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🌍 Help Me, LP! How do I make the most of Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass?

Feb 9, 2023 • 7 min read

Use your Amtrak USA Rail Pass to take in the country’s staggering scenery from the comfort of an observation car © Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

In this series, Lonely Planet’s team of writers and editors answers your travel problems and provides tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free trip. When an Amtrak question came across the transom, we turned to Lonely Planet contributor (and major train) fan Lauren Keith.

Question: My trip around Europe with the Eurail Pass was one of the best I’ve ever taken. Is there anything like this in the United States?

Lauren Keith: Hopping off and on trains, waking up to a new city in the morning, carrying your suitcase through elegant train stations, meeting new friends from across hostel bunk beds: taking an extended train trip in this fashion actually is possible in the United States .

Modeled on the Eurail Pass , which allows travel around 33 European countries, Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass might get you across only one international border. But the experience can be just as varied, intriguing and eye-opening as its European counterpart. 

The US might have the world’s largest road network, sure – but taking a car-free “road trip” across the country is a ticket to an unforgettable adventure, and may be the most European-style journey you can have on this side of the pond.

I’ve just bought my second USA Rail Pass, and I’m starting to pack my bags for my next Amtrak sojourn. In 2021, I took to the rails on a loop from Kansas City , going through St Louis , San Antonio , New Orleans , DC , Baltimore , Philadelphia , New York City and Boston . Here’s a quick dive into the nitty-gritty of the Amtrak pass and some of the questions I was most commonly asked about my trip.

What is Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass?

The USA Rail Pass allows riders to go on 10 Amtrak “segments” within a 30-day period for a set price. A segment isn’t always the same thing as a one-way journey – any time you get off the train is the end of a segment. A one-way journey between Seattle and Denver , for example, consists of two segments because you have to change trains.

Launched in 1976, the USA Rail Pass in its current form differs significantly from the Eurail Pass, and even from previous versions of itself. Instead of regional restrictions, the entire country is now fair game, and the pass is valid for a set 30 days, and only 30 days – travelers no longer have the option of choosing longer or shorter durations.

When can I use the Amtrak Rail Pass?

Once you purchase the pass, you have to use it within 120 days (about four months). After the first segment is traveled, the clock starts ticking, and you have 30 days to take the other nine segments.

How much does the USA Rail Pass cost?

Amtrak sells the USA Rail Pass for $499 at full price – but it’s been on sale for as low as $299 a couple times in the last few years. And at this promotional price, each segment costs less than $30, regardless of length.

What are the USA Rail Pass restrictions?

While the USA Rail Pass is pretty flexible, it’s important to know a few details before buying one.

With the pass, you must travel in coach class. Business class and sleeper cabins (which are soon to be upgraded ) are not an option, unless you want to pay for them outside of the pass at the going rate. While Amtrak’s reclining seats are far superior to those of any airline’s economy class (39 inches of legroom compared with 28 inches when flying), they can be a challenge to sleep in overnight.

Passengers using the USA Rail Pass cannot ride the Auto Train (between Virginia and Florida ), Acela trains (high-speed trains in the Northeast) or Canadian routes that Amtrak operates with VIA Rail Canada. However, these regions are still accessible to pass holders on other (slower) routes.

Riders can travel between the same two stations only twice (two round-trip journeys), so the pass is best for travelers looking to explore a larger region, or the entire country. If you’re looking to commute between cities or visit friends or family in the same place, opt for a Multi-Ride Pass instead, which doesn’t have this restriction.

Though the USA Rail Pass doesn’t have any blackout dates, only a limited number of seats are saved for pass holders on each service – which means advance reservations are highly advisable. It’s possible that some trains will be unavailable; unfortunately, the number of eligible seats isn’t shown when searching the schedules. You have to reserve seats in advance, and it’s best to book your journeys as soon as you know where you want to go, even if you haven’t nailed down all the details. If you change your mind, you can cancel and rebook any time before the scheduled departure of the train, a super-flexible option.

Where can I go on Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass?

The country is your oyster. Amtrak’s routes roll across the US from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from the Mexican border to stops in Canadian cities. More than 30 train lines crisscross the entire country on some 21,000 miles of tracks. Trains stop in 500 cities in 46 states, along with a handful of destinations in Canada .

How can I make the most of Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass?

That all depends on you and your travel goals. You could feel the West Coast sun along the coast in California before cozying up in a bookshop among the grays and greens of the Pacific Northwest . You could focus on the East Coast’s big-hitters, such as DC, Philadelphia, New York and Boston. The bold could even cross the country from every direction within 30 days: east from Los Angeles to New Orleans, north from Miami to Maine , west from Chicago to Seattle, and south from Vancouver to San Diego , where you can cross the border to Tijuana , Mexico , on foot. 

Although the observation car might sound like the best way to soak up all the extraordinary diversity of scenery on an epic journey like that, I wouldn’t personally recommend it – unless you’re sure you’ve packed plenty of snacks and your body can handle days without fully lying down to sleep. The California Zephyr , one of the longest train journeys in the world, takes 52 hours from California to Chicago, and that’s assuming there aren’t any delays – a rarity.

Start by looking at Amtrak’s route map and deciding which stops are a priority. Remember that you don’t necessarily need to start from your home city: if you want to pack more in, you could fly or take a train (without using your pass) to a hub like New York, Chicago or DC that has multiple options for long-distance routes.

Another important factor is timing. You have 30 days to use your pass, and outside the Northeast, most routes run just once a day – or even as little as three times a week, as is the case for the Sunset Limited (Los Angeles to New Orleans). The small number of services mean that strange departure times are inevitable. My first trips on Amtrak in 2008 left from a small-town station in Kansas with two daily departures: 2:45am going south and 2:59am going north.

Which Amtrak routes are the most scenic?

Amtrak’s long-distance trains are some of the most scenic journeys in the world. The Coast Starlight is absolutely worth a trip, hugging the coast so closely between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara that you seem to hover at the cliff edge, as if on a roller coaster. The California Zephyr takes in the widest variety of landscapes, from the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas to the salt flats of Nevada and Utah to endless bends around the Rocky Mountains . 

