amtrak train trips from pittsburgh

Best Amtrak Trips From Pittsburgh

The home of football fanatics and “the Golden Triangle” is a place everyone should visit to get in some sight seeing and relaxation. Come to Pittsburgh to see one of their four outrageously successful sports teams or take a trip down one of the three rivers that flow through the city. Don’t leave the city without taking the Duquesne Incline Railway that will takes you 400 feet up in an 1877 cable car to the top of Mount Washington. Now, that’s a view!

There are four notable places that you may want to travel to near the “Steel City”, if you want to have a special experience riding the rails. Amtrak has routes running from Pitttsburgh to four cities that beg to be explored. Washington, D.C., Harrisburg, Philadelphia and Chicago are major cities that have the entertainment, history and adventure that you crave.

• 1.1 How to get to Washington, D.C. from Pittsburgh
• 1.2 What to do in Washington, D.C.
• 2.1 How to get to Harrisburg, PA from Pittsburgh
• 2.2 What to do in Harrisburg, PA
• 3.1 How to get to Philadelphia, PA from Pittsburgh
• 3.2 What to do in Philadelphia
• 4.1 How to get to Chicago, IL from Pittsburgh
• 4.2 What to do in Chicago

Washington D.C.

How to get to washington, d.c. from pittsburgh.

Your journey from Pittsburg to Washington D.C. will be filled with the sights of rolling hills, historic places and forest covered mountain tops. Nix the driving idea and go for a train ride that will take you 7 hours and 45 minutes instead of the drive that includes toll fees, gas stops and traffic. This can be an experience that you might want to replicate going from city to city.

Hop on the Capitol Limited at Union Station in Pittsburg and ride the rails as you enjoy the scenery on this Superliner that has all the comforts you could ask for. If you want a place to rest and take a nap, reserve a roomette or a bedroom and have the place to yourself. Have hot meals brought to your room and enjoy your own toilet if in a bedroom . If you like mingling with other guests, grab a snack and head to the Observation Car for the best seat on the train to see America pass you by.

What to do in Washington, D.C.

As you probably know, there is never a shortage of things to do in America’s capital city. If you stand in the middle of the National Mall, there is nothing like being surrounded by America’s most iconic sights. Filled with history, they are all begging to be explored. The National Museum of American History is a great place to start. Then stroll over to the Lincoln Monument. If you got a ticket, tour the Washington Monument and see the spectacular views from the top.

Harrisburg, PA

How to get to harrisburg, pa from pittsburgh.

Your tour of Pennsylvania can include an Amtrak ride to the state capital and all that goes with a metropolitan city in a beautiful area. From Pittsburgh to Harrisburg is a quick five hour ride that takes you through Amish country and battlefields of the American Civil War. Enjoy the countryside and relax with your thoughts instead of battling traffic.

The Pennsylvanian is a comfortable train that includes Coach and Business Class seating. Enjoy a Cafe Car, baggage service and free Wifi on board. Seating in business class will be a little more comfortable on the Pennsylvanian and you can enjoy complimentary beverages in this car. If you need the extra silence, try the Quiet Car to focus on that deadline.

What to do in Harrisburg, PA

Whether on business or traveling for pleasure, Harrisburg is a great city to visit. Old architecture and thoughtful city planning make this town walkable and easy to enjoy. Start by taking a stroll by the Susquehanna River to get to know the city a bit. Then explore the exquisitely adorned state capital and all it offers the history buff. Later, take a riverboat cruise and enjoy brunch as you see the sights of this beautiful city.

Philadelphia, PA

How to get to philadelphia, pa from pittsburgh.

The route from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia is around seven hours long. This is seven hours of enjoying lunch, playing a round of cards with family, reading a book or just mindlessly gazing at the scenery. This beats five hours in the car any day in my book! Start at the Pittsburgh Amtrak Station and ride to the 30th Street Station in Philadelphia. Enjoy the sights of quaint countryside towns like Bedford and Somerset where the views are so picturesque, they would have Norman Rockwell swooning!

The Pennsylvanian is a luxury train with Coach and Business Class seating that is comfortable and reclines for those dozing episodes passengers tend to get from relaxation. . There is free WiFi for everyone on the train to use. They have pretty much thought of everything!

