USA: By train
Traveling by rail is rarely the fastest way to get from A to B, though if you have the time it can be a pleasant and relaxing experience. The Amtrak system isn't at all comprehensive - such popular destinations as Nashville and Santa Fe, and even some entire states, are left out altogether. What's more, the cross-country routes tend to be served by one or at most two trains per day, so in large areas of the nation the only train of the day passes through at three or four in the morning. That said, the train is by far the most comfortable way to travel, and especially on long-distance rides it can be a great way to meet people. A number of local train services connect stops on the Amtrak lines with towns and cities not on the main grid.Amtrak also runs the coordinated Thruway bus service that connects some cities that their trains don't reach. However, this network is not in the least comprehensive.
For any one specific journey, the train can be more expensive than taking a Greyhound or even a plane - the standard fare from New York to Los Angeles, for example, is around $200 one-way - though special deals, especially in the off-peak seasons (Sept-May), bring the cost of a coast-to-coast round-trip down to well under $350 (closer to $250 at certain times). In addition to these, Amtrak's All Aboard America fares, allowing three stopovers en route, are available by region (Florida, for some reason, is excluded).
Always reserve as far in advance as possible; all passengers must have seats, and some trains, especially between major east coast cities, are booked solid. Sleeping compartments (which are around $100 per night, including three full meals, for one or two people) and the plush Metroliner carriages cost extra. Even standard Amtrak carriages are surprisingly spacious, and there are additional dining cars and lounge cars (with full bars and sometimes glass-domed 360° viewing compartments).
Beautiful east coast Amtrak rides include the Hudson River Valley north of New York City (on several routes); along the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia (on the Capitol Limited out of Washington DC); and the New River Gorge (on the Cardinal ). In the West, the California Zephyr , between Chicago and San Francisco, follows a stunning route west of Denver over the Rockies, rivaled a day later by the towering Sierra Nevada. The Coast Starlight gives unsurpassed views of the California coast on its journey between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Verify when you book your journey that the train passes through the scenic splendor during daylight hours.
More about By train:
Historic railroads
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