Even many of Amtrak’s stations are scenic. Los Angeles’ Union Station is an art-deco jewel with its own brewpub. Denver’s Union Station is home to an impressive food hall, and the coffered ceilings of Kansas City’s Union Station (do we see a naming trend here?) are just as gorgeous as those in Chicago and Washington, DC.

Ready to take a midnight train to anywhere? See you on board.

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Find the best credit card for you

The best credit cards to use for all your amtrak and international train travels, whether you’re riding the rails at home or abroad, these cards will reward you for your train trips..

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

There's nothing like watching the world pass you by from a train window, seeing the landscapes change, contemplating the vast scenery around you and passing the time curled up with a good book or chatting with your fellow travelers in the dining car. There's an old-school sort of wonder to it all, whether you're traveling around the U.S. on Amtrak — some journeys are more scenic than others — or riding the rails internationally.

Of course, the whole experience feels a lot more magical when it's a free (or nearly free) one — or if you're earning rewards points or cash-back that you can use to fund even more of your travels.

Below, Select details the best credit cards to use for train travel wherever you are, plus a few tips for saving money on U.S. and international train trips.

Best credit cards for train travel

• Best overall : Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Best for casual Amtrak travelers : Amtrak Guest Rewards® Mastercard®
• Best for frequent Amtrak travelers : Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard®
• Best for international train travel : Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Best for earning cash-back rewards on travel : Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
• Best for earning flexible travel rewards points : Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
• Best business card : Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Best overall

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Welcome bonus

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Regular APR

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Balance transfer fee

5%, minimum $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

Who's this for? The Chase Sapphire Reserve® stands out for offering an up to $300 annual travel credit, which can be used to cover rail trips. Not only that, cardholders earn a generous 3X points per dollar on other travel, including train tickets.

Beyond that, cardholders can earn 5X points per dollar on flights and 10X points on hotels and rental cars when they're booked through Chase Travel℠ (after your first $300 in travel-related purchases), making it an ideal pick for frequent travelers. You'll also earn 10X points per dollar through Chase Dining, 10X points on Lyft rides through Mar. 31, 2025, 3X points per dollar for all other travel and dining purchases including takeout and delivery and 1X point per dollar for any other spending.

Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠, meaning the 60,000-point welcome bonus you can earn after spending $4,000 in the first three months is worth at least $900 in travel. 

While you can't use Ultimate Rewards® points to book train tickets, you can still transfer them to any of Chase's many airline and hotel partners such as Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, IHG, Marriott and Hyatt to enhance your travels, especially if you're flying to a particular country or locale to begin your rail adventure or need hotels to stay in — or a car rental — before or after your train trip.

There is a high $550 annual fee, but in turn, cardholders receive the $300 annual travel credit; a suite of travel and purchase protections; a  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit ;  Priority Pass airport lounge access ; extra benefits when you book a rental car with Avis, National Car Rental or Silvercar;  VIP access  to events and experiences; and special perks such as free daily breakfast, late checkout and room upgrades when you book a stay through The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection.

Best for casual Amtrak travelers

Amtrak guest rewards® mastercard®.

2X points on travel booked with Amtrak (including purchases made onboard), 2X points on dining and 1X points for all other purchases.

Earn 12,000 bonus points after spending at least $1,000 within the first three billing cycles of account membership.

25.24% to 27.49% (variable)

5% of the amount being transferred or $10, whichever is greater

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees, terms apply.

Who's this for? If you're someone who plans the occasional rail journey with Amtrak, the new Amtrak Guest Rewards® Mastercard® issued by First National Bank of Omaha makes a great choice, as it lets you earn 2X points on travel with Amtrak (including purchases made onboard) and dining and 1X points for all additional purchases. You'll also receive a 10% rebate on food and beverage purchases made onboard the train (as a statement credit) and a 5% points rebate when your points are redeemed for travel on Amtrak.

The card has no annual fee, no transaction fees and new cardholders can pick up 12,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three billing cycles after opening an account, giving you a great head start toward free (or nearly free) train rides considering that Amtrak reward travel starts at just 800 points.

Best for frequent Amtrak travelers

Amtrak guest rewards® preferred mastercard®.

3X points on travel booked with Amtrak (including purchases made onboard); 2X points on travel, dining, public transit and ride-share services; and 1X points for all other purchases.

Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending at least $1,000 within the first three billing cycles of account membership.

Who's this for? For those who travel frequently aboard Amtrak trains, the Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard® offers similar benefits, but for a reasonable annual fee of $99 provides more perks. For starters, you'll be earning 3X points for Amtrak travel (including purchases made onboard); 2X points on travel, dining, public transit and ride-share services; and 1X points for all other purchases. You'll also score a 20% rebate on food and beverages purchased onboard, in the form of a statement credit, and a 5% points rebate whenever points are redeemed for travel on Amtrak.

As far as additional benefits, cardholders receive several special perks upon account opening as well as on their card's anniversary date, including a round-trip companion coupon, one-class upgrades and station lounge passes. You'll also earn 1,000 tier-qualifying points whenever you spend $5,000 in qualifying purchases with the card.

Now through Dec. 2, 2022, new card members can earn 30,000 bonus points (instead of the usual 20,000) after spending $1,000 within the first three billing cycles of account membership. If you've been a fan of U.S. train travel and are looking for a card that'll help you earn points towards more trips on the rails, this could be a great addition.

Best for international train travel

Chase sapphire preferred® card.

Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

Who's this for? If your primary goal is to earn bonus points on train rides abroad and you don't want to pay a high annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a good choice.

The card has no foreign transaction fees and lets you earn 2X points per dollar on general travel purchases, including train tickets. It also offers 5X points per dollar on travel booked via  Chase Travel SM ; 5X points per dollar on Lyft rides now through Mar. 31, 2025; 3X points per dollar spent with certain streaming services, as well as on dining and online grocery shopping (except Target®, Walmart® and other wholesale clubs); and 1X point per dollar on all other purchases.

With a $95 annual fee, this card packs a punch, offering additional travel benefits such as a $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, collision damage waivers for car rentals, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, a 10% points boost to celebrate each card anniversary and special discounts for shopping with  Instacart+ ,  DoorDash , and GoPuff, among other perks.