What to do in Philadelphia

Brothers and sisters will show you their love in this city where America got its start. Besides the usual suspects like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, visit some of lesser known but just as interesting sights that this city has to offer. If you are looking for something both interesting and creepy, tour the Eastern State Penitentiary and maybe you’ll even catch a glimpse of Al Capone himself. See a real war hero when you step aboard the Battleship New Jersey. You can’t visit “The City of Brotherly Love” without visiting the Love Sculpture. Stroll around and take a selfie of this iconic landmark in this fun loving city.

Chicago, IL

How to get to chicago, il from pittsburgh.

The two hour difference between driving and train travel will be well worth it when going to Chicago from Pittsburgh. Sit back and relax as you see the world go by on this 9 and a half hour excursion. Traveling through sweet midwestern towns and famous university greens are on the docket when traversing this route.

The Capitol Limited is a luxurious Superliner that will change the way you travel. Why lose so much time driving or battling airport security when you could be enjoying the scenery or even sleeping. It really is a no brainer! Book a family bedroom with your children and never worry about their comfort or the comfort of other travelers. With beds, a bathroom and a sink, the trip is bound to be an adventure that your family will always remember.

If there are any drawbacks to the Capitol Limited the only one is that there is no Wifi, therefore a hot spot with data is a good idea to get work done or to stream a movie. However, the Sightseer Lounge is a great place to pass the time, see some scenery and grab a yummy bite to eat.

What to do in Chicago

When in Chicago you can maximize your time by staying near the “Miracle Mile”. You can walk to Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Michigan Avenue and many other amazing Chicago attractions. Don’t forget the site of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition at the world famous Field Museum. For a great tour in history, take a boat tour on the Chicago River. The city views are spectacular and you will learn interesting tidbits about the city’s history that are fascinating.

Pittsburg is one of those cities that has an unexpected beauty and history that is exciting to explore. When you are finished touring around, do yourself a huge favor and take one of these recommended routes and discover a whole new world of travel.

Wendy Edwards

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Northern Rail Experience Roundtrip from Pittsburgh

$2,449 - 11 Days

• Chicago >
• Santa Fe >
• Grand Canyon >
• Flagstaff >

Capture the beauty of the most beautiful parts of North America on your 11-day roundtrip rail experience from Pittsburgh. As the train journeys west, you’ll cross through gorgeous, historical landscapes such as portions of the Lewis and Clark trail. Once arriving in Seattle, the city is yours to explore at leisure. With miles of parks and public works of art, world-class restaurants and coffeehouses, city woodlands, and iconic landmarks, there’s no shortage of things to do while visiting the Emerald City. Take a peaceful ride south on the Coast Starlight to San Francisco, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience the city along with stunning attractions, including giant Redwood trees and the gorgeous coastal town of Sausalito. Then, sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery as you travel eastbound toward Chicago and on to Washington, DC.

Reservations: 1-800-268-7252

For pricing and availability from your Amtrak Station:

Highlights:

• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Seattle* 
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of San Francisco
• Sightseeing tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito
• Sightseeing cruise in San Francisco

Package Also Includes:

• Roundtrip Amtrak® from Pittsburgh to Chicago on the Capitol Limited®; One way Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder®; Seattle to San Francisco on the Coast Starlight®; San Francisco to Chicago onboard the California Zephyr® 
• 3 nights' hotel accommodations; 7 nights onboard Amtrak
• 1 meal included (1 dinner in San Francisco)

*Seattle Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour is seasonal. Seattle CityPASS will be included in the off-season. The Seattle CityPASS includes admission to the Space Needle, Seattle Aquarium, Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, EMP Museum or Woodland Park Zoo, and Pacific Science Center or Chihuly Garden and Glass Exhibit.

Call us to customize this vacation!

Other Packages Available:

Disclaimer:

Package prices are per person, double occupancy, tax included. Prices do not include rail from your hometown. Please call for pricing. Package prices are subject to change without notice, and all reservations are based upon availability at the time of booking. Amtrak travel is for Coach accommodations unless otherwise noted. Upgrades to Roomette or Bedroom accommodations on board Amtrak are available. Call for pricing. Other restrictions may apply. Activities referenced in the itinerary during free time are for suggested purposes only and are not included. Seasonal activity (if applicable): During the off-season, some tours may not be available. In this case, a similar tour will be substituted. Passports (if applicable): Passports are required when crossing the Canadian border. Amtrak and Amtrak Vacations are registered service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

