Amtrak Long-Distance Trains: Where the Journey Equals the Destination
Amtrak is renowned for convenient trips between major cities like New York and Boston, Chicago and Milwaukee, or Los Angeles and San Diego—without airport hassles like security lines, Airplane Mode, or tiny toiletry limits.
Yet Amtrak's 21,000+ miles of track span not just urban hubs but charming stops like Helper, Utah, and Yazoo City, Mississippi. Its routes offer roving adventures with evocative train names like Sunset Limited and Coast Starlight.
Inspired by the Transcontinental Railroad's 150th anniversary, we partnered with travel influencer @TiffPenguin (Tiffany Nguyen) for her journey from Denver to San Francisco on the California Zephyr. Her experiences highlight the magic of rail travel.
Watch her highlight reel above and discover her top insights below.
"It's a stress-free way to travel."
Air travel's speed comes with stressors: checked bags, long TSA lines, bin space wars, and armrest battles.
In contrast, Amtrak allows arrival just 20 minutes early—coffee in hand. Scan your ticket, claim your aisle or window seat (no middles), and stretch at will.
"It's incredibly low-stress," says Nguyen, a frequent flyer with over 100,000 miles last year. "If time allows, it's the superior choice."
"The scenery constantly evolves."
Plane windows pale against the Lounge Car on most long-distance Amtrak trains—floor-to-ceiling vistas and forward-facing seats reveal America's splendor, from purple mountain majesties to vast plains.
On scenic routes like Coast Starlight or California Zephyr, views captivate. "From Denver's skyscrapers to snow-capped Rockies in 30 minutes," Nguyen notes. Passengers linger in the lounge, switching sides for new sights.
The Zephyr showcases cities, mountains, rivers, red rocks, and lakes en route west.
"It's a unique way to explore the U.S."
Beyond A-to-B travel, break up long routes for discoveries. Nguyen paused at Glenwood Springs, Colorado—six hours from Denver, boasting one of America's largest hot springs.
"Break your trip; explore for 24 hours—the next train arrives tomorrow," she advises.
Apply this to Silver Meteor (NYC-D.C.-Charleston-Savannah dining), City of New Orleans (Chicago-Memphis-NOLA music), or Coast Starlight (Big Sur camping, Esalen hot springs). Even brief station stops offer downtown glimpses; longer ones, like Lake Tahoe, beat driving.
"Amenities exceeded expectations."
"The overnight Bedroom cabin was my highlight," Nguyen shares. Spacious for gear, with a comfortable bed set by attentive staff, private bath, and quiet hours. "The train's motion lulled me to sleep effortlessly."
"Dining car meals are a highlight."
Forget snacks—this features white linens, full place settings, and fresh options like mussels or black-bean burgers. Nguyen loved the variety.
Grab bites or cocktails at the snack bar; try the Bloody Mary.
"It's highly social and interactive."
Amtrak's relaxed ambiance fosters connections in lounge and dining cars—diverse travelers, languages, and stories. Nguyen even met an Instagram follower.
