I’ll be honest I didn’t always understand the magic of train travel.

For years, I rushed through airports, obsessed over boarding groups, and convinced myself flying was the only way to explore the U.S. quickly.

But the first time I sat by a wide train window, coffee in hand, watching the American landscape slowly unfold in front of me… something shifted.

Train travel feels different.

It feels romantic. Slower. Softer.

You’re not just arriving at a destination you’re watching the entire country reveal itself in real time. Snow-capped mountains. Golden deserts. Coastal cliffs. Tiny storybook towns you’d never notice from 35,000 feet in the air.

And the best part? You don’t need a car. You don’t need to drive. You don’t even need to rush.

If you’ve ever wanted to see America in the most scenic, relaxing way possible, these are the best Amtrak routes across the USA and today I’m sharing the first 10 that absolutely deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.

1. California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)

One of the most iconic and scenic train rides in America.

The California Zephyr runs from Chicago to the San Francisco Bay Area (Emeryville), and it is pure magic from start to finish.

Why This Route Is Special

This isn’t just a train ride it’s a cross-country journey through the heart of America. It crosses the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada, offering views you simply can’t get from a highway.

It feels cinematic. Like something out of an old movie.

What You’ll See

• The dramatic peaks of the Rockies in Colorado
• Ruby Canyon’s red rock cliffs
• Snow-dusted alpine forests
• Wide open Nevada desert landscapes
• The Sierra Nevada mountain range

The stretch between Denver and Salt Lake City? Absolutely breathtaking.

Best Time to Take It

Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October).
Winter is stunning too if you want snow-covered mountains, but delays are more common.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $150–$300
• Roomette: $600–$1,200+

If you’re doing the full 51-hour journey, I highly recommend splurging on a sleeper cabin.

2. Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)

If I had to choose one train ride that feels effortlessly glamorous, it would be the Coast Starlight.

Running from Seattle to Los Angeles, this route hugs the Pacific Coast and delivers nonstop dreamy views.

Why This Route Is Special

Ocean views from a train window? Yes please.

It’s one of the only long-distance routes where you get extended coastline scenery. It feels relaxed, scenic, and very West Coast aesthetic.

What You’ll See

• Puget Sound
• Cascade Mountains
• Lush Oregon forests
• Dramatic Pacific coastline near Santa Barbara
• Rolling California hills

The coastal stretch near Santa Barbara is especially breathtaking.

Best Time to Take It

Late summer through early fall for clear skies and golden light. Spring is also beautiful with greener landscapes.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $100–$250
• Roomette: $500–$1,000+

This is one of the best value scenic routes in the country.

3. Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)

The Empire Builder is for the wild-at-heart traveler.

It runs from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, and it takes you through some of the most untouched landscapes in America.

Why This Route Is Special

It passes directly along the edge of Glacier National Park and that alone makes it legendary.

It feels remote. Peaceful. Vast.

What You’ll See

• Northern plains
• Mississippi River views
• Glacier National Park region
• Big Sky Montana landscapes
• Columbia River Gorge

The Montana stretch is pure serenity.

Best Time to Take It

Summer (June–September) for Glacier views and accessibility.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $150–$300
• Roomette: $550–$1,100+

If you love national parks, this one is non-negotiable.

4. Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)

The Southwest Chief connects the Midwest to the Southwest in the most dramatic way possible.

Why This Route Is Special

It crosses desert landscapes, mesas, and historic Route 66 territory. It feels adventurous and bold.

What You’ll See

• Kansas prairies
• Colorado mountains
• New Mexico desert landscapes
• Red rock formations in Arizona

Sunsets on this route are unreal.

Best Time to Take It

Spring and fall to avoid extreme desert heat.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $140–$280
• Roomette: $500–$1,000+

5. Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles)

The Sunset Limited feels warm, soulful, and deeply American.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the southernmost cross-country routes, blending Southern charm with Southwestern beauty.

What You’ll See

• Louisiana bayous
• Texas landscapes
• Arizona desert
• Palm trees approaching California

It feels like watching multiple cultures blend together.

