Carve Food Hall (also provides delivery service). ADA accessible.
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Official Start: January 6, 2027
Parade Season: Begins in Ocean Springs closer to Fat Tuesday (February 9, 2027)
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A photo op in front of the Biloxi mural (so many murals)
Next stop, Biloxi
We traveled from Ocean Springs into Biloxi for the afternoon. For mural lovers, you’ll be in heaven. Walk the downtown area, and then head to dinner. Our choice, Half Shell Oyster House for a casual end to the day. On my next visit which will provide more time, I’m looking forward to visiting White Pillars Restaurant for an elevated Southern menu.
Restored Pascagoula Train Station transforms into a brewery
Pascagoula Pass
One of the most exciting developments in Pascagoula is the renovation of the old train station. Transformed from a train station into a work of art, Chandeleur Depot Brewpub is now open. Get off the train and grab a pint. “Rail-born and Coastal-crafted.” Offering food to pair with the brew as well as a play space for the kids, the brewpub offers crafted brews, plus cocktails and wines, with no need for a reservation. Dogs are always welcome. Don’t miss the photo of Jimmy Buffett standing in front of the station.
