Travelling by train in US

jordylass

I was thinking of booking a train journey to see some of the states and chat to other travelers, we were looking at 3-4 nights trips and going to use a sleeper.
The roads are wonderful to drive on in the states though, IMO much better than here.

dondo

Back in 1995 I spent a month travelling by train in the US and loved it- the trains were very comfortable and met a great bunch of people whilst doing it (both fellow backpackers and other travellers) and although didn't serve as many places as planes and buses we still manged to see a great deal of the country. I travelled from Boston-Washington-Florida-New Orleans-Grand Canyon-LA-San Francisco-Chicago-Washington-NYC then home

Some absolutely stunning and picturesque journeys (especially through teh rockies)

puffinmuffin

i travelled from Mississippi to Chicago by train baout 10 years ago. It was an interesting experience, met a few "characters"! It had a car with big windows so you could see the scenery.

Phyllis

I've travelled in the US by train several times, including a trip down the west coast and a marvellous journey on Amtrak's California Zephyr across the Rocky Mountains. It's a relaxed way to see unspoilt scenery, if you're not in a hurry. Bradt's USA by Rail guidebook has route guides and other essential information to help with planning.

marky_p

I spent 3 months travelling by train in the US and Canada earlier this year, it was basically the best time of my life.

If you're relaxed/not in a rush it's such an amazing way to travel. I wouldn't advise it if you have to be at certain places on time as the trains are often delayed.

If you're taking a long-distance train I'd really recommend wearing some comfy clothes (I wore pyjama bottoms most of the time), some snacks and a good book and you'll be set. You're guaranteed to meet some interesting people and see things that you wouldn't otherwise get to see. I couldn't recommend it anymore highly really.

marky_p

Phyllis wrote: »

Bradt's USA by Rail guidebook has route guides and other essential information to help with planning.

This book is pretty good, I think the best thing about it is the guide to what you're seeing/where you're at as you're travelling, it's quite informative in that sense.

I did all my planning using the Amtrak website though, which is excellent. Also might be worth a look at www.seat61.com and the forum at http://discuss.amtraktrains.com

cardiffgirl_2

I have only used Amtrak for shortish journeys, it was great. Book as far in advance as you can, prices get more expensive nearer the time, have a look at some examples on the Amtrak website for different dates and you'll get some idea of the savings.
Also have look at all the discount codes on the Flyertalk forums, we have found one that worked for us every time we've travelled. Have fun.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards-399/