Welcome to Brookhaven, a charming city nestled in the heart of Lincoln County, Mississippi! While Brookhaven might offer a serene, small-town atmosphere, it’s remarkably well-connected, providing convenient access to major cities and regional hubs via Amtrak and nearby airports.
This guide will walk you through Brookhaven’s transportation landscape, covering its Amtrak railway services, the nearest operational airports, and how to get around, complete with essential distances to help you plan your journey.
Important Note: This guide focuses on Brookhaven, Mississippi (MS), as it has a direct Amtrak station. Distances and routes are approximate and subject to change. Always check official Amtrak and airport websites for the most current information.
1. Brookhaven’s Amtrak Railway Routes (BHM)
Brookhaven boasts its own direct Amtrak stop, making train travel a convenient and scenic option for connecting to various cities along the historic “City of New Orleans” route. The Brookhaven station (BHM) is a modest, unstaffed platform, but offers easy access to the southbound journey towards the vibrant streets of New Orleans or northbound towards the bustling city of Chicago.
The City of New Orleans Route: This iconic train runs daily, connecting Chicago to New Orleans, passing through Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois.
Key Destinations and Approximate Distances from Brookhaven (MS):
Below is a table outlining major destinations accessible via Amtrak from Brookhaven, along with approximate rail distances and estimated travel times.
| Destination | Direction | Approximate Rail Distance from BHM | Estimated Travel Time (from BHM) | Key Features / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson, MS | Northbound | 55 miles | ~1 hour | State Capital, Museums, Historic Districts |
| Memphis, TN | Northbound | 230 miles | ~4-5 hours | Home of the Blues, Elvis Graceland, Civil Rights Museum |
| Chicago, IL | Northbound | 900 miles | ~17-19 hours | Major Hub, Architecture, World-Class Dining |
| Hammond, LA | Southbound | 55 miles | ~1 hour | Gateway to Louisiana’s Northshore, University town |
| New Orleans, LA | Southbound | 80 miles | ~1.5 – 2 hours | French Quarter, Jazz, Unique Culture, Gulf Coast |
Tips for Amtrak Travel from Brookhaven:
- Book in Advance: Especially for longer journeys or peak seasons, securing your tickets early is recommended.
- Arrive Early: Although the station is unstaffed, be at the platform a good 15-20 minutes before departure.
- Check Status: Use the Amtrak app or website to check train status; delays can occur.
- Comfort: Pack snacks, a good book, or entertainment. Power outlets are usually available.
- Baggage: Be mindful of Amtrak’s baggage policies.
2. Nearest Airport Operations With Distances
While Brookhaven itself has a general aviation airport, the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Airport (KBRX), it does not offer commercial passenger services. For commercial flights, you’ll need to travel to one of the nearby regional or international airports. Thankfully, several options are within a reasonable driving distance.
Nearest Commercial Airports to Brookhaven, MS:
Here’s a breakdown of the closest operational airports offering commercial flights, along with their approximate driving distances from Brookhaven.
| Airport (Code) | Location | Approximate Driving Distance from Brookhaven | Primary Airlines (Common) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International (JAN) | Jackson, MS | ~60 miles (1 hour drive) | Delta, American Airlines, United, Frontier | The most convenient and closest commercial airport, offering connections to major hubs. |
| Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY) | Kenner, LA | ~95 miles (1.5-2 hour drive) | Delta, Southwest, United, American Airlines, Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines | A larger international airport offering a wider range of destinations and airlines, often with more competitive pricing. |
| Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) | Baton Rouge, LA | ~90 miles (1.5 hour drive) | Delta, American Airlines, United | A smaller regional airport in Louisiana, potentially a good alternative depending on your specific travel needs and if flights align. |
| Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) | Gulfport, MS | ~100 miles (1.5-2 hour drive) | American Airlines, Delta, United, Frontier | Another option for flights along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, may offer specific routes to leisure destinations or hubs. |
Tips for Air Travel from Brookhaven:
- Factor in Drive Time: Always allow ample time to drive to and from the airport, plus buffer for traffic or unexpected delays.
- Parking: Check airport websites for parking options and rates. Long-term parking is available at all commercial airports listed.
- Ground Transportation: Consider pre-booking a shuttle, taxi, or ride-share service to the airport, especially for early morning or late-night flights.
- Flight Options: Compare flights from both JAN and MSY, as prices and availability can vary significantly. MSY generally offers more direct routes and airline choices.
3. Getting Around Brookhaven
Once you’ve arrived by train or car, navigating Brookhaven is relatively straightforward.
- Roads: The city is well-served by local roads, with Interstate 55 (I-55) running just west of the city, providing excellent north-south connectivity. U.S. Routes 51 and 84 also pass through or near Brookhaven.
- Taxis & Ride-Shares: Local taxi services are available, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may operate, though availability can vary, especially outside of peak hours.
- Car Rental: While not directly available within Brookhaven, car rental services can be secured at the Jackson (JAN), New Orleans (MSY), or Baton Rouge (BTR) airports.
Conclusion
Brookhaven, Mississippi, might be a quiet Southern gem, but it’s far from isolated. With a direct Amtrak stop on a major route and several commercial airports within a short drive, it offers excellent connectivity for residents and visitors alike. Whether you prefer the scenic journey by rail or the speed of air travel, planning your trip to or from Brookhaven is made easy with these transportation options.
Safe travels, and enjoy all that Brookhaven and the surrounding region have to offer!
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