New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, which is worth $750 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel SM .

Best for earning cash-back rewards on travel

Blue cash preferred® card from american express.

6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations, 3% cash back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more) and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months. 

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

0% for 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening

19.24% - 29.99% variable. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.

Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Who's this for? If you're interested in earning cash-back rewards for your travel purchases and having a 0% intro APR for the first 12 months on purchases from the date of account opening (after, 19.24% - 29.99% see rates and fees ; variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%), consider applying for the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express .

This card lets you earn 6% cash back for shopping at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%), 6% cash back on certain U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back on transit (including trains) and U.S. gas station purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases, making it a great card to use during your travels and when you're using trains closer to home. Terms apply.

Three things to note about this card: While there is an $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, it'll be $95 after that ( see rates and fees ); the cash back you'll earn from using this card is offered to cardholders as Reward Dollars, which can be redeemed as statement credits; and unlike many cards on this list, you'll have to pay foreign transaction fees of 2.7% for using this card outside the U.S.

New cardholders also have an opportunity to earn a welcome bonus of a $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 within the first six months of account membership.

Best for earning flexible travel rewards points

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

19.99% - 29.99% variable

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Who's this for? While most travel rewards cards focus heavily on earning points for flights and hotels, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) lets you earn 2X miles for every purchase — plus, 5X miles on hotels and rental cars when you book them directly with Capital One Travel — making it easier to rack up the rewards you'll need to book your train tickets by buying the things you need to buy anyway.

The welcome bonus is pretty decent, too — new cardholders can currently earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months of card membership — and the card's annual fee of $95 is quite reasonable considering you're also getting a statement credit up to $100 to cover Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership and two complimentary visits per year to any Capital One Lounges (or any of the more than 100+ Plaza Premium Lounges through the Partner Lounge Network)(see rates and fees ).

You'll also receive a range of travel-related benefits, including no foreign transaction fees, auto rental collision damage waivers for rental cars and travel accident insurance, as well as access to extra perks through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment .

While you can't transfer miles to Amtrak, you can use them to "erase" recent travel purchases, including those made with Amtrak, at a fixed value of one cent per point. You can also use the miles to cover hotels, flights, rental cars, and other parts of your trip either by booking through Capital One Travel or transferring and redeeming them through any of Capital One's airline or hotel partners, including Accor, Aeroplan, Qantas, Etihad and Singapore Airlines, among others.

Best business card

Ink business preferred® credit card.

Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in select categories each account anniversary year (travel; shipping purchases; internet, cable and phone services; and advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines), 1X point per $1 on all other purchases

Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

21.24% - 26.24% variable

Good/Excellent

Read our Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card review.

Who's this for? Similar to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , the Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card can be used to rack up Ultimate Rewards® points — 3X points per dollar on your first $150,000 worth of spending in business categories such as travel; shipping; cable, phone and internet services; and advertising expenses, then an unlimited 1X points per dollar for all other purchases.

You can then use those points to cover additional elements of your trip, such as flights, hotel stays or rental cars by booking travel directly through the Chase Travel SM — your points will be worth 25% more that way — or by transferring and redeeming them with any of Chase's many airline and hotel travel partners, including World of Hyatt, IHG, JetBlue and British Airways, among others.

New cardholders can currently earn a welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 within the first three months of account opening, which translates to about $1,250 in travel when redeemed through Chase Travel SM . There is a modest annual fee of $95, but there are no foreign transaction fees for using it abroad. The card also offers fraud and purchase protections and additional employee cards to help you stay on top of all your business needs.

More ways to save money with Amtrak

In general, the earlier you can book your ticket, the better, especially on Amtrak, which releases its schedule 11 months in advance so you'll have plenty of time to plan. You can also save more by making some obvious choices, such as traveling in coach instead of business or first class, or toughing it out long-distance in a regular seat rather than splurging on private Roomette or Bedroom accommodations. Otherwise, here are some more things to be aware of if you're trying to stick to a budget-friendly ride.

Choose your fare class wisely

Amtrak offers several ticketing options depending on your route and what's available when you're booking (which is why buying your tickets early is so important), and each of them offers different perks and policies regarding changes and cancellations.

• Saver: Non-refundable fares, usually the cheapest, with fees that may apply for changing or canceling your ticket
• Value: Fares with refund options and no change fees; often second-cheapest
• Flexible: Fully refundable fares before departure, with no fees for changes or cancellations; typically the most expensive option

Depending on your travel needs and financial situation, it might be worth splurging for a more refundable ticket if you think there might be a need to change or cancel it. On the other hand, budget-conscious travelers might be more apt to risk it all for a cheaper, non-refundable Saver fare.

Take advantage of Amtrak Guest Rewards perks

Don't forget to sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards , the train company's free loyalty program, which gives you access to perks such as a 25% points bonus on business class travel and Acela business class travel, a 50% points bonus on travel in Acela first class, the ability to earn 2X points per dollar on Amtrak purchases and points-earning opportunities through its partners.

From there, if you travel on Amtrak often and earn enough tier-qualifying points, you can earn status :

• Select: Starting at 5,000 tier-qualifying points, you'll score all the perks of being a regular member, plus a 25% bonus on Amtrak travel, two one-class upgrades, two 10% discount coupons, exclusive offers, priority call handling and two single-visit passes to Amtrak Lounges
• Select Plus: Starting at 10,000 tier-qualifying points, you'll get the same perks as the previous tier, with a few differences — a 50% points bonus on Amtrak travel, four one-class upgrades and two companion coupons.
• Select Executive: Starting at 20,000 tier-qualifying points, you'll have the same perks as the previous tier, but with a 100% points bonus on Amtrak travel, four one-class upgrades (plus another one every time you hit the 3,000 tier-qualifying points mark) and one coupon for Auto Train Priority Vehicle Offloading.

Unfortunately, most loyalty programs no longer let you transfer points to Amtrak Guest Rewards , so your only real option is to call 1-866-313-9635 and transfer Audience Rewards ShowPoints at a 1:1 ratio in 1,000-point increments.

