In a country as vast and diverse as the United States, trains offer a unique and scenic way to travel. While road trips and flights are often the go-to choices for American travelers, the train offers a slower, more leisurely alternative that can bring you up close to the beauty of the country. Whether it’s for comfort, luxury, speed, or scenic views, the best trains in the USA offer something special to every kind of traveler.
This article takes a deep dive into the top 10 best trains in the United States, highlighting what makes each one unique, their most popular routes, and the experiences that make them stand out from the rest.
1. Amtrak California Zephyr
The California Zephyr is often regarded as one of the most scenic train routes in the United States. Spanning 2,438 miles from Chicago to Emeryville, California, it offers travelers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevadas, and the plains of the Midwest.
Why It’s the Best
The California Zephyr is famous for its unparalleled natural beauty. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views through large windows, with the route passing through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, including the Colorado Rockies and the Great Plains. With comfortable seating, excellent dining options, and a range of amenities, the California Zephyr offers a quintessential American rail experience.
Notable Features
- Scenic Views: Known for its spectacular landscapes, including the Rockies and Sierra Nevadas.
- Comfort: Spacious seating and well-maintained amenities for a relaxing journey.
- Duration: A journey that spans almost 52 hours, making it perfect for those who love the long, scenic ride.
2. Amtrak Empire Builder
Traveling from Chicago to Seattle, the Empire Builder covers a 2,200-mile route that brings travelers through the wild and rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This train is named after James J. Hill, the builder of the Great Northern Railway, and it is one of Amtrak’s most beloved routes.
Why It’s the Best
The Empire Builder is notable for its gorgeous route through the northern part of the United States, especially during the fall and winter months when the landscapes are particularly stunning. The train cuts through Montana’s Glacier National Park, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and rivers. Whether it’s the spectacular scenery or the comfort and charm of the vintage railcars, the Empire Builder offers a relaxing way to see the USA.
Notable Features
- Glacier National Park Views: Passengers can enjoy some of the most breathtaking vistas in the country.
- Comfort: Spacious sleeper cars and dining options make it ideal for longer journeys.
- Historical Route: The train follows the legacy of the Great Northern Railway, giving it a rich historical significance.
3. Amtrak Acela Express
For those looking for speed and comfort, the Acela Express offers the best of both worlds. Operating in the Northeast Corridor, the Acela is the fastest train in the United States, reaching speeds of up to 150 miles per hour. It runs from Boston to Washington, D.C., stopping in major cities like New York and Philadelphia.
Why It’s the Best
The Acela Express is designed for business travelers and those who need to get from one major city to another in a timely manner. While it doesn’t match the speed of trains in Europe or Japan, the Acela is the fastest option available in the U.S., making it perfect for travelers with tight schedules. The train features spacious, comfortable seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and high-end dining services, making it the epitome of modern rail travel.
Notable Features
- Speed: The fastest train in the U.S., with speeds up to 150 mph.
- Luxury: Premium amenities, including first-class seating and top-tier dining options.
- Efficiency: A quick, reliable way to travel between major Northeast cities.
4. Rocky Mountaineer
While the Rocky Mountaineer is based in Canada, it offers exclusive trips through the U.S. as well, particularly through the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its luxury and comfort, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unparalleled experience for those who want to indulge in a premium rail journey.
Why It’s the Best
This train focuses on providing luxury services, including gourmet dining, panoramic windows, and an on-board host. The train’s route offers magnificent views of the American Rockies, forests, and valleys, and it’s particularly famous for its scenic routes like the “Coastal Passage” from Vancouver to Seattle and “Rockies to the Red Rocks,” which runs through Colorado.
Notable Features
- Luxury Dining: Enjoy top-tier cuisine and exceptional service during your trip.
- Scenic Views: The train’s route passes through some of the most picturesque regions in North America.
- Unmatched Comfort: With lavish suites and excellent service, the Rocky Mountaineer is the epitome of luxury travel by rail.
5. The Crescent
Running between New York City and New Orleans, The Crescent offers a charming way to see the southeastern part of the United States. This 1,377-mile route crosses through Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana, with a stop in Atlanta, giving passengers a great mix of urban and rural experiences.
Why It’s the Best
The Crescent is perfect for those who want to experience the southern charm of the U.S. while enjoying a smooth and comfortable ride. With well-maintained cars, scenic views, and ample legroom, The Crescent is ideal for those who are looking to explore the heart of America by train. It’s also an affordable option for those traveling between major southern cities like Atlanta and New Orleans.
