In a world dominated by rushed flights and stressful highway drives, Amtrak offers a refreshing alternative: slow travel by train. Imagine gliding through breathtaking landscapes, sipping coffee in a panoramic observation car, and arriving refreshed without the hassle of traffic jams or airport security. As we head into 2026, Amtrak is rolling out exciting updates, including new eco-friendly trains and expanded routes, making it the perfect year to ditch the car and hop aboard. This comprehensive guide covers the best Amtrak scenic routes for 2026, planning tips, booking advice, and more to help you embrace the joy of slow travel across the USA.
Introduction to Amtrak and American Rail
American rail travel is often misunderstood as a "relic" of the past, but in 2026, it is experiencing its most significant revitalization in decades. At the center of this is Amtrak, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.
1. History of Railroads in the United States
Railroads transformed America, beginning in the early 19th century. The first commercial railroad, the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O), started operations in 1830, initially using horse-drawn cars before adopting steam locomotives. By 1840, over 2,800 miles of track existed east of the Mississippi, exploding to more than 9,000 miles by 1850.
The "Golden Age" peaked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The transcontinental railroad's completion in 1869—at Promontory Summit, Utah, with the driving of the "Golden Spike"—linked East and West, enabling coast-to-coast travel in days rather than months. Railroads drove westward expansion, economic growth, immigration, and industrialization, carrying passengers in luxurious streamliners during the 1920s-1930s.
Post-World War II decline hit as automobiles, highways, and airplanes dominated. Private railroads lost money on passenger service; by 1970, intercity rail teetered on extinction.
2. The Creation of Amtrak
Congress passed the Rail Passenger Service Act in 1970, signed by President Nixon, creating the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak)—a portmanteau of "America" and "track." Amtrak launched on May 1, 1971, consolidating services from 20 private railroads. It inherited routes but no tracks (most run on freight-owned lines) and aimed to preserve passenger rail as a public service.
Initially viewed as temporary, Amtrak became permanent due to public demand. It operates as a quasi-public, for-profit corporation with federal and state subsidies.
3. Amtrak Today
As of 2026, Amtrak serves over 500 destinations in 46 states (missing Wyoming and South Dakota), Washington, D.C., and three Canadian provinces, over 21,400 route-miles with more than 300 daily trains.
Key services include:
- Northeast Corridor (NEC) → Amtrak-owned, from Boston to Washington, D.C., featuring high-speed Acela (up to 160 mph) and Regional trains.
- Long-distance routes → Iconic overnight trains like California Zephyr, Empire Builder, Coast Starlight, and Southwest Chief, offering scenic views and sleeper accommodations.
- State-supported corridors → Shorter routes (e.g., Cascades in the Northwest, Midwest services) funded partly by states.
Ridership boomed recently: FY2025 (ending September 2025) set records with 34.5 million passengers and $2.7 billion in ticket revenue. Investments from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act fuel upgrades, including new NextGen Acela trainsets (launched 2025) and Airo fleets (arriving 2026) for better comfort and reliability.
Amtrak offers a car-free alternative with amenities like Wi-Fi, dining, and private rooms on long routes. While freight railroads prioritize trains (causing delays), ongoing projects aim to expand capacity and speed.
American passenger rail has evolved from a 19th-century powerhouse to a modern, growing network reviving amid demand for sustainable travel. Amtrak connects cities, scenic landscapes, and communities uniquely.
Top Amtrak Scenic Routes for 2026
Amtrak boasts over 30 routes, but these stand out for their jaw-dropping views. We've selected the best Amtrak routes for scenic views in 2026, incorporating updates like new trainsets and itineraries. Each offers a mix of nature, cities, and history—perfect for slow travel enthusiasts.
1. California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
Duration: 51 hours. Highlights: Cross the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Colorado River canyons. In 2026, expect smoother rides with potential Airo fleet integrations for better comfort. Best for: Mountain lovers and national park hops (e.g., Rocky Mountain or Yosemite).
2. Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
Duration: 46 hours. Highlights: Glacier National Park vistas, Montana plains, and Cascade Mountains. This route follows Lewis and Clark's path, with stunning fall foliage in autumn. 2026 Tip: Pair with new Midwest Venture equipment for upgraded coaches.
