USA
General train travel information for USA. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
The first railroad line for passenger service in the United States opened on August 9, 1830. It was the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, which put the first regular passenger train into service on a section from Baltimore to Ellicott's Mills, Maryland.
1830-1860: Railroad lines expand aggressively, connecting key cities on the U.S. East Coast. Steam locomotives and passenger trains appear, making rail transportation popular.
1860-1900: During the Civil War, railroad travel becomes an important means of travel for troops and civilians. After the war, the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad (1869) opens new opportunities for travel to the West.
1900-1950: The golden age of railroad travel. Passenger trains become luxurious and prestigious, offering high-end comfort and service.
1950-1980: Automobiles and aviation become more popular, leading to a decline in interest in rail travel. Some lines close and the industry struggles.
1980-2000: A renaissance of rail travel begins. New high-speed trains appear, and Amtrak stabilizes and expands its service, providing important passenger routes throughout the country.
2000-2010: Amtrak launches new routes and improves service, including the Acela Express, the first high-speed train in the United States. Efforts to upgrade infrastructure and improve safety continue.
2010-2020: State governments increase their efforts to develop regional and local passenger railroads. New investments focus on modern trains and improved services to attract passengers.
General Information and Statistics
The major passenger rail operator in the United States is Amtrak. Amtrak is a national company providing passenger transportation throughout the country. In fiscal year 2022, Amtrak served 22.9 million passengers. That figure was down ten million from 2019 when 33 million people rode Amtrak, a 30% decline.
The United States has the largest rail transport network size of any country in the world, at a total of approximately 260,000 km. Amtrak's network includes more than 500 stations on 34,000 kilometres of track.
There are only 1,297 kilometers of electrified rail lines in the United States.
What connections to other countries there are?
The US currently has only train service to neighboring Canada.
Are trains fast in the US in general? How much time to cross the country?
Only Amtrak's Northeast Corridor has trains that can travel at speeds approaching those of the 300 kilometers per hour (186 mph) TGV and Shinkansen. Even here, Amtrak Acela trains currently max out at 150 mph – and only in short bursts.
Traveling by train from Boston to Oakland takes from 80 hours and from Miami to Stanley from 75 hours.
What railway companies are available?
In the United States, there are several railroad companies that operate freight and passenger services. Some of the major railroad companies in the USA include:
• Amtrak: The national passenger railroad service in the USA, providing long-distance and regional train services across the country.
• BNSF Railway: The largest freight railroad network in North America, operating mainly in the western and central USA.
• Union Pacific Railroad: Another major freight railroad with an extensive network covering much of the western and central USA.
• CSX Transportation: A significant freight railroad operating in the eastern USA, connecting the Atlantic coast to the Midwest and Gulf Coast.
• Norfolk Southern Railway: Another major freight railroad in the eastern USA, serving major cities and ports.
• Kansas City Southern Railway: A freight railroad operating in the central and southern USA, with connections to Mexico.
• Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) and Canadian National Railway (CN): Although based in Canada, both CP and CN have extensive networks that extend into the USA, providing international transportation across the border.
What train types are available in the USA?
There are different types of trains available in the United States to meet the varying needs of travelers. Common types of trains include:
Long-distance trains: These trains connect major cities and regions of the country, offering overnight travel and amenities such as sleeping quarters, dining cars, and rest areas. Examples of long-distance trains include Amtrak's Silver Meteor and California Zephyr.
Regional Trains: Regional trains serve shorter routes in specific regions, connecting cities and towns. They may have reserved seating and sometimes provide amenities such as Wi-Fi and refreshments.
Commuter trains: Commuter trains run in metropolitan areas, providing daily transportation for passengers moving between suburbs and city centers during peak hours. Examples include trains such as Metra in Chicago and MARC in Washington, DC.
High-speed trains: An example of high-speed service is Amtrak's Northeast Corridor Express.
Tourist and Excursion Trains: These trains run through scenic areas, offering travelers scenic views and unique experiences. They may include vintage or historic trains. Examples include the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Grand Canyon Railway.
Light Rail and Streetcars: Light rail transit systems exist in some cities and provide local service in urban areas. They often operate on tracks laid on city streets or dedicated right-of-way.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
Amtrak's Acela, which reaches speeds of 240 km/h over 80.3 km of track, is the only high-speed rail service in the United States.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway hubs in Germany are New York, Chicago, Boston, Newark, Hoboken, Washington, D.C.