DAY 1 - 3 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK Begin this epic train journey in Pittsburgh, where you will board Amtrak's Capitol Limited for a comfortable overnight journey to Chicago. Once in Chicago, you will transfer to Amtrak's iconic Empire Builder for your journey further west. First, you will travel through the gorgeous North Dakota plains heading west. Enjoy stunning views of the Missouri River, the longest river in North America, as you wind through the “Big Sky Country” of Montana, passing by the magnificent Glacier National Park. The Empire Builder takes you along major portions of the Lewis and Clark trail, so settle in for an exciting adventure through the majestic wilderness as you follow in the footsteps of early pioneers! (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 4 SEATTLE Welcome to Seattle! The “Emerald City” is full of gorgeous sights just waiting for you to discover! Upon arrival, you will travel on your own to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Then, the rest of the day is yours to explore all Seattle has to offer. Use your hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to see some of Seattle's most popular sights! Your tour will connect you to downtown attractions such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden & Glass, Seattle Center, Seattle's Waterfront and more! (Overnight in Seattle) DAY 5 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK Today, travel on your own to Seattle's Amtrak station and prepare to take a beautiful ride on the Coast Starlight to San Francisco. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is truly breathtaking. Enjoy the majestic landscapes right outside your window as you wind through lush forests, fertile valleys, and long stretches of Pacific Ocean shoreline. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 6 SAN FRANCISCO You will arrive in San Francisco this morning and then head to your hotel to check in and drop off your belongings. Then, it's time for some sightseeing! Climb aboard a hop-on, hop-off tour that includes all San Francisco's great locations, like Fisherman's Wharf, Downtown, the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, and many more. You can hop off the tour at any of the designated stops to explore them at your own pace. (Overnight in San Francisco) DAY 7 SAN FRANCISCO Today, get ready to discover the beauty of the Muir Woods and Sausalito! On the drive to Muir Woods, you'll cross over the Golden Gate Bridge and disembark in the serene redwood forest. Once you've taken in all that Muir Woods has to offer, you'll stop over in Sausalito, a “California original.” This charming coastal town is home to many artists and has a delightful array of restaurants, galleries, walking paths, and spectacular Bay and City views. You'll have some free time to explore all Sausalito has to offer before your 30-minute bay cruise, which takes you back to Fisherman's Wharf. This evening, enjoy your included dinner at a popular local restaurant. (Overnight in San Francisco) D DAY 8 - 10 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK This morning, travel on your own to the Amtrak station and board the California Zephyr® to Chicago. This route is said to be one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America. As you climb through the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains and the heart of the Rockies, you may find it hard to disagree. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery. As the train continues its journey east to Chicago, take in the gorgeous landscape of the American countryside. There are so many great sights to behold on this ride! Keep your eyes peeled for the Moffat Tunnel, Glenwood Canyons, and Midwest plains. Finally, take the return train back home from Chicago to Pittsburgh. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 11 YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN PITTSBURGH Legend for meals: B - Breakfast, BR - Brunch, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

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4 Incredible Day Trips You Can Take From Pittsburgh By Train

Beth Price-Williams

A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.

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We all have those times when we just want to escape from it all, right? Well, now we can run away from reality for just a day by hopping on a train for an adventure unlike any other. These train trips from Pittsburgh will undoubtedly give you the opportunity to relax, see the countryside, and create memories. Two of the train trips, however, require you to drive from Pittsburgh, but both are well worth the effort.

Here are a few of the best day trips in Pittsburgh that are worthy of your bucket list.

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Who’s ready to hit the rails for a day trip like no other on these train trips from Pittsburgh? What are your train rides in Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments! Are you a fan of waterfalls and wine? If so, you’ll want to follow this day trip that will take you to some of the best waterfalls and wineries near Pittsburgh .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Best day trips in pittsburgh.

What are some of the best getaway spots near me?

