Train travel isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey itself. The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking rail routes in the world, from coastal vistas to mountain panoramas. These scenic journeys offer a front-row seat to America’s natural beauty, all from the comfort of a spacious railcar.
If you’re planning a trip that’s as much about the ride as the destination, here are the best scenic train routes across the country, along with tips for booking and saving on fares.
- California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
Often called the most beautiful train route in the country, the California Zephyr crosses the Rockies, the Sierra Nevadas, and vast plains in between. Riders enjoy views of canyons, deserts, and snow-capped peaks from the observation lounge.
- Duration: ~51 hours
- Highlight: Glenwood Canyon, Colorado
- Best for: Long-distance rail adventure, photography
- Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
Travel through the Great Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Cascade Mountains on the Empire Builder. It’s a top choice for those wanting to explore northern landscapes and small Midwestern towns.
- Duration: ~46 hours
- Highlight: Glacier National Park views
- Best for: Nature lovers, summer travel
- Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)
The Coast Starlight hugs the Pacific Ocean before winding through forests, valleys, and California wine country. It’s one of the most relaxing and picturesque train rides on the West Coast.
- Duration: ~35 hours
- Highlight: Pacific Coastline and Mount Shasta
- Best for: Coastal views, comfortable long-haul rides
- Adirondack (New York City to Montreal)
For an East Coast scenic experience, the Adirondack offers panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley and the Adirondack Mountains. In the fall, it’s one of the top routes for foliage.
- Duration: ~10 hours
- Highlight: Autumn colors near Lake Champlain
- Best for: Seasonal travel, New England scenery
- Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
Traveling through deserts, canyons, and red rock country, the Southwest Chief gives riders a glimpse of the American Southwest. Expect dramatic scenery and historic towns.
- Duration: ~40 hours
- Highlight: Raton Pass and the New Mexico desert
- Best for: Wild West landscapes, train history
How to save on scenic train routes
Planning ahead can make a big difference when booking scenic rail trips:
- Use Amtrak’s deals page to find seasonal promotions and fare discounts
- Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards to earn points on every ride
- Check for regional discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel
You can also buy an Amtrak gift card online through Fluz and use it to book your scenic journey. Fluz offers instant cashback, making it an easy way to save money on train travel—especially for long-distance routes.
What to bring on a scenic train ride
- Camera or smartphone for capturing views
- Travel pillow and blanket for overnight routes
- Headphones for podcasts or music
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Layers of clothing for changing climates
Final thoughts
If you’ve never taken a scenic rail journey across the U.S., these routes are the perfect place to start. From mountains to oceans, Amtrak offers front-row access to views you won’t get from a plane or highway. Add in travel rewards and cashback from platforms like Fluz, and your next great American rail adventure becomes even more rewarding.