Otherwise, you can earn more points by shopping through the Amtrak Guest Rewards shopping portal or booking hotels and rental cars through Amtrak's partners and, of course, booking Amtrak tickets or signing up for one of its co-branded credit cards. You can also pick up more points by shopping with a litany of retail partners including 1-800-Flowers, Teleflora, Apple, Survey Points Club, QVC, The Home Depot, eBags, NRG Home, Vinesse Wines, Audience Rewards or the Rail Passengers Association.

Find the best credit card for you by reviewing offers in our  credit card marketplace  or get personalized offers via  CardMatch™ .

Keep an eye on Amtrak's deals and promotions

Amtrak is known for having sales, so it's a good idea to check its deals page from time to time, which lets you search for specials by region. Amtrak recently offered a double points promo on fall travel , for instance, while other deals are related to newly launched routes, buy-one-get-one-free specials on certain segments or 30% off Acela bookings made at least 14 days in advance, among others. In general, though, you'll typically save 20% by booking your tickets at least a week or two ahead.

Save with group or multi-ride rail passes

If you're going to be traveling in a group —with family members, friends or co-workers — you might be able to save by booking your tickets with Amtrak's Share Fares feature, which offers discounts ranging from 17% off for groups of three to 60% off for groups of eight when you book at least two days ahead.

Another option, if you're going to be doing several trips back and forth to the same place within a certain timeframe, is to opt for multi-ride passes — monthly, 10-ride or 6-ride — which allow you to pay a discounted fare and commute more often between two cities.

For those who want to go big or go home with Amtrak, the USA Rail Pass allows you to ride 10 segments over the course of 30 days on many of its most scenic routes for $499 per person. Use the pass to plan a few weekend getaways from your hometown or plan an epic rail journey from coast to coast with a few stops in between — it's up to you.

Another option, the California Rail Pass , offers access to The Golden State's most beautiful train rides for a flat rate of $159 per adult and $79.50 per child, letting you travel anytime for 7 days within a consecutive 21-day period.

How to save more on international train travel

When booking train rides abroad, remember to be flexible. In some places, rail lines frequented by locals might be slower-paced but can save you a few bucks compared to faster trains along popular tourist routes. Try to book in advance whenever you can and consider investing in a rail pass — it's worth checking websites such as Eurail or Rail Europe if you'll be visiting multiple European countries, for instance — if you know you're going to be spending a lot of time on trains during your trip.

Check for deals and discounts, especially if you're a student, senior or traveling with children, and see if regional passes are available if you're sticking to one country or a particular area within a country. Start by checking the tourism websites of the places you're going to see what is recommended since every destination is different.

Bottom line

Though not every travel rewards card allows you to transfer your points directly to Amtrak — except of course for the two Amtrak co-branded credit cards on this list — you can still use flexible rewards-earning cards to rack up enough points to pay for other portions of your trip, such as flights, hotel stays or rental cars. By using certain cards to pay for your Amtrak tickets, you'll be able to earn even more points to help fund future travels.

Before signing up for a new credit card, it's a good idea to check your credit score so you can identify any issues and get a better idea of what your chances are for approval. Make sure you're able to spend within your budget, especially if the card you're interested in has a steep annual fee and think about whether or not you'll be able to use all of its benefits enough to justify adding it.

Our methodology

To determine which cards offer the best value for train travel,  Select  analyzed 234 of the most popular credit cards available in the U.S. We compared each card on a range of features, including: rewards, welcome bonus, introductory and standard APR, balance transfer fee and foreign transaction fees, as well as factors such as required credit and customer reviews when available. We also considered additional perks, the application process and how easy it is for the consumer to redeem points.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of  personal finance ,  tech and tools ,  wellness  and more, and follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, click here .

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February 22, 2024

Earn 40,000 bonus points for a limited time as a new amtrak guest rewards preferred cardholder.

Experiencing the country by rail just got even more rewarding

WASHINGTON – Amtrak announced today a limited-time 40,000 bonus points offer for new Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard® cardholders – double the number of bonus points typically offered after approval. Cardholders receive their bonus points after application approval and making at least $2,000 in purchases within the first three billing cycles of account opening 1 . This promotion will last from Wednesday, Feb. 21 through Wednesday, April 3, 2024, and can be redeemed at Amtrak.com/Offer .

Customers earn points on all purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted plus three points per dollar spent on Amtrak travel, including onboard purchases. With reward travel starting at just 400 points, purchases quickly translate to more rail adventures. Soak up incredible views across the country on your journey and let it inspire plans for your ultimate rewards getaway.

The Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred Mastercard, which includes a $99 annual fee 2 , offers cardholders the following rewards and benefits:

• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on Amtrak travel, including onboard purchases 1
• Earn 2 points per $1 spent on dining and travel, including transit and rideshare 1
• Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other qualifying purchases 1
• Round-trip companion coupon upon account opening and card anniversary 1
• One-class upgrade upon account opening and card anniversary 1
• Station lounge pass upon account opening and card anniversary 1
• 20% rebate on Amtrak onboard food and beverage purchases in the form of a statement credit 1
• 5% point rebate when you redeem points for Amtrak reward travel 1
• Earn tier status faster with 1,000 TQPs (Tier Qualifying Points) each time you make $5,000 in qualifying purchases 1
• Points do not expire as long as your account remains open 1
• No limit on how many points you can earn as long as your account remains open 1
• No foreign transaction fees 2

Amtrak’s National Network offers more than 500 destinations in 46 states. Many trains offer travel with small pets, the freedom to use phones and electronic devices (no “airplane mode”), large spacious seats with plenty of leg room and no middle seat.

Please see the Summary of Credit Terms provided at time of application for important information on rates, fees, costs, conditions and limitations.

1 See the Credit Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions in the Summary of Credit Terms at time of application for details. Please see the Amtrak Guest Rewards Program terms and conditions at www.amtrak.com/guestrewards for information regarding expiration, redemption, forfeiture, and other limitations on Amtrak Guest Rewards Points.

2 For additional information about the Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) fees, and other costs, see the Summary of Credit Terms provided at time of application. The APR for purchases and balance transfers will be a variable Purchases 28.24%. The APR for cash advances will be a variable 29.74%. These APRs will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. The Minimum Interest Charge is $1.75. The Balance Transfer Fee is $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater. The Transaction Fee for Cash Advances or for certain “Cash Equivalent Transactions” is the greater of $15 or 5% of the transaction. Rates are accurate as of February 2024.

