Train Travel America: What You Need to Know Before You Go

When you think of train travel America, a way to explore the United States by rail, often associated with scenic routes and relaxed pacing. Also known as rail travel in North America, it’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about seeing the country unfold outside your window, from the Rockies to the Great Plains. Unlike Europe or Japan, American trains don’t zip between cities at high speed. Instead, they roll through small towns, desert valleys, and forested mountains at a pace that lets you breathe. If you’re looking for a break from airports and traffic, this is your ticket.

Most of what people call train travel America, a network of passenger rail services across the U.S., primarily operated by Amtrak. Also known as Amtrak, it’s the only national passenger rail system left in the country. Amtrak runs over 30 routes, but only a handful are truly worth the ride. The California Zephyr, for example, cuts through the Sierra Nevada and the Colorado Rockies with views you won’t find on any highway. The Empire Builder rolls past Glacier National Park and the northern plains. These aren’t just transportation options—they’re experiences. You’ll find travelers sipping coffee in the observation car, locals chatting in the diner, and photographers with tripods waiting for the perfect light at sunrise.

But here’s the catch: train travel America, a mode of transport that requires planning, patience, and realistic expectations. Also known as US train routes, it’s not always fast or cheap. Delays happen. Some routes run only once a day. Stations in rural areas are often empty lots with a bench. You won’t find Wi-Fi everywhere. But if you’re okay with that, you’ll get something money can’t buy: space. Space to read, to write, to stare out at a changing landscape. You’ll pass through towns where the only sign of life is a single gas station and a diner with a neon sign. That’s the real America.

People often compare it to flying, but that’s the wrong frame. Train travel in America is closer to road tripping—with a seat, meals, and no driving. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or anyone tired of the rush. And unlike flights, you’re not stuck in a metal tube with no view. You can walk around. Stretch your legs. Watch the sun set over the Mississippi. Bring a book. Or bring nothing at all.

Below, you’ll find real stories, tips, and practical guides from travelers who’ve done it. Whether you’re wondering if Amtrak is worth it, which routes have the best scenery, or how to pack for a three-day ride across the country—this collection has you covered. No fluff. No hype. Just what you need to know before you book your next journey by rail.