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The Man in Seat 61

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You'll see nothing of America at 35,000 feet, come down to Earth and see world class scenery from an Amtrak train across the United States.  You can travel cross-country from as little as $236 (£188 or €220) if you book well in advance, one of the world's great travel bargains.  The USA has an excellent rail network for visitors, it may only be a skeleton network by European standards but it'll take you to almost all the towns & cities a visitor wants to see, in comfort at affordable prices.  It'll take you to many of the U.S. national parks, too.  Long-distance trains in the USA are operated by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, better known as Amtrak, www.amtrak.com .  This page explains what you need to know to plan and book a memorable cross-country trip by train.

Train service in the USA, at a glance    See detailed map

This route map shows where Amtrak trains run.  Each of the very long-distance transcontinental routes shown in blue has one daily train, except for New York to Florida with 2 trains a day and the Sunset Limited (New Orleans-San Antonio-Los Angeles) which runs 3 times a week.  Important short distance routes (for example, Washington-New York-Boston or Los Angeles-San Diego) have regular intercity services and are shown in red.  It's easy to check Amtrak train times at www.amtrak.com , just use their online booking system.  Click here for the official large-scale Amtrak route map .

Useful country information

Cross-country by train.

The 3,000 mile journey across the United States by train is one of the world's greatest travel experiences.  It's easy, comfortable, safe, and an affordable alternative to flying.  Free route guides are available on board each train, telling you what to look out for from the window, and the scenery on many routes is world class. 

In a nutshell

The 3,000 mile coast-to-coast train ride takes 3 nights, without stopovers.

Choose from 4 or 5 different cross-country routes, each with their own character.  I explain the most scenic routes below with train times & description.  You can stop off on the way, but remember that a separate ticket/reservation is needed for each stage.

It takes one night from New York, Boston or Washington DC to Chicago where you change trains, then two nights from Chicago to Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle on a superb double-deck Superliner train .  You can also travel coast to coast via New Orleans , this takes an extra night as you need to spend a night in New Orleans.  Most of the trains run daily all year round, although the New Orleans-LA train only operates three times a week.

Check out the cross-country train packages at www.amtrakvacations.com , they can sort packages with tickets, private sleeping accommodations on the train, stopovers & hotels included.

If you book regular tickets online at www.amtrak.com , cross-country fares from New York to Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle start at just $236 in a spacious reclining seat, surely one of the world's greatest travel bargains.  A private sleeper for 1 or 2 people can be added to your booking, the extra cost is often quite hefty but the sleeper room charge includes all meals as well as tea, coffee & fruit juice throughout the trip. Amtrak's spacious trains also have cafe & lounge cars, open to both seat and sleeper passengers.  See descriptions of the trains here .

On-time performance .  Bear in mind that these trains run for over 2,000 miles, although they often arrive on time or perhaps half an hour late, they can sometimes arrive an hour or two late or more, so don't book any tight connections.  You can see how your chosen trains have performed the last few weeks using www.amtrak.com/historical-on-time-performance and you can also see real-time train positions & performance at www.asm.transitdocs.com .

Which is the best cross-country train route?

I've crossed the United States multiple times by train, using every major cross-country train except the Texas Eagle.  Each transcontinental route has its own distinctive character even if the trains themselves are the same, but one stands out as the most spectacular for both scenery & historical significance:  I recommend the California Zephyr between Chicago and San Francisco, which you can take in connection with the Lake Shore Limited between New York or Boston and Chicago, or the Capitol Limited between Washington DC and Chicago.

The California Zephyr is one of world's greatest train journeys, in around 48 hours you will leave Chicago, roll over the vast farmlands of Nebraska, cross the Mississippi, scale the Rockies out of Denver over breakfast in the diner, snake through lovely Colorado canyons, and pass through the Sierra Nevada mountains to reach Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay area.  The route covers much of the very first historic trans-continental railroad route, and there's a commentary for the most significant section.  To give you an idea of what a cross-country train ride is like on this route, see the California Zephyr page . 

However, all Amtrak's cross-country train routes are scenic, and the Southwest Chief is another favourite.  It'll take you from Chicago to Los Angeles over the Santa Fe railroad (which used to operate the famous Super Chief) , alongside the equally famous Route 66, through Navajo Indian country.  This is another amazing trip, with a chance to stop off at the Grand Canyon .

Cross-country westbound 2024

* The California Zephyr terminates in Emeryville and an Amtrak Thruway bus transfers passengers across the Bay Bridge to the Temporary Transbay Terminal in downtown San Francisco.  Tickets can be booked through to (and luggage checked through to) San Francisco Transbay Terminal as if it was a rail station.

** The Chicago-Los Angles portion only runs 3 times a week, departing Chicago on Tuesdays, Fridays & Sundays. Daily Chicago-San Antonio.

Use these times as a guide, always check current times & fares at www.amtrak.com as they change from time to time.

Cross-country eastbound 2024

* The California Zephyr starts in Emeryville.  An Amtrak Thruway bus links the Transbay Terminal in downtown San Francisco with Emeryville across the Bay Bridge.  Tickets can be booked through from (and luggage checked in at) the Amtrak station at San Francisco Transbay Terminal as if it was a rail station.

*** The Los Angles to Chicago portion only runs 3 times a week, leaving LA on Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays.  Daily San Antonio-Chicago.

Facilities on each train

What are the trains like.

Click here to see what the trains are actually like inside & out, and to understand the sleeping-car, lounge & dining facilities.

How much does it cost?

3,000 miles coast-to-coast overland for as little at $236 has to be one of the world's greatest travel bargains!  Railpass options .

Amtrak fares are dynamic, so you'll see various prices on various dates, book ahead for the cheapest prices - these are the cheapest examples I have found.

Round trip fares are twice the one-way fare.  Children 2-12 (inclusive) travel at reduced fare, children under 2 travel free (limit one child under 2 per adult).

There's a 10% discount for seniors over 65 on some fares.  The discount applies to the base fare but not to saver fares, flexible fares, roomette/bedroom charges.

If you choose to travel in a sleeper, the premium fare column on the Amtrak website will show the total cost for all passengers travelling in a roomette or bedroom.  This is calculated as a basic fare for each passenger plus one charge covering the whole roomette or bedroom.  The roomette or bedroom cost is the same whether it's occupied by one person or two.  So a sleeper is a lot better value if there are two of you!  The two people price in the table above is the total you pay for two people sharing a roomette or bedroom.

Tip :  You can save 10% on the basic travel fare (but not on accommodation supplements) by becoming a member of the National Association of Railroad Passengers, which at the time of writing costs $35 for an individual or $50 for a family.  It can pay for itself on one coast to coast trip.  See www.narprail.org for full details and online sign-up.

Can I stop off on the way?

Yes of course, but if you want to stop off you'll need to buy separate tickets for each leg.  To book a cross-country trip with stopovers at any cities you want, simply look for the 'Multi-City' link at top right of the booking form on www.amtrak.com .  This allows you to book a trip with up to 4 segments, and of course you can book additional segments as separate bookings.  However, if you buy a through ticket at the cheapest price between an East Coast city such as New York and a West Coast city such as Los Angeles, then no, you cannot stop off, you must travel direct on your assigned trains.  Although the several hours between trains in Chicago is often time enough to climb the Sears Tower (now owned by the Willis corporation, see theskydeck.com ) and get great views over the city, it's only 5 minutes walk from Chicago Union Station!  As you can see from the fares table above, separate tickets New York to Chicago and Chicago-Los Angeles (so you can stop off in Chicago) work out about $35 more expensive than a New York to Los Angeles through ticket.

Want to stop off at the Grand Canyon?  See the Grand Canyon section

All the trains shown here offer checked baggage.  All passengers (both coach & sleeper) are entitled to check in up to 2 large items of luggage free of charge, plus an additional 2 large items for $20 each.  Maximum 50lbs (23Kg) per item, maximum total linear dimension (length + height + width) = 75".  Oversize bags (up to a total linear dimension of 100") $20 per bag.  A name and address label must be attached to each item.  Hand luggage is limited to two items per passenger, maximum 50lbs (23Kg) per item, dimensions 28" x 22" x 14".  See www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy .

You can check bags through to your final destination, so for example if you have a New York to San Francisco ticket you can check your bags in at New York all the way to San Francisco Transbay Terminal.  They will be transferred for you from train to train in Chicago and from train to bus at Emeryville, leaving you free of it until you arrive.

How to buy tickets

Option 1, buy at www.amtrak.com

Anyone from any country can buy tickets at Amtrak's own website www.amtrak.com , which sells all types of accommodation, seat & sleeper.

Booking opens 11 months in advance.  An e-ticket will be emailed to you, you can print it out or show it on your phone.

Or call Amtrak 24 hours a day on 1-800-USA RAIL.  From outside of the USA, Amtrak's international desk is + 1-215-856-7952.  Open Mon-Fri 08:30-16:00 Eastern Time.

Option 2, buy at Omio.com

Omio.com sells tickets for Amtrak seated accommodation quickly & simply, in multiple languages & currencies.  However, it can't sell sleeper accommodation.  You print out your ticket or can show it on your phone.

Let Amtrak Vacations arrange your trip

Amtrak Vacations is Amtrak's official partner for vacations, tours & packages.

