Long Distance Trains
15 iconic routes crossing the full breadth of America. Sleep through the Rockies, wake up to the Pacific, and watch landscapes unfold that no flight or highway can match.
The Long Distance Experience
It's not just transportation — it's an adventure across America's most breathtaking landscapes
Private Sleeper Rooms
Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Family Rooms with fold-down beds, fresh linens, and turn-down service.
All-Inclusive Dining
All meals included in Sleeper fares — sit-down dining car with regional-inspired menus.
Overnight Travel
Arrive at your destination refreshed. Sleep through the night and wake up in a new city — no hotel needed.
Scenic Landscapes
Watch America unfold outside your window — Rockies, deserts, bayous, forests, and coastlines inaccessible by air.
Generous Baggage
3 carry-ons plus 2 personal items in Coach; Sleeper passengers get checked baggage included free.
Coach from $79
Long Distance Coach fares can be surprisingly affordable, especially on off-peak travel days.
All Long Distance Trains
Click a route to search available departures
Choose Your Accommodation
From budget Coach seats to private Bedroom suites with en-suite shower
Coach
- Reclining seat (up to 50°)
- Adjustable footrest
- Reading light
- Power outlets
- Free Wi-Fi
- Café car access
Roomette (Sleeper)
- Private room for 1–2 people
- Fold-down beds with linens
- All meals included
- Lounge car access
- Private climate control
- Dedicated attendant
Bedroom (Sleeper)
- Larger private room
- In-room toilet & shower
- Two beds (upper/lower)
- All meals included
- Priority boarding
- Full closet storage
Long Distance Travel Tips
Book Sleeper Rooms Early
Sleeper rooms are limited — often only 10–14 Roomettes per train. They sell out weeks in advance, especially on the California Zephyr and Empire Builder in summer.
Explore With Stopovers
Amtrak allows free stopovers on Long Distance tickets. Ride the Southwest Chief to Albuquerque, explore for a day, then continue to LA on a later train — same ticket.
Sit on the Right Side Heading West
On the California Zephyr, sit on the left (south-facing) side heading westbound for the best Glenwood Canyon and Colorado River views.
Pack a Carry-On Meal Supplement
Dining car meals are included with Sleeper, but Coach passengers pay. Packing snacks, sandwiches, and drinks for Coach trips cuts costs significantly on multi-day journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Long Distance trains?
Long Distance trains are Amtrak routes spanning hundreds or thousands of miles across multiple states, often requiring one or more nights on the train. They connect major US cities that aren't served by regional or Northeast Corridor service.
Do I need a sleeping car?
No. All Long Distance trains offer Coach seating as the most affordable option. Sleeper cars (Roomette or Bedroom) are more expensive but include all meals, private space, and beds — essentially replacing a hotel night.
How reliable are Long Distance trains?
Long Distance trains run on freight-owned tracks and can experience delays. On-time performance averages 40–75% depending on the route. Build in buffer time if you have a connecting flight or commitment.
What is the most scenic Long Distance route?
The California Zephyr (Chicago–San Francisco) is widely regarded as the most scenic, passing through the Rockies, Glenwood Canyon, and the Sierra Nevada. The Coast Starlight and Empire Builder are close runners-up.
Can I get off and reboard later?
Amtrak's multi-city (stopover) tickets allow you to stop in an intermediate city and continue on a later train. This makes Long Distance trains ideal for touring multiple destinations on one trip.
What's included in a Sleeper fare?
All meals in the dining car, access to the Sightseer Lounge car, linens and bedding, a dedicated car attendant, and checked baggage are all included with Sleeper fares at no extra charge.
Ready to Cross America by Rail?
Search sleeper rooms, coach seats, and multi-stop itineraries on all 15 long distance Amtrak routes