Planning a train journey through the American South? You’re in for a treat. From the Gulf Coast’s beaches to the Appalachian mountains, Amtrak’s southern routes connect some of the country’s most historic and vibrant cities. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about traveling by train through Dixie.
What Train Routes Go Through the Southern United States?
Quick Answer: Amtrak operates four major routes through the Southern US: the Crescent (New York to New Orleans), City of New Orleans (Chicago to New Orleans), Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles), and Silver Service/Palmetto trains (New York to Florida).
These routes connect major southern cities including Atlanta, New Orleans, Birmingham, Charlotte, Memphis, and Miami, offering travelers a comfortable alternative to flying or driving.
The Major Southern Train Routes Explained
The Crescent: New York to New Orleans
The Crescent is probably the most iconic southern train route. This daily service runs from New York City down through the heart of the South to New Orleans, covering 1,377 miles over about 30 hours.
Cities You’ll Visit: Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington DC, Charlotte, Greenville SC, Atlanta, Birmingham, Meridian, and New Orleans.
What makes this route special? You get stunning views of the Piedmont region, pass through Civil War battlefields, and watch the landscape transform from urban Northeast to the sultry Deep South. The stretch through Georgia and Alabama is particularly beautiful during spring when everything’s blooming.
Travel time is roughly 29.5 hours, and you’ll want to book a sleeper car if you’re doing the whole route – trust me, it makes the journey so much more enjoyable.
City of New Orleans: Chicago to the Gulf
Named after the famous folk song, this route connects the Midwest to the Mississippi Delta and beyond. Running daily between Chicago and New Orleans, it covers 926 miles in about 19 hours.
Key Stops Include: Champaign IL, Memphis, Greenwood MS, Jackson MS, Hammond LA, and New Orleans.
This is your train if you want to experience authentic southern culture. Memphis alone is worth the stop for its barbecue and blues music. As you travel south, you’ll pass through the fertile Mississippi Delta – the birthplace of blues music and home to sprawling cotton fields.
Sunset Limited: Coast to Coast Through the South
The Sunset Limited is America’s most southern transcontinental route, running from New Orleans to Los Angeles three times weekly. While it travels through several states, its southern leg offers unique experiences.
Southern Portion Stops: New Orleans, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Beaumont, Houston, San Antonio.
The Louisiana and Texas portions showcase Cajun country, Gulf Coast scenery, and the wide-open spaces of Texas. This route takes about 48 hours total, but you can ride just the southern section if you prefer.
Silver Service & Palmetto: Gateway to Florida
While these trains start in the Northeast, their southern sections are incredibly popular. The Silver Meteor and Silver Star both run daily from New York to Miami, while the Palmetto goes to Savannah.
Major Southern Cities: Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa (Silver Star), West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami.
Snowbirds love these routes for traveling between northern homes and Florida destinations. The coastal views through the Carolinas and into Florida are gorgeous, especially around dawn or dusk.
Southern Train Route Comparison
| Route Name | Total Distance | Travel Time | Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crescent | 1,377 miles | ~30 hours | Daily | Northeast to Deep South travel |
| City of New Orleans | 926 miles | ~19 hours | Daily | Midwest to Gulf Coast, Blues Trail |
| Sunset Limited | 1,995 miles | ~48 hours | 3x weekly | Transcontinental, Texas & Louisiana |
| Silver Meteor | 1,389 miles | ~28 hours | Daily | East Coast to Florida |
| Silver Star | 1,522 miles | ~31 hours | Daily | Florida via inland route |
| Palmetto | 829 miles | ~14 hours | Daily | Quick Northeast to Charleston/Savannah |
How Much Does Train Travel in the South Cost?
Quick Answer: Coach seats on southern routes typically range from $30-$150 for short segments, while long-distance journeys can cost $100-$400. Sleeper accommodations add $150-$600+ depending on the route and room type.
