Amtrak Routes With Observation Cars
Amtrak trains have special cars called observation cars or Sightseer Lounges that let passengers enjoy amazing views during their trip. These cars have big windows that go from floor to ceiling, so you can see the beautiful landscapes passing by, whether it’s mountains, rivers, or coastlines. Observation cars are available on some of Amtrak’s long-distance routes and are open to all passengers. Riding in one is a great way to relax and enjoy the journey while taking in the scenery. This guide to Amtrak routes with observation cars aims to help you discover the best ways to enjoy America’s stunning landscapes from the comfort of a train.
What Is an Amtrak Observation Car?
An Amtrak observation car is a special train car with large panoramic windows that let passengers enjoy beautiful views and make their trip more memorable.
- An observation car, also called a Sightseer Lounge, is a special passenger car on Amtrak trains designed for enjoying scenic views during the journey.
- These cars feature large, floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the passing landscape, like mountains, rivers, and coastlines.
- Observation cars are commonly found on long-distance Amtrak routes with double-decker Superliner trains, mainly west of Chicago.
- Seating includes single seats, double seats, and family-style tables where passengers can relax, eat, use a laptop, or play games while enjoying the scenery.
- Observation cars provide a popular social space and a chance to see parts of the country not visible from highway planes.
- Some routes with observation cars include the California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, and Empire Builder, among others.
- Passengers can bring their own food, and drinks/snacks may be available for purchase in the car.
Key Amtrak Routes Featuring Observation Cars
Here are some of the key Amtrak routes that feature observation cars, offering passengers stunning views and unforgettable travel experiences across America’s most scenic landscapes.
| Route | Highlights | Best For | Has Observation Car? |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Zephyr | Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, Glenwood Canyon | Scenic views, nature lovers | Yes |
| Empire Builder | Glacier National Park, Cascade Range | Nature, national parks | Yes |
| Coast Starlight | Pacific Coast, Cascade Range, Big Sur | Coastal scenery, photographers | Yes |
| Southwest Chief | Southwestern landscapes, desert vistas | Southwestern US experience | Yes |
| City of New Orleans | Mississippi River, bayou country | Southern culture, river views | Yes |
| Sunset Limited | Southwest deserts, historic towns | Desert travelers, history buffs | Yes |
| Texas Eagle | Midwest plains, Texas Hill Country | Midwestern culture, long journeys | Yes |
Note: All these routes include special observation cars or Sightseer Lounges designed to provide panoramic scenic views throughout the journey, enhancing the travel experience on Amtrak’s long-distance trains.
Tips for Riding in the Observation Car
Here are some useful tips to help you make the most of your experience riding in an Amtrak observation car, so you can enjoy the stunning views and comfortable atmosphere to the fullest.
- Arrive early to grab a good seat since seating is first-come, first-served and popular on scenic routes like the California Zephyr and Coast Starlight.
- Be courteous. If the car is busy, try not to occupy a seat for too long so others can enjoy the views too.
- Observation cars are open to all passengers, including coach and sleeper car riders.
- Bring snacks or meals if you like; eating is allowed in the observation car, making it a great place to relax and dine with a view.
- Masks may be required depending on current guidelines, except when actively eating or drinking.
- Use the onboard restroom located downstairs in the observation car if needed, which adds convenience.
- If you want to see scenery on both sides of the train, the observation car lets you move freely to different window seats.
- Avoid sleeping in the observation car, especially during beautiful stretches, so others can use the space for sightseeing.
Following these tips will help you make the most of your time in the Amtrak observation car and enjoy stunning views comfortably throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
A special train car with large windows for scenic viewing, open to all passengers.
Observation cars are available on several long-distance routes, including the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, Coast Starlight, and more.
Yes, observation cars are open to all Amtrak passengers on the train, regardless of ticket class.
Yes, passengers are allowed to bring snacks and drinks, and some observation cars may offer food or beverages for purchase.
Anytime the scenery is visible, but daylight hours and stretches through scenic areas like mountains or coastlines offer the best views.
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