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Tourism

New Passenger Rail Service Connects Mississippi Gulf Coast Cities

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Passenger rail service has officially returned to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with the Mardi Gras Service launching twice-daily round-trip trains between New Orleans, Mobile, and four coastal cities. This milestone marks a significant step for tourism in the region, providing international visitors with a seamless connection to explore the Gulf Coast's beauty, charm, and hospitality. Coastal Mississippi Tourism, the Destination Marketing Organization for Hancock, Harrison, and Jackson Counties, is poised to showcase the region's unique experiences, from stunning beaches and world-class gaming to rich cultural attractions and exceptional cuisine.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Mardi Gras Service connects New Orleans and Mobile to Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, with twice-daily round-trip service.
  • The passenger rail service is expected to increase tourism, boost interstate commerce, and develop the coastal economy.
  • The return of passenger train travel to the region is the result of efforts spearheaded by U.S. Senator Roger F. Wicker over the last two decades.
  • The Mardi Gras Service will provide access to several big festivals, concerts, and special events, including Coastal Mississippi's Gulf Coast Jam, Mississippi's longestrunning free-concert series.
  • Coastal Mississippi Tourism is dedicated to attracting leisure, convention, sports, and business visitors to the area, with a focus on maximizing the travel and tourism industry.
  • Travelers can visit the Coastal Mississippi website to book tickets and plan their stay.

Statistics:

  • 4 cities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast are now connected by the Mardi Gras Service: Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula.
  • 62 miles of shoreline are now accessible by rail.
  • The Mardi Gras Service offers twice-daily round-trip service between New Orleans and Mobile and the nearby coastal cities.
  • 20 years of efforts culminated in the launch of the Mardi Gras Service, with U.S. Senator Roger F. Wicker leading the charge.

Sources:

  • PRNewswire, "Coastal Mississippi Tourism Welcomes Travelers Aboard New Mardi Gras Service (Aug. 18, 2025)"
  • Coastal Mississippi Tourism, "About Us"
  • Coastal Mississippi Tourism, "Mardi Gras Service"
  • Coastal Mississippi Tourism, "Gulf Coast Jam"
  • Coastal Mississippi Tourism, " Missippi's longest running free-concert series"

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