Hattiesburg, affectionately known as “The Hub City,” lives up to its name as a vibrant center of commerce, culture, and education in Southern Mississippi. Home to the University of Southern Mississippi, Camp Shelby, and a thriving downtown scene, Hattiesburg is a destination drawing visitors for business, education, and leisure alike. But how do you get there, and once you’re there, how do you navigate? This comprehensive guide will walk you through Hattiesburg’s robust transportation network, covering its Amtrak railway services and its regional airport, complete with key distances and operational details.
Arriving by Rail: Amtrak in Hattiesburg
For those who appreciate the scenic journey and comfort of train travel, Amtrak offers a fantastic option to reach Hattiesburg. The city is a stop on one of America’s most iconic routes.
Hattiesburg Station (HBG) The Amtrak station in Hattiesburg is conveniently located just east of the downtown area, making it easily accessible to hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The station itself is a charming historic building, reflecting the city’s rich railway heritage.
The City of New Orleans Route Hattiesburg is served by Amtrak’s legendary City of New Orleans line. This daily service connects the vibrant jazz city of New Orleans, Louisiana, with the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Illinois, offering a unique journey through the heart of America.
- Northbound: From Hattiesburg, the train heads north through Mississippi (Jackson, Yazoo City), Tennessee (Memphis), Kentucky (Fulton), Illinois (Carbondale, Centralia, Effingham), before reaching its final destination in Chicago.
- Southbound: Travelers heading south from Hattiesburg will find themselves in New Orleans, Louisiana, after a short and pleasant ride.
onboard, passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, dining cars, and observation cars (on some sections), making the journey itself part of the adventure.
Table 1: Popular Amtrak Routes from Hattiesburg (HBG)
| Destination | Direction | Approximate Distance (miles) | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans, LA | Southbound | 110 | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Jackson, MS | Northbound | 90 | 2 hours |
| Memphis, TN | Northbound | 300 | 6 hours |
| Chicago, IL | Northbound | 890 | 18 hours |
Note: Travel times are estimates and can vary based on operational factors.
Booking Tips: It’s advisable to book your Amtrak tickets in advance, especially for peak travel times, to secure the best fares and preferred seating. You can book directly through Amtrak’s website or app.
Taking Flight: Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (HBG)
For those needing to travel further or quicker, Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (HBG) provides commercial air service, connecting the Hub City to major airline hubs.
Airport Overview & Code (HBG) The Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (HBG) serves the Hattiesburg-Laurel metropolitan area. Located approximately 10 miles north of downtown Hattiesburg, it’s a convenient gateway for regional and connecting flights. The airport primarily serves general aviation but also hosts commercial airline services.
Airlines and Destinations Currently, the primary commercial carrier serving HBG is American Eagle, offering daily flights to a major national hub:
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): This connection allows passengers from Hattiesburg to access American Airlines’ extensive global network, making journeys to almost anywhere in the world possible with a single layover.
Table 2: Common Flight Routes from HBG (Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport)
| Destination | Airline | Approximate Distance (miles) | Approximate Flight Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas/Fort Worth, TX | American Eagle | 520 | 1 hour 45 minutes |
Note: Flight times are for direct flights and do not include potential layovers.
Airport Amenities & Ground Transportation: HBG is a small, efficient airport offering essential services including a comfortable waiting area, car rental services (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise), and easily accessible taxi and ride-share options. Parking is ample and convenient.
Hattiesburg’s Strategic Location: Distances at a Glance
Hattiesburg’s nickname, “The Hub City,” truly reflects its central position within the region. Its well-connected rail and air services are complemented by a robust road network.
Key Distances within Hattiesburg:
- Downtown Hattiesburg to Amtrak Station: Less than 1 mile (easily walkable from many downtown locations).
- Downtown Hattiesburg to HBG Airport: Approximately 10-12 miles (a 15-20 minute drive).
Distances to Other Major Cities from Hattiesburg:
Hattiesburg’s location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the wider Gulf Coast region and beyond.
- New Orleans, LA: Approximately 110 miles (1 hour 45 minutes drive)
- Jackson, MS (State Capital): Approximately 90 miles (1 hour 30 minutes drive)
- Mobile, AL: Approximately 70 miles (1 hour 15 minutes drive)
- Gulfport, MS (Mississippi Coast): Approximately 70 miles (1 hour 15 minutes drive)
- Baton Rouge, LA: Approximately 130 miles (2 hours 15 minutes drive)
- Atlanta, GA: Approximately 380 miles (6 hours drive)
Navigating Hattiesburg Locally
Once you’ve arrived, getting around Hattiesburg is straightforward:
- Rental Cars: Available at HBG Airport and various locations throughout the city. Recommended for exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.
- Ride-Shares & Taxis: Uber and Lyft operate in Hattiesburg, along with local taxi services, offering convenient on-demand transportation.
- Public Transit: Hattiesburg has a limited public transit system, primarily catering to specific routes. For general tourist navigation, rental cars or ride-shares are usually preferred.
- Walking & Biking: Downtown Hattiesburg and the University of Southern Mississippi campus are very pedestrian-friendly. The city also boasts several trails for biking and walking.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the nostalgic charm of train travel on Amtrak’s City of New Orleans or the speed and convenience of air travel via Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport, Hattiesburg (HBG) is remarkably accessible. Its status as “The Hub City” is well-earned, offering convenient connections and a strategic location that makes it an excellent base for exploring Southern Mississippi and the wider Gulf South. Plan your visit today and discover all that Hattiesburg has to offer!
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