Cards are issued by First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO ® ), pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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For More Information

Jen Flanagan [email protected] Lead Public Relations Specialist 202.906.3860

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For more than 50 years, Amtrak has connected America and modernized train travel. Offering a safe, environmentally efficient way to reach more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada, Amtrak provides travelers with an experience that sets a new standard. Book travel, check train status, access your eTicket and more through the Amtrak app . Learn more at Amtrak.com and connect with us on X , Instagram , Facebook and LinkedIn .

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Amtrak Rail Travel Privilege Card (Amtrak employee)

• Thread starter Robert Lee
• Start date Mar 24, 2018

Help Support Amtrak Unlimited Discussion Forum:

• Mar 24, 2018

I just received my Rail Travel Privilege Card and cannot find the place where I can see what my benefits are. I've tried the website in the text on the accompanying letter and it gets me nowhere. Please tell me how to access benefit info.  

me_little_me

Robert Lee said: I just received my Rail Travel Privilege Card and cannot find the place where I can see what my benefits are. I've tried the website in the text on the accompanying letter and it gets me nowhere. Please tell me how to access benefit info. Click to expand...

• Mar 26, 2018

You receive it in your welcome packet. Sent from my iPhone using Amtrak Forum  

• Apr 1, 2018

Acela150 said: You receive it in your welcome packet. Click to expand...

Guest said: Acela150 said: You receive it in your welcome packet. Click to expand...

AmtrakBlue said: Guest said: Acela150 said: You receive it in your welcome packet. Click to expand...

Michael Williams

• Jun 25, 2018

My employee sap is *******. I am having trouble booking a ticket for my son and I.  

Amtrak Rider

Michael Williams said: My employee sap is *******. I am having trouble booking a ticket for my son and I. Click to expand...

Thank you!  

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Fact Check: Amtrak Does NOT Offer $1 Card For All US Residents That Lets Them Ride Trains For A Year Without Extra Fees

• Aug 23, 2023
• by: Lead Stories Staff

Does Amtrak have a promotion for a $1 card that allows every U.S. resident to ride their trains with no extra charges for a year? No, that's not true: An Amtrak spokesperson told Lead Stories that the card is a scam offer.

The claim appeared in a post (archived here ) on Facebook on August 16, 2023. The caption of the post read:

🇺🇸Amtrak is running a promotion, where all U.S. residents have the opportunity to receive a card for just $1, which can be used to ride trains without any charges or limits for an entire year 🤩 Click on "Learn More" and answer a few questions to increase your chances of obtaining one ⤵️ This promotion is valid in every state❗️

This is what the post looked like on Facebook at the time of writing:

(Source: Facebook screenshot taken on Wed Jul 23 14:54:03 2023 UTC)

There is no such Amtrak card

Lead Stories searched for information on a $1 card sponsored by Amtrak that allows all U.S. residents to take trips for a year without any extra charge. Amtrak's website did not show such a card on its deals , multi-ride and rail passes nor credit cards pages. We also did not find any credible results through Google search : There was mostly information about earning points on an Amtrak credit card for every dollar spent, which is not the same claim the post on Facebook is making.

Lead Stories reached out to Amtrak about the claim. In an email sent to us on August 23, 2023, Beth Toll , senior public relations manager for Amtrak's regional media relations office in Wilmington, Delaware, said:

Yes, this is a scam that was reported a few weeks ago and we are pursuing it with Facebook.

Post does not link to Amtrak's website

The post on Facebook that makes the claim includes a link that supposedly allows viewers to "Learn More" about the $1 card. The link does not lead viewers to an Amtrak webpage: Rather, it is a questionnaire page set up to appear like Amtrak's website. This is obvious when looking at the link's URL, which begins with https://siliconhill.info/ , a blog that appears to offer travel anecdotes and advice.

A screenshot of the webpage that the link leads to is included below:

Lead Stories filled out the questionnaire to find out the end result. When we finished answering the three questions, we were led to a screen offering us three attempts to win an Amtrak gift card. A screenshot of that webpage is below:

This suggests that the card "promotion" is actually some sort of gift card giveaway or scheme seeking personal information, not a program actually sponsored by Amtrak.

Other Lead Stories fact checks about Amtrak can be found here .

Lead Stories is a fact checking website that is always looking for the latest false, deceptive or inaccurate stories (or media) making the rounds on the internet. Read more about or contact Lead Stories Staff

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Amtrak passes

Amtrak provides eligible active and retired SMART TD members with passes, formally named Rail Travel Privilege Cards, which can be used for free or reduced-rate travel aboard the passenger railroad. Membership in the union alone does not make the employee or retiree eligible for these travel privileges, and many restrictions apply, including the date of hire of the employee or retiree.

To get an Amtrak pass, the employee or retiree must fill out an application form (referred to as “NRPC Form 90”) supplied by his or her home railroad. When the form is completed, it should be returned to the railroad. The railroad then certifies the information supplied by the employee or retiree and forwards the application to Amtrak, which reviews the information and, if the member or retiree is eligible, issues an Amtrak Rail Travel Privilege Card.

Questions regarding eligibility for passes should be directed to the member’s or retiree’s home railroad or to the successor carrier , not to SMART TD or to Amtrak’s Travel Service Office.

The level of privileges on the card is determined by employment dates and rail affiliation.

Passes have no expiration date and are good for the duration of the employee’s rail career. Upon retiring, however, the member should apply for a retirees’ pass by completing a new Form 90.

Please note that each carrier has their own rules specific to them, and members should contact their employer or the successor carrier of their former employer for Amtrak pass eligibility requirements.

Also note that pink-colored Rail Travel Privilege Cards have no expiration date.

Union Pacific retirees

Union Pacific retirees: Effective July 1, 2015 , Amtrak will no longer provide pass privileges to Union Pacific Railroad (freight railroad) pass riders hired between May 1, 1971, and April 27, 1981. UP employees can read more details about pass eligibility by clicking on the link below.

Click here to read more from Union Pacific.

