Are you ready to see the USA in a whole new way?
Train travel is like a front-row seat to America’s best show – epic landscapes, city skylines, and hidden gems, all from the comfort of your seat.
Whether you’re winding through majestic mountains, cruising past coastal views, or hopping between bustling cities, each train journey is a unique story waiting to be told.
So, hop on board and let’s check out some of the best train trips you can take across the United States!
1. California Zephyr (Amtrak)
- Route: Chicago to San Francisco.
- Journey Time: About 52 hours.
- Train Details: Sleeper cars, observation cars, and dining cars. Known for its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevadas.
- Ticket Information: Prices vary; reservations can be made through Amtrak’s website.
- Stops Along the Way: Major stops include Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno.
This epic journey from Chicago to San Francisco is one of the most beautiful train trips in North America and also makes it on to our list of great railways journeys around the world.
As you travel across the plains of Nebraska to Denver, through the Rockies to Salt Lake City, and finally to the Bay Area, the California Zephyr offers an unparalleled view of the American landscape, including the Sierra Nevadas.
2. Empire Builder (Amtrak)
- Route: Chicago to Seattle/Portland.
- Journey Time: Around 46 hours to Seattle, 48 hours to Portland.
- Train Details: Features sleeping and dining facilities, as well as observation cars.
- Ticket Information: Available on Amtrak’s website.
- Stops Along the Way: Key stops include Minneapolis, Spokane, and Glacier National Park.
Connecting Chicago to either Seattle or Portland, the Empire Builder takes you through the American heartland, the majestic plains, and the stunning Pacific Northwest. It’s a great way to explore the diverse landscapes, including a breathtaking view of Glacier National Park.
3. Coast Starlight (Amtrak)
- Route: Los Angeles to Seattle.
- Journey Time: Approximately 35 hours.
- Train Details: Sleeper, dining, and observation cars, offering views of the Pacific Ocean and Cascade Mountains.
- Ticket Information: Can be booked via Amtrak.
- Stops Along the Way: Santa Barbara, San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland.
Traveling from Los Angeles to Seattle, the Coast Starlight is known for its spectacular coastal views. The journey offers a diverse panorama from the beaches of California, the lush forests of Oregon, to the snow-capped mountains of Washington.
4. Sunset Limited (Amtrak)
- Route: New Orleans to Los Angeles.
- Journey Time: About 48 hours.
- Train Details: Sleeper, lounge, and dining car services.
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased on Amtrak’s website.
- Stops Along the Way: Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, and Phoenix.
As America’s oldest named train, the Sunset Limited offers a historic and scenic journey from New Orleans to Los Angeles. This southern route provides a unique view of the bayous of Louisiana, the deserts of Texas, and the mountains of the Southwest.
5. Northeast Regional (Amtrak)
- Route: Boston to Virginia Beach.
- Journey Time: Varies depending on the specific route (several hours).
- Train Details: Comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and food service.
- Ticket Information: Flexible ticket options available on Amtrak’s website.
- Stops Along the Way: Major cities include New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.
Covering the bustling northeast corridor, this service connects major cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. It’s an essential route for business and leisure travelers alike, offering a convenient and scenic way to explore the U.S. Northeast.
6. Amtrak Cascades
- Route: Vancouver, BC to Eugene, Oregon.
- Journey Time: About 11 hours.
- Train Details: Features special Talgo trains designed for the Pacific Northwest, with bistro cars offering regional cuisine.
- Ticket Information: Tickets available through Amtrak.
- Stops Along the Way: Seattle, Portland, and several smaller cities.
This picturesque route takes you through the Pacific Northwest from Vancouver, British Columbia to Eugene, Oregon. The journey is known for its stunning views of the Cascade Range and the coastline, along with a unique look at the region’s vibrant cities and towns.
7. Auto Train (Amtrak)
- Route: Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida.
- Journey Time: Around 17 hours.
- Train Details: Unique in that it transports passengers and their vehicles. Offers sleeper and dining options.
- Ticket Information: Bookable on Amtrak’s website; includes vehicle transport.
- Stops Along the Way: Non-stop service.
This unique service between Virginia and Florida allows passengers to travel with their vehicles. It’s a convenient option for those looking to avoid the long drive south, offering a comfortable overnight journey with a variety of amenities.
8. Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star
- Route: Anchorage to Fairbanks, with a stop at Denali National Park.
- Journey Time: About 12 hours.
- Train Details: Offers both Adventure Class and GoldStar Service (premium) with dome cars and dining.
- Ticket Information: Available on the Alaska Railroad’s website.
- Stops Along the Way: Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park.
Offering one of the most scenic train rides in Alaska, this route connects Anchorage and Fairbanks, with a stop at the majestic Denali National Park. The journey provides an incredible opportunity to view Alaska’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
9. Cardinal (Amtrak)
- Route: New York City to Chicago.
- Journey Time: Around 28 hours.
- Train Details: Features sleeping, dining, and observation cars, offering views of the Appalachians and Ohio River Valley.
- Ticket Information: Can be booked via Amtrak.
- Stops Along the Way: Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Cincinnati, and Indianapolis.
Linking New York City and Chicago, the Cardinal offers a scenic route through the American heartland. The journey provides a unique view of the Appalachians and the Ohio River Valley, showcasing the rural and natural beauty of the United States.
10. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- Route: Round trip from Bryson City, North Carolina, through the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Journey Time: Varies (half-day to full-day excursions).
- Train Details: Vintage train experience with various themed rides.
- Ticket Information: Various excursion options; tickets available on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad website.
- Stops Along the Way: The Nantahala Gorge and the Tuckasegee River.
Based in North Carolina, this excursion train offers various themed journeys through the beautiful landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of this region, along with a taste of local history and culture.