Amtrak Vacations can put a package together from anywhere to anywhere to your specification, with private sleeping accommodations on the train, stopovers at cities or national parks, hotels & transfers.

They'll also do ticket-only bookings for cross-country Amtrak journeys, and you may get more help and advice if you book through them as they specialise in Amtrak's long-haul routes.  

Click here for Amtrak Vacations' cross-country packages

Lines are open 09:00-22:00 Monday-Friday & 09:00-17:30 Saturday, Eastern Time (5 hours behind the UK).

Let Railbookers arrange your trip

Railbookers are train travel specialists with offices in the UK, Australia & United States.  They can arrange coast to coast tours by train to your own specification, with trains, stopovers, hotels, transfers and (if necessary) flights all sorted.

Using a USA railpass

A USA Railpass is available covering the whole Amtrak network or just parts of it, see advice on USA Railpasses here .

See it in pictures: Cross-country by train

See an illustrated journey from New York to San Francisco on Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited and California Zephyr.

Back to top

Cross-country via New Orleans

This is the Southern cross-country route, a whole different flavour from the routes via Chicago.  Coast to coast via New Orleans takes 4 nights, making it slower than the more usual transcontinental route via Chicago, as you need to spend a night in New Orleans - but a stopover down south is hardly a burden!  For a taste of the deep south, this is the way to go.

Amtrak fares vary dynamically, so you'll see various fares on various dates, book ahead for the cheapest prices - these are just typical examples, assuming you book ahead.

Luggage arrangements .  Railpass options .   Can I stop off?

New York to Florida

Introducing Amtrak's Silver Service from New York & Washington DC to Orlando, Tampa & Miami.

Facilities on board

Silver Meteor:   Amfleet reclining seats ,  Viewliner sleeping-car , Amfleet cafe car .

Silver Star:   Amfleet reclining seats ,  Viewliner sleeping-car , Amfleet cafe car.

Luggage arrangements .

Anyone from any country can buy tickets at Amtrak's own website www.amtrak.com .  This sells all types of accommodation, seat & sleeper.

Omio.com sells tickets for Amtrak seated accommodation quickly & simply, in multiple languages & currencies.  However, it can't sell sleeper accommodation.  You just print out your ticket or show it on your phone.

Boston - New York - Washington

A fast and frequent inter-city service links Boston, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC.  There are two types of train: Acela Express 150mph high-speed trains with 1st class & business class (premium fares apply) and regular trains with coach class and (in most cases) business class.  There are also services from Boston to Portland (Maine) and from Philadelphia to Harrisburg. See www.amtrak.com for times, fares and online booking, or try Omio.com .

How long does it take?

New York to Washington takes as little as 2h48 by Acela Express.

New York to Boston takes 3h30 by Acela Express.

Fares vary like air fares, with cheaper prices available the further ahead you book.  Round trip fares are twice the one-way fare.  Children 2-12 (inclusive) travel at reduced fare (except on Acela Express where there is no discount for children on weekdays), children under 2 travel free (limit one child under 2 per adult).

Luggage on Washington-New York-Boston trains:   These trains don't have checked baggage, you simply take your luggage with you onto the train and put it on the racks just as you would on any European train.  You can take 2 items up to 23Kg each, plus two smaller personal bags each up to 11Kg - pretty generous, see www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy .

Omio.com sells Amtrak tickets quickly & simply, in multiple languages & currencies.  You just print your ticket or show it on your phone.

Acela Express

Acela Express is Amtrak's very own high-speed train, reaching 150 mph on certain sections of upgraded line.  It has first class & business class, there's no economy coach class.  Premium fares apply, with no discounts for children on weekdays.

Northeast Regional trains

Cheaper but slower than Acela Express, with coach class & business class between Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore & Washington DC.

Other Amtrak routes

New york - niagara falls.

Three daily trains link New York via Albany with Niagara Falls.  Journey time is a leisurely 8 hours 30 minutes, a relaxing journey along the Hudson River Valley out of New York, past Storm King Mountain and West Point Military Academy, a very scenic route, highly recommended.  See either Omio.com or www.amtrak.com for times, fares and online booking.

New York - Toronto, Montreal (Canada)

A daily train called the Maple Leaf links New York with Toronto via Niagara Falls, and another daily train called the Adirondack links New York with Montreal via the scenic Adirondack mountains.  Both trains travel along the Hudson River Valley out of New York, past Storm King Mountain and West Point Military Academy, a very scenic route, highly recommended.  See the Train travel in Canada page for train times .

Chicago - Memphis - New Orleans

Amtrak's daily City of New Orleans links these cities, with Superliner seats, sleeping-cars, sightseer lounge and dining-car .  For times, fares and online booking, see www.amtrak.com .

Intercity trains in California

Regular trains link Los Angeles, Anaheim (for Disneyland), and San Diego.  Regular trains link San Francisco (Oakland) with Sacramento, Bakersfield and San Jose.  A daily train links Los Angeles with San Francisco (Oakland).  See either Omio.com , www.amtrak.com or www.amtrakcalifornia.com for times, fares and online booking.

Seattle - Portland - Oakland (San Francisco) - Los Angeles

Amtrak's daily Coast Starlight links these cities, with Superliner seats, sleeping-cars, sightseer lounge and dining-car .  For times, fares and online booking, see www.amtrak.com .

Portland - Seattle - Vancouver

Amtrak runs an inter-city service between these cities, see www.amtrakcascades.com - Some of these services use European-design Talgo trains.

Luggage on trains without checked baggage:   Some of these trains don't have checked baggage, you simply take your luggage with you onto the train and put it on the racks just as you would on any European train.  Generous limits apply - 2 items each up to 23Kg, plus two smaller personal bags each up to 11Kg, see www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy .

What are Amtrak trains like ?

Short distance trains come in various types, all with comfortable air-conditioned seating and often with a café car.  On the Boston-New York-Washington DC route, there is now the premium fare, 150mph Acela Express high speed train, based on French TGV technology, but running on conventional tracks.

(1)  Long distance trains in the east

Long-distance trains east of Chicago (such as the New York-Chicago Lake Shore Limited , the New York to Florida Silver Star & Silver Meteor or the New York to New Orleans Crescent , but not the Washington to Chicago Capitol Limited ) have Viewliner sleeping-cars , Amfleet reclining seat cars and an Amfleet cafe/lounge car serving snacks and drinks.  If you have paid for a sleeper, meals are included in the fare.

Amfleet reclining seats

These distinctive stainless-steel coaches have comfortable reclining seats with loads of legroom, drop-down tables & 120v power sockets for laptops & mobiles.  Drinking water is available in each coach.  Unlike in Europe, your reservation does not secure a specific seat in a specific coach, you can sit where you like once on board.  An attendant looks after each seats car, and will place a 'seat ticket' above your seat to indicate that the seat is taken.

Dining cars, cafe cars & flexible dining

Most long-distance trains have a cafe/lounge car serving hot & cold drinks and snacks, with an area with seats & tables for socialising.  The cafe/lounge car can be used by both sleeper and seats passengers.

Traditional dining-cars on all the 1-night long-distance trains east of Chicago were discontinued in 2018-2019.

Amtrak now offers sleeper passengers what it calls Flexible Dining on these trains.  Sleeper passengers are served pre-packed reheated or microwaved meals delivered to their sleeper compartments, or meals can be served in the table area of the cafe/lounge car.   The New York-Florida Silver Star and Silver Meteor retain dining-cars of the new Viewliner II type with an impressive double row of windows, but only to serve the pre-packaged Flexible Dining meals to sleeper passengers.

Latest update:   In March 2023 full dining has been reinstated on the Silver Star between New York and Florida.

Viewliner sleeping-cars

Long-distance trains in the East have Viewliner sleeping cars.  The distinctive double row of windows on these cars makes them light & airy during the day, and gives both upper & lower berths a window for star-gazing at night.  Travelling by Amtrak sleeper is a real treat.  All sleeper passengers get complimentary meals in the dining car,  and a 'coffee station' provides complimentary tea/coffee & fruit juice in the morning.  You return from dinner in the diner to find you bed made up for the night by the sleeper attendant.  A hot shower is available at the end of the corridor if you're travelling in a roomette, or en suite if you are travelling in a bedroom.  All necessary bedding, soap and towels are provided.  However, sleeper travel isn't cheap.  In Europe you can pay a small supplement for a berth in a shared couchette or sleeper compartment.  In the US, you have to pay for the whole room whether there are two of you or just one.  To give you a rough idea, some sample sleeper supplements are shown in the fares section above.   Viewliner sleeping-cars have:

(2)  Long distance trains in the west

Long-distance trains between Chicago & Los Angeles/San Francisco/Seattle/Portland, also the New Orleans-Los Angeles Sunset Limited , Seattle-Los Angeles Coast Starlight and Washington DC-Chicago Capitol Limited use impressive double-deck Superliner cars.  Superliner trains have coach class reclining seats , sleeping-cars , a dining car & an observation-lounge car .  A route guide is available free on these trains, telling you want to look out for along the way.  Watch a video guide to Amtrak Superliner trains .

