7 Train Rides That Will Make You Fall in Love With America

There’s a kind of calm that settles in once the train starts moving. The usual rush fades, replaced by steady motion and changing views through the window. These rides remind you how good it feels to just look around.

Aurora Winter Train – Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska

This seasonal Alaska Railroad line travels 358 miles over 12 hours while passing frozen rivers, snowy forests, and towering mountains. From Anchorage to Fairbanks, riders may even catch the aurora borealis shimmering across the sky. The train runs from September to May, with weekend departures and flag-stop access to remote wilderness.

California Zephyr – Chicago to Emeryville, California

Amtrak’s longest route stretches from Chicago to Emeryville, California, with views of the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Glenwood Canyon. The 52-hour trip covers 2,438 miles and features an observation car, dining options, and sleeper cabins. It’s a rolling showcase of the American West’s most dramatic terrain.

Glacier Discovery Train – Anchorage to Grandview, Alaska

Operating from May to September, this Alaska Railroad line links Anchorage to Grandview with stops like Girdwood, Whittier, and Spencer Glacier. The route travels through alpine forests, glacier-carved valleys, and wildlife-rich terrain. It’s also the only way to reach Spencer Whistle Stop, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Empire Builder – Chicago to Seattle, Washington

The Empire Builder spans 2,206 miles over approximately 46 hours and connects Chicago with Seattle and Portland. The route traverses the northern United States with gorgeous views of the Mississippi River, Glacier National Park, and the Cascade Mountains. Passengers can enjoy Superliner accommodations, including sleeper cars and panoramic observation lounges.

Cass Scenic Railroad – Cass, West Virginia

The Cass Scenic Railroad is an 11-mile journey through West Virginia's mountains, ascending 2,390 feet to Bald Knob, the state's third-highest peak. Riders get to experience historic Shay locomotives, panoramic vistas, and a recreated logging camp at Whittaker Station, all within the preserved company town of Cass.

Grand Canyon Railway – Williams to Grand Canyon South Rim

Departing daily from Williams, Arizona, the Grand Canyon Railway covers 65 miles to the South Rim in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. There are views of pine forests and grasslands, along with onboard entertainment, including music and historical commentary. The train offers various classes, from Pullman to luxury dome cars.

Coast Starlight – Los Angeles to Seattle

Amtrak's Coast Starlight traverses 1,377 miles between Los Angeles and Seattle over 35 hours. The route showcases diverse landscapes, including the Pacific coastline, the Cascade Mountains, and lush forests.

White Pass & Yukon Route – Skagway, Alaska

Built during the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, this narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 3,000 feet in 20 miles from Skagway to White Pass Summit. It goes through steep grades, trestle bridges, and tunnels while witnessing dramatic alpine scenery and historic sites like Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls.

Cape Cod Central Railroad – Hyannis to Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts

The Cape Cod Central Railroad provides scenic journeys along the Cape's picturesque landscapes, including marshes and cranberry bogs. Options include daytime excursions with historical narration and themed dining trains featuring gourmet meals, all departing from Hyannis and Buzzards Bay stations.

Sunset Limited – New Orleans to Los Angeles

The Sunset Limited spans 1,995 miles from New Orleans to Los Angeles with bayous, deserts, and mountains over approximately 46 hours. Operating three days a week, the route offers panoramic views from the Sightseer Lounge and connects with major lines like the Texas Eagle and Coast Starlight.

Strasburg Rail Road – Strasburg, Pennsylvania

Established in 1832, the Strasburg Rail Road is America's oldest continuously operating railroad. This heritage line offers 45-minute steam train excursions through Lancaster County's Amish countryside, featuring vintage locomotives and period coaches. Visitors can also explore the nearby Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – Bryson City, North Carolina

The route through western North Carolina takes passengers deep into the Smoky Mountains, following the river through steep valleys and forested ridges. Excursions range from half-day trips to seasonal specials. Onboard options include open-air and climate-controlled cars, with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Amtrak Cascades – Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia

The Cascades corridor connects Eugene to Vancouver, British Columbia, running through cities like Portland and Seattle. This 467-mile route provides views of coastal inlets, evergreen forests, and snow-capped peaks. In terms of features, passengers will have access to regional food in the Bistro Car, free Wi-Fi, and space for bikes.

Winter Park Express – Denver to Winter Park, Colorado

The Winter Park Express travels 56 miles from Denver to Winter Park Resort in about two hours. The route takes you through 29 tunnels, including the 6.2-mile Moffat Tunnel under the Continental Divide. This seasonal Amtrak service runs on weekends from January to March and drops riders directly at the base.

Yellowstone National Park Getaway – Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

This five-day rail-and-coach tour includes Amtrak travel to Salt Lake City, followed by a motorcoach transfer to Yellowstone’s West Entrance. The itinerary covers Lower Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, and Mammoth Hot Springs. Packages typically include hotel stays, park transportation, and a guided tour across key geological features.