Train Travel Experiences USA: The Most Scenic and Unique Rides Across the Country

Traveling by train across the United States is more than just a method of transportation, it’s a unique, scenic, and often nostalgic experience. 

With panoramic views, comfortable accommodations, and routes that cut through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, train travel has gained new popularity among travelers seeking slower, more immersive journeys. 

Whether you’re dreaming of crossing the Rockies, hugging the California coast, or exploring the vast plains of the Midwest, this guide highlights the top train travel experiences in the USA. and offers helpful tips to plan your trip.

Why Train Travel Is Making a Comeback in the USA?

Amid growing interest in sustainable travel and meaningful experiences, train travel has emerged as a compelling alternative to flying or driving. 

According to Amtrak, ridership across several long-distance routes has steadily increased in recent years, signaling renewed enthusiasm for this classic mode of transport. 

Train travel offers a slower, stress-free way to see the country, no TSA lines, no highway fatigue, and plenty of time to relax, read, work, or simply watch the scenery roll by.

For many, it’s also about reconnecting with the golden age of travel: dining cars, panoramic windows, and the gentle sway of the train on its tracks. 

It’s no wonder more people are choosing trains for both short scenic rides and cross-country adventures.

The Most Scenic Train Routes in the United States

If you’re looking to take in the American landscape in all its diversity, from mountain ranges to desert canyons to coastal cliffs, these routes offer some of the most unforgettable experiences.

1. Amtrak California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)

Widely considered the most scenic long-distance train route in the U.S., the California Zephyr covers over 2,400 miles and passes through seven states. 

Passengers are treated to stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and vast plains of Nebraska and Colorado. 

The journey takes about 51 hours, offering sleeper accommodations, hot meals, and a panoramic observation car for uninterrupted views.

The train features a Sightseer Lounge Car with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for panoramic views, and an onboard café and dining car serving fresh, hot meals. 

Those booking sleeping accommodations (Roomette or Bedroom) receive complimentary dining and access to shower facilities.

2. Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)

Traveling along the Pacific Coast, the Coast Starlight delivers postcard-perfect views of the ocean, forests, and mountains between Washington and California. 

Highlights include the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur and the lush valleys of Oregon. For a premium experience, travelers can book a sleeper car and enjoy chef-prepared meals in the dining car. 

This route is a favorite for both first-time train travelers and seasoned rail fans. Onboard amenities include coach seating, business class, and sleeper cabins. 

Travelers in sleeper accommodations can enjoy chef-prepared meals in the dining car and spend time in the exclusive first-class lounge, which often features wine tastings and hosted presentations.

3. Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)

The Empire Builder is a legendary route that stretches from Chicago to Seattle and Portland, covering nearly 2,200 miles in approximately 46 hours. 

It traverses a historically significant corridor once used by Lewis and Clark and later by settlers moving westward. Today, it offers one of the most rugged and remote railway experiences in the U.S.

Starting in Chicago, the train travels along the Mississippi River, across the plains of North Dakota, and through the glacier-carved valleys of Montana before splitting into two branches: one going to Seattle and the other to Portland. 

The most spectacular stretch is arguably between Minot, ND and Whitefish, MT, where passengers pass through Glacier National Park, a wild and pristine landscape home to dramatic mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and forests.

It’s a true taste of rugged Americana and one of the most historic routes operated by Amtrak. The Empire Builder features Amtrak’s standard long-distance amenities: coach, business class, and sleeper cabins, plus a lounge car and full dining service.

4. The Adirondack (New York City to Montreal)

Although it ends in Canada, the U.S. portion of the Adirondack route deserves special mention for travelers exploring the Northeast. 

The train winds through the scenic Hudson Valley, Catskill Mountains, and Lake Champlain region. It’s especially popular in the fall, when the foliage transforms the landscape into a riot of color.

Departing from Penn Station, the Adirondack travels alongside the Hudson River, passing through historic towns like Tarrytown, Poughkeepsie, and Hudson. 