Superliner reclining seats

Coach class reclining seats are spacious with lots of legroom, comparable with business class on an airliner.  Don't worry if you can't afford a sleeper, these seats recline to about 40 degrees, and are quite easy to sleep in, in fact if there is any train in the world where I wouldn't much mind not having a sleeper, Amtrak trains are the ones I'd choose.  There are 120v power sockets for laptops & mobiles at each seat, and drinking water is available in each coach.  Unlike in Europe, your reservation does not secure a specific seat in a specific coach, you can sit where you like once on board.  An attendant looks after each seats car, and will place a 'seat ticket' above your seat to indicate that the seat is taken.  You can either bring a blanket or buy an Amtrak blanket from the lounge car.  Panorama photo of Superliner coach class .

Superliner Sightseer Lounge car

On the upper deck is an observation lounge with armchairs & tables and huge windows for sightseeing.  On the lower deck is a cafe selling drinks & snacks.  All passengers can use the lounge car, whether they are travelling in coach class or in the sleepers.  You end up spending most of your day here, watching America unfold in front of you!   Seats are available on a first-come, first served basis, but it's not usually too difficult to find a seat or two free.  However, they do fill up for the most scenic sections of the journey!  See panorama of a Superliner lounge car .

Superliner dining car

Trains west of Chicago retain a proper dining-car with freshly-cooked food.  During the pandemic, the dining-car was only open to sleeper passengers, but in 2023 coach seat passengers were allowed to use the diner again on most routes.  The dining-car serves breakfast, lunch & dinner.  All the tables in a Superliner dining-car are on the top deck for great views while you eat - the kitchens are downstairs.

Meals are included in the fare if you have a sleeper, although drinks are extra.  In the sleepers, the dining-car manager comes down the train asking each passenger which sitting for lunch or dinner they'd like, and issuing table reservations.  An announcement is made at the start of each sitting. 

Note that couples and singles don't get a whole 4-seater restaurant table to themselves, you'll normally be seated with other passengers. This is a great chance to meet people, even if you're travelling solo.  Panorama photo of Superliner dining-car .

What's the food like?   The food is surprisingly good:  The Angus Steak Burger is great for lunch, for dinner the herb-roast chicken & rice is good and the garlic butter marinated New York Strip Steak is excellent.  A beer costs around $6, a half bottle of very good Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot costs around $15.  For breakfast next morning a freshly-cooked breakfast of eggs, bacon & potatoes hits the spot.  There is also a children's menu.  Credit cards are accepted.  You can find sample menus on the Amtrak website www.amtrak.com , click 'plan' then look for 'meal & dining options'.

Since 2018, sleeper passengers on the Lake Shore Limited  (NYC-Chicago) & Capitol Limited (Washington-Chicago) get a pre-packed meal either served in their compartment or eaten in a lounge area.

Superliner sleeping-car s

Travelling by Amtrak sleeper is a real treat.  All sleeper passengers get complimentary breakfast, lunch & dinner in the dining car,  and each sleeping-car has a 'coffee station' with complimentary tea/coffee and fruit juice available in the morning.  You return from dinner in the diner to find you bed made up for the night by the sleeper attendant.  All necessary bedding, soap and towels are provided.  Superliner sleeping-cars are double-deck, with 10 very compact 2-berth roomettes and 4 larger 2-berth bedrooms on the upper deck, whilst the lower deck has another 4 roomettes, 1 family bedroom & 1 special accessible bedroom.  The bedrooms have a private shower & toilet, for roomette passengers there are toilets on both upper and lower decks, and a hot shower on the lower deck.  The gangways to the adjacent cars are on the upper deck.  However, sleeper travel isn't cheap.  In Europe you can pay a small supplement for a berth in a shared couchette or sleeper compartment.  In the US, you have to pay for the whole room whether there are two of you or just one.  To give you a rough idea, some sample sleeper supplements are shown in the fares section above.   Superliner sleeping-cars offer:

Video guide: Riding a Superliner train

The grand canyon connection.

There are two main ways to reach the Grand Canyon as part of a cross-country train trip, after you get off Amtrak's Chief at Flagstaff Arizona.  The first is to use a bus between Flagstaff and the South Rim of the Canyon, journey time 1 hour 45 minutes each way.  The other is to take a connecting Amtrak Thruway bus to the nearby town of Williams and use the historic Grand Canyon Railway to the Canyon, journey time 2 hours Williams to the South Rim.

Option 1, Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon by bus

Scheduled buses link Flagstaff's Amtrak station (which also incorporates the excellent local Visitor Centre) with the Grand Canyon's South Rim, with an 8am bus departure from Flagstaff conveniently connecting out of Amtrak's Chief from Los Angeles arriving at the Grand canyon around 1 hour 45 minutes later.  A bus returns from the Grand Canyon at 6.15pm (also at 4.15pm from March to October), arriving back in Flagstaff 1 hour 45 minutes or so later.  It can easily be done as a day trip, returning to Flagstaff in time for the evening Chief to Los Angeles, although you can of course choose to stay overnight at the hotels at the Grand Canyon.  For bus times see groometransportation.com/grand-canyon .  The bus fare is around $34 each way.

Grand Canyon Tours from Flagstaff:   Alternatively, take a tour.  A company called The Grand Canyon Store http://grandcanyoncustomtours.com   offers 1-day tours from both Flagstaff & Williams to the Grand Canyon, including a tour to the Grand Canyon Village & South Rim, and the more extensive Inner Canyon Tour that actually takes you to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon, not merely to the South Rim as with other tours and the scheduled bus - not surprisingly the Inner Canyon Tour is their most popular!  They also do a tour from Flagstaff to the South Rim using the Grand Canyon Railway, see the section below.

www.amtrakvacations.com can put together an Amtrak coast-to-coast package for you with a stopover at the Grand Canyon, or a tour from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon and back, customised you your specification.  See Grand Canyon packages .

Option 2, Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon on the Grand Canyon Railway

The more interesting way to reach the Canyon is on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to the Canyon's South Rim.  This is the original Santa Fe railroad branch line, Williams Junction just outside Williams town is where the line diverges from the Chicago-LA main line.  However, Amtrak's Southwest Chief no longer calls at Williams Junction (it called there at uncivilised times in any case), you now use Flagstaff as the stop for the Grand Canyon with Amtrak bus connection to Williams.

To reach the Grand Canyon by train, get off the Amtrak's Chief at Flagstaff and take the connecting Amtrak Thruway bus to Williams.  The buses are timed to connect with train's arrival & departure to and from both Chicago and Los Angeles.  Williams is a pleasant town with plenty of motels, shops & diners.  The Grand Canyon Railway runs a daily morning train some 65 miles over the Santa Fe's historic railway from Williams station to Grand Canyon South Rim station in the Grand Canyon Village, right on the edge of the Canyon's South Rim.  The train returns in the afternoon, arriving in time to have dinner then catch the shuttle bus to Flagstaff for Amtrak's Chief onwards to Los Angeles.

The Amtrak reservation system at www.amtrak.com will actually let you buy through tickets between Los Angeles and Grand Canyon in either direction, although if you want to book through tickets between New York or Chicago and Grand Canyon this involves an overnight stay in Williams so you'll need to use the multi-city booking feature.  But you can book your Amtrak trains at www.amtrak.com then book the Grand Canyon train at the GCR official website, www.thetrain.com .

You can also book Chicago-LA packages with Amtrak travel and a trip to the Grand Canyon on the Grand Canyon Railway at www.amtrakvacations.com , Amtrak's official partner for tours and packages involving Amtrak travel.  See Grand Canyon packages .

The fare includes entry to the Wild West show at Williams station in the hour before departure, and some Wild West entertainment on board!

USA rail passes

One of the best ways to see America is with an Amtrak USA rail pass, but be aware of its limitations before you invest in one.

A 30-day 10-segment rail pass costs around $499.

That's 10 train rides, enough to travel coast to coast 5 times, at €49.90 per train ride!  Children aged 2-12 get passes for half price, under 2's travel free.

Segments:   Sadly, since 2008 Amtrak's USA railpass no longer gives unlimited travel, it only covers a maximum of 10 'segments'.  This is the maximum number of individual train rides you can take during your 30 day pass duration.

A segment is one train ride on one train:  So a 2-day 2,200-mile trip from Chicago to Los Angeles on the Southwest Chief counts as one segment, and a 30-minute ride on a Northeast Regional train is also one segment.  Go figure!  A journey involving a change of train (for example, New York to Chicago on the Lake Shore Limited then Chicago to San Francisco on the California Zephyr ) counts as two segments.

Will a railpass save you money?   Very probably, if you intend making 8, 9 or 10 long-distance train rides.  10 rides for $499 is €49.90 per train ride, if (say) you only used 7 segments it'd work out at $71 per train ride.  Now use the journey planner at www.amtrak.com to see what normal fares would be, to compare.  But read the bit about passholder quotas below!

Reservations, upgrades & quotas

Railpasses are valid for any Amtrak train in the USA except Acela Express high-speed services and the Auto-Train car-carrying service.

Reservations are required!   The railpass is not a ticket, you must make a (free) reservation before boarding any train.  You can make reservations online at www.amtrak.com after buying your pass.  Alternatively, you can make them at stations as you travel around or by calling Amtrak's 24 hour freephone number, 1-800-USA RAIL (from outside the States call Amtrak on (001) 215-856-7953, not free).

