Cardinal vs Lake Shore Limited – Complete Train Travel Guide
Thinking about traveling from Chicago to New York City by train? It’s an awesome way to enjoy some comfort, beautiful scenery, and a bit of adventure along the way. When it comes to options, the Cardinal and the Lake Shore Limited are two of the most popular routes. Each has its own vibe, schedule, and views, whether you want a quicker trip, stunning mountain sights, or a relaxed journey along lakes and rivers. Knowing the differences can help you decide which route is best for your trip. Let’s break down the Cardinal vs Lake Shore Limited and see what makes each one special.
- The Lake Shore Limited is known for being a reliable, daily, and relatively quick service connecting Chicago to New York and Boston. It offers travelers water views along lakes and rivers, making it ideal for those who want a scenic yet efficient ride.
- The Cardinal, on the other hand, operates three times a week and takes a more leisurely, scenic route through the Appalachian Mountains, including West Virginia and Virginia. This route is perfect for travelers seeking a longer, more picturesque journey that takes in mountain scenery and charming towns.
Frequency and Duration of Train
One of the most significant differences lies in how often these trains run and how long the trip takes.
| Lake Shore Limited | The Cardinal |
|---|---|
| Operates daily, ensuring flexibility and convenience. The typical travel time from New York City to Chicago is approximately 16 hours, making it one of the faster options between these two major cities. | Runs only three days a week (roughly four round-trip per week). The journey is considerably longer, taking about 28 hours from New York to Chicago, which makes it a more leisurely, overnight experience. |
If your schedule demands a quick and dependable trip, the Lake Shore Limited is the clear winner. But if you have extra time and want to enjoy a scenic, relaxing ride, the Cardinal could be more appealing.
Routes and Scenic Highlights
Deciding between Amtrak’s Cardinal vs Lake Shore Limited? Knowing their routes and scenic highlights can really make your trip more enjoyable. Each train takes you through different parts of the country; one showcases calm lakeside views, while the other offers stunning mountain scenery. Here’s a closer look at their routes and what makes each one special.
| Feature | Lake Shore Limited | The Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Route Type | Direct, “water level” route | Longer, winding “U-shaped” route through mountains |
| Main Regions Covered | Midwest, Great Lakes region | Appalachian Mountains, Shenandoah Valley |
| Key Stops/Areas | Northern Indiana and Ohio, Lake Erie, Mohawk River, Albany, NY, Hudson River Valley, New York City or Boston | West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio River towns, Shenandoah Valley |
| Scenic Highlights | Water views of lakes, rivers, and canals, Lake Erie, Erie Canal, Hudson River Valley | Mountain vistas, lush valleys, small historic towns, Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, New River Gorge |
| Notable Features | Expansive lakes and river scenes | Dramatic cliffs, outdoor activities, scenic mountain landscapes |
Stops and Major Stations
When comparing the stops and major stations along the routes, it’s important to consider how each train’s schedule and stops can shape your travel experience. Whether you prefer a quicker, more direct journey or a scenic trip with more stops, understanding these details helps you choose the best route for your adventure.
| Feature | Lake Shore Limited | The Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Major Stops | Chicago, Cleveland, Buffalo, Albany, NYC, Boston | Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Washington D.C., Richmond, Charlottesville, NYC |
| Number of Stops | About 20 (NYC segment) | About 36 |
| Notable Points | The Lake Shore Limited makes fewer stops, focusing on key cities, which helps keep the journey faster. It’s ideal for travelers who want a straightforward trip with comfort and water views. | The Cardinal stops at more towns and cities, providing a richer travel experience for those interested in exploring smaller communities or viewing diverse landscapes. |
Onboard Experience and Amenities
When it comes to onboard comfort and amenities, both the Lake Shore Limited and the Cardinal aim to provide a pleasant and convenient travel experience. From comfortable sleeping accommodations to scenic viewing options, here’s a look at what each route offers to make your journey enjoyable.
| Feature | Lake Shore Limited | Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeper Cars | Available: private rooms, bedrooms, accessible options. | Available: private rooms, bedrooms, accessible options. |
| Coach Seating | Comfortable seats for day travelers. | Comfortable seats for day travelers. |
| Dining | Cafe cars with snacks, meals, and beverages; complimentary meals for sleeper passengers. | Cafe cars with snacks, meals, and beverages. |
| Wi-Fi | Available; connectivity may vary in remote areas. | Available; connectivity may vary in remote areas. |
| Special Features | Sightseer lounge with panoramic views of lakes and rivers. | Scenic windows in coach cars (no dedicated lounge). |
Cost and Booking
Both routes offer various fare options, including coach, roomettes, and bedrooms. Prices vary depending on demand, time of booking, and season.
| Lake Shore Limited | The Cardinal |
|---|---|
| Since the Lake Shore Limited operates daily, travelers usually find more flexible and often more affordable options, especially if booking in advance. | The Cardinal’s limited schedule means it’s best to book early if you want to experience this scenic route, especially during peak travel seasons. |
Which Route Should You Pick?
Choosing Cardinal vs Lake Shore Limited depends on your travel priorities, whether you are seeking a quick, efficient trip or a scenic, leisurely journey. Consider what destinations, pace, and experiences best suit your travel plans to make the right choice.
| Section | Details | Recommended Route |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Lake Shore Limited: Travelers seeking speed, daily service, water views, business trips, or trips to Boston. The Cardinal: Travelers with more time, interested in mountain scenery, historic towns, and a relaxed pace, ideal for an immersive scenic experience. | Lake Shore Limited: Speed & flexibility, direct route, suitable for quick travel and trips to Boston. The Cardinal: Scenic & relaxed journey, longer duration, perfect for sightseeing and exploring small towns. |
| Priority | Speed & Flexibility: Faster, more frequent, reliable schedule. Scenic & Relaxed Journey: Longer, more scenic, leisurely travel. | Speed & Flexibility: Lake Shore Limited. Scenic & Relaxed Journey: The Cardinal. |
| Travel to Key Destinations | Travel to Boston: Only route with direct service. Travel to West Virginia & Virginia: The Cardinal offers scenic mountain views and stops in historic towns. | Boston: Lake Shore Limited. West Virginia & Virginia: The Cardinal. |
Both the Cardinal and Lake Shore Limited are fantastic options for traveling between Chicago and New York City, each suited to different types of travelers. If you are in a hurry or want a quick, daily service with beautiful water views, the Lake Shore Limited is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more relaxed journey with stunning scenery through mountains and valleys, along with plenty of interesting stops, the Cardinal provides a truly memorable experience, even if it takes a bit longer. Whichever route you choose, traveling by train across the U.S. is a wonderful way to enjoy the country’s diverse landscapes in comfort and style.
Mostly Asked Questions
The Lake Shore Limited is faster, taking about 16 hours, while the Cardinal takes around 28 hours.
The Lake Shore Limited runs daily, so it’s very flexible. The Cardinal runs three times a week, so you will want to plan ahead if you choose it.
The Lake Shore Limited is the only route with direct service to Boston.
The Lake Shore Limited often offers more flexible and potentially cheaper fares, especially if you book in advance.
The Cardinal, with more stops along its route, is better if you want to explore small towns and enjoy a scenic journey.