Notable Features
- Southern Route: Passengers can experience southern charm from New York to New Orleans.
- Convenience: A practical route for travelers heading to major cities in the South.
- Comfortable Service: Features well-appointed accommodations, including sleeper cars.
6. The Southwest Chief
The Southwest Chief operates between Chicago and Los Angeles, passing through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the southwestern United States. The 2,265-mile route takes passengers through the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, with stops in places like Albuquerque and Flagstaff.
Why It’s the Best
The Southwest Chief offers a unique chance to explore the deserts and canyons of the American Southwest, with scenic views of the plains, mountains, and mesas. Travelers can enjoy the train’s comfortable accommodations, including sleeper cars and dining cars, while taking in the stunning vistas outside. It’s an excellent way to see a side of the U.S. that’s often overlooked by air travel.
Notable Features
- Southwest Landscapes: Features views of deserts, canyons, and plains.
- Comfortable Travel: Features sleeping cars, a lounge, and dining services.
- Historic Route: Follows part of the original Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway route.
7. The Coast Starlight
The Coast Starlight travels between Seattle and Los Angeles, covering a distance of 1,377 miles and offering some of the most stunning coastal views of any train route in the U.S. The train offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, mountains, and forests, making it a fantastic option for nature lovers.
Why It’s the Best
With large windows and comfortable seating, the Coast Starlight provides travelers with a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful scenery on the West Coast. The route passes through areas such as the Cascade Range, the Pacific coastline, and the Santa Barbara coastline, offering breathtaking panoramas at every turn.
Notable Features
- Coastal Views: One of the best train rides for those wanting to experience the beauty of the West Coast.
- Comfortable Service: Offers sleeping accommodations, dining cars, and a scenic lounge.
- Majestic Route: The train’s route offers exceptional views of mountains, oceans, and forests.
8. The City of New Orleans
Operating between Chicago and New Orleans, this route is one of the most iconic in the Amtrak network. The train offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the Mississippi Delta and offering travelers a glimpse of the culture and history of the American South.
Why It’s the Best
The City of New Orleans is a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the culture of the Deep South. It’s not just a scenic route; it’s also a cultural journey, with stops in cities like Memphis, Jackson, and Baton Rouge. The train offers comfortable accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a great choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Notable Features
- Deep South Charm: The route provides a deep dive into southern culture and landscapes.
- Cultural Stops: Includes stops in cities known for their music and history, such as Memphis.
- Affordable: An affordable way to travel through the American South.
9. The Cardinal
The Cardinal runs between New York City and Chicago, passing through the Appalachian Mountains and offering scenic views of rural Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. This 1,147-mile route is popular for its picturesque landscapes and the charm of the rural countryside.
Why It’s the Best
The Cardinal is perfect for those who want a leisurely, scenic journey through the Appalachian region. With sleeper cars and a cozy atmosphere, it’s ideal for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the peaceful charm of the Appalachian countryside.
Notable Features
- Appalachian Scenery: Offers a tranquil journey through the Appalachian Mountains.
- Historic Route: Follows part of the route originally used by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway.
- Affordable Journey: Known for its value and affordability.
10. The Lake Shore Limited
Running between Chicago and New York City, the Lake Shore Limited is another great option for travelers looking for comfort, affordability, and beautiful landscapes. The route passes through the Great Lakes region, offering passengers picturesque views of Lake Erie, the Finger Lakes, and the Hudson River.
Why It’s the Best
The Lake Shore Limited offers a great balance of affordability and scenic beauty. It’s a reliable way to travel between two of the country’s largest cities while enjoying the surrounding landscapes. Whether it’s the lakeshore vistas or the comfortable seating, this train offers an excellent way to travel.
Notable Features
- Great Lakes Views: Offers scenic views of Lake Erie and the Finger Lakes.
- Comfort: Features a range of accommodations, including sleeping cars and a dining car.
- Affordable: A cost-effective way to travel between Chicago and New York City.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking adventure, comfort, or scenic beauty, the top 10 trains in the USA offer something for every traveler. From the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer to the swift Acela Express, these trains represent the best of American rail travel, offering unforgettable experiences, stunning landscapes, and excellent service.
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