Websites to buy train tickets in the US?
amtrak.com/home.html, wanderu.com, omio.com
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in the US?
Amtrak has a nice app.
Possible to buy a ticket at arailway station in the USA?
It is also possible to buy tickets through kiosks, which are located in most major stations. Another option is to contact a qualified travel agent.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
If you prefer to communicate by phone, you can call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) for information or purchase tickets through the automated agent "Julie" or request live operator assistance.
Return the ticket.
Amtrak allows you to cancel and refund your ticket under certain conditions. If you cancel within 24 hours of purchase, you can get a full refund to the original form of payment for all fare types. After that, refund policies depend on the fare type purchased: Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, or First Class. Different fares have different refund rules, ranging from non-refundable to partial refund options in the form of eVouchers. For Reward Tickets redeemed with Amtrak Guest Rewards points, there are specific cancellation and modification penalties. Refund requests can be made online, by phone, or at Amtrak stations. Be aware of the minimum and maximum cancellation fees, and keep in mind that the refund and cancellation policy is subject to change.
Train ticket prices
Book tickets in advance; early booking often results in lower fares.
Avoid peak travel times: Friday and Sunday are popular travel days and fares may be higher. Consider traveling on off-peak days and at off-peak times for potential savings.
Use rewards programs: Amtrak offers the Amtrak Guest Rewards program, where you can accumulate points for future trips and possibly receive discounts on tickets.
It's important to note that availability of discounted tickets can change, so it's best to check the Amtrak website or app for current prices and offers..
A train ticket from Chicago to New Orleans will cost you 104 euros, the train travels this distance in 19 hours and 40 minutes
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
By booking train tickets from America to Canada several months in advance, you can find affordable train fares. For example, a ticket from Plattsburgh to Montreal will cost from just 18.7 €
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://www.amtrak.com/train-schedules-timetables
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
The earlier you book your tickets, the more likely you are to get the lowest fare available for the dates you want on the routes along your journey. You may book your travel up to 11 months in advance.
Types of tickets.
Amtrak offers various fare types, each with its own rules and restrictions. It's essential to get familiarized with the different fare options, such as Saver, Value, Flexible, Business and First Class, to determine which one is best for affordable Amtrak tickets and on-train perks.
Pay attention to refund and change policies, as well as any restrictions on baggage or seat selection.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in the USA
Interrail/Eurail Passes are not available in the United States
Saver price.
Amtrak offer special tickets that are non-refundable, but cheap. There are also flexible tickets, which allow you to get a refund, change your train connection or simply take any train that runs on the route, with no fixed departure time. Flexible tickets are more expensive.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets.
Flexible tickets are available. Flexible Fares are fully refundable without any change or cancellation fees and reservations are easily modified. For those whose plans frequently change, even at the last minute, Flexible Fares are the perfect option.
Rules of boarding.
Yes, Amtrak passengers 15 years of age or older must present acceptable Identification (ID) when purchasing tickets, checking baggage, sending Amtrak Express shipments, and onboard trains when paying fares or if otherwise requested.
Discounts for group travel.
Groups may be eligible to receive discounts for each 15 paying passengers. The half-fare children's discounts may be applied to eligible members of the group. Discounts are not valid on all trains.
Discount Limitations
Sleeping Car, Business Class and First Class upgrades are permitted upon payment of full accommodation charges.
Group space may be limited and group travel requests are subject to approval based on space availability.
Group discounts are not available on some Amtrak services.
Further restrictions may apply.
Age groups and discounts.
Children 2 through 12 years old ride half-price every day. Infants under 2 ride free.
Senior Amtrak travelers can save 10% on most trains.
Students 17 - 24 save 15% to top destinations across America.
Age limitations for minors.
Young people aged 16-17 can travel without restrictions. Teenagers aged 13-15 must be accompanied by an adult, as none of them are under 18 years of age.
Handicapped passengers.
Amtrak is a safe, convenient and accessible service for all passengers, including those with disabilities. provide special services for passengers with disabilities, including accessible space, assistance at the station and the ability to travel with a companion. For passengers on wheeled mobility devices, there are specific policies and procedures for boarding and disembarking.
