There’s something magical about watching the landscape change from the comfort of a train window. Unlike flights, which rush you from point A to B, train travel invites you to experience the journey itself. The U.S. is home to some of the most scenic train routes in the world—offering views of mountains, deserts, coastlines, and more. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast or a casual traveler, here are 10 breathtaking train trips worth adding to your itinerary.

1. California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
   Often called the most beautiful train ride in North America, the California Zephyr takes passengers through the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and across the Great Plains. With panoramic windows in the observation car, every seat has a view.
2. Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
   The Empire Builder winds its way through Glacier National Park, the Mississippi River Valley, and the expansive plains of North Dakota. It’s a favorite for photography lovers and fans of the American West.
3. Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)
   Traveling along the Pacific Coast, the Coast Starlight delivers sweeping ocean views, lush forests, and mountain backdrops. The route includes California wine country and Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
4. Adirondack (New York City to Montreal)
   In fall, the Adirondack route is one of the best places to see foliage in the Northeast. The ride along the Hudson River and through upstate New York offers postcard-worthy views year-round.
5. Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
   This classic route takes you through the deserts, red rocks, and Native American lands of the Southwest. The Southwest Chief includes stops near the Grand Canyon and historic Route 66 towns.
6. Cardinal (New York to Chicago via Washington, D.C.)
   Passing through the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley, the Cardinal is perfect for those who appreciate Appalachian beauty, especially during the spring and fall.
7. Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles)
   This route covers bayous, deserts, and palm-lined horizons. The Sunset Limited is one of the oldest named train routes in the U.S. and offers a dramatic cross-section of the American South and Southwest.
8. Downeaster (Boston to Brunswick, Maine)
   Short but stunning, the Downeaster travels along the rugged New England coastline and through charming small towns. Perfect for a weekend escape with scenic stops along the way.
9. Cascades (Eugene to Vancouver, BC)
   The Amtrak Cascades route features rich forests, snow-capped mountains, and Puget Sound shorelines. Tilting Talgo trains offer a smooth ride and European-style design.
10. Vermonter (Washington, D.C. to St. Albans, Vermont)
    Running through Connecticut River Valley and Vermont’s countryside, the Vermonter offers serene views of farmland, rivers, and colonial towns.

Tips for Booking These Scenic Routes

Most of these trains offer Sightseer Lounge or observation cars with floor-to-ceiling windows. Book in advance for the best fares, and consider traveling mid-week for fewer crowds. For longer rides, bring snacks, download entertainment, and wear layers.

Want to save on travel gear or train tickets? You can buy Amtrak gift cards online or earn rewards when purchasing essentials through platforms like Fluz, which offers cashback at travel-friendly merchants.

The Bottom Line

These train routes aren’t just about getting from place to place—they’re about soaking in the views along the way. If you’re looking to reconnect with the landscape, relax into the rhythm of travel, or simply take a scenic detour, these U.S. train rides deliver unforgettable experiences.