Upgrading to a sleeper is no longer possible:   It used to be possible to upgrade to a private sleeper when using a pass, simply by paying the appropriate room charge.  For an idea of sleeper room charges, see the fares section above .  However, in 2021 this has changed, though it's not clear if this is permanent or temporary.  At present you cannot upgrade to a sleeper (or to business class) with a pass.  So only buy a pass if you're happy using a seat, even overnight.

Warning about passholder quotas:   After buying your pass, you can make reservations online, or at stations as you go, or by calling Amtrak.  However, with a pass you can only book trains on which a Value or Saver fare is available.  If only the most expensive Flexible fare is showing, you cannot use your pass on that train, even if there are seats still available for customers paying cash.  Many trains have Value or Saver fares available even on the day before departure, and sometimes even on the day of travel itself, but not always.  Trains get busy in summer, Value and Saver fares have limited-availability and often sell out.  When they sell out, you can't use your pass on that train.  So don't buy a pass only to find you can't travel on the trains you need.  Before buying the pass, use the journey planner at www.amtrak.com to get a feel for how fares work, and to see if your chosen trains have Value or Saver fares left.

How to buy an Amtrak Railpass

Check prices in pounds & buy a USA railpass (UK-based company, but passes sent to addresses worldwide)

Check prices in Australian dollars & buy a USA railpass (Australia & NZ residents)

Tours by train across America

Amtrak vacations, www.amtrakvacations.com.

Amtrak Vacations is Amtrak's official partner.  They can put a package together to your own specification, from anywhere to anywhere, with private sleeping accommodations on the train, stopovers at cities or national parks, hotels & transfers.  They'll also do ticket-only bookings for cross-country Amtrak journeys, and you may get more help and advice if you book through them as they specialise in Amtrak's long-haul routes.

Railbookers

Train travel specialist Railbookers have offices in the UK, USA & Australia.  They can arrange a tour by train across the United States on Amtrak, starting any date you like, to your own specification with hotels and train reservations all made for you, hassle-free.  They know what they're doing, and take good care of their clients, and I have no hesitation in recommending them.

G uidebooks

Click the images to buy at amazon.co.uk or amazon.com.

Alternatively, you can download just the chapters or areas you need in .PDF format from the Lonely Planet Website , from around £2.99 or US$4.95 a chapter.

Hotels in the USA

New York:  The Algonquin is New York's oldest operating hotel, opened in 1902, and a designated New York City Historic Landmark.  Perfectly located in mid-town Manhattan, a block or two from Times Square one way and Grand Central the other, with a lovely wood-panelled lobby and even its own hotel cat, which you may find wandering the corridors or sitting on the reception desk.  To check prices & book, click here .  For the Algonquin's history see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algonquin_Hotel .

Washington DC:   Phoenix Park Hotel .  A great choice, directly across the road from Union Station so handy for arrivals and departures by train, with an excellent Irish Pub doing great food & Irish beer on the premises, and just 2 minutes walk from the capitol.  From around $154 for a double.

Los Angeles:   Hotel Queen Mary (closed for refurbishment in mid-2022, but reopened in April 2023).  This has got to be of the most fascinating places to stay, anywhere.  If you go to Los Angeles, consider making the Hotel Queen Mary your base to explore the Los Angeles - Hollywood - Disneyland area.  The original Queen Mary of 1936 has been permanently moored at Long Beach in California since the late 1960s, some 25 miles from Los Angeles Union Station (about a $90 taxi ride), and it's undoubtedly the most wonderful place to stay in LA.  The hotel consists of most of the original first class cabins on board the Queen Mary, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars available on board, too.  Hotel guests can more or less wander the ship at will, and even sign up for ghost hunts at night on board (and yes, from my own experience there is something going on aboard that beautiful ship!).  Wood panelled art deco interiors have been preserved, although a few modern items have been installed such as televisions, and (as we worked out from a historic deck plan) in some cases two of the Queen Mary's original cabins have been knocked into one hotel suite by turning one of the en suite bathrooms into a connecting corridor.  She is one of the most atmospheric places I have ever stayed.

Backpacker hostels in the USA: www.hostelworld.com

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in many places across the States at rock-bottom prices.

Flights to the USA

1)  check flight prices at opodo, www.opodo.com, 2)  use skyscanner to compare flight prices & routes worldwide across 600 airlines....

3)  Lounge passes

Make the airport experience a little more bearable with a VIP lounge pass, it's not as expensive as you think, see www.loungepass.com .  I have found that having lounge access with complimentary tea, coffee, food and wine makes all the difference to an economy flight.

Travel insurance & other tips

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from buy from Amazon.com .

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The Best Train Trips to Take Across America

Explore the U.S. by rail on these scenic train rides.

There's a romance to train travel — the leisurely pace of a rail trip compared to the hustle of an airport or a crowded highway encourages you to relax. There are the historic train stations and roomy seats, plus the chance to get up and walk around, visit the dining car, or just sit and take in the scenery.

There are many rail journeys you can take across the United States, with stops in exciting cities, historic landmarks, and national parks along the way. From Napa Valley to New England, here are ten of the best rides in the USA.

The Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train takes riders through the picturesque wine country northeast of the San Francisco Bay Area. The route follows a rail line originally built in 1864. Visitors can take a 36-mile journey from downtown Napa to picturesque St. Helena and back while indulging in delicious wine and California cuisine. After boarding the train at the McKinstry Street Station, travel through the old industrial section of Napa, then continue through the scenic vineyards of Northern California. Experiences range from three-hour lunches in the panoramic Vista Dome car to full-day adventures where you can hop on and off the train along the way. Don't forget to plan an overnight stay at one of the incredible hotels in Napa Valley .

The Pacific Surfliner

Traveling 351 miles along the coast of Southern California, Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner is one of the world's most scenic train rides . Start in San Diego and head north, stopping along the way in quaint ocean towns like Carpinteria, San Juan Capistrano, and Ventura. Be sure to leave some time to explore Santa Barbara, or head all the way to the end of the line at San Luis Obispo before looping back.

The Coast Starlight

Ride up the West Coast on Amtrak's Coast Starlight , a 35-hour journey that goes all the way from Los Angeles to Seattle, passing through Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland. The scenery along the way includes snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, forests and valleys, and long stretches of Pacific Ocean shoreline.

Empire Builder

Those looking to follow the trail of Lewis and Clark should hop aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder train , which runs between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest. With stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains, there's a reason this is one of the most popular long-distance train rides in the U.S. Hop off in Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Minnesota, and again in Glacier National Park before finishing the trip in either Seattle, Washington, or Portland, Oregon.

The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway , which dates back to 1901, offers riders a lesson in history from the Wild West and the opportunity to see the beautiful scenery in this iconic region. Kick back in the restored cars and listen to crews' incredible stories the crew as you ride the railway from Williams to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on a 65-mile trip across the high desert plateau. You'll then have three hours to explore before heading back in the afternoon. Looking to make your journey even more fun? Book a ride on one of the railway's vintage steam trains , which depart on select dates between March and October.

Amtrak Cascades

Cross over the United States' northern border on Amtrak Cascades , stretching from Vancouver, Canada to Eugene, Oregon, passing through Portland and Seattle along the way. Stop in cities for day trips or overnight stays, and then hop back on a train to pass by Mount St. Helens and cross the Columbia River Gorge.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Ride this historic railway across the Yukon on the Bennett Scenic Journey , which travels from Alaska to Canada. The 67.5-mile trip takes you between Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon Territory, Canada, along the same route that the Klondike stampeders traveled in 1898. Stop along the way to tour the historic Bennett Station and museum.

The Rocky Mountaineer

Voted the best train by T+L readers , The Rocky Mountaineer once only served Canada, bringing passengers from east to west with an exceptional display of scenery. It now offers a U.S. route: Rockies to Red Rocks , which transports passengers through the American Southwest from Denver to Moab, Utah, with a stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Journeys run between April and October and include meals and accommodations in nearby hotels.

Hawaiian Railway Society

The Hawaiian Railway Society offers locomotive enthusiasts rides along 12 miles of Oahu's historic railroad tracks. Along the way, take in views of the ocean while listening to stories about the golden days of train travel in Hawaii. The two-hour round-trip rides run three days a week, and there's also a toy train museum to check out before or after your journey.

The Maple Leaf Train

Take a train trip that starts at Niagara Falls and ends in New York City on Amtrak's Maple Leaf train . You'll travel through the scenic Hudson River Valley, New York's wine country, and the gorges of the Finger Lakes region. While at Niagara Falls, stop for a cruise on The Hornblower to the rushing falls or take a Journey Behind the Falls tour , which brings you 150 feet below ground to tunnels that lead to observation spots at the foot of the falls.

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The Ultimate Guide To Traveling By Train

This page may contain affiliate links which means I get a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase with them. This helps keep the site running and the travel tips coming! For more info, check out my Privacy Policy & Disclosure .

Commercial rail travel has been around since the 1800’s and with the hyperloop around the corner, innovations in this method of transportation are still being made to this date.  The current fastest commercial train in the world can be found in China traveling between Beijing and Nanjing, reaching top speeds of 350 km/h (218 mph)!  

The train has become a very useful way of traveling in many countries around the world, especially in Europe and East Asia, and one that you should definitely consider using on your next trip.