Passengers may travel with oxygen equipment, subject to prior notification. Service animals are allowed on all trains
Amtrak condemns discrimination and always strives to provide a high level of service to all passengers.
Seat reservations in the US trains.
Seat selection allows for seamless boarding and takes the guesswork out of finding your seat.
Seat selection is available on Acela and in Business Class on Northeast Regional, Carolinian, Palmetto and Vermonter. Your seat will be automatically assigned when you complete your reservation. You may change your assigned seat and choose a different seat at any time after your booking is complete by viewing your reservation in the Amtrak app or on Amtrak.com. There is no fee to change your seat.
Comfort classes on the trains.
Amtrak offers the following comfort classes on its trains:
• Coach Class: This is the standard seating class available on all Amtrak trains. Coach class provides comfortable seats with ample legroom, access to restrooms, and a café car or dining car where passengers can purchase snacks and meals.
• Business Class: Business class is available on some long-distance routes and offers upgraded seating with additional amenities. Passengers in business class typically have more spacious and comfortable seats, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, and priority boarding.
• First Class: First class, also known as Acela First Class on Acela Express trains, is available on premium routes and offers the highest level of comfort. Passengers in first class enjoy luxurious seating, complimentary meals, and access to exclusive amenities, such as lounge facilities at some stations.
• Sleeper Class: For overnight journeys, Amtrak offers sleeper accommodations in private rooms or roomettes. Passengers in sleeper class have access to their own sleeping space, including a bed and sometimes a private bathroom. Meals are often included in the fare for sleeper class passengers.
Food and drink in the USA trains / train restaurant.
Meal options and sample menus.
Many trains have one or more dining options on board, from full lunches to more informal cafes.
• As an exclusive complimentary offer for customers traveling in private First Class accommodations, traditional dining is available in the dining car on Auto Train, California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, Silver Meteor, Silver Star, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle (between San Antonio and Los Angeles).
Traditional restaurants offer seasonal menus with a variety of food choices. Complement your meal with a wide selection of beverages including beer, wine and spirits (the former are on us).
• Flexible Meals
An exclusive and complimentary offer for private lounge customers aboard Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Crescent, Lake Shore Limited and Texas Eagle* includes flexible dining:
Menus with hot, ready-to-serve entrees for breakfast, lunch and dinner
A wide selection of wine, beer and spirits (the former at our expense during dinner) and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages throughout the trip
• Café
Most Amtrak routes offer Café service, with a variety of meals, snacks and beverages for sale. Customers in all classes of service are invited to the Café and service is available from early morning until late at night.
• Acela First Class: Complimentary at-seat meals and drinks, featuring dishes from renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr.
Café Acela: Open to all passengers, offering a variety of food and beverages, including Starbucks coffee and craft beers.
Acela Cart Service: Available for Business Class passengers on select departures, providing the option to purchase food and drinks from a roving cart.
You may bring your own food and beverages on board for consumption in your seat or in a separate sleeping car. However, food and beverages purchased in dining cars and lounge cars may only be consumed in those cars.
You may bring your own supply of alcoholic beverages on board, subject to the following restrictions:
You may consume alcoholic beverages from your personal supply only in sleeping cars for which you have a valid ticket.
You may not consume alcoholic beverages from your personal supply in public places.
Night trains in the USA?
Amtrak offers several night train services that allow passengers to travel long distances overnight and arrive at their destination the next morning. These night trains typically provide sleeper accommodations for passengers who prefer a more comfortable and private experience during their overnight journey. Here are some of the popular night train services offered by Amtrak:
Amtrak Superliner Roomette: Available on long-distance routes, Superliner Roomettes are private compartments with two comfortable seats that convert into a lower bed and an upper bed that folds down from the ceiling. Roomettes include a small private restroom and access to showers in the train car.
Amtrak Viewliner Roomette: Similar to the Superliner Roomette, the Viewliner Roomette provides private accommodations for two passengers on specific routes, such as the Eastern long-distance trains.
Amtrak Bedroom: For those seeking more space and additional amenities, Amtrak offers Bedrooms, which are larger private compartments with a private restroom, shower facilities, and comfortable seating that converts into beds.
Important train routes in the USA.