From Albany, the route shifts north into the Catskill Mountains and then along the west side of Lake Champlain, offering sweeping lake and mountain views. 

5. Other Notable Mentions

• Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles): Crosses the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona with views of red rock canyons and wild west towns.
• Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles): One of Amtrak’s oldest routes, stretching across the Deep South and Southwest.
• Vermonter (Washington D.C. to St. Albans, VT): Ideal for exploring charming New England towns and forested landscapes.
• Ethan Allen Express (New York City to Burlington, VT): A short but scenic route with access to Vermont’s Green Mountains. 

Types of Train Travel Experiences in the USA

Depending on your budget and travel style, there are several ways to enjoy the American railway system.

Overnight and Long-Distance Journeys

Long-distance trains like the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, and Southwest Chief offer overnight accommodations. 

Roomettes and bedrooms provide private space to sleep and access to shower facilities. 

Meals are included in sleeper fares, and the experience offers a level of comfort that feels closer to a boutique hotel on rails than traditional transit.

Luxury and First-Class Experiences

For travelers seeking a more upscale experience, Amtrak’s first-class options and private rooms add a layer of comfort. 

Additionally, luxury rail companies like Rocky Mountaineer have recently launched routes in the U.S. (such as Denver to Moab), featuring glass-domed coaches, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service.

Budget-Friendly Scenic Trips

Train travel doesn’t have to be expensive. Amtrak regularly offers discount programs, including:

• USA Rail Pass (great for multiple trips within 30 days),
• Saver Fares for early bookings,
• Discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel. 

Shorter regional routes, like the Pacific Surfliner (San Diego to San Luis Obispo) or the Downeaster (Boston to Maine), offer great views without long travel times or high costs.

What to Expect: Comfort, Amenities, and Tips

Modern train travel in the U.S. combines comfort and functionality. Here’s what to expect:

• Seating: Amtrak coach seats are roomy, recline well, and include power outlets and fold-down trays.
• Wi-Fi: Available on most routes, though it may be limited in rural areas.
• Dining: On long routes, travelers can choose between café cars and full-service dining cars (with vegetarian and special diet options).
• Baggage: Generous baggage allowances are another plus, typically 2 carry-ons and 2 checked bags per passenger.
• Restrooms: Available on every car; sleeper cars offer private bathrooms.

Best Seasons to Travel by Train Across the U.S.

The timing of your trip can make a big difference in your overall experience.

• Fall: Ideal for foliage in the Northeast (Adirondack, Vermonter).
• Winter: Snow-covered Rockies make the California Zephyr and Empire Builder unforgettable.
• Spring: Great for wildflowers in the Southwest and fresh green landscapes in the South.
• Summer: Long daylight hours mean more time to enjoy the view, especially on coastal or mountain routes.

Each season offers something different, so choosing your destination based on seasonal highlights is a smart move.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Train Trip

Planning a rail journey requires a bit more preparation than flying—but it’s worth it. Here are some essential tips:

When planning your train trip, it’s important to book early, especially if you’re interested in reserving a sleeper car or traveling during peak seasons, as availability can be limited. 

Be sure to check the route schedules carefully, since some long-distance trains only operate a few times per week, and timing can vary by season. 

To stay informed and organized throughout your journey, download the Amtrak app, which provides real-time updates, mobile ticket access, and useful station information. 

For even greater flexibility once you arrive, consider combining your train travel with a car rental at your destination, allowing you to explore nearby areas at your own pace.

Train stations are often centrally located, making it easy to explore your destination without additional transportation.

 

Train travel experiences in the U.S. is more than a way to get from one place to another, it’s a travel experience in itself. 

Whether you’re after dramatic landscapes, a slower pace, or a unique adventure, America’s railways offer routes that are as memorable as the destinations themselves. 

From coast to coast, the country is crisscrossed with scenic lines waiting to be discovered. So pack your bag, pick your route, and climb aboard for a journey you won’t forget.

Did you enjoy our tips? Also read: Plan Your Trip Around These Must-See Museums in the USA.