Is there a train from New Orleans to St. Louis?

No direct passenger rail service connects these two cities.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 11 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there direct flights?

Yes, Southwest Airlines offers direct flights between MSY and STL.

What is the best highway?

Interstate 55 is the primary and most direct highway route.

Yes, the route is a major interstate highway and is safe for standard travel.

New Orleans

St. Louis

Flight Driving

New Orleans to St. Louis

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from New Orleans to St. Louis spans approximately 1,100 kilometers via the I-55 North corridor. Driving takes roughly 11 hours, passing through Jackson and Memphis. Alternatively, direct flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) take about 2 hours. This route follows the Mississippi River valley, offering scenic views of the American South. Travelers often stop in Memphis for authentic barbecue during the drive.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 1,100 km; straight-line air distance is 950 km.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest method, taking only 2 hours of air time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option for groups of two or more people.

Compare New Orleans to St. Louis Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	11 hours
Avg Price	$250-$450	$120-$180 in fuel
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSY to STL	I-55 North through Jackson, MS and Memphis, TN.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on this regional route.	Avoid driving through downtown Memphis during morning rush hour to save time.

Travel Tips

Fuel Stops
Fill up in Mississippi to take advantage of lower gas taxes compared to Louisiana.
Traffic Alerts
Use navigation apps to monitor construction delays on I-55 near Memphis.
Airport Parking
Use off-site parking lots near MSY to save on daily storage fees.
Packing
St. Louis weather is more variable than New Orleans; pack layers for changing conditions.
Rental Cars
Check for one-way drop-off fees if you are not returning to New Orleans.

Safety Tips

Fatigue Management
Take breaks every 3 hours to avoid driver fatigue on the long I-55 stretch.
Vehicle Check
Ensure your tire pressure is correct before starting the 11-hour drive.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic roadside emergency kit including water and a flashlight in your trunk.
Night Driving
Avoid driving through rural sections of the route late at night due to limited lighting.