BNSF/predecessor RRs

BNSF and its predecessor railroads: Retirees wishing to apply for any Amtrak privileges should call 817-352-4983 to request an application by mail, complete the application and mail it to the address provided.

Upon approval, Amtrak will send the travel card to the address provided within four to six weeks.

Other questions? Please call 800-USA-RAIL (800-872-7245).

Additional details about pass eligibility for retirees of BNSF and its predecessor railroads are available on the BNSF website.

Other carriers

Below are phone numbers for the other Class I carriers that may have Amtrak pass privileges

NS: 855-NOR-FOLK

CSX: 800-CHE-SSIE

Canadian National: 888-888-5909

Canadian Pacific: 888-333-6370

Become a SMART Member

Take the next step on your journey towards a rewarding career. Learn how you can become a SMART member.

Member Voices

Hear about the union directly from SMART members themselves.

Longtime Amtrak conductor Carol Jones — who is also a local chairperson with SMART TD Local 1361 out of New Haven, Conn. — shares her story of coming up in the transportation industry and working as a pioneering woman in the passenger rail sector.

Ticket prices and travelcards

Fares for Moscow's public transport network are the same for every mode of transport making it really easy to travel. See all the different tickets here !

Troika Ticket

This is the most economical option if you're spending a few days in the Russian capital. The card can be purchased and recharged at various station machines or even with the special Moscow Metro application. Your balance can be checked on the app or in the small yellow terminals inside the metro stations. A trip works out at ₽ 42 ( US$ 0.50), but if you change transport within 90 minutes, you'll only pay ₽ 23 ( US$ 0.20) for the next trip.

The day ticket for the Moscow metro can be purchased at any of the stops in the city. The price is ₽ 265 ( US$ 2.90) per day and ₽ 500 ( US$ 5.40) for three days.

90-Minute Ticket

The most convenient card if you want to take several types of transport within an hour and a half period. It costs  ₽ 65 ( US$ 0.70) per person and allows one metro ride and an unlimited number of trips on other types of public transport in Moscow during the time of its duration.

You may also be interested in

Moscow's crazy traffic and its excellent metro network mean that the city's buses and trolleybuses aren't the number one option for tourists.

Where to stay

Moscow has a wide range of accommodation: find the perfect district for you and book hotels, hostels and apartments at the best possible price.

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New Amtrak Promotion Offers Double Points on Spring Travel

AwardWallet receives compensation from advertising partners for links on the blog. Terms Apply to the offers listed on this page. The opinions expressed here are our own and have not been reviewed, provided, or approved by any bank advertiser. Here's our complete list of Advertisers .

Amtrak is yet another rewards program to earn points with, and now members have a promotion to earn double points through May 21, 2024. For those who take trains out of pleasure or obligation, here's how you can earn double rewards for the next few weeks.

Amtrak Double Points Promotion

Amtrak Guest Rewards is the simple name of Amtrak's loyalty program. After joining, members earn 2 points per dollar spent on train travel. Furthermore, members earn 25% bonus points with business class travel and 50% bonus points with Acela first class.

Through May 21, 2024 , members can register to earn double points on train rides. Note the offer states this is for double base points, so it's uncertain if the 25% or 50% bonus for business class and first class travel are doubled. Members can also use an Amtrak credit card, such as the Amtrak Guest Rewards ® Mastercard ® or Amtrak Guest Rewards ® Preferred Mastercard ® , to earn points on Amtrak purchases. With this promotion, you will earn 6 points per dollar spent with the Amtrak Guest Rewards Card (2 base points from the travel booking, 2 bonus points with this promotion, and 2 bonus points with the card) and 7 points per dollar with the Amtrak Guest Preferred Card (it offers 3x on Amtrak spending).

Related: Do Amtrak Guest Rewards Points Expire?

• Register for this Amtrak promotion .
• Book and complete Amtrak travel by May 21, 2024 .
• Earn double base points on the travel.
• This is on top of the points earned by Amtrak cardholders.

We've seen a few offers from Amtrak recently, including buying Amtrak points with a 30% bonus and solid welcome bonuses on Amtrak credit cards . As such, Amtrak is quickly becoming a worthwhile program to join if you like traveling by train. I've personally had great experiences traveling with Amtrak.

Make sure to check out all the deals Amtrak is currently offering to ensure you get the best price and rewards on your train travel.

The comments on this page are not provided, reviewed, or otherwise approved by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

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• Transportation

Intermodal Transit Center

The Intermodal Transit Center (ITC) is the result of a $1.5 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER II) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The facility is designed to feature exterior covered structures with a foot passenger loading zone and secure parking for buses and bicycles. The ITC will link services provided by the local transit provider, the University of Idaho's Vandal Shuttle, and intercity bus service provided by Northwestern Trailways and Wheatland Express. The facility will also provide access for taxis, vanpools and carpools, and will expand pedestrian and bicyclist accessibility with access to Paradise Path. The components of the ITC have been designed to provide a seamless, one-stop concept for transportation in the community.

Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transit

Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transit is the "SMART" choice for public transportation in and round Moscow, Idaho. Formerly known as Moscow Valley Transit, under the non-profit parent organization of Regional Public Transportation, Inc., the "SMART" name is the result of a community-wide "Name Your Transit" contest.

SMART is the same reliable provider of free public transportation in Moscow that we've all come to know and love. This service has been in action for nearly 20 years, and it has been in Moscow since 1994. In addition to the traditional public transportation and bus service, the dial-a-ride service is also available to the community.

University of Idaho Parking & Transportation Services

Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) provides safe and effective transportation systems for University of Idaho's Moscow campus. It provides customer service and permit/parking products for the campus community and visitors to campus. It plans for and promotes alternative transportation modes/options, including bicycle access and amenities, pedestrian circulation and access, and Zipcar and Zimride. It manages:

• Disability parking accommodations
• The vandal access shuttle
• Parking enforcement and event management
• Traffic and access control
• Construction management
• Assists with emergency response assistance

It also manages approximately 6,000 parking spaces with about 4,800 of those being permitted spaces.

Facility Questions

For questions about facilities, email David Schott , Assistant Parks and Recreation Director, or call him at 208-883-7098. 

