The California Zephyr train trip begins in downtown Chicago and journeys through the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevadas on its way to San Francisco. The daily train gives travelers a view of Nebraska, Denver, Salt Lake City, Reno and Sacramento along the way. The 51 hour train ride crosses both the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.
Travelers on the California Zephyr have multiple options for seating on their voyage, including coach seats, roomettes or bedrooms. The train has bathrooms equipped with sinks and showers, as well as dining, snack and cafe cars.
Passengers may check their luggage on all Amtrak trains; there is no smoking allowed on the trains.
For passengers seeking a little history with their train adventure, the Capitol Limited may be the right choice. The daily train runs between Chicago and Washington, D.C. and travels along the B&O rail line. Travelers will get a view of Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania's Allegheny Mountains and Harpers Ferry, Virginia before they arrive in the nation's capital city.
Travelers may book a coach seat, roomette or bedroom for the 18 hour journey. The train offers dining and cafe cars, a sightseer lounge and showers.
The Empire Builder leaves Chicago daily for the Pacific Northwest. This 46 hour adventure gives travelers a chance to see sections of the Lewis and Clark trail as they journey through the wilderness.
The train leaves Chicago and heads over the Mississippi River into Minnesota, North Dakota and Montana. Then it's on to Spokane, Washington, Seattle and finally to Portland, Oregon.
According to the Amtrak website, the Trails & Rails program provides National Park Service guides on portions of the Empire Builder during the spring and summer months. These guides provide background and history about some of America's most stunning landscapes.
Passengers may reserve a coach seat, roomette or bedroom. Dining and snack cars, lounge areas and showers are available for passengers.