New York City – Washington / from 2:46 hours / from 17.85 EUR / every 30-60 minutes
Los Angeles – San Francisco / from 9:30 hours / from 48.20 EUR / runs mostly until 1:00 p.m., 14 trains a day.
Chicago – New York City / from 20:12 hours / from 154.3 EUR / 10 trains leave at 6.40pm and 9.30pm
Boston – Chicago / 22:22 hours / from 158.8 EUR / 2 trains a day
Miami – Orlando / from 5:12 hours / from 34.80 EUR / 2 trains a day
Atlanta – New Orleans / 12:55 hours / from 34.80 EUR / 1 train a day
Denver – Salt Lake City / 15:00 hours / from 94.6 EUR / 1 train a day
San Francisco – Seattle / 23:01 hours / from 195.40 EUR / 1 train a day
Chicago – Portland /from 46:12 hours / from 340.90 EUR / 1 trains a day
( august 2023 )
International train routes.
Currently, the U.S. has only rail service to neighboring Canada
Tourist / scenic routes in the USA.
The United States offers several scenic and tourist train routes that showcase the country's breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions. Here are some of the most popular tourist and scenic train routes in the USA:
• California Zephyr: Running between Chicago and Emeryville/San Francisco, the California Zephyr crosses the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains, providing stunning views of canyons, rivers, and mountain vistas.
• Amtrak Cascades: Connecting Eugene, Oregon, with Vancouver, British Columbia, this route offers scenic views of the Pacific Northwest, including Mount Rainier and Puget Sound.
• Coast Starlight: Running from Los Angeles to Seattle, the Coast Starlight travels along the stunning Pacific coastline, passing through lush forests and beautiful coastal landscapes.
• Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Located in Colorado, this historic steam-powered train takes passengers on a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains and Animas River Canyon.
• Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: Operating between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico, this narrow-gauge railway offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and high desert terrain.
• Grand Canyon Railway: Departing from Williams, Arizona, this train takes passengers to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, providing spectacular views of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
• Napa Valley Wine Train: Located in California's wine country, this train travels through Napa Valley, offering picturesque views of vineyards and wineries.
• Mount Washington Cog Railway: In New Hampshire, this cog railway takes passengers to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States
• Strasburg Rail Road: Located in Pennsylvania's Amish Country, this historic steam railroad offers scenic rides through picturesque farmland and countryside.
• Adirondack Scenic Railroad: Operating in Upstate New York, this train route offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains and the region's scenic landscapes.
Luggage information.
Carry-On Items
Each passenger may bring on board two personal items weighing 12 pounds and measuring 14 x 11 x 7 inches each and two carry-on items weighing 23 pounds and measuring 28 x 22 x 14 inches each. Make sure all your bags have a tag with your name and address on the outside of them.
Checked Baggage
Each traveler can check up to 4 bags (2 free and 2 at $20 per bag).
Bicycle on the train.
You must fold up your folding bicycle before boarding the train. You may store the bike only in luggage storage areas at the end of the car (or, in Superliners, on the lower level). You may not store bikes in overhead racks. Standard full-size bicycles may be transported in bicycle racks located in the baggage car.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
Skis/snowboards may be carried onboard or checked free of charge in lieu of a piece of baggage.
Luggage lockers on the stations in the USA.
Customers holding tickets for Amtrak travel may store their items in Parcel Check service when available for $10 per item for 24 hours. Check the station detail page for the stations you'll be visiting to see if they offer this service.
Lost and Found Items.
If you misplaced or lost something on a train or at a station, file a lost item report and Amtrak will try to help you find it. You can file a report at this website (https://www.chargerback.com/reportLostItemCBEmbed.asp)
Pets on the trains.
Dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) are welcome on trips up to seven hours on most routes (some restrictions apply*). Our check-in process is simple, making traveling with your four-legged friend easy and enjoyable.
* Only dogs and cats are allowed to travel as pets. Travel with pets to Canada not available on Adirondack, Maple Leaf and Amtrak Cascades; not available on Auto Train, Keystone Service, Pennsylvanian, San Joaquins, Capitol Corridor or Thruway Connecting Services.
Do you have further questions and need assistance? Do not hesitate to ask in our friendly forum where you always get detailed help.