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Amtrak’s Roomette vs. Bedroom vs. Family Room: What to Know

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Table of Contents

What is a roomette on Amtrak?

What is a bedroom on amtrak, what is a family room, which you should choose: roomette vs. bedroom vs. family room.

Amtrak Acela can be a great alternative to flying for travelers on the East Coast, but the nation’s largest passenger train service also offers long-distance service that spans the country.

If you want to travel at a slower pace and savor the journey, you could hop the Coast Starlight between Washington state and Southern California. Or you could enjoy a two-day journey from Chicago to the West Coast.

But if you’re going to spend two days on a train, you probably want more than a seat to sleep in. Amtrak offers a handful of options on its distance trains: roomettes, bedrooms and family rooms.

Whether you’re enjoying the beauty of Glacier National Park on the Empire Builder or the majesty of the Rockies on the California Zephyr, here’s what you need to know about Amtrak roomettes versus bedrooms and family rooms.

A roomette is a private compartment on Amtrak long-distance and overnight routes containing two seats that can be converted into a bed at night. Roomettes include a fold-down upper bed, giving you and a companion a set of bunk beds.

In addition to sleeping in comfort, you’ll have a panoramic window to better enjoy the scenery as you roll across the country. Roomettes can accommodate up to two adults and one to two suitcases.

Your roomette comes with items for traveling in comfort. You’ll get bedding and meals included with the service, including dining car meals. If you board at an Amtrak station with a lounge, you’ll have Amtrak lounge access. Your car will also have a shower in your car that you share with other sleeper car passengers.

Here’s what is included in an Amtrak roomette:

Reclining seats that convert into bunk beds.

Meals in the dining car.

Pillows, linens and towels.

Turndown service.

Personal climate control.

Complimentary bottles of water.

If you’re a solo traveler or traveling with a single companion and you want a good compromise between price and comfort, choosing a roomette versus a bedroom on Amtrak is probably the way to go.

» Learn more: The 5 best cross-country Amtrak trips

If you’re looking for even more space, Amtrak offers bedrooms. Bedrooms offer twice the square footage of roomettes — unlike a roomette, which is only half the width of the train car, a bedroom spans the full width of the car.

Bedrooms feature an in-room toilet, shower and sleeper sofa. All of your bedding and meals are included (similar to the roomette service), but you’ll receive an even higher level of service. A personal room attendant will provide turndown service and coffee. Bedrooms can accommodate up to three adults.

In addition to the amenities you’ll get with a roomette, here’s what you’ll get when you book a bedroom on Amtrak:

An armchair.

Twice the square footage of a roomette.

In-room toilet and shower (versus in-car).

Families traveling with children might prefer one of Amtrak’s family rooms. A family room offers the square footage of the bedroom but trades the in-room shower and restroom for more communal space.

When you book a family room, you’ll have a private cabin for up to four people. During the day, your cabin will comfortably seat four. At night, the family room offers two upper and two lower bunks. Up to two adults and two children, ages 2-12, can comfortably enjoy an Amtrak family room.

A family room comes with all of the amenities offered with roomette service. You’ll have access to an in-car shower and bathroom. Plus, your family room tickets include all of your dining car meals, so you can travel without worrying about incurring extra expenses for food.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Traveling in an Amtrak roomette is a comfortable experience at a reasonable price. You’ll enjoy a lie-flat bed, an all-inclusive experience, and you’ll have access to a shower and bathroom that is reserved for the occupants of your car.

If you want the most space and privacy, book an Amtrak bedroom. With a bedroom, you’ll have twice as much space as a roomette and more seating options, plus a private toilet and shower in your room.

You’ll enjoy more privacy and a higher level of service in an Amtrak bedroom compared to a family bedroom, but if you are traveling with a family, trading the privacy of an in-room toilet and shower for more seating space is a worthwhile compromise. And an Amtrak family room is the only single Amtrak accommodation that can accommodate a family of four.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

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Brief flight, Amtrak delays following NYC-area earthquake

Flights at New York City-area airports were briefly disrupted following a minor earthquake on Friday that set Northeast residents on edge.

There were no immediate reports of damage following the 4.8 magnitude quake at 10:23 a.m. Friday morning, according to the city's Office of Emergency Management, although tremors could be felt at least as far south as Baltimore and as far north as Boston. The earthquake's epicenter was in Lebanon, New Jersey, about 50 miles west of New York City, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

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Arriving flights into New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) were briefly delayed at their departure points following the quake, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said. Speaking at a press conference, Jackie Bray, commissioner of New York's Division of Homeland Security, said that crews were inspecting air traffic control facilities for any signs of damage.

Flights at LaGuardia were not delayed. Kathryn Garcia, director of state operations, said that it was likely because the air traffic control facilities at that airport were newer and less likely to sustain damage.

By 11:30 a.m., flights bound for JFK were departing as usual, although flights going to Newark that had not yet departed were being held at their locations until at least 12:30 p.m., the FAA said in a ground stop notice. Flights headed to Newark that were already airborne appeared to be continuing as normal, and flights from all three airports continued to depart without any significant interruption.

Amtrak said that it was inspecting its tracks along the Northeast corridor, and that train speeds were restricted as inspections were carried out.

The city's subway system did not sustain any damage and there were no service interruptions related to the quake, the New York Police Department's chief of transit said on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Stay tuned to TPG for the latest on the travel impacts of this morning's earthquake.

Sean Cudahy contributed reporting.

A bullet train to Sin City? What to know about Brightline West project between LA and Vegas

The brightline west project is set to break ground in the spring and be finished in time for the 2028 olympics in los angeles. it could turn a four-hour drive without traffic into a two-hour ride..

In Vegas, it seems like trains are the new thing to set your soul on fire.

The Brightline West project is in progress to connect a suburb of Los Angeles to Sin City, aiming to reduce traffic and environmental impact.

The majority of the track will be in the median of Interstate 15 and trains will hit speeds of up to 186 miles per hour, cutting a roughly four-hour car trip without traffic into a two-hour ride.

The project received $3 billion in federal funding in December and $2.5 billion in private bonds from the U.S. Department of Transportation in January. The project is expected to cost $12 billion.

