Book Trains in the United States with CheapFlightOnline

Take a trip through the United States by train that will take you on a scenic ride away from all the rest, as each route takes you through the cities, national parks, landmarks, and scenery. America is wide and varied, whether you’re crossing mountain ranges or cruising past coastlines — and train travel is one of the best ways to witness all that diversity and beauty. CheapFlightOnline– With an extensive railroad network connecting over 500 destinations in the U.S., you are sure to find a good deal. Compare routes, view schedules, and buy your tickets, all in one place.

America’s Best Train Routes

Here are the best-known train routes of America that travellers can enjoy:

Amtrak’s Empire Builder

You can hop aboard the Empire Builder for a classic American journey from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, following the historic path of Lewis & Clark. Along the way, the route showcases breathtaking scenery, passing through Minneapolis, the plains of North Dakota, and the majestic Glacier National Park.

Coast Starlight: A West Coast Jewel

For a journey of natural wonders, take the Coast Starlight, which connects Seattle and Los Angeles. Additionally, it travels through iconic cities like Sacramento, Portland and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Grand Canyon Railway

Experience the spirit of the Old West aboard the Grand Canyon Railway. Travel across wide-open prairies, pine-lined forests, and sweeping desert landscapes. Along the way, you may even catch a glimpse of wild horses. This nostalgic ride is rich with frontier history and cowboy legends.

How to Book U.S. Train Tickets on CheapFlightOnline

There’s never been an easier way to book a train trip. Just input your starting point, destination and date of travel in our search tool. We’ll immediately let you know what trains are available, their ticket prices and departure stations from reliable operators such as Amtrak, Alaska Railroad and others. Meanwhile, the travelers can reserve the train tickets with the following points: 

• Compare train companies and schedules
• View live ticket pricing
• Access mobile tickets instantly
• Use available discounts and travel deals
• Turn on alerts to track fare changes

However, once your booking is complete, your e-tickets are sent directly to your mobile device—easy, fast, and paper-free.

Top Train Operators in the United States

Amtrak

Amtrak, which operates the United States’ primary passenger rail service, covers over 22,000 miles (35,000 km) including 46 states and parts of Canada. Passengers have access to coach, business or sleeper class options, along with onboard services such as Wi-Fi, dining and lounges.

Some popular Amtrak routes are:

• Empire Builder
• Coast Starlight
• California Zephyr
• Southwest Chief
• Grand Canyon Railway

However, Amtrak runs more than 300 trains a day, carrying coast-to-coast passengers from New York City to Los Angeles and places in between.

Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad connects the scenic interior of Alaska to its southcentral coast, from Seward to Fairbanks. One special touch is the flag stop train between Talkeetna and Denali, which allows passengers to stop at almost any location along the line, by alerting the conductor.

Regional Rail Services

Many U.S. states offer their own regional or commuter train services. However, some of them are listed below. Meanwhile, CheapFlightOnline allows you to check prices and availability with all major operators, so you can easily book your perfect journey:

• Metro-North Railroad –  this rail network serves New York and Connecticut.
• MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) – This regional train operates in Massachusetts.
• MARC (Maryland Area Regional Commuter) – Covering Washington D.C. and surrounding areas.
• California’s Regional Rail – With over five active providers in the state.
  
  

Cross-Border Train Travel to Canada

Looking to venture beyond the U.S.? Amtrak partners with VIA Rail Canada to offer a selection of international train routes. Here are some popular cross-border services you can explore:

• Maple Leaf offers services between New York City and Toronto, giving the beautiful view of the Hudson River Valley, the Finger Lakes and Niagara Falls.
• Empire Builder to Vancouver: This journey from Chicago travels through Glacier National Park, Granville Island, Stanley Park and the Canadian Rockies.

However, the travelers must make sure to have their passports and required travel documents ready for international train routes.

Other Iconic Train Journeys to Experience

Southwest Chief

On the Southwest Chief, hopscotch Chicago to Los Angeles via Albuquerque, the Santa Fe Trail and the Rocky Mountains on a journey through some of the most dramatic scenery the American West has to offer.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

If you want a picturesque ride along cliffs and riverbanks, this historic line in Colorado is for you. Here you can find Gondolas to enjoy the open air, giving wide views over deep canyons and the Animas River.

Cass Scenic Railroad

Ride through the forests of West Virginia on a steam locomotive and enjoy the time to remember a real throwback to the golden age of American rail travel.

Tips for Train Travel in the U.S.

Consider an Amtrak Rail Pass

Taking a bunch of long-distance trips? Visitors should also consider the Amtrak Rail Pass, an excellent value. You can choose from 15-day, 30-day, or 45-day passes and travel flexibly on those routes.

Know Before You Go

• Book in advance to get the lowest fares
• Check Train Platforms and Arrive Early at the station—especially for cross-border routes
• Take your proper ID for confirmation and fringes checks
• Take a look at Train Amenities like sleeping cars, onboard Wi-Fi, dining choices, and lounge
• Access your mobile tickets using the booking website.

Why Book Trains with CheapFlightOnline?

• Compare Top Train Operators
•  View Best Prices and Discounts
•  Instant Mobile Ticketing
•  Seamless Booking Experience
• Trusted by Thousands of Travellers

Save the hassle and make a booking today on your next U.S. train journey with CheapFlightOnline, your one-stop travel companion for traveling America by train.