New Orleans to Lake Charles by Train

Travel from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal in New Orleans, LA to Lake Charles in Lake Charles, LA on the Sunset Limited. Approximately 460 miles in 9h 22m.

About this trip

The Sunset Limited connects New Orleans and Lake Charles directly, with no transfer required. The train operates tri-weekly, and the segment between these two stations is one of 51 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 460 rail miles takes about 9h 22m 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: Big Bend country and Chihuahuan Desert through the Texas Trans-Pecos; sunrise across the Sonoran Desert outside Tucson.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between New Orleans and Lake Charles typically run between $73 and $374. 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 Sunset Limited, 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 New Orleans and Lake Charles, the Sunset Limited 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.

• New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal — New Orleans, LA NOL
• Schriever — Schriever, LA SDL
• Lafayette — Lafayette, LA LFT
• Lake Charles — Lake Charles, LA LCH

Getting to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal and from Lake Charles

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal sits in New Orleans, LA; arrival at Lake Charles places you in Lake Charles, 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 New Orleans to Lake Charles take?

Approximately 9h 22m on a typical schedule, covering about 460 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Sunset Limited operates tri-weekly with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $73 to $374 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.