Carbondale to New Orleans by Train

Travel from Carbondale in Carbondale, IL to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal in New Orleans, LA on the City of New Orleans. Approximately 409 miles in 8h 21m.

About this trip

The City of New Orleans connects Carbondale and New Orleans directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily, and the segment between these two stations is one of 66 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 409 rail miles takes about 8h 21m on a typical schedule. Actual travel time varies with the specific train number, time of day, equipment used, and seasonal speed restrictions. Trains may run faster on the daylight schedules and slower at peak demand on shared-use trackage. A more granular schedule comparison can be found in independent corridor timetable reviews updated each season.

Things to look out for: Mississippi Delta cotton land overnight southbound; Lake Pontchartrain crossing on the trestle outside New Orleans.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Carbondale and New Orleans typically run between $56 and $282. The lower end represents Saver-bucket advance-purchase coach fares, while the upper end approximates same-day walk-up fares or premium-class buckets. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight runs of the City of New Orleans, when offered, are sold separately from rail fare and increase total ticket cost substantially.

RailRover does not sell tickets. To book this trip, visit the operating carrier (Amtrak) directly. Discounted fares are typically available with advance purchase, on midweek departures, and through loyalty programs. Several travelers track historical fare patterns on the corridor fare-watch newsletter to time their bookings.

Stations along the way

Between Carbondale and New Orleans, the City of New Orleans calls at the following stations. Some trains may operate as "limited-stop" schedules and skip certain intermediate calls; check the published timetable for your departure.

• Carbondale — Carbondale, IL CDL
• Fulton — Fulton, KY FTN
• Newbern–Dyersburg — Newbern, TN NBN
• Memphis Central Station — Memphis, TN MEM
• Greenwood — Greenwood, MS GWD
• Jackson, MS — Jackson, MS JAN
• Hattiesburg — Hattiesburg, MS HBG
• New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal — New Orleans, LA NOL

Getting to Carbondale and from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Carbondale sits in Carbondale, IL; arrival at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal places you in New Orleans, LA. Transfers from the platform to onward bus, light rail, or rideshare are well marked at the major hubs along this route. For specific transit connections at either station, see our station guides linked above.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from Carbondale to New Orleans take?

Approximately 8h 21m on a typical schedule, covering about 409 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the City of New Orleans operates daily with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $56 to $282 for a one-way coach ticket. Premium classes and sleeping car accommodations cost more.

Can I bring a bicycle or pet?

Most long-distance and corridor trains accept checked or carry-on bicycles and small pets in carriers, with route-specific rules. Confirm with Amtrak at the time of booking.