3. Coast Starlight (Los Angeles to Seattle)
Duration: 35 hours. Highlights: Pacific Ocean shores, Santa Barbara vineyards, and Mount Shasta. Widely hailed as one of Amtrak's most spectacular routes. In 2026, enhanced observation cars will amplify the coastal drama.
4. Pacific Surfliner (San Luis Obispo to San Diego)
Duration: 9 hours. Highlights: The route is renowned for hugging the Pacific coastline for long stretches, with tracks often just feet from the surf. Ventura to Santa Barbara/Grover Beach, Oceanside to San Clemente, Del Mar to Oceanside. As kick off 2026, the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is poised for exciting growth, building on 2025's restorations and expansions.
5. Amtrak Cascades (Vancouver, BC to Eugene, OR)
Duration: 4-10 hours per segment. Highlights: Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and Columbia River Gorge. Big news for 2026: Brand-new Northwest-styled trainsets with panoramic windows and table seating debut, elevating this I-5 corridor route. Ideal for short slow travel escapes.
6. Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
Duration: 43 hours. Highlights: New Mexico deserts, Arizona canyons, and Raton Pass. For 2026, this route ties into new Canyon Spirit extensions to Salt Lake City. Perfect for desert scenery and stargazing.
Other notables include the Cardinal for Appalachian views and the new Stars and Stripes Collection itineraries celebrating America's 250th anniversary, linking national parks and historic sites.
Amtrak Ticket Booking: How to Get the Best Value?
Amtrak uses a "Value Pricing" strategy, which means prices rise as the departure date approaches and remaining seats decrease.
1. Booking Timing: Earlier is Better, Lock in Low Prices!
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Best Booking Window: 6 to 11 months in advance usually gets you the lowest price (known as Saver Fare).
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2026 Planning: If you plan to travel in the Summer of 2026 (peak season), start looking at prices now. Summer or holiday fares can be 2-3 times higher than off-season prices.
2. Ticket Types: The Best One is the One That Fits!
| Ticket Type | Features & Description | Conditions / Discounts |
| Saver Fare | Best current price, requires advance booking; limited quantity. | Enjoy special rates with advance purchase. |
| Value Fare | Available on all Amtrak routes; offers refund and exchange options; standard pricing; limited quantity. | Requires advance purchase, similar to Saver fares. |
| Flexible Fare | Fully refundable, no change or cancellation fees; easy reservation changes. | Best for travelers whose plans change frequently. |
| Business Class | Offers affordable luxury; amenities vary by train, usually including extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks; seats located in dedicated cars or sections. | Amtrak Guest Rewards members can earn an extra 25% point bonus. |
| Premium Fare | Includes Acela First Class and sleepers; offers high-end amenities, complimentary on-board food and beverages, and access to ClubAcela lounges. | Amtrak Guest Rewards members can earn a 50% point bonus for Acela First Class. |
3. Class Options: Sleeper Recommended
| Class Type | Target Audience | Key Amenities & Experience |
| Coach Class | Budget-conscious, short-distance travelers | Comfortable wide reclining seats with significantly more space than airplane economy class. |
| Business Class | Travelers with some budget for mid-to-short trips | Larger seats than Coach, includes complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. |
| First Class | Sufficient budget, seeking comfort | Only available on Acela Express; price includes meals, drinks, and hot towels on the train. |
| Roomette | 1-2 people, seeking privacy | Includes all meals; private small space, converts to upper and lower berths at night. |
| Bedroom | 2+ people, families/long-distance travel | Includes all meals; more spacious, features a sofa and private vanity/sink; suites available on some routes. |
4. Pass Pricing: USA Rail Pass is High Value!
| Pass Name | Price (Adult/Child) | Restrictions & Validity |
| USA Rail Pass | Adult: $499 (Promotional prices can drop to around $299) | Allows 10 segments of travel within 30 days. Must start use within 120 days of purchase. |
| California Rail Pass | Adult: $159; Child (2-12): $79.50 | Allows travel for any 7 days within a continuous 21-day period within California. |
| Multi-Ride Pass | Discounted per-trip price | Commuting between two destinations; 10-ride and 6-ride monthly options available. |
5. Fare Discounts and Promotions
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Small Group Travel: Up to 60% off shared fares. Amtrak offers shared pricing where each additional companion gets a deeper discount. Up to 8 passengers on the same reservation can save up to 60%.
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Children (2-12): 50% off. All children aged 2-12 get 50% off the adult fare, provided there is at least one adult (18+) on the same reservation. One infant under two can ride free with an adult.
