U.S. Train Travel Tips

If you are not in a rush to get to your destination, and would like to see some of America’s countryside, take a train!

In the U.S.A., train travel between cities is provided by Amtrak, which has routes all over the country. You can check all of the schedules and fares at Amtrak.com, or call (800) USA-RAIL.

Amtrak’s fastest service is on its Acela Express trains in the Northeast corridor, which travel up to 150 miles per hour.

Popular U.S. Train Travel Routes

The Auto Train links Washington D.C. with Orlando and is a great way to get to Florida with your car! You travel in a typical Amtrak passenger car, while your car or motorcycle rides in an enclosed car carrier at the end of the train.

The Ethan Allen Express, which runs from New York City to Rutland, Vermont, is a perfect choice to see the fall foliage of New England — as is the Adirondack, which travels between New York and Montreal.

The Crescent takes you from New York to New Orleans (via Atlanta) and operates on a daily basis.

Amtrak’s Silver Service and Palmetto trains whisk you from New York to Miami and everywhere in between.

The California Zephyr links Chicago to the West, winding its way through the Rocky Mountains for one of the most scenic train rides in the country.

The Coast Starlight travels between Los Angeles and Seattle and is another very popular and scenic train trip — it features floor-to-ceiling windows in its Sightseer Lounge.

The Southwest Chief links Los Angeles and Chicago, taking passengers through the stunning landscapes of Arizona and New Mexico.

U.S. Rail Travel Tips

Read your ticket for information regarding reservations, services and bonuses.

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As with air travel, be prepared to deal with cancellations and delays.

If you are traveling overnight and need rest, plan on getting a sleeper car.

If you need a sleeper car, be sure to make your reservations well in advance.

Dress comfortably. Also, bring an extra sweater and comfortable shoes.

Find out the hours of the dining car and schedule your meals accordingly.

Avoid close connections.

Don’t leave luggage unguarded on the train or in the station.

On night trains, secure baggage to the rack with a small bicycle lock.

Keep your valuables in a concealed money belt when sleeping on trains.

Purchase earplugs at any pharmacy to help you get a good night’s sleep.

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