Train Routes Usa Map

Introduction

Traveling by train is an excellent way to explore the United States. The country has a vast network of railways that connect cities, towns, and rural areas. Train travel is not only eco-friendly and budget-friendly, but it also offers scenic views of the landscape that one may not experience by flying or driving. In this travel guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of top attractions, hidden gems, food scenes, and outdoor adventures that you can explore while traveling by train in the USA.

Top Attractions

Empire State Building, New York City

The Empire State Building is an iconic landmark in New York City. The 102-story building has two observation decks that offer breathtaking views of the city skyline. The observation decks are open until midnight, so you can enjoy the view under the stars.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge is another iconic landmark in the USA. The bridge spans across the Golden Gate Strait and connects San Francisco to Marin County. You can take a train to San Francisco and then rent a bike to ride across the bridge.

Hidden Gems

Hamilton Pool Preserve, Texas

The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural swimming hole in Texas. The pool is surrounded by a limestone cliff and a 50-foot waterfall. The preserve is accessible by train and then a short hike.

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

The Chena Hot Springs is a natural hot spring in Alaska. The hot springs are located in a remote area and can only be accessed by train. The hot springs are open year-round and offer a unique experience to travelers.

Food Scene

Deep-dish Pizza, Chicago

Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza. The pizza has a thick crust and is loaded with cheese, sauce, and toppings. You can take a train to Chicago and try the pizza at one of the many pizzerias in the city.

Cajun Cuisine, New Orleans

New Orleans is famous for its Cajun cuisine. The city offers a variety of dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish. You can take a train to New Orleans and explore the city’s food scene.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling Off-Peak

Traveling off-peak can save you money on train tickets. Train fares are usually lower during weekdays and outside of peak travel seasons.

Staying in Hostels

Staying in hostels is an excellent option for budget travelers. Hostels offer affordable accommodation and a chance to meet other travelers.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder and offers excellent hiking trails. You can take a train to Flagstaff and then transfer to a shuttle that will take you to the Grand Canyon.

Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

Colorado is known for its whitewater rapids. You can take a train to Denver and then rent a car to drive to one of the many rafting companies in the state.

Historical Landmarks

Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Independence Hall is a historical landmark in Philadelphia. The building is where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. You can take a train to Philadelphia and explore the city’s historical landmarks.

Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg National Military Park is a historical site that commemorates the Battle of Gettysburg. The park has a museum and offers guided tours. You can take a train to Gettysburg and explore the park.

Family-Friendly Activities

Disneyland, California

Disneyland is a theme park in California that offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. You can take a train to Anaheim and then take a shuttle to the park.

Smithsonian Museums, Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. has a variety of museums that offer free admission. You can take a train to Washington D.C. and explore the Smithsonian museums with your family.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Marfa, Texas

Marfa is a small town in Texas that offers a unique experience to travelers. The town has a vibrant art scene and offers excellent stargazing opportunities. You can take a train to El Paso and then rent a car to drive to Marfa.

Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska

The Mendenhall Glacier is a glacier in Alaska that offers a unique experience to travelers. You can take a train to Juneau and then take a shuttle to the glacier.

Natural Wonders

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that is located on the border of the USA and Canada. You can take a train to Buffalo and then take a shuttle to the falls.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is a natural wonder that is located in California. The park offers excellent hiking trails and scenic views. You can take a train to Merced and then take a shuttle to the park.

Vibrant Nightlife

Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Bourbon Street is a famous street in New Orleans that offers a vibrant nightlife. The street has many bars, restaurants, and clubs. You can take a train to New Orleans and explore the city’s nightlife.

Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

The Las Vegas Strip is a famous street in Las Vegas that offers a vibrant nightlife. The street has many casinos, bars, and clubs. You can take a train to Las Vegas and explore the city’s nightlife.

Local Markets

Pike Place Market, Seattle

Pike Place Market is a local market in Seattle that offers fresh produce, seafood, and crafts. You can take a train to Seattle and explore the market.

Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia

Reading Terminal Market is a local market in Philadelphia that offers fresh produce, meats, and baked goods. You can take a train to Philadelphia and explore the market.

Beaches and Mountains

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is a famous beach in Hawaii that offers excellent surfing and swimming opportunities. You can take a train to Honolulu and then take a shuttle to the beach.

Rocky Mountains, Colorado

The Rocky Mountains are a mountain range that spans across the USA. The mountains offer excellent hiking trails and scenic views. You can take a train to Denver and then rent a car to explore the mountains.

Cultural Immersion

Chinatown, San Francisco

Chinatown is a cultural district in San Francisco that offers a unique experience to travelers. The district has many shops, restaurants, and museums. You can take a train to San Francisco and explore Chinatown.

New Mexico Pueblos, New Mexico

The New Mexico Pueblos are Native American communities that offer a unique experience to travelers. The communities have many cultural events and festivals. You can take a train to Albuquerque and then rent a car to explore the pueblos.

Art and Music Scene

Music Row, Nashville

Music Row is a famous street in Nashville that is known for its music industry. The street has many recording studios, music venues, and museums. You can take a train to Nashville and explore Music Row.

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a museum that has a vast collection of art from around the world. You can take a train to Chicago and explore the museum.

Walking Tours

Freedom Trail, Boston

The Freedom Trail is a walking tour in Boston that takes you to historical landmarks such as the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution Museum. You can take a train to Boston and explore the trail.

French Quarter, New Orleans

The French Quarter is a walking tour in New Orleans that takes you through the city’s historical landmarks and architecture. You can take a train to New Orleans and explore the quarter.

Architectural Marvels

Willis Tower, Chicago

The Willis Tower is a skyscraper in Chicago that is known for its unique architecture. The building has a glass balcony that offers views of the city. You can take a train to Chicago and visit the tower.

Gateway Arch, St. Louis

The Gateway Arch is a monument in St. Louis that is