New Orleans is a city defined by its sensory overload—the scent of chicory coffee, the sound of a blues trumpet drifting from a side street, and the sight of historic streetcars gliding past Spanish lace balconies.
But before you can plunge into the beignets and the jazz, you need to arrive. Whether you are landing via the sleek new international airport or stepping off a historic long-distance train, NOLA is built to welcome travelers.
This guide provides the essential operational details travelers need about getting to, and moving around, the Crescent City using its primary travel hubs: the state-of-the-art airport and the classic Union Passenger Terminal.
Part 1: Landing at Louis Armstrong – MSY Airport Operations
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serves as the primary gateway for air travel, connecting NOLA to destinations worldwide. Since the opening of its consolidated, modern terminal complex in 2019, the travel experience has been significantly streamlined.
Key Airport Details
MSY is located in Kenner, Louisiana, approximately 11 miles west of the Central Business District (CBD) and the French Quarter. While the new terminal offers numerous amenities, travelers should be aware of the distance and plan ground transportation accordingly.
| Metric | Detail | Importance for Travelers |
|---|---|---|
| IATA Code | MSY | Used for booking flights. |
| Location | Kenner, LA | Approx. 20-30 minute drive (without traffic) to downtown NOLA. |
| New Terminal | Consolidated (Single Terminal) | All airlines and gates are housed within one building. |
| Primary Airlines | Southwest, Delta, American, Spirit | Strong coverage, especially for domestic routes. |
| Security Wait Times | Generally efficient | Check the MSY website or app for real-time TSA data. |
Ground Transportation from MSY
Getting from the airport to the heart of the city requires planning, especially during peak Mardi Gras or festival season.
| Transportation Method | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Flat Rate | ~$36 (Airport regulatory flat rate to CBD/French Quarter) | Fastest direct option; fixed price eliminates surprise costs. |
| Airport Shuttle Bus | ~$24 per person | Direct service to most major downtown hotels; recommended for solo travelers or small groups. |
| RTA Bus (E-2 Airport Express) | $1.50 | Most economical option; runs less frequently and requires a transfer to reach the French Quarter. |
| Ride Share (Uber/Lyft) | Varies, usually $30–$50 | Pick-up area is designated on the ground level outside of baggage claim. |
Part 2: The Romance of Rail – Amtrak Routes to NOLA
For travelers seeking a scenic, historic journey, New Orleans is one of the premier rail hubs in the South. It serves as the terminus for three distinct and storied Amtrak routes, all congregating at the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOUPT).
The New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOUPT)
NOUPT is the centralized transportation hub, conveniently located just west of the CBD at 1001 Loyola Avenue.
- Connectivity: It is the only train station serving NOLA. It also serves as the city’s main Greyhound station and is a primary stop on the iconic RTA streetcar lines (especially the Loyola Avenue route), making onward travel easy.
Key Amtrak Routes Serving New Orleans
The beauty of arriving by train in NOLA is the connection to three major long-haul routes that span the East Coast, the Midwest, and the Southwest.
| Route Name | Eastern/Northern Terminus | Key Intermediate Cities | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Crescent | New York City (NYP) | Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Birmingham | Daily |
| City of New Orleans | Chicago (CHI) | Memphis, Jackson (MS) | Daily |
| Sunset Limited | Los Angeles (LAX) / San Antonio (SAT) | Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, Phoenix | 3 times per week |
Route Highlight: The Sunset Limited
The Sunset Limited is Amtrak’s southernmost route and, historically, one of its most important, traversing the vast landscapes of the Gulf Coast and Southwest.
Important Note: Due to infrastructure issues following Hurricane Katrina, the Sunset Limited currently operates only between New Orleans and Los Angeles (via San Antonio). The segment between NOLA and Orlando remains suspended.
Part 3: Navigating the Crescent City
Once you’ve arrived via plane or train, local transit makes exploring NOLA’s famous districts simple and atmospheric.
Connecting the Hubs
The NOUPT is the nexus point for several key transit options:
- Streetcars: The RTA’s streetcar lines (St. Charles, Canal, and Rampart/Loyola) are the most charming way to get around. The Loyola Line runs directly past the NOUPT, providing convenient access to Canal Street and the French Quarter area.
- Bus Network: Regular RTA bus services connect NOUPT to areas not serviced by the streetcars.
- Transit Passes: If you plan on using public transit frequently, purchase a Jazzy Pass (RTA’s transit fare card) for unlimited rides over 1, 3, or 31 days.
Tips for Travelers
- Airport Timing (MSY): Allow ample time for transportation from downtown to MSY. Traffic on I-10 and within the terminal area can become congested, especially during conventions or large festivals.
- Ride Share vs. Taxi: At MSY, traditional taxis offer a regulated flat rate to the city center, which can sometimes be more stable and predictable than surge-priced ride shares, especially late at night.
- Train Station Security: While NOUPT is well-connected, it is located adjacent to an industrial area. If arriving by train late at night, utilize a taxi or ride share directly from the terminal rather than walking far with luggage.
- Luggage Storage: Neither MSY nor NOUPT offers secure storage for long-term luggage (like lockers). Plan to check bags at your hotel or utilize specialized third-party services if you have a late departure.
Ready to book your trip? Whether you prefer the speed of the jet stream or the slow, rhythmic click-clack of the rails, New Orleans awaits with true Southern hospitality and a world-class travel infrastructure ready to get your adventure started.
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