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Seniors, Military, Groups, Students: Seniors save 10%; active military and families save 10%; veterans save 10%.
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Special Items: Luggage exceeding standard size or requiring special handling (baby items, bikes, sports equipment, firearms, etc.) must follow specific packing requirements and incur service fees.
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Prohibited Items: For safety, Amtrak prohibits carrying or checking certain items.
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Station Luggage Services: Need help or storage? Most staffed stations provide temporary storage and luggage assistance.
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Lost & Found: If you lose something on a train or at a station, please submit a lost item report.
6. Baggage Information and Services
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Carry-on: Each passenger can bring 2 personal items (under 25 lbs/12 kg each, max 14x11x7 inches) and 2 carry-on bags (under 50 lbs/23 kg each, max 28x22x14 inches).
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Checked Baggage: Each passenger can check up to 4 bags (2 free, 2 for $20 each).
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Auto Train Baggage: Checked baggage service is not provided, but you can leave luggage in your vehicle (no access during transit). Each passenger may bring 2 carry-on bags.
7. Pets and Wi-Fi
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Pets: Only dogs and cats weighing no more than 20 lbs are allowed and must remain in a carrier. Applicable to most routes under 7 hours (some restrictions apply).
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Wireless Network: Wi-Fi is available during travel. To keep you connected, free basic Wi-Fi service is provided on some trains and at some stations.
Travel Experience Revealed: The Sightseer Lounge Car is the Soul!
1. Sightseer Lounge Car
This is the heart of long-distance sightseeing trains! The Sightseer Lounge Car is located in the middle of the train and features huge panoramic windows that extend to the ceiling.
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Best Viewing Spots: Regardless of which cabin class you purchased, you can visit the Sightseer Lounge Car. Here, you can enjoy 360-degree unobstructed views of the scenery along the way, especially when crossing mountain ranges and canyons, where it is often crowded.
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Onboard Narration: On some famous scenic routes, Amtrak invites National Park Service (NPS) staff onboard to provide free commentary on local history, geography, and ecology, which is well worth listening to.
2. Dining Car & Catering Services
Whether it's full-course traditional dining or casual meal service, many trains offer one or more onboard dining options. When you use the Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard® to purchase food and beverages on the train, you will enjoy a 20% rebate in the form of a statement credit. Through such promotions, you can enjoy fine wine and delicious food while earning more rewards than ever before.
Sleeper passengers enjoy Traditional Dining: Enjoy exquisite meals in a dedicated dining car, where you can also exchange travel stories with fellow passengers at your table. This is a vital part of the social and cultural exchange experience on Amtrak.
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Coach Passengers: Can only purchase light meals, snacks, and drinks in the Cafe Car.
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Meal Reservations: After sleeper passengers board the train, staff will proactively come by to arrange dining times for main meals.
3. Travel Insurance & Others
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Travel Protection, Travel with Peace of Mind: Amtrak has partnered with Allianz Global Assistance to provide travel insurance and assistance services, including coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage insurance, travel delay insurance, and 24-hour travel assistance.
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Pre-book Guaranteed Parking: Save up to 50% by pre-purchasing guaranteed parking at designated Amtrak stations nationwide. Check real-time prices and available spots at all participating parking lots and garages near your chosen station; it's very convenient and saves you from searching for a spot.
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Baggage Shipping to Your Destination: Save time and reduce hassle by letting Amtrak handle your heavy luggage. "Luggage Free" can conveniently and reliably ship your baggage to your destination.
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Redeem Points for Reward Travel: Redeeming points is easy and exciting—reward travel to over 500 destinations starts as low as 400 points.
4. Essential Items Checklist
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Layered Clothing: Temperature in sleeper cabins is controllable, but the Sightseer Lounge Car may be on the cooler or warmer side. Bring a few jackets for easy layering.
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Portable Power Bank: Although sleepers have outlets, outlets in the Sightseer Lounge Car are limited, so keep your phone or camera well-charged.
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Noise-Canceling Headphones: Train travel is often accompanied by swaying and noise; noise-canceling headphones can improve your sleep and reading experience.
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Small Snacks/Drinks: Although there is a dining car, bringing your favorite snacks and tea bags can make your journey more perfect.
Amtrak Official Website Booking Process
1. Open the Amtrak official website page.
2. Create an Amtrak Guest Rewards account.
You need to register an account using your email, which will be used to receive the electronic version of the train tickets you purchase.