No matter what your interests, you’re sure to find the perfect getaway spot near Pittsburgh . How about, for example, heading to one of the nearby Pennsylvania state parks to reconnect with nature? Some of the state parks near Pittsburgh host campgrounds; others are within close proximity to off-site campgrounds and unique Airbnbs. Some of the best state parks near Pittsburgh include:

• Just over an hour from downtown Pittsburgh, Ohiopyle State Park is a one-of-a-kind getaway near Pittsburgh. It is home to three waterfalls (only one requires a hike), natural waterslides, and miles and miles of hiking trails. Explore by bike, and check out one of the many scenic overlooks.
• Keystone State Park is a picture-perfect year-round destination with a sandy beach, a beautiful lake, and a network of hiking trails.
• Moraine State Park and McConnells Mill State Park are only a 10-minute drive from each other and boast a ton of gorgeous hiking trails. Moraine State Park is perhaps best known for the massive Lake Arthur, where you can go swimming, hang out at one of its two sandy beaches, or go boating.

Where can I find unique things to do around Pittsburgh?

We've got some pretty unique things to do around Pittsburgh, so we can never really get bored. Here are just a few:

• Did you know that McDonald’s Big Mac was invented in Western Pennsylvania? Yep, and you can visit the Big Mac Museum in Irwin, which pays homage to the world-famous burger. It’s not a huge museum, but it provides a glimpse into the rich history of the sandwich and the burger joint.
• If you’re up for a bit of a drive, around two hours, check out the house-size Coffee Pot in Bedford County.
• Challenge yourself to walk or bike up the steepest street in Pittsburgh (and once the steepest in the United States): Canton Avenue in Beechview.
• Explore the strangest, self-described tourist trap in the city at Trundle Manor .

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Railroads & Locomotives Tourist Railroad Profiles A look at Amtrak’s Northeast day-trip services

A look at Amtrak’s Northeast day-trip services

Which trains can you take for a same-day adventure throughout the New England and Mid-Atlantic states?

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More than any other region in the United States, the Northeast arguably provides the best experiences and opportunities for intercity travel by rail. Travelers can avoid heavy traffic congestion as well as the hassle of air travel, plus Amtrak offers multiple daily frequencies between key cities in the New England and Mid-Atlantic states.

Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious what Amtrak has to offer, here is a rundown of its Northeast day-trip options. If you want to take your trip planning one step further, the Rail Passengers Association makes it easy with downloadable schedules for all routes. Up-to-date changes can be found when booking trips on Amtrak’s website , which also provides information about service disruptions.

Northeast Corridor

Boston – New Haven, Conn. – New York – Washington, D.C. – Roanoke/Richmond – Norfolk/Newport News – Virginia Beach, Va.: Connecting metropolitan areas in eight states, the Northeast Corridor is the most active and heavily traveled route in the Amtrak system. For those looking for day-trip opportunities between communities along the way, the Northeast Regional and high-speed Acela offer a wide range of daily departures from before dawn to after dusk. While a Boston-Washington, D.C., one-way trip takes about 7 hours on Acela or more than 8 hours on a Northeast Regional train, travelers might wish to add an extra day or two to include stopovers along the corridor.

Read more about a Northeast Regional day trip to Washington .

Notes: Apart from the Lorton, Va.-Sanford, Fla., Auto Train and the Boston-Brunswick, Maine, Downeaster corridor (more on that in a moment), selected stations and terminals along the route offer direct connections to Amtrak’s other regional and long-distance trains that serve the Northeast. The corridor also hosts up to seven short-haul commuter entities on different sections of the route.

Hartford Line

New Haven – Hartford, Conn. – Springfield, Mass.: Diverging off the Northeast Corridor in New Haven, Conn., is the 62-mile Hartford Line . A one-way trip at roughly 84 minutes, with 110-mph sections, serves to the route’s advantage. Amtrak and the CTRail commuter service jointly host 35 trains per day. Ticket prices are identical for both entities, thanks to support from the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

It’s a sweet deal, with flexibility for day trips to the New England cities along the route. However, not all trains operate all the way to Springfield, with some terminating at Hartford. The latest downloadable schedule from the Hartford Lines website shows which trains operate with CTrail equipment and which trains connect with Metro North service at New Haven, Conn., to New York City’s Grand Central Terminal.

Notes: In addition to selected Regional trains from the Northeast Corridor, the Hartford Line hosts Amtrak’s New Haven-Greenfield, Mass., Valley Flyer and Washington, D.C.-St. Albans, Vt., Vermonter (see below).

