5 Great Amtrak Superliner Trips for Families

Traveling by train is a fun, educational way for families to explore new places and make unforgettable memories together. Among the many options, Amtrak’s Superliner routes stand out as some of the best family-friendly adventures, offering cozy family bedrooms, stunning scenic views, and all-inclusive meals. If you are looking for a trip that combines comfort, excitement, and learning for kids and adults alike, you will love these ideas. Here are 5 Great Amtrak Superliner Trips for Families, carefully selected and arranged alphabetically, that promise plenty of adventure, relaxation, and quality time on the rails.

1. Auto Train
2. California Zephyr
3. Capitol Limited
4. Empire Builder
5. Southwest Chief

Auto Train

One of the standout options for family train travel is the Auto Train, which offers a unique blend of the convenience of driving with the comfort of a train journey. Perfect for families with cars, it provides a hassle-free way to reach exciting destinations while enjoying the scenic ride.

• Ideal for: Families with cars wanting to combine road trip convenience with train comfort.
• Route: From Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida.
• Travel Time: About 17 hours, departing in the evening and arriving the next morning.
• Highlights: If you are headed south, Sanford is close to Disney World, Universal Studios, and beautiful beaches like Daytona and New Smyrna. Heading north? You will be near historic sites, D.C., and scenic spots like Shenandoah National Park.
• Why it’s great: Bring your car along, avoid long drives, and enjoy meals included in the ticket price. Perfect for families who want flexibility and a seamless travel experience.

California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is renowned for offering one of the most breathtaking train journeys in North America, making it a perfect choice for families seeking stunning scenery and outdoor adventures.

• Ideal for: Families wanting a scenic, awe-inspiring journey through mountain ranges and along mighty rivers.
• Route: From the Midwest to California, passing through the Rockies and along the Colorado River.
• Travel Time: Over 50 hours, but shorter segments are available.
• Highlights: Traverse the majestic Rockies, cross the Mississippi River, and enjoy stunning views of Glenwood Canyon. You can opt for shorter trips, such as a day trip from Northern California to Reno or a quick overnight trip to Fraser-Winter Park for winter sports.
• Why it’s great: Summer is peak season for scenic views, but winter trips can turn into snowy adventures with skiing, snowboarding, and sledding at mountain resorts.

Capitol Limited

The Capitol Limited offers families a perfect blend of scenic beauty and historic charm in a manageable travel package. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a shorter, enriching train adventure filled with outdoor and cultural highlights.

• Ideal for: Families looking for a shorter, scenic trip with historical and natural attractions.
• Route: Washington D.C. to Chicago, with stops at Harpers Ferry and Cumberland.
• Travel Time: Under 18 hours.
• Highlights: The route showcases the Appalachian Mountains, especially stunning during the summer. Shorter segments like Harpers Ferry and Cumberland make for manageable day trips packed with hiking, history, and outdoor fun.
• Why it’s great: Perfect for families with young children or those new to train travel, with plenty of opportunities to explore scenic and historic sites along the way.

Empire Builder

For families seeking a truly epic and scenic adventure, the Empire Builder offers an unforgettable journey through some of North America’s most stunning landscapes. This route is perfect for those who love outdoor exploration and breathtaking vistas.

• Ideal for: Adventure-loving families eager for a longer journey filled with breathtaking scenery.
• Route: From Chicago or Seattle to Glacier National Park and the Pacific Northwest.
• Travel Time: Around 46 hours, typically over two nights.
• Highlights: Marvel at the expansive Great Plains, towering Rocky Mountains, lush forests, and glistening rivers. Destinations like Whitefish and Glacier National Park offer outdoor adventures such as hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Why it’s great: Summer trips are ideal for daylight-filled exploration. The route offers options for shorter trips, including starting points in Portland or Seattle for a more manageable adventure.

Southwest Chief

Embark on a captivating cross-country adventure with the Southwest Chief, where desert vistas meet mountain peaks and Old West history. This scenic train route offers an enriching experience for families eager to explore iconic landmarks and vibrant Southwest culture.

• Ideal for: Families seeking a mix of desert landscapes and mountain scenery with a dash of Old West history.
• Route: From Los Angeles to Chicago.
• Travel Time: Two nights on the train.
• Highlights: Experience the rugged beauty of the Southwest, including stops in Dodge City with its Old West vibe, Flagstaff as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, and Albuquerque, famous for the International Balloon Fiesta in October.
• Why it’s great: The route combines scenic desert vistas with opportunities for day trips to iconic landmarks, making it an enriching experience for kids and grown-ups alike.

Traveling with family does not have to be stressful or monotonous. These five Amtrak Superliner routes provide a perfect blend of scenic beauty, educational value, and comfort, ensuring every journey is as enjoyable as the destination. Whether you are heading to theme parks, national parks, or exploring historic towns, these routes make family travel memorable, relaxing, and fun.