Here’s a realistic pricing breakdown based on popular routes:
Sample Fares (Coach Class):
- New York to Atlanta (Crescent): $110-$180
- Atlanta to New Orleans (Crescent): $65-$120
- Chicago to Memphis (City of New Orleans): $45-$85
- Memphis to New Orleans (City of New Orleans): $50-$95
- New York to Miami (Silver Service): $140-$250
- New Orleans to Houston (Sunset Limited): $75-$135
Sleeper Accommodations: Add these costs for overnight journeys:
- Roomette (2 passengers): +$150-$400
- Bedroom (2-3 passengers): +$350-$700
- Bedroom Suite (4 passengers): +$700-$1,400
Prices fluctuate based on season, booking time, and demand. Book 2-3 months ahead for the best deals, especially for popular routes like New York to New Orleans or trains to Florida during winter.
Best Times to Take Southern Train Routes
Spring (March-May) is hands-down the best season. You’ll see blooming dogwoods, azaleas, and magnolias throughout the South. Temperatures are mild, and you’ll avoid summer’s intense heat and humidity.
Fall (September-November) comes in second. The weather cools down, fall foliage appears in the northern sections, and you’ll catch harvest season across the agricultural areas.
Winter (December-February) is popular for Florida-bound trains – snowbirds pack the Silver Service routes. Southern winters are generally mild, though you might encounter some cold snaps in Atlanta or Charlotte.
Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid, but prices sometimes drop, and trains are less crowded except for holiday weekends.
What Amenities Can I Expect on Southern Routes?
All long-distance southern trains include:
Standard Features:
- Comfortable reclining seats with leg rests (coach)
- Café car with snacks, sandwiches, and drinks
- Dining car with hot meals (included for sleeper passengers)
- Free Wi-Fi (though spotty in rural areas – let’s be honest)
- Large windows for scenery viewing
- Luggage storage
Sleeper Car Perks:
- Private accommodations with beds
- Complimentary meals in the dining car
- Dedicated attendant
- Private bathroom (in bedrooms) or shared facilities (roomettes)
- Shower access
The dining experience deserves special mention. You’re not getting five-star cuisine, but Amtrak’s traditional dining service offers decent hot meals – think steak, fish, pasta, and hearty breakfasts. It’s a social experience too; you might share a table with fellow travelers.
Top Cities to Explore on Southern Routes
New Orleans, Louisiana
The crown jewel of southern train travel. Every route I’ve mentioned either starts, ends, or passes through NOLA. Stay a few days for the French Quarter, incredible food, jazz clubs, and that unique mix of French, Spanish, African, and American cultures you can’t find anywhere else.
Atlanta, Georgia
A major hub on the Crescent, Atlanta blends modern urban energy with Civil Rights history. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, explore the BeltLine, or catch a show at the Fox Theatre.
Charleston, South Carolina
The Palmetto stops here, and you should too. Charleston’s historic district, antebellum architecture, waterfront views, and southern hospitality make it worth at least a two-day stopover.
Memphis, Tennessee
Stop here on the City of New Orleans for Beale Street’s blues bars, Sun Studio tours, and the best barbecue you’ll ever taste. Plus, you’re obligated to visit Graceland if you’re an Elvis fan.
Savannah, Georgia
Another Palmetto gem, Savannah’s moss-draped squares, historic homes, and riverfront district feel like stepping back in time. It’s compact and walkable too – perfect for train travelers.
Practical Tips for Southern Train Travel
Book Early for Best Prices: Amtrak uses dynamic pricing. The earlier you book, the better the fare – especially for sleeper rooms which sell out quickly on popular routes.
Pack Smart: Bring layers even in summer (air conditioning can be cold), snacks for long stretches, entertainment for rural areas with weak Wi-Fi, and a refillable water bottle.
Consider Breaking Up Long Journeys: Instead of doing New York to New Orleans in one shot, spend a night in Atlanta or Charlotte. You’ll arrive more refreshed and get to explore another city.
Check Station Locations: Some southern stations are centrally located (New Orleans, Memphis), while others are on the outskirts. Plan your ground transportation accordingly.
Be Flexible: Delays happen, especially on long-distance routes sharing tracks with freight trains. Build buffer time into your connections.
Scenic Highlights You Can’t Miss
The Crescent through the Carolinas: Watch for the transition from Piedmont to coastal plains as you head south from Charlotte.
Mississippi Delta on City of New Orleans: The flat, fertile farmland between Memphis and Jackson tells the story of southern agriculture and blues history.
Louisiana Bayou Country: The Sunset Limited between New Orleans and Lafayette takes you through authentic Cajun country with cypress swamps and waterways.
