There’s something truly magical about exploring the United States by train. Unlike airplanes or highways, train travel lets you slow down, relax, and take in the breathtaking scenery without the stress of driving or navigating.
From coastal views to mountain ranges and bustling cities to quiet countryside, these rail routes offer a unique way to see America like never before.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend escape or a cross-country adventure, here are 12 unforgettable train journeys that promise stunning landscapes, rich history, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
1) The Rocky Mountaineer
The Rocky Mountaineer’s route from Moab, Utah, to Denver, Colorado, takes you on a breathtaking two-day journey through the heart of the American West, covering about 400 miles.
Starting in the red rock wonderland of Moab—home to over 200 natural arches in Arches National Park—you’ll ride in daylight only, ensuring you don’t miss a single scenic moment.
The journey includes an overnight stop in the charming town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, giving travelers a chance to explore before continuing to the mile-high city of Denver.
2) The Cardinal
Running between New York City and Chicago, the Cardinal offers a scenic path through the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains, with a key stop in Washington, DC.
It’s a route packed with natural beauty and historical charm. D.C. itself is a destination worth planning around, especially with events like World Pride coming up in May 2025. From monuments and museums to buzzing nightlife, this leg of the trip is full of must-see moments.
3) The Brightline
Florida’s Brightline is a sleek, modern high-speed train that redefines how people travel between Miami and Orlando. With stops in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, it covers around 230 miles with ease.
It’s great for both vacationers and commuters, offering fast, clean, and eco-conscious travel. Plus, it reduces the need for cars on Florida’s packed roads, making it a win for the environment.
4) The Borealis Train
Launched in May 2024, the Borealis Train connects Chicago with the Twin Cities and offers a beautiful ride through Wisconsin’s rolling farmland.
Stop off in Milwaukee to soak in its thriving summer festivals, arts, and culture, or marvel at the fun-filled Wisconsin Dells—famously known as the “Water Park Capital of the World.” This route is a perfect blend of city vibes and natural beauty.
5) The Hamilton County Harvest Train
A charming fall experience in Indiana, the Hamilton County Harvest Train departs from Forest Park in Noblesville and showcases the vibrant autumn foliage of the Midwest.
It’s a great family-friendly journey filled with nostalgia, ideal for those who want to soak in the season’s beauty while learning a bit about the region’s rich railroad history.
6) My Old Kentucky Dinner Train
For bourbon lovers, the Bourbon Excursion on My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is the ultimate experience. Departing from Bardstown—home to more than 11 bourbon distilleries—this 32-mile journey combines scenic Kentucky countryside views with a gourmet four-course meal and exclusive bourbon tastings.
Set in vintage 1940s dining cars and pulled by classic 1950s locomotives, this ride is a flavorful trip back in time.
7) The California Zephyr
Arguably one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, the California Zephyr stretches from Chicago to San Francisco over 51 hours and 2,438 miles.
The journey includes iconic sights like the Rockies, the Sierra Nevadas, and Utah’s red rock landscapes.
Spacious cars and panoramic windows offer unbeatable views, and full-service dining ensures comfort along the way. It’s the long-haul train journey of a lifetime.
8) The Empire Builder
Spanning from Chicago to either Seattle or Portland, the Empire Builder is a classic cross-country adventure. It takes you through the plains of North Dakota, Montana’s stunning Glacier National Park, and the forests of the Pacific Northwest.
History buffs will love that this route follows a path similar to Lewis and Clark’s legendary expedition, combining modern travel with echoes of American exploration.
9) The Southwest Chief
This route from Chicago to Los Angeles covers about 2,265 miles through America’s diverse heartland. Travelers will pass through Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff while soaking in views of wide-open prairies, dramatic canyons, and desert terrain. It’s a dramatic, bucket list-worthy trip full of cultural and scenic surprises.
10) The Coast Starlight
If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising the Pacific Coast without driving, the Coast Starlight is for you. This 35-hour journey features sweeping ocean views, mountain backdrops, and forests as you travel from Los Angeles to Seattle.
The standout feature? Amtrak’s Sightseer Lounge Car, with its floor-to-ceiling windows that bring nature right to your seat.
11) The Vermonter
Covering nearly 700 miles from Washington, DC, to St. Albans, Vermont, the Vermonter is a perfect blend of urban exploration and countryside relaxation.
You’ll pass through major cities like Philadelphia and New York before entering rural New England and the Green Mountains of Vermont. Fall is especially stunning, but each season brings its magic to this peaceful journey.
12) The Pacific Surfliner
Running from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, the Pacific Surfliner hugs the California coast and offers 350 miles of gorgeous beach views.
With stops in Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Anaheim, it’s a great way to explore everything from charming towns to major attractions like Disneyland and SoCal’s wine country—all without getting stuck in traffic.