Best Time to Take It

Late fall and winter (October–March) for cooler temperatures.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $130–$260
• Roomette: $450–$950+

6. Crescent (New York to New Orleans)

The Crescent connects the Northeast to the Deep South.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a beautiful cultural journey. You move from fast-paced cities to slow Southern towns.

What You’ll See

• Appalachian Mountains
• Southern pine forests
• Historic small towns
• Rolling Georgia countryside

Best Time to Take It

Spring for blooming landscapes and mild weather.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $120–$250
• Roomette: $400–$900+

7. Cardinal (New York to Chicago)

The Cardinal is underrated and absolutely stunning.

Why This Route Is Special

It passes through West Virginia’s mountain scenery, which feels hidden and untouched.

What You’ll See

• Blue Ridge Mountains
• New River Gorge
• Rolling farmland

It’s especially beautiful in autumn.

Best Time to Take It

October for fall foliage.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $90–$180
• Roomette: $350–$800+

8. Lake Shore Limited (Chicago to New York/Boston)

The Lake Shore Limited follows the Great Lakes and Hudson River.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the best routes for water views.

What You’ll See

• Lake Michigan
• Lake Erie
• Hudson River Valley
• Upstate New York

Best Time to Take It

Fall for foliage or summer for lake views.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $80–$170
• Roomette: $300–$700+

9. Silver Meteor (New York to Miami)

The Silver Meteor is perfect for a coastal escape.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a straight line from busy Northeast cities to palm trees and sunshine.

What You’ll See

• Carolinas coastline
• Georgia marshlands
• Florida palm trees

Best Time to Take It

Winter for warm-weather escape.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $130–$250
• Roomette: $450–$900+

10. Pacific Surfliner (San Diego to San Luis Obispo)

The Pacific Surfliner is short, affordable, and stunning.

Why This Route Is Special

It runs right along the Southern California coast — sometimes so close to the ocean it feels like you could touch it.

What You’ll See

• Southern California beaches
• Coastal cliffs
• Surf towns
• Sunset ocean views

Best Time to Take It

Year-round, but sunset rides are magical.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $35–$75

This is perfect for a girls’ weekend coastal trip.

11. Auto Train (Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL)

The Auto Train is one of the most unique train experiences in the country.

Running from Lorton (just outside Washington, D.C.) to Sanford (near Orlando), this train lets you bring your car with you.

Why This Route Is Special

You literally ride overnight while your car rides too. It’s such a smart, stress-free way to skip the long I-95 drive down the East Coast. No traffic. No hotel stops. No road fatigue.

It feels efficient but still cozy.

What You’ll See

Since it’s mostly an overnight ride, the views aren’t the highlight — but you’ll travel through:

• Virginia countryside
• The Carolinas’ forests
• Georgia landscapes
• Northern Florida terrain

The real magic is waking up in Florida, rested, with your car waiting for you.

Best Time to Take It

Winter and early spring (December–April) when everyone is escaping colder states for Florida sunshine.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach seat (includes vehicle): $200–$400+
• Roomette (includes vehicle): $600–$1,200+

Prices vary depending on vehicle size and season.

12. Texas Eagle (Chicago to San Antonio / Los Angeles)

The Texas Eagle stretches from Chicago down to San Antonio, with some departures continuing all the way to Los Angeles.

Why This Route Is Special

It feels like a cultural journey through America’s heartland into the soul of Texas. The shift in landscape and atmosphere is noticeable and beautiful.

What You’ll See

• Midwest farmland
• Arkansas forests
• Texas Hill Country
• Small historic Southern towns

If you continue west beyond San Antonio, you’ll experience more desert and Southwestern scenery.

Best Time to Take It

Spring (March–May) when Texas wildflowers bloom.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $100–$250
• Roomette: $400–$900+

13. Capitol Limited (Washington, D.C. to Chicago)

The Capitol Limited connects Washington, D.C. to Chicago in about 17 hours.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the most scenic shorter long-distance routes, passing through the Allegheny Mountains and along rivers.

It feels peaceful and classic.

What You’ll See

• Potomac River
• Appalachian foothills
• Harpers Ferry views
• Rolling Pennsylvania countryside

Morning light through the mountains is especially dreamy.

