4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Cheapest price
$462
Average price
$744
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 42 m
Average duration
1 d 13 h 16 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1552 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA will cost around $744 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $462.
Of the 2 trains that leave Washington, DC for New Orleans, LA on Thu, May 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 1552 km distance in an average of 1 d 13 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 3 h 42 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 1 d 22 h 50 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.
40 Floridian · 59 City Of New Orleans3:57 PM46h50Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$4621One-way1 transfer- 19 Crescent6:30 PM27h42Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:12 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$10271One-way0 transfers
- 19 Crescent6:30 PM27h42Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:12 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$10271One-way0 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 59 City Of New Orleans3:57 PM46h50Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1:47 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$4621One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $98. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $98, and a train costs an average of $177.
Distance: 964 miles (1552 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$286 Average price | $239 Average price | $195 Average price Cheapest | $221 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 59m Average total duration 27h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 17m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 25h 39m Average total duration 25h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $44 (€35) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA costing on average $239 (€193).
A bus is $91 (€73) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA costing on average $286 (€230).
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Bus takes on average 25h 9m.
Train takes on average 27h 29m.
Tickets start at around $286 (€230) compared to roughly $221 (€178) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-65.06 (€-52.46). The journey takes 27h 29m versus 15h 52m 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
Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA trains for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 Crescent | 6:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 27h42 | 9:12 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to New Orleans, 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.
May 28
May 29
May 30
May 31
Jun 01
Jun 02
Jun 03
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 27h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $177 (€143) but you can travel from only $78 (€63) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:10, the last at 18:42. The fastest train covers the 964 miles (1552 km) distance in 26h 5m.
Distance 964 miles (1552 km) |
Average train duration 27h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $177 (€143) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 26h 5m |
First train 9:10 AM |
Last train 6:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 70 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and New Orleans, LA from $78 (€63). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Traveling between Washington, DC and New Orleans, LA is a scenic journey made convenient by Amtrak. The train connection offers travelers the chance to relax while enjoying picturesque views of the American landscape. With comfortable seating and onboard amenities, this route provides an enjoyable experience as you traverse approximately 1,000 miles through diverse regions. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, Amtrak ensures a smooth ride filled with unique sights along the way.
Train Connection: Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
The train connection from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA takes approximately 24 hours. There is 1 direct connection available per day. Passengers will depart from Union Station in DC and arrive at the Union Passenger Terminal in LA.
Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
The first daily train journey departs from Washington, DC at 22:30. The last departure for the day is scheduled for 23:30.
Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA is $145 (130.5€). The average ticket price tends to be around $219 (197.1€), making it a good option if you're looking for budget-friendly travel between these two cities.
Exploring the French Quarter: A Journey Through History and Culture
Welcome to the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, where vibrant history and culture come alive through its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere. This area is significant not only for its unique blend of Spanish, French, and Creole influences but also as a hub for music, art, and culinary delights that define the spirit of this city. As you stroll along Bourbon Street or explore hidden courtyards adorned with lush greenery, you'll discover why this enchanting locale captivates visitors from around the world.
Next up is St. Louis Cathedral—an iconic symbol of New Orleans' rich religious heritage dating back to 1789 when it was built on the site of three previous churches. Its significance lies in being one of the oldest cathedrals in continuous use within North America while serving as a focal point for both spiritual gatherings and community events throughout centuries. The cathedral's striking Gothic Revival architecture features intricate stained glass windows that tell stories from biblical times; be sure to take a moment inside to soak up its serene beauty.
Finally, we arrive at Jackson Square—a historic park named after General Andrew Jackson who famously led American forces during the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. This square holds great significance as it has been an essential gathering place since colonial days where artists showcase their work amidst street performers entertaining passersby with music and dance alike. Unique features include beautiful wrought-iron fences surrounding St. Louis Cathedral alongside charming cafés perfect for enjoying local delicacies while soaking up views steeped deep into our city's storied past!
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to New Orleans, 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
- Shake Shack
- McDonald’s
- Starbucks
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- Chopt Creative Salad Co.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Thunder Grill
- Johnny Rockets
- Jamba Juice
- Ladurée Union Station
- & many more
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
- Metro lines: Red
- Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
- Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, accessible 24/7.
- Cochon Restaurant
- Herbsaint
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
- Le Pavillon Hotel
- Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
- Hall 3: bus and streetcar connections
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: Loyola-UPT Line
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and Washington, DC
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