Preparations to break ground on the project are underway with the aim to start construction this spring, presenting a major contrast to the oft-delayed California High Speed Rail project.

Here's what you need to know about Brightline West.

Where will the Brightline West route start?

Brightline West will start in Rancho Cucamonga, about 40 miles east of Los Angeles. A Metrolink train will connect Union Station in downtown Los Angeles to the start of the Brightline West line.

How long is the Brightline West route?

The Brightline West route will run 218 miles and have two stops between Rancho Cucamonga and Las Vegas.

Where does the Brightline West route end?

Renderings depict the Las Vegas Station being situated on Las Vegas Boulevard between Blue Diamond and Warm Springs roads, roughly 3.5 miles south of Mandalay Bay and 5 miles south of Caesar's Palace on the Strip.

The station is set to be built on 33 of 110 acres of land that Brightline owns in the area, according to the Las Vegas Review Journal .

When is Brightline West scheduled to open?

Construction is scheduled to begin in spring of this year. The company aims to have service begin in time for the 2028 Olympics.

Has this been tried before?

A private bullet train that would connect Victorville, California to Las Vegas called DesertXpress was proposed in 2005. The name was changed in 2012 to XpressWest and the project was shelved in 2016 after XpressWest pulled out of a deal with a Chinese firm to construct the line.

Brightline purchased the project in 2018 and added an expansion from Victorville to Rancho Cucamonga.

Has Las Vegas had train service?

The Desert Wind Amtrack line ran between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City with a stop in downtown Las Vegas from 1978 to 1997.

I paid $500 extra to upgrade my room on a 30-hour Amtrak ride, and I thought the additional 20 square feet was worth every penny

• I spent 60 hours on overnight Amtrak trains traveling from New York City to Miami and back.
• I booked a 20-square-foot roomette for $500 and a $1,000 bedroom twice the size.
• The extra 20 square feet in the bedroom — not to mention the private bathroom — was worth the cost.

In 2021, I traveled on Amtrak trains from NYC to Miami and back. The rides took about 30 hours each way, and I had a private cabin in a sleeper car on both journeys.

The ticket to Miami cost about $500 for a Viewliner roomette , and the ticket back to New York cost about $1,000 for a bedroom. 

Read on to see how the two overnight train cabins compared — and which was more worth the price.

On my way to Miami, I booked a roomette, an approximately 20-square-foot private cabin that cost about $500 and included two beds, a table, two chairs, and a toilet.

A step up from sitting in coach, where you get a seat among other passengers, a roomette is a private space with a door and blinds to cover up the windows.

According to Amtrak's website , roomettes are around 22.75 square feet, which, for reference, is a little bigger than a standard twin-size bed . The roomette sleeps up to two adults.

I booked a bedroom for the ride home, which was double the price for twice the amount of space, an additional chair, a shower, and an enclosed bathroom.

According to Amtrak's website , bedrooms are around 45.5 square feet, which, for reference, is a little bigger than a standard king-size bed. Like the roomette, they sleep a maximum of two adults.

Both rooms offered complete privacy, came with complimentary meals, and used smart storage hacks that reminded me of a tiny home.

Having a private space was the most important thing to me on this long train journey, and both rooms offered that. 

Both rooms also had some clever storage hacks , like a table that pulled out between the chairs.

I think I woke up feeling more rested on my way home in the bedroom simply because I chose the bottom bunk, where I felt less swaying and bumping from the train. You could select this option in either room.

If you're bothered by the bumpiness of the train during the day as I was, I recommend sleeping on the bottom bunk in either accommodation. 

While I was impressed with the roomette's use of space, I felt far more comfortable in the bedroom thanks to the extra 20 square feet.

As someone who deals with  travel anxiety , I found 30 hours on a train to be overwhelming.

But staying in a bedroom made me feel more comfortable than staying in a roomette. I thought the bedroom offered ample space to stretch out and move about, which made all the difference to me.

Frankly, I don't feel comfortable sitting for 30 hours. I could get my body moving in the bedroom by dancing around, while in the roomette, I felt too cramped to move very much.

To pass the time, get moving, and feel more at home, I took frequent dance breaks in my bedroom, where I closed the curtains and blasted music in my earbuds. 

This felt freeing and satisfying, and if I wanted to, I think I could have even done some yoga poses , body-weight exercises , or practiced my karate moves. 

It was also nice to have a big sofa where I could stretch out and put my feet up in the bedroom, whereas the roomette only had two single seats.

Having room to lounge in the bedroom made me feel more relaxed throughout my journey.

All bedrooms have a three-mirror vanity, a shower, and, notably, a toilet behind a locking door. In some roomettes — mine included — a side table swings open to reveal a toilet. Above it is a folding sink and a single mirror.

After staying in a roomette with a toilet for the first half of my trip to Miami, I was moved to another room without a toilet for the remainder due to the availability of roomettes when I booked my ticket. I had access to a bathroom at the end of the sleeper car.

While traveling home in a bedroom, I appreciated that the toilet was separated from the rest of the room by a door.

I also thought the bedroom had a nicer vanity with three mirrors facing each other, which made it easier to wash my face in the morning.

I appreciated the private toilet in the bedroom, which is a great amenity if you're traveling with others.

However, with two seats and no privacy curtain around the toilet in the roomette, I was grateful to be a solo traveler.

While you may feel sticker shock at the $500 price difference, the extra space was worth every penny to me.

The bedroom upgraded my 30-hour journey from anxiety-inducing to comfy and homey.

The bedroom is especially worth the splurge for those traveling with a buddy since there's more room to stretch out.

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Changes begin for some Central Pennsylvania Amtrak riders

(WHTM) — Amtrak is currently using buses to replace some of their trains between Harrisburg and Lancaster while they are working on rail construction.

RELATED: Updates, outages planned for Amtrak Harrisburg Line

abc27 news reported back in March 2024 when Amtrak first announced a series of changes that were coming to they line connecting Harrisburg and Lancaster.

Due to these updates, Amtrak began replacing some of their train rides with buses instead. So far, the buses are on time, but nonetheless, are a little slower than the trains.

These updates will be going on through Thanksgiving.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.

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