Best Time to Take It

Fall for foliage or late spring for lush greenery.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $80–$150
• Roomette: $300–$700+

14. Adirondack (New York City to Montreal)

The Adirondack runs from New York City to Montreal and it is one of the most underrated scenic routes in the Northeast.

Why This Route Is Special

It follows the Hudson River for hours and then winds through the Adirondack Mountains before crossing into Canada.

It feels romantic. Almost European.

What You’ll See

• Hudson River Valley
• Catskill Mountains
• Lake Champlain
• Adirondack forests

Best Time to Take It

October for fiery fall colors.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $70–$120

Bring your passport this is an international route.

15. Vermonter (Washington, D.C. to St. Albans, VT)

The Vermonter travels from Washington, D.C. up through New England to St. Albans, Vermont.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s cozy New England charm from start to finish. Think covered bridges, forests, and sleepy small towns.

What You’ll See

• Connecticut River
• Rolling Vermont hills
• Maple forests
• Quaint New England villages

Best Time to Take It

Fall (September–October) for peak foliage.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $50–$150

Perfect for a fall girls’ getaway.

16. Downeaster (Boston to Brunswick, ME)

The Downeaster connects Boston to coastal Maine.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a short but charming New England coastal journey. Ideal for a weekend escape.

What You’ll See

• New Hampshire coastline
• Maine forests
• Coastal towns
• Lighthouses (in certain stretches)

Best Time to Take It

Summer for beach weather or fall for foliage.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$50

Budget-friendly and beautiful.

17. Palmetto (New York to Savannah)

The Palmetto runs from New York City to Savannah.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a slower, scenic way to travel from the Northeast into the heart of the South.

What You’ll See

• Carolinas countryside
• Southern marshlands
• Historic small towns

It’s perfect if you’re planning a romantic Savannah getaway.

Best Time to Take It

Spring for blooming Southern gardens.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $100–$200
• Business Class: $150–$300

18. Floridian (Chicago to Miami)

The Floridian links the Midwest to South Florida.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s the ultimate snowbird escape — traveling from cold Chicago to warm Miami without stepping on a plane.

What You’ll See

• Midwest farmland
• Appalachian foothills
• Georgia countryside
• Florida palm trees

You can feel the temperature change as you head south.

Best Time to Take It

Winter for warm-weather relief.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $130–$280
• Roomette: $450–$900+

19. City of New Orleans (Chicago to New Orleans)

The City of New Orleans travels from Chicago to New Orleans.

Why This Route Is Special

It feels soulful. Musical. Almost poetic.

There’s something magical about arriving in New Orleans by train.

What You’ll See

• Mississippi River Delta
• Southern farmland
• Bayous
• Small Mississippi towns

Best Time to Take It

Spring (March–April) before the intense summer heat.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $100–$180
• Roomette: $350–$800+

20. Cascades (Eugene, OR to Vancouver, BC)

The Amtrak Cascades runs through the Pacific Northwest, connecting Eugene, Seattle, and Vancouver.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s lush, green, and incredibly photogenic.

The Pacific Northwest has this misty, romantic energy and this route captures it perfectly.

What You’ll See

• Snow-capped Mount Rainier (on clear days)
• Puget Sound
• Evergreen forests
• Coastal water views

Best Time to Take It

Late spring through early fall for clearer mountain visibility.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $40–$100

Shorter segments are very affordable.

21. Keystone Service (New York City to Harrisburg)

The Keystone Service connects New York City to Harrisburg, with a major stop in Philadelphia.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s quick, smooth, and perfect for a charming Pennsylvania getaway. This route feels practical but still scenic especially once you leave the city behind.

What You’ll See

• Philadelphia skyline
• Rolling Amish countryside
• Farmland and covered bridges
• Susquehanna River views

It’s peaceful in a very understated way.

Best Time to Take It

Late spring and early fall for green landscapes and comfortable weather.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$75

Perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip.

22. Pennsylvanian (New York to Pittsburgh)

The Pennsylvanian runs from New York City to Pittsburgh and it’s surprisingly scenic.