On this page, I will tell you everything you need to know about traveling by train so that you know exactly what to expect when you book your ticket.  I will focus on trains that travel between different cities.  

If you’re looking for information on metro/subway systems and other inner-city rail travel, check out my Guide to Public Transport .

So without further ado, here are the top 8 things you need to know about traveling by train:

1. Your experience will vary widely depending on the country

If you’ve never been on a train before, you’re in for a treat.  There’s a reason people like to collect and build model train sets.  It has captured the imaginations of many and can be a magical experience if you’re prepared, but it can also be a stressful and uncomfortable one if you’re not.  

This because while many countries have rail systems, it doesn’t mean that you will have the same experience everywhere.  Even within Europe, the birthplace of commercial rail travel, the level of service you get from each country can vary widely.

The experience usually involves getting assigned a seat (or maybe not) and getting taken to your destination via rail.  Some trains will come with air conditioning, but some will not.  The long-distance trains will have a toilet on board, but the regional trains probably won’t.  Some fancier trains might offer wifi, but it’s not a guarantee.  Changes and cancellations also depend on the country and service as there is no standard that exists for this sort of policy.

In developed countries that invest a lot of money into their rail system, you can probably rest assured knowing that it will be an enjoyable experience, but I can’t say the same for others.  For example, have you ever seen those photos of trains in India that are so overcrowded that there are people hanging onto the train from the outside?  

I don’t think most travelers are looking to have that type of experience so it’s important to do your research and be well-informed so you know what you’re getting yourself into.  Do a Google search for “train travel in ____” to get an idea for what it’s like in your destination.

2. Trains are usually cheaper than flights, but more expensive than buses

But not always.  There are also times when it goes the other way too.  

With the rise of budget airlines these days, many flights between nearby cities can be cheaper than traveling by train.  And in some countries, the rail system is subsidized enough by the government that it can be cheaper than traveling by bus.  This makes comparing all the options available even more important.

In addition, trains are usually slower than flights, but faster than buses, but again, not always.  Sometimes a high-speed train can get you to your destination faster than a plane can if you factor in the amount of time it takes to get to and from the airport, check in, go through security, board, etc.  

And on the other end, sometimes a train service is so slow that even a bus can get you to your destination faster so it’s important to look at all the details.  Check out my Guide to Bus Travel if you want to learn more about traveling by bus.

3. There is no such thing as Google Trains

Unlike Google Flights, there is no one website that exists that will let you see the schedules and book trains for every country in the world.  Depending on the country and region, you will either have to go to the national railway’s website for that country to get that information or go to the local train station in person.  

I provide links to each country’s national railway website in its Destination Guide  as well as other information if there is no website.

That being said, a good way to see what train operators there are for any route you’re looking for is to check Rome2Rio .  The best thing to do is to note down the train operators it finds and then check out their specific websites to see schedules and pricing. 

And if you’re traveling in Europe, a great resource for seeing train schedules for any European country and itinerary is bahn.de/en .  It has schedules for every country in Europe, but it won’t show you fares unless the ticket originates in Germany.  

To see fares, you’ll have to use the national railway’s website for that country or an online travel agency (OTA), although OTAs usually charge more.  A good OTA for Europe is Omio and for Southeast Asia, East Asia (not including South Korea), Australia, New Zealand, and some destinations in South Asia, try 12go . 

4. Booking in advance isn't always necessary, but it is advised

Some train companies have caught on to the airline pricing model and have started to price their train services in a similar fashion with cheaper prices if booked early and expensive prices if booked on the same day, but this doesn’t apply to every company and every service.  

You will typically only see this from long-distance, international, or high-speed trains, sometimes labeled “inter-city”.  The best time to start looking for tickets for these types of trains is no sooner than 3 months in advance because that’s when most train operators start selling them.

But if your train isn’t a high-speed one and is traveling to another destination within the same country that isn’t too far away, the price will be fixed and they won’t sell out of tickets (assuming there isn’t some massive event happening at that time) so you don’t have to buy your ticket in advance.  

You can just show up to buy your ticket from the ticket office or ticket machine 15 minutes before your train is scheduled to leave for the same price as if you buy it months in advance.  This type of service is typically for trains labeled “local”, “regional”, or “suburban”.

5. You aren't always guaranteed a seat

Unless your booking gives you a seat number or you choose to reserve a seat for an additional fee, you aren’t guaranteed a seat on the train.  This doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to take that train even though you have a ticket.  

What it means is that you’ll be able to choose your own seat that isn’t already reserved once you get on board and if there aren’t any seats available, then unfortunately you’ll have to stand or sit against a wall for the duration of your train journey.

Some long-distance, international, and high-speed trains will assign you a seat so you won’t have to worry about this, but if it doesn’t and you choose not to reserve one, most trains around the world operate on a first-come, first-serve basis so you take whatever seat you can find and if you can’t find one, then you’ll have to prepare to stand until one opens up.

6. You don't need to check in for your train

This is one way that train travel differs greatly from air travel.  When you go to an airport, you have to show up at least an hour early, if not more, to give yourself time to check in, drop off your luggage, get through security, find your gate, and board the plane, but with train travel, it’s much easier.  

Most of the time, as long as you have your ticket, you could theoretically show up at the station just 5 minutes before your train is scheduled to leave and have no problems catching it (although I do recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before just to be safe).

Sometimes you will have to go through security if that country has implemented such policies, but it’s usually quite swift.  And if you’re traveling on an international train, then you might have to go through passport controls too, but other times that happens on the train by border control that comes on board and checks everyone’s passports.  

You carry your luggage on with you and store it above your seat or in a special little section of your train car for luggage.

7. Eurail/RailEurope passes offer flexibility, but at high prices

There’s a pass you can get for train travel in Europe that lets you travel on an unlimited amount of trains for a set amount of days ranging from 3 days to 3 months and it’s called the Eurail / Interrail (for Europeans) or RailEurope pass.  

It essentially offers you maximum flexibility if you want to travel by train in Europe without planning ahead for it because all you have to do is show your pass and you can board any train you want (except for high-speed and night trains).

Here’s the catch: the pass is more expensive than simply booking the train tickets separately by yourself in advance and there is also an extra cost if you do want to take high-speed or night trains as they require seat reservations which can cost between $7-$30 per seat.  

The pass is good for people who simply want the easiest way to explore Europe by train only and who don’t really care about their budget, but if you’re okay with taking different methods of transportation or you want to save money, I do not recommend it as there are better ways to get from one destination to another.

8. Trains can go to places cars can't reach

Some train routes pass through areas that are inaccessible by cars which can lead to some marvelous and spectacular views.  Just think of Switzerland.  It has a very well-developed rail system that connects every town and village in the country.  Train rides there can be so spectacular because they pass alongside mountains where there aren’t any roads, giving you unparalleled views of the scenery.

Similarly, the Rocky Mountaineer in British Columbia, Canada offers a memorable way to experience the Rocky Mountains.  Starting in Vancouver, the train passes through the Rocky Mountains with glass ceilings that let you look up and admire the natural beauty as you make your way to the world-famous cities of Banff or Jasper.  It’s a different and unique way to experience the Rocky Mountains that you won’t get from simply driving.

And that’s it!

There’s only so much I can write about trains that either hasn’t already been written or that you just need to experience for yourself, but I hope that you got a better general understanding of them from this guide.  

Let me know in the comments below about some of your train experiences and if you’re looking to learn about buses and how they differ from trains, check out my Guide to Bus Travel .

About The Author

Hi there,  I’m Sebastian , founder and creator of Travel Done Simple. Since I turned 20, I have lived in 5 different countries and traveled to over 40 others! You can learn more about me on my  About page   and find me on social media.

Hi there, I’m Sebastian , founder and creator of Travel Done Simple. Since I turned 20, I have lived in 5 different countries and traveled to over 40 others! You can learn more about me on my About page   and find me on social media.

I’m Sebastian , the founder and creator of Travel Done Simple! I was born in Europe and raised in Canada, but I now consider myself to be a citizen of the world. When I’m not busy exploring new destinations, I’m here giving you the best travel tips so you can do the same! 

You can learn more about me on my About page and if it’s your first time on my site,  start here !

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8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely sightseeing experience.© Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

There’s no getting around the sheer size and scale of the USA – it’s an absolute, supersized whopper – and the best way to see it all is via train.

The US has close to 3.8 million sq miles (10 million sq km) of sublime mountain ranges, parched desert, entire states engulfed in deep snow, you-gotta-go-see-it-to-believe-it cities, endless prairie land, six whole time zones and lakes so large you could lose whole countries down there. So while traveling around by plane might make sense from a convenience point of view – it’s not quite six hours to dart directly from New York to LA – there really is no better way to experience the sheer grandeur of the country than by taking one of these train vacations.

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely, nostalgic sightseeing experience, often passing through pristine landscapes inaccessible by other means. The US is rich with amazing train journeys, but the routes listed below are the cream of the crop. From California to New England ,  here are eight epic US train trips our editors have selected, taken from Lonely Planet's  Amazing Train Journeys .

1. The Sunset Limited

Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1995 miles (3211 km); 2 days

Amtrak's Sunset Limited is the ultimate American railroad ride and one of its most famous train journeys: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a journey across the USA, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer.

Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana ’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston , across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, pardner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

2. The Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle – Portland – Sacramento – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1377 miles (2216 km); 35 hours

Trace America’s “left coast” in all its varied splendor. The 35-hour (OK, it’s Amtrak, so maybe more) trip between Seattle and Los Angeles curves alongside crashing Pacific waves, cuts through America’s lushest agricultural land and passes below snowcapped mountains and towering redwoods. Of all the Amtrak routes, the Coast Starlight offers the most scenic variety in the fewest hours.

It’s also the only Amtrak service with a dedicated parlor car, open only to passengers who book sleepers. The parlor conjures old-time rail romance, with wood paneling and soft lighting, plus a special menu and wine-and-cheese tastings. Highlights of this train ride include dramatic sunrise perspectives on 14,179ft (4322m)  Mt Shasta , and a gorgeous midday traverse of Oregon's Cascade Range.

3. Metro-North Hudson Line

Route: New York City – Poughkeepsie Distance and duration: 69 miles (111 km); 1½ hours

Depart from New York City ’s iconic beaux arts Grand Central Terminal , stopping to admire the ornate astronomical ceiling painting in the vaulted main concourse and to slurp up oysters and a martini at the famous Oyster Bar.

Then roll through Manhattan and the Bronx and into the glorious green Hudson River Valley. Hugging the eastern banks of the river, New York’s Metro-North's Hudson line travels deep into American history. The names of the stops along the way speak to the area’s origins: Native American (Ossining, Poughkeepsie); Dutch (Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers, Cortlandt, Peekskill); English (Hastings-on-Hudson, Scarborough). It’s a land so famously beautiful an entire art movement – the Hudson River School – was once dedicated to capturing its glory. For the cost of a burger and a beer, this view can be yours for almost two hours.

4. The California Zephyr

Route: Chicago – Omaha – Denver – Salt Lake City – San Francisco Distance and duration: 2438 miles (3924km), 51 hours 20 minutes

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak’s California Zephyr train. This classic three-day journey travels nearly 2500 miles (4000km) across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from Chicago to San Francisco. The scenery is magnificent throughout – especially when seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the lounge car – but if you can only do one section, opt for the riveting 185-mile (298km) stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the train travels through an often roadless wilderness of deep, narrow gorges near the Colorado River’s headwaters.

Near sunset, the train emerges into the majestic red rock desert of eastern Utah , then crosses overnight into the forbidding vastness of Nevada's sagebrush country, with salt flats and stark, arid mountains as far as the eye can see. Sunrise on day three reveals an entirely different desert: the blinding-white alkali flats and ghostly grey mountains near Winnemucca, Nevada. Just beyond the gambling-happy little city of Reno, the Zephyr climbs into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, then enters California’s imposing granite high country beyond the photogenic frontier town of Truckee.

5. Amtrak Downeaster

Route: Boston – Portland – Brunswick Distance and duration: 145 miles (233 km); 3 hours 25 minutes

As car-free city breaks go, this train escape is hard to beat, chugging from the downtown main streets of urban Boston to Maine ’s rural greens in under four hours. That’s from the seventh most densely populated city in the US to the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, all in less time than it takes to cook an old-style Yankee plum pudding.

Even better, every stop on the Amtrak Downeaster features historic New England cities and towns, parks and seascapes, cottage arts and crafts, world-class shopping and stellar foods fashioned from farm-and-sea-fresh ingredients.

6. The New Mexico Rail Runner

Route: Albuquerque – Santa Fe Distance and duration: 97 miles (156 km); 90 minutes

One of America’s great unsung commuter railways, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a regional train that runs down the Rio Grande Valley , connecting the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, with its cultural and political capital, Santa Fe.

On the way it crosses the wide, high desert, giving views of arid mountains in all directions, and even passes through several of the state’s Native American tribal lands. A no-nonsense, clean and quick journey, its highlights are the sweeping views from the upper seats of the double-decker carriages. Taken as a day trip or a scenic but practical form of intra-state transport, the Rail Runner is a wonderful introduction to New Mexico ’s epic landscapes.

7. The Empire Builder

Route: Chicago – St Paul or Minneapolis – Spokane – Portland or Seattle Distance and duration: 2764 miles (4448 km); 46 hours

The Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle glides through Wisconsin 's woodlands, Minnesota's lake country and the North Dakota prairies en route to a western horizon swarming with snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks.

From Browning , Montana, an unforgettable 60-mile run along the southern edge of Glacier National Park leads to the park entrance at West Glacier, where nature lovers will want to break their journey before continuing to Seattle.

8. The Vermonter

Route: Washington, DC – New York City– Springfield – Essex Junction ( Burlington ) – St Albans Distance and duration: 611 miles (983 km); 13 hours 45 minutes

The Amtrak Vermonter runs once daily from Washington, DC to St Albans, VT. This is the most scenic route east of the Mississippi, especially in its northern reaches, where it snakes for four hours through the bucolic green hills and photogenic villages of rural Vermont.

Starting from the nation's capital, Washington, DC, the train runs north through one of the USA's greatest metropolises, New York City, before bowling out through Connecticut , Massachusetts and New Hampshire en route to the bucolic Vermont countryside and St Albans.

This article was first published Dec 4, 2020 and updated Jan 29, 2024.

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Seeing America by train

What it’s really like to travel cross-country by rail.

This summer, I was determined to take a train across the United States.

I started in Northern California, and over the course of 80 hours, 12 states and 3,397 miles, I meandered my way alongside deserts, forests, mountains, rivers; through coal plants, suburban backyards, vast cornfields, and the occasional Big American City — and ended in the very Biggest of them all, New York City.

This idea was not well-received among most of my friends.

Kind of. A truly transcontinental, coast-to-coast train does not exist. It requires at least two legs.

True. A sleeper car ticket across the country will set you back at least $1,000. And Amtrak’s labyrinthine dynamic pricing model can easily bump that up to a cool $2,000.

And most of all ...

But on a warm day in June, I stepped onto the California Zephyr, one of Amtrak’s long-haul Superliners, and began my voyage east.

Before I even made it to my roomette, I overheard a conversation that more or less answered that question: Why?

For my first leg from California to Chicago, I splurged on a roomette, the smaller of the two sleeper options.

I did not spend much time in my roomette, aside from sleeping and an ill-fated attempt at yoga.

That’s because the social hub of long-distance train travel was three cars down in the dining and observation cars.

When you book a sleeper room on an Amtrak train, you technically become a first-class passenger. And in true first-class fashion, you are served three meals a day in the dining car.

In the heyday of train travel, first-class dining served up some of the best food in the country. Menus from the mid-20th century boast dishes like Russian caviar, charbroiled steak and aged bourbon, all served on fine china with shiny silverware.

Today, the dining car is more utilitarian, offering entrees a few steps above airplane food. The china has been replaced with fancily molded plastic plates, but we did eat with real silverware. In a charming touch harking back to the golden days, each table is set with a white tablecloth and a vase of real roses.

Dining is communal, and passengers are grouped in tables of four. Within hours of boarding the train, a friendly retired couple more or less adopted me, and over the next two days, we ate most of our meals together.

Toan and Maria had never been on a sleeper train before and were excited for a chance to see the country en route to Chicago.

They had come to the United States as refugees from Vietnam at age 30. Upon arrival, they quickly realized their work experience back home didn’t mean much to their new countrymen. So they moonlighted as dishwashers and collected odd jobs while getting their requisite degrees.

The pair were now enjoying their well-deserved retirement, which included sampling Amtrak’s dessert menu.

The observation car is where the magic happens.

Over the course of my time on the California Zephyr, I became acquainted with a cast of regulars. Among them were:

Robin, a teacher from Georgia who made it her goal to start and finish knitting a beanie on the train. (She succeeded!) At the end of the trip, she gave me a lifetime top-five hug.

Victor and David, an indefatigably friendly couple from D.C., who liked to refer to me as “fabulous” and “ah-MAY-zing.” Naturally, I enjoyed their company.

Doug, a Texan missionary with a slight hippie flair, who gave me fist bumps every morning.

I also did my fair share of eavesdropping.

But of course, the primary purpose of the observation car is to, well, observe.

Which I did.

At night, I fell asleep to the gentle rocking and muted whistles of the train.

Sometime in the middle of my first night on the Zephyr, we passed through the center of Utah.

It was here, 155 years ago, where the famed Golden Spike was driven into the earth by Leland Stanford, marking the completion of the country’s first transcontinental railroad (which technically did not run coast-to-coast, but from Omaha to Sacramento).

The railroad, lauded as one of the greatest achievements in U.S. history, also set the stage for an era of aggressive westward expansion, empire-building and the subjugation of Indigenous people .

Our conductor, when providing a brief history of rail travel, recounted a railroad operator who would pause the train when it encountered a bison herd, encouraging passengers to disembark to shoot the animals (“kill the buffalo, kill the Indian” as the mantra went).

The famed first transcontinental railroad — that slow serpent winding through the middle of America — fell out of operation by 1904. Today, parts of those old rail tracks are used for freight.

The Colorado River is long. Somewhere in Utah, we sidle up against one of its tributaries, and then we follow it to the source. We then trace it up and up, into the Rocky Mountains.

