Amtrak has been in operation since 1971 and provides intercity passenger train service across the states in America. With more than 300 trains cruising on 21,200 miles of track, Amtrak connects more than 500 destinations in 46 states and three provinces in Canada. So if you fancy traveling from the east to the west coast or for a weekend trip, consider Amtrak as your mode of transportation because of its efficient service and passenger-friendly amenities. Unlike planes, train vacations in the USA allow you to enjoy the beauty of the country as you travel.
Go to the Amtrak website.
You can choose your origin and destination and plan your trip by making your fingers do the work. Amtrak can take you to more than 500 cities and towns except Wyoming, South Dakota, Hawaii, and Alaska. Download the PDF of the route map. Use the interactive atlas to search for routes by name. The PDF allows you to zoom in on routes and map multi-city routes.
Enter your route information.
Input your departure and return on the website. The search results will give you a list of trains with different amenities on each route, including snack or dinette services, on-board wheelchairs ramp, and checked bagged service. To get the best views during the trip, book your trip in the daytime. But do note that they travel in one direction only. Order a copy of Amtrak’s national timetables by calling 800-872-72445 (800-USA-RAIL). You’ll see the map with the route segments covered during daytime hours.
Book a sleeper car.
If you’re travelling long distance or overnight, it’s recommended to book a sleeper car, which offers two-person roomettes and four-person bedroom suites. The ticket price for a sleeper car is more expensive than a single-seat ticket, but you can at least have a restful sleep and replenish your energy for the rest of the trip. You also get on-board meals inclusive in the ticket, as well as showers, linens, towels, bottled waters, and morning newspapers.
Look out for tour packages.
Amtrak.com offers vacation and regional tour packages that can give you good deals on accommodations and meals. For example, Amtrak’s Glenwood Springs Tour Package features a round-trip coach rail fare; transfer between the train station and hotel; one-day hot springs pool pass; and hotel and room taxes.
Check out available discounts and special rates.
Seniors, children younger than 15, AAA members, National Association of Railroad Passengers members, veterans, active military personnel, and college students get special rates from Amtrak. Infants under 2 ride free. If you also book during the off-peak season, Labor Day to December 16 and January 5 to April 30, you may be able to take advantage of lower fares.