Why This Route Is Special

It cuts through the Allegheny Mountains and rural Pennsylvania in a way that feels slow and nostalgic.

What You’ll See

• Mountain tunnels
• Forest-covered hills
• Small Appalachian towns
• Wide river valleys

It’s especially magical in autumn.

Best Time to Take It

October for fall foliage.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $60–$120

A cozy, underrated ride.

23. Heartland Flyer (Oklahoma City to Fort Worth)

The Heartland Flyer runs between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s short, charming, and perfect if you want a taste of Southern plains scenery without committing to a long journey.

What You’ll See

• Wide-open Oklahoma plains
• Rolling ranchland
• Classic Texas skies

The sunsets on this route feel endless.

Best Time to Take It

Spring for mild weather and blooming wildflowers.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $25–$45

Affordable and easy.

24. Missouri River Runner (St. Louis to Kansas City)

The Missouri River Runner connects St. Louis and Kansas City.

Why This Route Is Special

It follows the Missouri River for long stretches, which makes it surprisingly scenic for a Midwest route.

What You’ll See

• River bluffs
• Small historic towns
• Farmland
• Rolling hills

It feels calm and very “heartland America.”

Best Time to Take It

Late spring through early fall.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$60

Perfect for a budget-friendly city hop.

25. Illini & Saluki (Chicago to Carbondale)

The Illini and Saluki runs from Chicago to southern Illinois.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a smooth, scenic journey through Illinois farmland and into wine country near Carbondale.

What You’ll See

• Prairie fields
• Rural farmland
• Rolling hills near Shawnee National Forest

It’s quiet, relaxing, and easy.

Best Time to Take It

Summer or fall for the most vibrant landscapes.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $20–$50

Very affordable.

26. Wolverine (Chicago to Detroit / Pontiac)

The Wolverine runs between Chicago and Detroit.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the fastest regional routes in the Midwest, making it ideal for a quick urban getaway.

What You’ll See

• Lake Michigan glimpses
• Michigan forests
• Small lakes and farmland

The approach into Detroit feels exciting and modern.

Best Time to Take It

Summer for greener scenery.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $40–$70

A smooth and efficient ride.

27. Blue Water (Chicago to Port Huron)

The Blue Water runs from Chicago to Port Huron.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s ideal for a lakeside escape. The northern Michigan vibe feels fresh and breezy.

What You’ll See

• Lake Michigan views
• Rural Michigan landscapes
• Small waterfront towns

It feels light and summery.

Best Time to Take It

Late spring through summer.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$60

Budget-friendly and scenic.

28. Borealis (Chicago to St. Paul)

The Borealis connects Chicago to Saint Paul.

Why This Route Is Special

It offers a fresh, northern Midwest perspective and connects two beautiful river cities.

What You’ll See

• Mississippi River views
• Wisconsin forests
• Rolling bluffs

It’s peaceful and refreshing.

Best Time to Take It

Summer or early fall.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $40–$80

29. Lincoln Service (Chicago to St. Louis)

The Lincoln Service runs between Chicago and St. Louis.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s fast and convenient, making it ideal for a city-to-city trip.

What You’ll See

• Illinois farmland
• Small Midwest towns
• The Gateway Arch as you approach St. Louis

The approach into St. Louis feels iconic.

Best Time to Take It

Year-round.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $25–$50

30. San Joaquins (Sacramento to Bakersfield)

The San Joaquins runs through California’s Central Valley, connecting Sacramento to Bakersfield.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s a gateway route that connects to buses toward Yosemite and Southern California. It’s incredibly practical for exploring central California.

What You’ll See

• Agricultural fields
• Golden hills
• Vineyard landscapes
• Sierra Nevada foothills

It feels sunny and expansive.

Best Time to Take It

Spring for green hills or fall for golden tones.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$70

31. Hiawatha Service (Chicago to Milwaukee)

The Hiawatha Service connects Chicago and Milwaukee and it’s one of the easiest, most relaxing regional rides in the Midwest.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s fast, frequent, and perfect for a spontaneous city escape. No long commitments, no overnight planning just hop on and go.

It feels effortless.