Pro Tip: You can register as a member on the Amtrak website, or you can continue as a guest without registering. Generally, we choose electronic tickets, which will be sent to us via email. You can print them out or simply show the ticket QR code to the conductor at the station, which is very convenient.
3. Enter the starting location, time, and number of passengers.
The fare information will then be displayed.
4. Select the time and cabin type.
Select the train time and seat type you wish to take here. Pay attention to whether certain time slots require a transfer or are direct; make sure to check clearly when choosing. You can also check if the train has a dining car or a sightseeing car. These are important, as train rides can last over a dozen or even dozens of hours—the more comfortable, the better!
5. Fill in passenger information.
The name must match the name shown on your government-issued photo ID. When filling in the contact phone number, check "My phone number is a US/Canada number"; you can fill in the phone number of a US hotel. Of course, if you currently live in the US and use a US phone number, just fill it in directly.
6. Choose whether to purchase travel insurance, then click the continue button.
7. Select payment method and fill in payment information.
You can choose to pay by credit card, Google Pay, or PayPal. If choosing credit card payment, you need to enter the credit card name, account number, security code, and other information. As long as you enter the correct credit card number, the system will automatically confirm the card type, such as VISA or MASTER.
After successful payment, you will receive an email containing the electronic eTicket in the mailbox you just filled in.
Ticket Pick-up & Changes
1. Ticket Pick-up
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eTicket: Most common; show the PDF barcode on your phone or print it out.
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Quik-Trak Kiosks: Use your credit card to print tickets at larger stations.
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Mail/Courier: Available for US/Canada addresses with specific lead times (4–15 days).
2. Refunds & Changes
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Changes: Change fees are waived for many bookings; however, you must pay any fare difference.
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Refunds: Most tickets are fully refundable within 24 hours of purchase.
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"No Show" Policy: If not canceled before departure, the ticket is forfeited with no refund.
Member Benefits
Whether you're new to the program or a well-traveled member, with Amtrak Guest Rewards, you'll enjoy exclusive benefits and an overall enhanced travel experience both on and off the train. The more you travel, the more points you'll earn toward Amtrak reward travel, upgrades and more.
Plus, by earning Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) throughout a calendar year, you'll qualify for even more perks and rewards.
What's A Tier Qualifying Point?
Tier Qualifying Points count towards your Amtrak Guest Rewards tier status and are earned each calendar year by traveling on Amtrak. You can receive additional TQPs by traveling in Business Class or Acela First Class, or as an Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred Mastercard® cardholder.
Here are a few examples of how it works:
Not a cardholder? Review the disclosures below and click here to learn more.
2026 is the ideal year for Amtrak scenic train travel—say goodbye to driving and hello to slow, sustainable adventures. Whether crossing the Rockies or hugging the Pacific, these routes offer unmatched views and relaxation. Book your trip today via Amtrak.com and start planning your escape. What's your dream route? Share in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What's new on Amtrak in 2026?
A: New Airo fleet on Cascades and potential route expansions.
Q2: How much do Amtrak tickets cost in 2026?
A: From $3; book early for deals.
Q3: Is Amtrak good for scenic views?
A: Absolutely—routes like California Zephyr are world-renowned.
Q4: How far in advance can I book?
A: You can book up to 11 months in advance. Booking early (6–11 months out) is the best way to secure Saver Fares, which are the cheapest but have limited availability.
Q5: Can I upgrade my seat after booking?
A: Yes. You can use the Amtrak BidUp program to place a bid for an upgrade to Business Class or a Private Room, or you can modify your trip on the app/website to pay the fare difference.
Q6: Are meals included in my ticket?
A: Sleeper (Private Rooms): Yes, all meals (Traditional Dining) are included in the ticket price. Coach/Business: No, but you can purchase snacks and light meals in the Cafe Car.
Q7: Can I bring my own food and alcohol?
A: You may bring personal food and drinks to your seat. Alcohol can only be consumed in Private Rooms and cannot be brought into public cars (like the Cafe or Sightseer Lounge).
Q8: What if I lose an item?
A: You should file a Lost Item Report via the Amtrak website or app as soon as possible.
Q9: When should I arrive at the station?
A: Amtrak recommends arriving 30 minutes before departure if you don't have bags to check, and 45–60 minutes if you need checked baggage or assistance.