Is the train ride scenic?

Yes, the route passes through the scenic Mississippi River valley.

Does the train have Wi-Fi?

No, Amtrak long-distance trains generally lack reliable Wi-Fi.

How far is the airport from downtown?

MSY is about 25 minutes from the French Quarter by car.

Are there direct flights?

Yes, United and Southwest offer direct flights from O'Hare.

Is it safe to drive alone?

Yes, I-55 is a major, well-maintained interstate highway.

Melrose Park

New Orleans

Train Flight

Melrose Park to New Orleans

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Melrose Park to New Orleans covers approximately 1,500 kilometers. You can access the Amtrak City of New Orleans train directly from Chicago Union Station. Driving via I-55 South takes roughly 15 hours of pure road time. Flights depart from O'Hare International Airport to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. This route transitions from the industrial Midwest to the humid, culturally rich Mississippi Delta.

Total Distance: 1,500 km driving, 1,350 km air.

Fastest Way

Flight from O'Hare, taking 2.5 hours in the air plus airport transit time.

Cheapest Way

Amtrak coach seat, starting at $120, offers the best value for budget travelers.

Compare Melrose Park to New Orleans Routes

	Train Direct	Flight Direct
Duration	19 hours	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$120 - $250	$150 - $400
Operator	Amtrak City of New Orleans	United Airlines
Route	Chicago Union Station to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal via I-55 corridor.	ORD to MSY.
Tip	Book a roomette for overnight comfort on this long-haul route.	Check baggage fees before arriving at O'Hare.

Travel Tips

Train Boarding
Arrive at Chicago Union Station at least 45 minutes before departure.
Airport Transit
Use the Blue Line train from downtown Chicago to reach O'Hare efficiently.
Local Transport
New Orleans is highly walkable, but use the Le Pass app for streetcar tickets.
Dining
Make reservations for popular restaurants like Commander's Palace weeks in advance.
Weather
Carry a light rain jacket as sudden afternoon showers are common.

Safety Tips

Stay Aware
Stick to well-lit, populated streets in the French Quarter at night.
Valuables
Keep your wallet in a front pocket to prevent pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Ride Sharing
Use reputable ride-share apps when traveling between neighborhoods late at night.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water to combat the high humidity during summer months.