What You’ll See

• Lake Michigan glimpses
• Wisconsin farmland
• Rolling suburban landscapes
• The Milwaukee skyline approaching

It’s not dramatic scenery, but it’s calm and cozy.

Best Time to Take It

Summer for lakefront vibes in both cities.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $25–$40

Perfect for a weekend foodie trip or summer festival getaway.

32. Carolinian (New York to Charlotte)

The Carolinian runs from New York City to Charlotte.

Why This Route Is Special

It blends Northeast energy with Southern charm in one smooth journey. You literally feel the atmosphere shift as you head south.

What You’ll See

• Virginia countryside
• North Carolina pine forests
• River crossings
• Rolling Southern hills

It’s especially beautiful as you move deeper into North Carolina.

Best Time to Take It

Spring for blooming trees and mild weather.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $90–$180
• Business Class: $140–$250

33. Piedmont (Raleigh to Charlotte)

The Piedmont operates entirely within North Carolina between Raleigh and Charlotte.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the most comfortable short regional routes in the Southeast — clean, efficient, and scenic.

It feels polished but relaxed.

What You’ll See

• North Carolina farmland
• Pine forests
• Small Southern towns
• Soft rolling hills

Best Time to Take It

Year-round — North Carolina has mild seasons.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $25–$45

Ideal for a simple, stress-free city-to-city trip.

34. Ethan Allen Express (New York City to Burlington)

The Ethan Allen Express travels from New York City to Burlington.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s one of the most beautiful Northeast routes, especially if you love small towns, mountains, and lakes.

It feels cozy and storybook-like.

What You’ll See

• Hudson River views
• Adirondack Mountains
• Lake Champlain near Burlington
• Lush forests and farmland

Best Time to Take It

Fall (September–October) for peak foliage or summer for lake views.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $70–$140

This one is pure New England romance.

35. Maple Leaf (New York to Toronto)

The Maple Leaf connects New York City to Toronto.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s an international train journey that feels elegant and scenic. You’ll travel along rivers, vineyards, and eventually cross into Canada.

It’s surprisingly peaceful for such a major route.

What You’ll See

• Hudson River Valley
• Finger Lakes region
• Niagara River
• Distant views of Niagara Falls
• Lake Ontario

Best Time to Take It

Summer or fall for the most vibrant scenery.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $80–$150

Don’t forget your passport it’s worth it.

36. Capitol Corridor (San Jose to Auburn)

The Capitol Corridor runs through Northern California, connecting San Jose, Sacramento, and up to Auburn.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s practical but scenic, running through Silicon Valley, along bays, and toward Gold Country.

It’s one of California’s most convenient rail options.

What You’ll See

• San Francisco Bay views
• Delta waterways
• Rolling golden hills
• Sierra Nevada foothills

Best Time to Take It

Spring for green hills or fall for cooler weather.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $30–$60

Great for day trips.

37. Silver Star (New York to Miami)

The Silver Star runs from New York City to Miami.

Why This Route Is Special

It’s another Northeast-to-Florida classic but slightly different from the Silver Meteor because of its inland route and extended Southern stops.

It feels slower. More immersive.

What You’ll See

• Carolinas countryside
• Georgia forests
• Central Florida landscapes
• Palm trees as you approach Miami

It’s such a gentle way to travel into sunshine.

Best Time to Take It

Winter for a warm escape.

Approximate Price Range

• Coach: $120–$250
• Roomette: $400–$900+

Final Thoughts: Why Train Travel Just Feels Different

I used to think trains were just “another way to get somewhere.”

Now? I see them as part of the destination.

Flying skips the in-between moments. Driving makes you focus on the road. But train travel lets you sit back, breathe, and actually see America.

You watch mountains rise slowly in the distance.
You pass through towns you didn’t even know existed.
You sip coffee while rivers, forests, deserts, and coastlines glide past your window.

And honestly? That softness is rare.

Whether you’re craving dramatic mountain scenery on the California Zephyr, coastal magic on the Coast Starlight, or a simple weekend escape on the Downeaster there’s a route for every mood, every season, and every kind of traveler.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to slow down and experience the journey instead of rushing to the destination… this is it.

America looks different when you let it unfold slowly.

And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.