How Long Does It Take to Travel Across the U.S. by Train?

How long does it take to travel across the U.S. by train? Traveling coast to coast by train in the United States is a scenic and relaxing adventure that typically takes between two and three days. Depending on the route, layovers, and your starting and ending cities, the journey allows travelers to experience diverse landscapes, from bustling cities and rolling hills to majestic mountains and vast deserts. Whether starting from New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle, multiple route options make the experience unique and memorable. This blog explores typical travel times, routes, and what to expect when traveling across the U.S. by train.

Traveling across the United States by train offers a unique and scenic way to experience the country, with multiple route options varying in travel times, layovers, and landscapes. Below are some of the most popular coast-to-coast Amtrak routes, travel durations, and key cities along the way.

New York City to Los Angeles

• Travel Time: 62 hours
• Layover Time: 4.5 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: Lake Shore Limited and Southwest Chief
• Description:  This cross-country trip travels through the Hudson River Valley, past the Great Lakes to Chicago, then across the Midwest, southern Colorado mountains, and the desert landscapes of New Mexico, Arizona, and California.
• Major cities: New York City, Cleveland, Chicago, Kansas City, Topeka, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Los Angeles

Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.

• Travel Time: 64 hours
• Layover Time: 4 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: Southwest Chief and Capitol Limited
• Description: See the Arizona desert, Colorado mountains, Midwest farmland, and Allegheny Mountains from one coast to another. Flagstaff is the Grand Canyon gateway; however, trains stop there overnight.
• Major cities: Los Angeles, Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Topeka, Kansas City, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C.

San Francisco (Emeryville) to New York City

• Travel Time: 72 hours (plus 30 minutes from Emeryville to SF)
• Layover Time: 6.5 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: California Zephyr and Lake Shore Limited
• Description: Departing from San Francisco, enjoy stunning views through the Sierra Nevada, the Rockies, the plains, and the Midwest before riding the Lake Shore Limited along the Great Lakes and the Hudson River.
• Major cities: San Francisco (via Emeryville), Sacramento, Reno, Salt Lake City, Denver, Omaha, Chicago, Cleveland, New York City

Boston to Los Angeles

• Travel Time: 65.5 hours
• Layover Time: 4.5 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: Lake Shore Limited and Southwest Chief
• Description: Departing Boston, the route takes you past the Great Lakes to Chicago, then across miles of Midwest farmland and southwest desert to Los Angeles.
• Major cities: Boston, Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, Chicago, Kansas City, Topeka, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Los Angeles

Portland/Seattle to Washington D.C.

• Travel Time: 65 hours
• Layover Time: 2 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: Empire Builder and Capitol Limited
• Description: Travel through the Columbia River Gorge or Puget Sound, the Montana Rockies, the Great Plains, and the Midwest, ending via the Allegheny Mountains in D.C.
• Major cities: Portland or Seattle, Spokane, St. Paul-Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C.

New York City to San Francisco

• Travel Time: 72 hours (plus 30 minutes to San Francisco from the train station)
• Layover Time: Almost 4 hours (Chicago)
• Routes: Lake Shore Limited and California Zephyr
• Description: This journey includes river valleys, the Great Lakes, and breathtaking stops through the Rockies and Sierra Nevada before reaching the Bay Area.
• Major cities: New York City, Cleveland, Chicago, Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, Reno, Sacramento, San Francisco (via Emeryville).

Essential Travel Tips for Your Cross-Country Train Journey

Here are some useful travel tips for crossing the U.S. by train:

• Research Routes and Rail Passes: Plan your journey carefully using Amtrak’s route planner and consider purchasing a USA Rail Pass if traveling on multiple routes within a month to save money.
• Book Early: Train seats, especially sleeper accommodations, can sell out well in advance. Booking early secures the best fares and preferred accommodations.
• Arrive on Time: Unlike flights, arriving 30 minutes before departure is recommended for Amtrak.
• Pack Smart: Bring layers for varied climates, snacks, entertainment like books or games, and essentials for comfort during long trips.
• Enjoy the Experience: Take advantage of dining cars, observation lounges, and the social atmosphere. It’s not just travel but a part of the adventure.
• Plan for Delays: Train travel can be slower than air or car travel, so allow flexibility in your schedule.
• Bring Bedding or Choose Sleeper Cars: For overnight trips, sleeper cars offer private rooms and include meals for more comfort.
• Download Offline Content: Wi-Fi can be spotty, so download movies, podcasts, or books for entertainment.
• Explore Layover Cities: Use layovers to explore cities like Chicago with a quick excursion if time permits.
• Follow Amtrak Etiquette: Keep noise levels down, be respectful to fellow passengers, and follow staff instructions for a pleasant journey.

Traveling across the U.S. by train is an unforgettable experience that combines scenic beauty, relaxation, and the joy of slow travel. For those wondering, how long does it take to travel across the U.S. by train? The typical journey lasts two to three days, depending on your route and layovers. While it may take longer than flying, the unique views and social atmosphere on board make it well worth the time. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a leisurely way to see America, a cross-country train trip offers memories and moments that last long after the journey ends.