Highlights of the City of New Orleans Train Journey
- Starting in Chicago: Enjoy the vibrant music scene.
- Stops Along the Route: Experience unique towns and their histories.
- Arrival in New Orleans: Immerse yourself in jazz and famous cuisine.
Meet Amtrak’s City of New Orleans train, which goes through some of America’s best music cities in one journey.
Amtrak may be best known for its commuter rails through the Northeast Corridor and down the California coast; however, train travelers should explore its routes beyond that. One of the epic journeys is the City of New Orleans train, which takes travelers through vibrant music cities.
The City of New Orleans train originates in Chicago, where Amtrak suggests visitors catch a show by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Founded in the late 19th century, this esteemed orchestra offers more than 150 performances a year. Travelers can board with tickets for coach class seats, roomlets, or the luxury of one-bedroom suites, providing a private in-room bathroom complete with a shower. These accommodations are perfect for a long journey from North to South.
Moreover, guests who choose a suite enjoy Amtrak’s complimentary Flexible Dining menu, featuring hot breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, along with a selection of wine, beer, and spirits. Suite guests also have access to an exclusive onboard lounge.
Continuing its 900-mile journey, the train makes several stops across Illinois before crossing the state border into Kentucky. Fulton, with fewer than 3,000 residents, may not be widely recognized for music, but it interestingly claims the title of the “banana capital of America.” Historically, 70 percent of imported bananas passed through this town. Travelers can partake in the yearly Banana Festival, celebrating this unique heritage.
Next, the train arrives in Memphis, Tennessee, where travelers can discover Beale Street, famously known as the “Home of the Blues.” With numerous music venues, visitors can expect a live performance during any visit. To find out who’s performing, a simple visit to bealestreet.com will provide current event information.
The train continues through Mississippi, making several stops. Music enthusiasts should disembark in Jackson, known for its vibrant blues scene. The “City with Soul” hosts live performances, including the popular District Thursdays, featuring outdoor live music events every Thursday in September and October.
Finally, travelers arrive in New Orleans at Union Passage Terminal, ready to soak in the vibrant jazz culture, especially in the French Quarter. Enjoying local cuisine, including delightful Creole dishes and famous beignets, enhances this cultural experience. Afterwards, when ready to leave, simply hop back on the train and retrace the 900-mile route back.
To learn more about the train and its stops, visit amtrak.com.