Georgia Countryside: The stretch between Atlanta and Savannah shows you the “real” Georgia – small towns, pine forests, and farms.
Why Choose Train Travel Over Flying or Driving?
I get asked this all the time. Here’s the honest truth: train travel through the South isn’t always faster or cheaper than flying. But here’s what you gain:
Space and Comfort: No cramped middle seats, no fighting for overhead bins. Walk around, stretch your legs, visit the café car whenever you want.
Scenery: Highways and airports don’t show you much. Trains take routes through towns and countryside you’d never see otherwise. You’ll pass backyard gardens, historic downtowns, and natural landscapes.
No TSA Hassles: Show up 20 minutes before departure, no security lines, bring full-size liquids, and keep your shoes on.
Downtown to Downtown: Most Amtrak stations sit in city centers. No expensive airport transfers or hour-long drives.
Environmental Benefits: Trains produce significantly less CO2 per passenger than cars or planes. If that matters to you, it’s the greener choice.
The Journey Becomes Part of the Vacation: There’s something romantic about train travel. You’re not just getting from A to B; you’re experiencing the landscape, meeting people, and traveling the way Americans did for generations.
Planning Your Southern Train Adventure
Ready to book? Here’s my recommended approach:
- Choose your route based on what you want to see. History buffs love the Crescent; music fans prefer the City of New Orleans; beach lovers head to Florida on Silver Service.
- Decide on accommodations. Coach works fine for daytime trips under 8 hours. For overnight journeys, splurge on a roomette if budget allows – you’ll sleep better and meals are included.
- Book on Amtrak.com 2-3 months out for best pricing. Join Amtrak Guest Rewards for points and occasional promotions.
- Plan your stops. Don’t just pass through New Orleans or Memphis – these cities deserve exploration time.
- Pack appropriately. Two carry-on bags and two personal items are free. Check Amtrak’s baggage policy for oversized items.
- Download offline entertainment. Wi-Fi works in cities but gets spotty in rural areas across Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Crescent wins for overall scenery diversity. You’ll see mountains in Virginia, rolling Piedmont hills in the Carolinas, and lush forests through Georgia and Alabama. The City of New Orleans offers unique Delta landscapes you won’t find elsewhere.
No, auto train service isn’t available on these routes. The Auto Train only runs between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando). If you need a car at your destination, you’ll need to rent one.
Yes, Amtrak trains are very safe. Conductors and attendants staff all trains, and stations in major cities have security. Like any travel, use common sense with your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.
Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure for checked baggage, or 15-20 minutes if you’re only carrying on. Southern stations are generally less hectic than Northeast Corridor stops, but better safe than sorry.
Long-distance trains can experience delays since they share tracks with freight trains, which have priority. The Crescent and City of New Orleans are generally more punctual than the Sunset Limited. Always build in buffer time for connections.
It depends. For short hops, driving might be cheaper. For longer routes, coach train tickets often compete with budget airlines, but factor in the comfort and experience. Sleeper cars cost more but include meals and a bed – compare that to a hotel night plus food.
Start with the Palmetto from DC to Charleston or Savannah. It’s a daytime trip (no overnight required), reasonably priced, and gives you a taste of southern train travel without the commitment of a 30-hour journey.
Yes! The Crescent passes through several significant cities including Atlanta (MLK sites) and Birmingham (Civil Rights Institute). The City of New Orleans goes through Memphis (National Civil Rights Museum) and Jackson MS (home of Medgar Evers).
Final Thoughts
Southern train routes offer something special you can’t get from a rushed flight or interstate highway drive. You’ll watch the landscape unfold slowly, chat with locals in the café car, and arrive at your destination actually relaxed.
Whether you’re tracing the path of the blues from Chicago to New Orleans, exploring Civil War history along the Crescent, or heading to Florida’s beaches on the Silver Meteor, train travel lets you see the South the way it’s meant to be experienced – at a human pace, with time to appreciate the journey itself.
The South isn’t just a region to pass through quickly on your way somewhere else. It’s a place with deep history, rich culture, incredible food, and landscapes that change with every mile. Train travel gives you the time and vantage point to appreciate all of it.
So grab your ticket, pack a good book, and settle into your seat. The South is waiting, and trust me – you’re going to love the ride.