Is there a direct train to New Orleans?

Yes, the Amtrak Crescent runs directly from Washington Union Station to New Orleans.

What is the best airport for New Orleans?

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the primary hub.

How long is the drive from Maryland?

It takes approximately 18 to 20 hours of driving time.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, expect tolls on I-95 through Virginia and Maryland.

Is it safe to walk in the French Quarter?

It is generally safe during the day, but stay alert at night.

Gaithersburg

New Orleans

Flight Driving

Gaithersburg to New Orleans

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Gaithersburg to New Orleans spans approximately 1,850 kilometers. You can drive via I-85 and I-10, taking roughly 18 hours of pure driving time. Alternatively, flying from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport takes about 5 hours including connections. The Amtrak Crescent train offers a scenic, albeit longer, 26-hour journey from Union Station in DC. This route transitions from the Mid-Atlantic urban corridor to the humid, culturally rich Gulf Coast. Expect significant terrain changes as you move from the Appalachian foothills into the Mississippi Delta.

Total Distance: 1,850 km driving distance; 1,520 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from BWI to MSY is the fastest, taking 5 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups of three or more, costing roughly $250 total in fuel.

Compare Gaithersburg to New Orleans Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	18 hours
Avg Price	$250 - $450	$200 - $300 in fuel
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	BWI to MSY via Atlanta or Charlotte.	I-95 S to I-85 S to I-65 S to I-10 W.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on Southwest.	Stop in Birmingham for a break to avoid driver fatigue on the long stretch.

Travel Tips

Streetcar Payment
Use the LePass app to pay for streetcar fares. It is more convenient than carrying exact change.
Hydration
New Orleans is extremely humid. Carry a reusable water bottle at all times.
Footwear
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The historic streets are often uneven and paved with cobblestones.
Tipping
Standard tipping in New Orleans restaurants is 20 percent. Service staff rely heavily on these gratuities.
Safety
Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night. Avoid wandering into unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark.

Safety Tips

Hurricane Awareness
Check weather reports during hurricane season. Follow local evacuation orders if issued.
Valuables
Keep your wallet and phone secure in crowded tourist areas. Pickpocketing can occur in the French Quarter.
Hydration
Heat exhaustion is a risk in summer. Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings.
Navigation
Use GPS for driving but be aware of one-way streets in the city center.