Take the Train from Bay St. Louis to New Orleans: The Perfect Day Trip from LEGENDS of the BAYOU RV Park
One of the newest and most enjoyable adventures available to guests at LEGENDS of the BAYOU RV Park is taking the Amtrak train from Bay St. Louis to New Orleans. Whether you want to experience the French Quarter, enjoy world-famous cuisine, or simply spend the day exploring one of America’s most iconic cities, this trip couldn’t be easier.
Even better? You don’t have to fight Interstate 10 traffic or pay expensive parking fees.
Getting There
The Bay St. Louis Amtrak station is located just 10 minutes from LEGENDS of the BAYOU RV Park at the historic L&N Depot in Old Town Bay St. Louis. Passenger rail service returned to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2025 with Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service, making day trips to New Orleans easier than they’ve been in decades. The station is unstaffed but offers convenient parking, and Amtrak recommends arriving about 30 minutes before departure. The morning trip departs at 8:42am.
The train arrives at Union Passenger Terminal in downtown New Orleans, just a short streetcar, rideshare, or taxi ride from the French Quarter, Warehouse District, Garden District, and many of the city’s most famous attractions.
Most travelers will have approximately seven hours to explore before boarding the return train to Bay St. Louis. The evening train back leaves New Orleans at 5:31pm. Remember to be at the station 30 minutes prior to departure.
The Perfect Seven-Hour New Orleans Itinerary
1. Ride the Historic St. Charles Streetcar
Begin your day by hopping aboard the famous green streetcar. Dating back to the 1800s, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating streetcar lines in the world and offers a beautiful ride beneath towering live oak trees through the Garden District.
2. Explore the French Quarter
No visit to New Orleans is complete without wandering the French Quarter. Spend time exploring:
- Royal Street art galleries
- Jackson Square
- Historic architecture
- Local boutiques
- Street musicians
- Hidden courtyards
- Eat Beignets at world famous Cafe du Monde
It’s one of the most walkable neighborhoods in America.
3. Visit Jackson Square
Take a few minutes to admire the iconic cathedral, browse local artists displaying their work, and soak in the energy that makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else.
4. Enjoy a Classic New Orleans Lunch
If you’re looking for an unforgettable meal, make reservations at Commander’s Palace.
Located in the beautiful Garden District, it’s considered one of the city’s legendary restaurants, serving refined Creole cuisine in an elegant setting. Their famous turtle soup, pecan-crusted Gulf fish, and bread pudding soufflé have become New Orleans traditions. It’s well worth planning your day around lunch here. Reservations are strongly recommended. If you’d rather stay in the French Quarter, there are countless excellent options within walking distance.
5. Stop for Beignets
Before heading back toward the train station, grab an order of warm powdered-sugar beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde.
It’s a delicious New Orleans tradition that first-time visitors simply can’t skip.
6. Walk Along the Mississippi River and Take a RIVERBOAT CRUISE
Take a relaxing stroll along Woldenberg Park or the Riverwalk and watch massive cargo ships travel the Mississippi River while enjoying incredible views of the city skyline. The Natchez Riverboat is a terrific way to see the New Orleans landscape from the river and escape the sun while enjoying riverboat entertainment.
7. Head Back Relaxed
Instead of navigating afternoon traffic, simply return to Union Passenger Terminal and enjoy the scenic ride back along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The evening train back leaves New Orleans at 5:31pm. Remember to be at the station 30 minutes prior to departure. You’ll arrive back in Bay St. Louis just a short drive from LEGENDS of the BAYOU RV Park, where a peaceful evening on the bayou is the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.
Why We Love This Trip
One of the best parts about staying at LEGENDS of the BAYOU RV Park is having easy access to two completely different vacation experiences.
Spend one day fishing, kayaking, or relaxing on the peaceful bayou, then hop aboard the train for world-class dining, live music, historic architecture, and the unmistakable energy of New Orleans.
It’s one of our favorite recommendations for guests looking to experience the very best of the Mississippi Gulf Coast—and beyond.
