Nestled in the heart of East Mississippi, Meridian is a city rich in history, culture, and – significantly for travelers – a vital hub for Amtrak rail service. Whether you’re a seasoned train enthusiast, a casual traveler looking for a unique journey, or flying in to connect with the Crescent line, Meridian offers a unique blend of Southern charm and connectivity.
This complete guide will navigate you through Meridian’s pivotal role in the Amtrak network, detailing the routes, distances to major stops, and the operational airports serving the area.
Meridian, MS: A Historic Crossroads
Meridian boasts a fascinating past, deeply intertwined with the railroad industry. Once the largest city in Mississippi, its strategic location at the crossroads of multiple railway lines made it a bustling commercial center. Today, it continues to welcome visitors with attractions like the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX), the historic MSU Riley Center, and a vibrant downtown.
For travelers, Meridian’s restored Union Station is more than just a train stop – it’s a testament to the city’s enduring legacy as a transportation hub.
Amtrak in Meridian: The Mighty Crescent
Meridian is proudly served by Amtrak’s Crescent line, one of America’s most iconic long-distance routes. This daily service connects the vibrant metropolis of New York City with the soulful charm of New Orleans, cutting a path through the diverse landscapes of the Eastern Seaboard and the heart of the South.
Meridian’s Union Station (MEI) serves as a crucial mid-point on this extensive journey, making it an ideal boarding or disembarking point for travelers exploring the region or connecting to parts further afield.
The Crescent Route from Meridian: Stations & Distances
The Crescent offers a fascinating journey, linking major cities and picturesque towns. Below is a table outlining key stations along the Crescent route, showing their approximate distances from Meridian (MEI) in both northbound and southbound directions.
Please Note: Distances are approximate and based on rail mileage, which may differ slightly from road mileage. Train schedules and station stops can vary, so always check Amtrak.com for the most current information.
| Direction | Station Name | State | Approx. Distance from MEI (miles) | Key Connections/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southbound | ||||
| South | Hattiesburg | MS | 70 | Gateway to Mississippi’s Pine Belt |
| South | Picayune | MS | 105 | Small town charm, near Stennis Space Center |
| South | Slidell | LA | 120 | Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain |
| South | New Orleans | LA | 150 | Southern terminus, cultural hotspot, connect to Sunset Ltd |
| Northbound | ||||
| North | Tuscaloosa | AL | 90 | Home of the University of Alabama |
| North | Birmingham | AL | 150 | Major Southern city, rich civil rights history |
| North | Anniston | AL | 185 | Foothills of the Appalachian Mountains |
| North | Atlanta | GA | 300 | Major hub, connects to Peachtree & Palmetto lines |
| North | Gainesville | GA | 350 | Gateway to Northeast Georgia mountains |
| North | Greenville | SC | 420 | Dynamic Upstate city with a revitalized downtown |
| North | Charlotte | NC | 460 | Major financial center, NASCAR Hall of Fame |
| North | Greensboro | NC | 530 | Revitalized city, cultural attractions |
| North | Raleigh | NC | 600 | State capital, Research Triangle connection |
| North | Richmond | VA | 780 | Historic capital, connects to Northeast Corridor |
| North | Washington D.C. | DC | 950 | National capital, major Amtrak hub (Northeast Corridor) |
| North | Baltimore | MD | 1000 | Inner Harbor, historic sites |
| North | Philadelphia | PA | 1100 | City of Brotherly Love, historic landmarks |
| North | New York City | NY | 1250 | Northern terminus, iconic global city |
Booking Your Amtrak Journey to Meridian
Planning your trip on the Crescent is straightforward. Here are some key tips:
- Book Early: Especially for sleeper accommodations (Roomettes or Bedrooms) or during peak travel seasons, tickets can sell out quickly.
- Website & App: The official Amtrak website (Amtrak.com) and mobile app are the best resources for schedules, fares, and booking.
- Ticket Types: Choose between Coach seating for budget-friendly travel, or upgrade to a private room for more comfort and amenities on longer journeys.
- Baggage: Amtrak has generous baggage allowances, typically allowing two personal items and two carry-ons, plus checked baggage options.
Airports Operational for Meridian & Surrounding Areas
While Meridian is a robust rail hub, many travelers combine air travel with train journeys. Understanding the local and regional airport options is crucial for seamless travel planning.
Meridian’s Local Airport & Nearby Major Hubs
Meridian is served by its own regional airport, but larger international airports within a reasonable driving distance offer more extensive flight options and connections.
| Airport Code | Airport Name | City | State | Approx. Distance from MEI (miles) | Primary Airlines (examples) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEI | Key Field Airport | Meridian | MS | 0 (in city) | Delta Connection (via ATL) |
| JAN | Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers Intl. | Jackson | MS | 90 | Delta, American, United |
| BHM | Birmingham-Shuttlesworth Intl. | Birmingham | AL | 150 | Delta, American, United, SW |
| GPT | Gulfport-Biloxi International | Gulfport | MS | 130 | Delta, American, United |
| MSY | Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl. | New Orleans | LA | 160 | All major U.S. carriers |
Getting from Airports to Meridian:
- Rental Cars: Available at all listed airports and often the most convenient option for travel to/from Meridian, especially from the larger hubs.
- Ride Shares/Taxis: Uber and Lyft operate in the Meridian area, though availability can vary. Taxis are also an option.
- Amtrak Connection: If flying into New Orleans (MSY) or other Amtrak-served cities, you could connect to the Crescent train for the final leg to Meridian, offering a unique multi-modal travel experience.
Local Transportation in Meridian
Once you arrive in Meridian by train or plane, getting around is relatively easy:
- Downtown Meridian: The historic Union Station is conveniently located downtown, allowing easy walking access to many hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
- Rental Cars: Several rental car agencies operate in Meridian, including at Key Field Airport.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Available for getting around town or to nearby points of interest.
Start Your Meridian Adventure!
Meridian, MS, truly offers a complete travel experience. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of classic rail travel on the Crescent, seeking the convenience of a regional airport, or planning to combine both, this charming Southern city is ready to welcome you. Use this guide to plan your journey and discover all that Meridian and its surrounding regions have to offer.
Happy travels!
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