To appreciate the true immensity of the Colorado River, its power, beauty and significance, you have to sit with it.

To ride alongside it for an entire day.

To follow the river as it slices and swells and shrinks.

The people in the Colorado River know that you, as a train-rider, are watching the scenery with rapt attention. And they like to have some fun at your expense.

The California Zephyr terminates in Chicago, and I get off unsteadily, finding my land legs. Fifty-two hours after my journey began, I say my goodbyes to my new train friends and embark on the home stretch of my journey aboard the Lake Shore Limited.

The remaining 20 hours to New York City take me through the old Great Lakes industrial corridor, along the Erie Canal and down the Hudson River.

This leg of my trip is decidedly less luxurious. For one, I’ve opted to ride in coach, which means no flat surface to overnight on — and, as I later find out, no access to the dining car. In addition, the Lake Shore Limited, like most trains on the East Coast, lacked an observation car.

Most train enthusiasts will recommend traveling across the country from east to west. I quickly understood why. Taking the California Zephyr before the Lake Shore Limited was like eating a scrumptious dessert before a much blander dinner.

I boarded the train at night and immediately tried to get some shut-eye. As it turns out, a coach seat is not very conducive to sleep. It is, however, quite conducive to overhearing your neighbor’s conversations … at all hours of the night.

The next day, after three or so hours of non-REM sleep, I headed to the cafe car (not to be confused with the vastly superior dining and observation cars). There, I spent the bulk of the day observing my fellow passengers and striking up various conversations.

By the time we pulled into Manhattan, the sun was setting. Warm orange light glanced off the Hudson River.

The buildings grew taller. The trees fewer.

Then, darkness.

Soon after, without fanfare, we pulled into the bowels of Penn Station.

And with that, I gathered my things, and, having completed my three-and-a-half day journey from sea to shining sea, entered the warm New York night.

About this story

Editing and art direction by Hannah Good. Additional editing by Gabe Hiatt. Design, animations and development by Katty Huertas with support from Carson TerBush. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Copy editing by Jordan Melendrez.

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Our favorite destinations: Take our destination quiz to choose your own adventure. Then read about 12 dream destinations at the top of our wish list — without the crowds.

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Tales from the road: Trace a route along the southern coast of Puerto Rico . See how jamón gets made in the heartland of Spanish pork .

The 8 Coolest Train Trips You Can Take

All aboard!

With air travel continuing to be more and more unstable, many are reverting to the old ways of transportation for their next getaway— road trips , cruises, and, yes, train travel . Both in the United States and worldwide, there are many scenic routes that are worth the lengthier journey. Imagine hopping on and off a train between vineyards in Napa, ascending more than 10,000 feet for a stellar view of one of the world’s most famous mountains, or enjoying a murder mystery-themed train that doesn't skimp on either luxury or entertainment.

Whatever your preferred journey may be, these eight train trips are definitely bucket list-worthy.

Gornergrat-Bahn

Switzerland is synonymous with train travel, thanks in part to the impeccably clean coaches, reliably accurate timetables, and striking landscapes found in every region. Visit Zermatt, a car-free village at the base of the Matterhorn. While the city itself offers an impressive view of the mountain, a ride aboard the Gornergrat-Bahn climbs more than 10,000 feet into the Alps for an even better view. From here, you can view glaciers, ski runs, and the amazing Alps as far as the eye can see, plus enjoy immersive experiences, an onsite restaurant, and more.

British Pullman

Belmond trains are in a class of luxury all their own, and while any route is sure to memorable, this England-based journey transports passengers back to the 1950s. While sipping champagne and enjoying a five-course meal, things begin to seem amiss as costumed actors wander the cars adding to the mystery. Spend your time both enjoying the Kent countryside and helping solve a murder in this clever immersive experience.

The Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West

The Rocky Mountaineer operates luxury train routes throughout the Rocky Mountains in both the United States and Canada. You can’t go wrong with any journey, but the “ First Passage to the West ” is extra special. Beginning in Vancouver, passengers can see snow-capped mountains and glistening waters before routing through the lakes in Kamloops. Ultimately, passengers arrive in Banff National Park and the beautiful Lake Louise.

GoldenPass Express

Switzerland has no shortage of stunning routes, but the brand new GoldenPass Express journey shouldn’t be missed. Connecting the Interlaken region (which is largely German) to Montreux (which is more French), the train introduces innovation in both technology and design, as well as a new passenger class. The Prestige Class includes seats that heat, recline, and even swivel so passengers can change their view. The route is included with the popular Swiss Travel Pass.

Napa Valley Wine Train

You’ll need to leave the keys behind during a visit to Napa Valley’s historic vineyards, so the Wine Train has your transportation covered. Board a 100 year old train car for a six-hour journey through the valley, stopping at a handful of prominent vineyards for tastings along the way. While on board, enjoy a welcome glass of bubbles, a four-course meal, and plush interiors while cruising through stunning landscapes.

Eurostar from London to Paris

The innovation of this trip alone earns it a spot on the list. While the interiors may be comparable to a commuter airplane, the high-speed journey connects two bustling cities in a trip that takes just over two hours. The journey is possible thanks to the Channel Tunnel, which opened in 1994 and burrows 75 meters underneath the English Channel. At 31.5 miles long, it’s the world’s longest undersea tunnel.

The Orient Express La Dolce Vita

A tale as old as time, the Orient Express began operation in 1883, charming travelers with its unparalleled decor and quality dining options. While a replicated experience won’t be available until 2025, climb aboard the La Dolce Vita journey through Italy operated by the same company. Destination options include stops in Venice, Rome, Siena, Portofino, Montalcino, and more.

Hiram Bingham

The Hiram Bingham train from Belmond is an ultra-lux way to travel to the Lost City of the Incas. Beginning in Cusco, Peru, traveling through the Sacred Valley, this roundtrip adventure ultimately arrives at the entrance of Machu Picchu. You'll also enjoy a cocktail, brunch and gourmet Peruvian lunch, as well as stunning views both in the early morning and evening.

Kellie Walton is a freelance writer based in Nashville, Tennessee. When she’s not eating and adventuring her way around the world, she’s busy telling stories related to all things travel – including city guides, hotel and restaurant recommendations, travel hacks and tales of her own adventures (and misadventures).

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10 Affordable Yet Scenic Train Rides In The US

• The White Pass and Yukon Railway in Alaska offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and historic sites for $140 for adults.
• The California Zephyr is perfect for travelers who don't mind going long distances, with the opportunity to see incredible natural wonders starting from $150.
• The Grand Canyon Railway offers a tour for $65, giving passengers a chance to experience old-fashioned cowboy songs and see the remains of the intricate history of the Southwest.

People save a lot of money every year to fulfill their dream vacation ideas . Sometimes, the savings might be enough for a large, cross-country trip or overseas tour. But other times, they are enough for a quick road trip or adventure locally. Regardless of the budget, there are many ways to enjoy traveling, even with little savings .

The U.S. is home to many incredible natural attractions that travelers can take in by riding a train. While the country has no extensive train system, several routes run hours and some days from start to finish. Looking for a cheap train ride in the U.S.? Here are the 10 affordable yet scenic train rides in the US​​​​​​.

White Pass and Yukon Route Railway

Guests enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and historic sites at $140 for adults.

The White Pass and Yukon Railway served as civil engineering landmarks. This scenic route allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the country. There are many things to marvel at as riders sit comfortably in the vintage coaches. From historical sites to streams, valleys, and glaciers, plenty of things keep travelers’ eyes busy. The train leaves at the secretly scenic town of Skagway , Alaska, and ends at White Pass Summit, a Yukon Territory of Canada.

• Miles : 110.5 miles
• Time : 2.5-2.75 hours
• Cost: $140 for adults, $70 for children

This Gold Rush Train Connects Skagway With The Yukon's Whitehorse & Is Still Running Today

California zephyr, a chance to see some of the most incredible natural wonders from $150.

California Zephyr is perfect for travelers who don’t mind going long distances. The spectacular scenery allows guests to see natural wonders within a few days. The train makes several stops, including Omaha, Salt Lake City, and the San Francisco Area. The ride begins in Chicago and winds down in San Francisco. Please note that the prices vary depending on the pickup and drop-off areas, dining options, and room choices.

• Miles: 2,438 miles
• Time: 51 hours
• Cost : Between $150 to $300 for a coach seat

Verde Canyon Railroad

A ride through the verde canyon, which costs $119.

The Verde Canyon Railroad travels along the Verde River, surrounded by flora, fauna, desert rock buttes, and various wildlife, offering travelers a plethora of amazing sights . It is a historical route that features a huge artificial tunnel, attractive Indian ruins, and other natural wonders. There are special events that happen throughout the year, including the Chocolate Lovers Special in February and rides featuring wines and beers.

• Miles: 20 miles
• Time: 4+ hours

Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Takes visitors through the royal gorge with prices starting from $79.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad operates daily throughout the year. The journey starts in Canon City and ends in Parkdale, Colorado. Travelers are treated to phenomenal views of the canyon walls built along the Arkansas River’s waters. Riders can also see the red rock walls, which offer mountainous views under the Royal Gorge suspension bridge . The train has several ticket tiers, including coach and first class. So riders can choose one that fits their budget.