Boston – Portland – Brunswick, Maine: The 146-mile Downeaster offers five daily round trips between Boston’s North Station and Brunswick with a stop at the coastal hub of Portland along the way. A sixth northbound service runs out of Boston on selected late nights for major concerts at the TD Garden and Red Sox games at Fenway Park, adjacent to North Station. For those looking to get away from the big cities for a day, stop at one of the smaller towns filled with colonial history and New England coastal beauty such as Freeport, Saco, and Old Orchard Beach. A downloadable schedule is available here.

Notes: Though terminating in Boston, the Downeaster uses the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s North Station while Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor trains and long-distance Chicago-New York/Boston Lake Shore Limited arrive and depart at South Station and stop at Back Bay. The MBTA Orange Line connects North Station with the Back Bay stop, but a connection is required between the Orange or Green Lines and the Red Line to travel between the two terminals ( see map ).

Empire Service

New York – Albany – Syracuse – Rochester – Buffalo – Niagara Falls, N.Y. – Toronto: Three daily round-trips connect New York City and Niagara Falls, with one – the Maple Leaf – extending to and from Toronto, Canada. Nine additional weekday round trips follow the scenic Hudson River between New York and Albany-Rensselaer. Two of these extend further north (see Vermonter , Ethan Allen Express , and Adirondack services below).

Notes: The Boston/New York-Chicago Lake Shore Limited makes many of the stops as far as Buffalo’s Depew Station (downtown Buffalo’s Exchange Street station serves Niagara Falls and Toronto-bound trains). On Fridays and Sundays during the summer, one Empire Service round trip, each day, heads east from Albany-Rensselaer along the Lake Shore’s route to Pittsfield, Mass. as the Berkshire Flyer .

Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, and Montreal

Washington, DC – New York – Albany – Rutland – Essex Junction/Burlington – St. Albans, Vt. – Montreal: Amtrak day trains serve Vermont via two routes. The Vermonter utilizes the Northeast Corridor and Hartford Line from Washington, D.C., before serving Vermont towns between Brattleboro and St. Albans, near the Canadian border. The Ethan Allen Express , originating in New York City, is an Empire Service train as far as Schenectady, N.Y., before heading north to Saratoga Springs, N.Y., and east to Rutland, Vt., before terminating at Burlington, Vt. The New York City-Montreal Adirondack normally shares the Ethan Allen ’s stops to Fort Edward-Glens Falls, N.Y., then heads north while hugging the shores of Lake Champlain to Westport and Plattsburgh, N.Y., before crossing the border into Canada and terminating in Montreal.

Notes: Through early September 2024, the Adirondack does not operate north of Saratoga Springs because of track work in Canada.

Keystone Service

New York – Philadelphia – Harrisburg, Pa.: The former Pennsylvania Railroad main line offers a 3.5-hour jaunt at 110 mph between New York City, Philadelphia, and Harrisburg. Depending on the day of the week, the number of daily trains can fluctuate with westbounds maxing out at 15 trips between Philadelphia and Harrisburg . Either way, there’s flexibility in day trips to the Big Apple, the City of Brotherly Love, and the state capital. The Keystone schedule , however, shows some trains only operating between Philadelphia and Harrisburg.

Read more from J. Delbatis and Brian Solomon about traveling aboard Amtrak’s Keystone Service .

Notes: Amtrak’s daytime New York-Philadelphia-Pittsburgh Pennsylvanian traverses the route but makes just three intermediate stops between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, while Keystone trains make up to 10.

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Amtrak Booking: 14 Tips & Tricks To Know When Planning A Train Trip

• Research Amtrak routes, amenities, and prices to plan a comfortable trip and save money on tickets. Use the Amtrak Trip Map to understand the train's journey.
• Take advantage of Amtrak's everyday discounts for various groups, such as children, students, veterans, and people with disabilities. Check the "Everyday Discounts" page for eligibility.
• Look for time-sensitive deals on Amtrak's dedicated deals page. These deals offer discounts on tickets, double points, and special offers for specific destinations or times. Choose from a variety of deals to save money on ticket prices.

One of the finest ways to tour the United States is via Amtrak train. Whether seeing scenic views along the most beautiful Amtrak route or enjoying one of the many amazing Amtrak routes for foodies , passengers enjoy a greater standard of luxury than they would on a bus or some airlines.

There are a few things first-timers should be aware of with Amtrak if they are considering traveling in the United States by train. The following tips and tricks will help travelers book their Amtrak tickets in the easiest way at the most affordable price, as well as help them boost their comfort and convenience levels on their vacation. There's no better travel than via a train!

