Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA train with Amtrak

Sun, May 17
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

Showing times and prices for May 17

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$36

Fastest journey

3 h 19 m

Average duration

3 h 19 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

214 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA will cost around $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Houston, TX for Lake Charles, LA on Sun, May 17, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 17 the direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 3 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .

On Sun, May 17 the slowest trains will take 3 h 19 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak
    6:10 PM3h19
    Houston, TX
    9:29 PMLake Charles, LA
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    5:10 PM3h19
    Houston, TX
    8:29 PMLake Charles, LA
    $431One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $254.

Distance: 132 miles (214 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$43

Average price

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$487

Average price

$30

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 53m

Average total duration

3h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 7m

Average total duration

2h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

58m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is a bus with an average price of $42 (€34).

This is compared to other travel options from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA:

A bus is $0.71 (€0.57) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA costing on average $43 (€35).

A bus is $445 (€360) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA costing on average $487 (€394).

The fastest way to travel from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 58m.

Other travel options to Lake Charles, LA take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 37m.

Train takes on average 3h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Houston, TX and Lake Charles, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $43 (€35) compared to roughly $30 (€24) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-12.48 (€-10.08). The journey takes 3h 23m versus 2h 10m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA train times

The table below shows live departures for Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA trains for today, Saturday, May 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak12:10 PM Houston, TX
3h19
3:29 PM Lake Charles, LA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
May 17
Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20
Thu
May 21
Fri
May 22
Sat
May 23

Journey information

Overview: Train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 3h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 12:10, the last at 13:55. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 3h 19m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25 (€20)
Distance
132 miles (214 km)
Average train duration
3h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
1
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 19m
First train
12:10 PM
Last train
1:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25 (€20)

Train companies: Amtrak from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Houston, TX and Lake Charles, LA from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Lake Charles, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $43 (€35).
The train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA runs once a day and takes approximately 3h 19m.
The first train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA leaves at 12:10 PM.
The distance by train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is 132 miles (214 km).
The last train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA leaves at 1:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA.
The train station in Houston, TX that goes to Lake Charles, LA is Houston Station, Houston, TX, which connects to Lake Charles Station, Lake Charles, LA.
The cheapest way to get from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA offers views of the Gulf Coast's natural landscapes, including coastal wetlands, marshes, and occasional glimpses of wildlife, providing a modestly scenic experience.
A day trip from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 19m each way. However, there is 1 train per day available for travel.
To fully experience Lake Charles, LA, including its Creole Nature Trail, local casinos, and cultural attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA.
Since neither Houston, TX nor Lake Charles, LA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Lake Charles, LA include Lafayette, LA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Lake Charles, LA, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes like pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or poorly lit areas. It is advisable to avoid isolated neighborhoods after dark. Common scams include overpriced taxi fares and unofficial ticket sellers near popular attractions. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation services helps ensure a safer visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

Houston
Lake Charles
The major train station for departures in Houston is Houston Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Houston Station for your trip from Houston to Lake Charles.
Houston StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station.
Dining
Dining
  • Irma's Southwest Grill
  • The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Lancaster Hotel
  • Hotel ICON
  • Magnolia Hotel Houston
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for Amtrak services
  • Waiting area and ticket office located in the main hall.
Public transit options for Houston Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • METRORail: Red Line

More options for your journey from Houston, TX to Lake Charles, LA

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