Sunset Limited Train: Rider Guide

Sunset Limited Amtrak trains travel between New Orleans and Los Angeles with stops in Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. There are many cultural and fun attractions to visit along the route, or stay on board for unique desert and swamp views. Two levels tall, the trains use Superliner rail cars and have a sightseer lounge available to all passengers. Sleeping accommodations are also available at an extra cost.

Fun fact: The route is based on the oldest-named route in the United States; the Southern Pacific Railway provided similar rail service starting in 1894. Then like now, enjoy stunning mountain, desert and lake views as you travel across the country.

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Schedule Highlights

Trains depart New Orleans in the morning.
Trains depart Los Angeles at night.
Trains arrive in L.A. early in the morning.
Trains arrive in New Orleans in the evening.
Overnight, trains are in parts of California, Arizona and Western Texas.

View latest schedules and timetables on Amtrak.com.

Things to Know

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The Sunset Limited is the only route that travels to and from Houston.
The Texas Eagle is attached to the Sunset Limited in San Antonio for the trip to L.A.
Tickets often sell out for Friday arrival in New Orleans, so book your ticket early.
Maricopa is the stop for Phoenix, but it is 30 miles away from the city center. We recommend getting a Lyft or Uber ride to reach the city.
If you aren’t planning to go to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, it’s probably best to book your train trip during another time.

FAQ

How long is the Sunset Limited train ride?

If you travel the entire route between New Orleans and Los Angeles, travel time is about 46.5 hours and you’ll spend two nights on the train.

What is the difference between the Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle?

The Sunset Limited travels through the US South and Southwest while the Texas Eagle has additional stops in the Midwest. These trains are combined in San Antonio, so between San Antonio and Los Angeles, there is no difference in route, and both trains have sleeper and observation cars.

Does the Sunset Limited have food?

There is a café car available to all passengers and traditional dining for sleeper car passengers on the Sunset Limited. Meals are included in the ticket price if you book a roomette or bedroom.

How much does it cost to ride Amtrak from Houston to New Orleans?

Amtrak coach seats are around $50 one way for travel between Houston and New Orleans. Expect to pay over $200 for a roomette and more than double that for a bedroom.