Taking Amtrak across America is one of the most unique ways to explore the United States. Instead of airports or highways, you sit back in a train seat and watch the country roll by. From deserts and mountains to small towns and big cities, Amtrak’s long-distance routes offer a window into landscapes and communities you might otherwise miss.
This is not the fastest way to travel, but it is one of the most memorable. Riding Amtrak across America means slowing down, meeting fellow travelers, and experiencing the journey as much as the destination.
Here’s what it’s like, the best routes, and tips for making the most of your trip.
Why Travel Across America by Amtrak?
- Scenery: You see mountains, prairies, deserts, rivers, and coastlines up close.
- Relaxation: No driving or navigating. Just sit back and enjoy.
- Community: Train travel encourages conversation with strangers in dining cars and lounges.
- Accessibility: Amtrak connects major cities and many smaller towns.
- Sustainability: Trains are more eco-friendly than flying or driving.
For those with time and curiosity, it is a way to rediscover the U.S.
The Major Long-Distance Routes
Amtrak has over a dozen long-distance routes, but these stand out for cross-country journeys.
California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
Often called Amtrak’s most scenic route, the California Zephyr crosses the Rockies and Sierra Nevada.
- Highlights: Denver, Rocky Mountains, Utah’s red rock country, and the Sierra passes.
- Duration: About 51 hours.
Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
Running through the northern U.S., this route showcases big skies and mountain ranges.
- Highlights: Glacier National Park, the plains of North Dakota, and the Columbia River Gorge.
- Duration: About 46 hours.
Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
This line cuts through desert landscapes and the American Southwest.
- Highlights: Kansas plains, New Mexico mesas, and Arizona canyons.
- Duration: About 40 hours.
Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)
A West Coast classic that runs along the Pacific Ocean for part of its route.
- Highlights: Puget Sound, Oregon forests, California coast, and wine country.
- Duration: About 35 hours.
Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles)
One of the oldest Amtrak routes, showcasing the southern U.S.
- Highlights: Louisiana bayous, Texas deserts, and Arizona mountains.
- Duration: About 48 hours.
What It’s Like On Board
Seating
- Coach class: Wide seats, more legroom than airplanes, reclining with footrests.
- Business class: On some routes, with extra comfort.
- Sleeping cars: Roomettes or bedrooms with beds, meals included, and access to showers.
Food
- Dining cars: Full meals on long-distance routes, with communal seating.
- Café cars: Snacks, sandwiches, and drinks available all day.
- Tip: Bring some of your own snacks for variety.
Lounges and Views
Observation lounges feature big windows, swivel seats, and tables. They are the best places to watch landscapes roll by.
Community
Unlike flying, train travel encourages socializing. Conversations often start over meals or in lounges, where travelers swap stories about where they’re headed.
Pros and Cons of Amtrak Across America
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scenic, relaxing way to see the U.S. | Much slower than flying |
| Comfortable seating with space to move | Delays are common |
| Chance to meet people | Food can be expensive and limited |
| Unique access to landscapes and small towns | Sleeping car tickets can be pricey |
How Much Does It Cost?
- Coach class: Usually $150–$300 for long routes, but prices vary by demand.
- Sleeping car (roomette): Often $600–$900 for cross-country trips, meals included.
- Bedroom: Can exceed $1,200, but offers more space and a private bathroom.
Booking early usually means lower fares.
Tips for Riding Amtrak Across America
- Book in advance: Prices rise as trains fill.
- Bring snacks and water: Dining is convenient but limited.
- Pack layers: Temperatures vary on board.
- Plan for delays: Trains often run behind schedule.
- Stretch often: Walk the aisles to avoid stiffness.
- Consider a rail pass: Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass allows multiple trips within a set period.
- Bring entertainment: Books, podcasts, or offline playlists for downtime.
Suggested Cross-Country Itinerary
A classic coast-to-coast trip might combine routes:
- Chicago to San Francisco via the California Zephyr (2 days)
- San Francisco to Seattle via the Coast Starlight (1.5 days)
- Seattle to Chicago via the Empire Builder (2 days)
This loop takes about a week of train time, plus stops in between if you choose.
Who Is Amtrak Across America For?
- Travelers with time: Not ideal if you’re in a hurry.
- Scenery lovers: Perfect for photographers, writers, and anyone who enjoys landscapes.
- Budget-conscious adventurers: Coach tickets are affordable compared to flying and renting cars.
- Solo travelers: Easy to meet people along the way.
Conclusion
Riding Amtrak across America is not just transportation — it is an experience. You see the country’s diversity unfold slowly, from wide plains to mountain passes, deserts, and coastlines. It is a chance to slow down, disconnect from highways and airports, and embrace the journey.
For those who value the trip as much as the destination, Amtrak across America is one of the most memorable ways to see the United States.
FAQs
How long does it take to cross America by Amtrak?
Depending on the route, a coast-to-coast journey usually takes 3–4 days nonstop. Adding stops extends the trip.
Is it cheaper to fly or take Amtrak across America?
Flying is faster and often cheaper, but Amtrak offers a unique experience, with coach fares still affordable if booked early.
Can you sleep on Amtrak without a sleeper car?
Yes. Coach seats recline and are spacious enough for overnight rest, though not as comfortable as a roomette.
Do Amtrak trains have Wi-Fi?
Some routes offer Wi-Fi, but it is unreliable on long-distance trains. Plan to be offline for parts of the journey.
What is the most scenic Amtrak route?
Many travelers say the California Zephyr is the most scenic, crossing the Rockies and Sierra Nevada.
