Forget Road Trips: How Do You See The U.S. By Train?
Everyone knows that the U.S. is somewhere you should drive around in a car. The entire country is a criss-cross patchwork of highways and well-laid minor roads.
But what if you don’t want to take a regular sedan and use the train instead? Well, the experience won’t be as easy. But it might be more satisfying. Before road-bound vehicles, the U.S. was a country that primarily got around on trains.
Amtrak is the nation’s primary train service provider, offering routes between most major cities. It has sleeper cars for long-distance trips and provides travelers with various dining options and panoramic windows for enjoying the views outside. However, there are also smaller, regional train services in some parts of the country, as well as rare “high speed” rail services in parts of Florida.
So, what shape should your trip take?
Northeast Corridor
The northeast corridor is one of the first places train-lovers begin their tour of the U.S. The line runs from Boston in the north to the capital, Washington D.C., passing through various other major cities along the route.
Many people take the Northeast Corridor when they want to explore the eastern seaboard, starting in the cooler northern regions and making their way south. Places like New York offer integrated public transport solutions, ideal for those wanting to hop off the train and onto the bus or subway immediately.
Wilmington Western Railroad
If you’re looking for a shorter and safer trip with some history behind it, then the Wilmington Western Railroad is another option. This 10-mile line is an off-shoot of the mainline, taking you through various Delaware landmarks. You can explore the tranquil countryside while visiting the Brandywine Springs Park, Greenbank Mill, and the Wooddale Quarry which provided the economy for the local area.
Coast Starlight
The Coast Starlight is another option if you want to see the whole of the West Coast. This service runs from Seattle in the north all the way to Los Angeles in the south, providing stunning views of the Western states, including California. It’s an excellent alternative to taking the coastal road between the two cities (a popular road trip route used by thousands of tourists every year).
The rail line goes through various forests and mountains on its way south. Most travelers begin with Seattle hospitality and a good meal and then prepare themselves for the long continental journey beyond.
Sunset Limited
Finally, you could try the iconic Sunset Limited route that runs from New Orleans to Los Angeles. The line goes through Texas and many of the least hospitable and desertified parts of the country, providing unique views and often stunning weather.
The train will usually stop at the station for a while at each destination. Or you can buy a special ticket that allows you to take breaks overnight and travel during the day.
This route tends to be more popular among long-distance travelers and tourists than commuters. And because of this, it usually has a friendly, welcoming vibe.