• Miles: 24 miles roundtrip
• Time : 1.5 to 2 hours
• Cost: From $79

These Are The Cheapest Scenic Train Rides To Take Around The U.S.

Grand canyon railway, a tour for $65 along the grand canyon.

The Grand Canyon Railway ride takes passengers from Williams to the Grand Canyon Village. It is a chance to experience old-fashioned cowboy songs and see spectacular views as well as the remains of the intricate history of the Southwest. Created in the 1900s, this railway ride has been used by many influential people, like Theodore Roosevelt. Throughout the trip, guests experience different climates, so bring layers. If riding during the holiday, don’t forget to check out themed events like the Pumpkin Patch ride.

• Miles : 65 miles
• Time: 2.25 hours
• Cost : $65 per adult

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

A ride through a stunning mountain range with tickets ranging from $56 for adults.

The Great Smoky Mountains rail tour is a perfect choice for nature lovers. There are two train excursions named with the attractions that visitors can see along the way. Riders can choose between the Nantahala Gorge Excursion or the Tuckasegee River Excursion. The trips are scenic and offer various seating classes. If the budget allows, consider booking a first-class dining seat. Otherwise, a coach seat is still a great ride.

• Miles: 53 miles
• Time : 4.5 hours
• Cost : From $56

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Enjoy scenic views of dunes, past mashes, and cranberry bogs on this train starting from $49.

Nature lovers will love the Cape Cod Central Railroad ride that takes passengers to places only accessed by rail. There are several excursions to choose from, including the classic narrated daytime, where travelers learn about cranberries and the history of the canal. There is also a Sunday brunch train, dinner rides, and a weekday lunch journey. The train runs in all climates and has earned a reputation as a perfect Winter Polar Express ride . Passengers can choose the ride that suits their preference and style.

• Miles : Approximately 100 miles
• Time : About 2 hours
• Cost: From $49

10 Fall Foliage Train Rides In The US That Are Worth The Ticket

The alaska glacier discovery train, a ride through stunning arctic glaciers starting from $33.

The Alaska Glacier Discovery Train is the perfect ride for those who love to visit the countryside. The stunning views of arctic glaciers keep visitors wowed the entire journey. The ride starts from Anchorage and takes riders through Girdwood and Portage. The train makes a quick stop at The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where travelers can spot some bears. Those who love cruising can do so in Whitter. From there, the train leaves Spenser Glacier, then Placer River Valley.

• Miles : 50 miles
• Time: Under 12 hours to complete the circuit
• Cost: Varies with pick-up and drop-off locations, but $33 from Whitter to Portage

Skunk Train

A ride through majestic redwoods with fares starting from $49.

There are many reasons why many people are attracted to the Skunk Train steam engine adventure. The journey traverses Redwood, and along the way, travelers can see fishermen’s cabins and other beautiful sites. The train’s original purpose was to transport redwood logs in Mendocino County. But it has evolved into a scenic ride along Pudding Creek and the Noyo River. Passengers depart from Fort Bragg or Willits and can see many tunnels and bridges.

• Miles: 7 miles roundtrip
• Time: 2 hours

Amtrak Coast Starlight

Riders can check the views of the pacific ocean from as low as $13.

The Coast Starlight train travels from Los Angeles to Seattle and passes through Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and San Luis Obispo. The train passes through different cities and ends at the line in Washington. Those who take the entire journey can check out the beautiful shoreline of the Pacific Ocean, lush green forests, and valleys. If traveling during the winter, guests have a chance to see the peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta covered with snow.

• Miles : 1,377 miles
• Time : Approximately 34 hours
• Cost: Between $13-$51, depending on the destination

THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE | Top Travel Deals

Experience the magic of the polar express™ train ride at mt. rainier scenic railroad.

All aboard for a holiday adventure that combines the best of the Pacific Northwest! Step into the enchanting world of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAIN RIDE at the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad in Elbe, WA. This experience is truly unique, not only for its festive charm but also for its location just 13 miles from the Nisqually entrance to Mount Rainier National Park. Picture your friends and family enjoying a magical train ride to the “North Pole”, followed by a winter wonderland adventure in one of the country’s most iconic national parks.

Betsy’s Cabins

• Offer: 10% off with proof of train excursion purchase.
• Details: 11 cabins in Ashford, WA, ranging in size to accommodate 2 to 6 people. Two-night minimum stay required. Each cabin features a kitchen, internet, and hot tub.
• Booking: Click here to place reservations, and check rates and availability.

Hemlock Cabin at Mounthaven Resort

Mounthaven Resort

• Offer: 15% off all reservations for 2 nights or more from November 1st through December 19th.
• Details: Guests can use promo code “Polar” on the website to activate the discount. Choose from 9 cabins.

Hibernation Station

Mt. Rainier National Park Cabins

• Offer: 10% off for visitors traveling to the area during the Polar Express event.
• Details: Enjoy cozy accommodations in nearly 20 different cabins and vacation rentals near Mt. Rainier National Park. Cabins can accommodate 2 to 8 people, with amenities like full kitchens, Wi-Fi, and fireplaces. Use promo code “NorthPoleStay2024” when booking online to activate the discount.

Double Queen Cabin

Stone Creek Lodge

• Offer:  Children stay free in November and December – a $50 savings! Stay  one night  or enjoy 25% off your second night, making your holiday magic even more memorable. Plus,  all families will receive a hard copy of The Polar Express book,  adding to your unforgettable getaway.
• Details:  Use Promo Code “POLAREXPRESS” to begin your holiday getaway with Stone Creek Lodge at Mt. Rainier. This offer is valid with proof of train excursion purchase for families staying in our Double Queen or Family Suites from November 11 through December 24, 2024.
• Booking:  Click here to place reservations and check rates and availability.

Special offers are based on availability and expire on 12/23/2024. Reservations are required. Offers cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Train tickets are not included.

Tickets for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ TRAIN RIDE at the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad go on sale September 1, 2024. Don’t wait, reserve your train tickets right away, premium departure times and dates will sell out quickly. Click here for train tickets and more event information. The seasonal special event train rides depart on select dates November 22-December 23.

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News | London

London travel news LIVE: Thameslink services hit by 'major disruption' as fire delays trains between Clapham and Wimbledon

A broken rail near Hatfield is causing “major disruption” to Great Northern and Thameslink services between Finsbury Park and Stevenage on Monday morning.

National Rail says trains may be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised, with disruption expected until the end of the day.

The problem is affecting the two separate routes via both Welwyn Garden City and Hertford North.

Disruption is reported to include Great Northern and Thameslink services on the Peterborough, Cambridge and Kings Lynn routes.

Meanwhile a fire between Clapham Junction and Wimbledon is expected to disrupt South Western Railway services until 11am.

Follow the latest travel updates below...

Live updates

Fire between Clapham Junction and Wimbledon

A fire next to the track between Clapham Junction and Wimbledon means that trains running between these stations may be cancelled, delayed by up to 20 minutes or revised, National Rail said.

Disruption is expected until 11am.

Trains have to run at reduced speed on all lines between these stations.

Routes between London Waterloo and Chessington South, Dorking, Guildford, Hampton Court, Shepperton and Woking are affected.

Changes to Thameslink and Great Northern trains

The following alterations will take place:

Trains from Welwyn Garden City towards Moorgate will run non-stop from Hatfield to New Barnet, to reduce congestion

Trains between Kings Lynn / Ely and London Kings Cross will divert onto another route between Stevenage and London Kings Cross, taking around 20 minutes longer than usual

Peak-time trains between Peterborough and London Kings Cross will be cancelled (Horsham services will still run)

Peak-time trains between Welwyn Garden City and Sevenoaks will not run on the part of the route between Welwyn Garden City and London Blackfriars

'Very limited' London-bound service between Stevenage and Finsbury Park

Thameslink and Great Northern trains may be cancelled, delayed by up to 60 minutes or revised as major disruption continues on Monday, National Rail said.

There is “only a very limited London-bound service” between Stevenage and Finsbury Park via Welwyn Garden City.

Commuters are advised to delay travelling until later today, “once trains and crews are in the right places and a more stable service can run”.

There will still be changes to services all day.

Trains which do run may be delayed, National Rail said.

Thameslink and Great Northern trains disrupted between Stevenage and Finsbury Park

Great Northern and Thameslink are working with Network Rail to repair the broken rail at Hatfield.

It means that, at least until 8am, there will be no London-bound trains between Stevenage and Finsbury Park via Welwyn Garden City.

Travel on this route will be extremely limited and it is recommended that you delay travelling until later today.

This affects Knebworth, Welwyn North, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield, Welham Green, Brookmans Park, Potters Bar, Hadley Wood, New Barnet, Oakleigh Park and New Southgate stations.

Trains will be diverted via Hertford North where possible, but these services have been impacted as well. In turn, trains will stop at fewer stations on this route.

There could be severe delays at times across the whole network due to congestion.

Broken rail near Hatfield causing 'major disruption'

National Rail is flagging “major disruption” to some Thameslink and Great Northern train services due to a broken rail near Hatfield.

Good morning

Welcome to the Standard’s travel liveblog. We’ll be keeping you informed of the major news on the trains, Tube and roads as thousands return to the office after a gloriously warm and sunny weekend in the capital.