Page 24 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Fall, 2025

PLAN YOUR PLAY
A NEW ERA FOR COAST TRAVEL
Story by Lynn Lofton | Photo courtesy of AmtrakTM
A warm “All aboard!” is once again echoing along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, signaling the return of a long-awaited travel experience.
After a 20-year hiatus, the AmtrakTM Mardi Gras ServiceSM made its inaugural run on August 18, offering twice-daily, round-trip passenger rail service between Mobile, AL and New Orleans, LA with convenient stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.
“This isn’t just a transportation milestone; it’s a transformative opportunity to drive tourism growth across our entire region,” said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism. “We’re deeply grateful to Amtrak and our state, local, and federal partners for working together to turn this long-awaited vision into reality.”
Already known for its welcoming hospitality, sugar-white beaches, world-class gaming, rich cultural heritage, and robust culinary scene, Coastal Mississippi is now even more accessible to visitors from near and far.
“This is another wonderful amenity for Coast lodgings as well as many throughout the state,” said Linda G. Hornsby, Executive Director of the Mississippi Hotel & Lodging Association. “It’s a great opportunity for properties to enhance their guest offerings and create packages that include tickets aboard the Mardi Gras ServiceSM.”
Affordable fares make the journey even more appealing! Adult coach tickets for the full route start at just $15 each way, with even lower prices for your Coastal stops. Discounts are available
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for children (ages 2–12), students, seniors, veterans, military personnel, and groups of all sizes.
These trains will offer coach and business class in addition to cafe service with a menu featuring locally sourced items. Guests will enjoy wide reclining seats with ample legroom, no middle seats, free Wi-Fi and generous carry-on luggage allowances. Space can be reserved for golf bags and pets in carriers within appropriate weights.
Coast Transit Authority
And the journey doesn’t end at the station. Coast Transit Authority (CTA) encourages passengers to “keep their journey rolling!” From the Biloxi Transit Center, travelers can hop on trolley and bus services heading west to Gulfport or east to Ocean Springs, making it easy to explore the entire region. No car required!
experience the spirit and excitement of Coastal Mississippi.
So, whether you’re chasing Coastal breezes, uncovering charming towns, or simply seeking a new adventure, the AmtrakTM Mardi Gras
ServiceSM is your ticket to
RIDE MORE!
COASTALMISSISSIPPI.COM