UPDATE: 2023/10/02 21:28 EST BY REENA JAIN

Four More Tips & Tricks For Amtrak Booking

Amtrak stands out as one of the more affordable modes of transportation, and there are a number of ways to save money while making reservations. In light of this, we have updated this list to include four more tips and tricks every passenger should be aware of before booking Amtrak tickets. Have fun, and enjoy the ride!

Related: California Zephyr Vs. Southwest Chief: Which Amtrak Train Route Is More Scenic?

Research For Amtrak Train Routes And Prices

Get a thorough understanding of Amtrak train routes and prices before purchasing a ticket. Discover how to take the train from the starting point to the destination by exploring the Amtrak Trip Map . Learn about the locations and cities the train will travel through. Also, acquire a full picture of the amenities and services offered at the stations, such as checked baggage, Wi-Fi, accessibility, and more, and become acquainted with them. This allows one to plan a comfortable trip while also saving money on tickets.

Check Out For Everyday Discounts

Another surefire way to save money on ticket prices is to take advantage of Amtrak's numerous discounts based on a passenger's age or for membership in different organizations. Child tickets, students, veterans, military people and their families, government employees, and Rail Passengers Association members are all eligible for discounts. People with disabilities are also eligible for discounts. People with disabilities also get discounts. So, passengers must check Amtrak's " Everyday Discounts " page before reserving their tickets to see if they are eligible for any discounts.

Look For Bargains On Dedicated Deals Page

Amtrak regularly posts time-sensitive bargains on its dedicated deals page . And, believe it or not, some of these bargains are simply superb! These deals are unquestionably the best way to save money on Amtrak ticket prices. Some of these deals include discounts on purchasing a good number of tickets; some offer double points on Amtrak Guest Rewards; and others offer discounts to a particular location or at a particular time. There are a great number of deals to choose from. Aren't these deals incredible?

Bring Own Food And Alcoholic Beverages

Many trains provide one or more onboard eating options. Plus, passengers who use their Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred MasterCard to make food and beverage purchases onboard receive a 20% discount in the form of a statement credit. Thus, enjoying the onboard food is also rewarding. But those wishing to save money must bring their own food, water, and beverages (alcoholic stock as per Amtrak guidelines). Passengers can eat their food and non-alcoholic beverages in their seats, in their personal Sleeping Cars, and in the Sightseer Lounges. Nevertheless, they can only enjoy private stock in their Sleeping Car accommodations.

Book Amtrak Tickets In Advance & Purchase In The First "Buckets"

Amtrak offers a distinctive way to purchase train tickets that works well for early-bird tourists. Amtrak offers tickets in 'buckets,' with the lowest rates going on sale first, as opposed to the dynamic pricing matrix used by the majority of airlines. The next bucket, with a higher ticket price, is opened up after the allowed number of tickets for that price in the bucket has been sold out.

It is also preferable to schedule a trip as soon as travelers can because inexpensive tickets on busy days sell out the quickest (this is especially true for the most popular and busiest Amtrak routes ). Amtrak even offers discounts for travel up to two weeks in advance. If travelers make their reservations 14 days in advance, they may still be able to save up to 25% on their Amtrak fare.

An Amtrak rail ticket can be booked up to 11 months in advance.

Opt For The Best Days Of The Week To Book An Amtrak Ticket

Amtrak Train has special offers every week ; it is recommended to check to see what sales are being offered by the company on Tuesdays and Fridays. However, according to Money Saving Expert , purchasing train tickets 12 weeks before the departure date can potentially result in further savings.

Therefore, travelers are recommended to continuously check the offers and ticket prices to get the cheapest tickets!

• Cheapest days to book Amtrak: Tuesday and Friday

Be Flexible When Buying Amtrak Tickets

Similarly to other means of travel, flexibility is necessary if travelers are looking for the lowest fares. Sometimes, buying an Amtrak ticket on a certain day can cost them additional fees than the day before or after.

Consequently, if travelers are not limited by time and can postpone or schedule their trips earlier, it is guaranteed that their flexibility will pay off and save them some money.

Related: Empire Builder: What Makes This Amtrak Route One Of The Most Scenic In The U.S.

Book Tickets On The Official Amtrak Website Or App

One of the many things to know about Amtrak is that the easiest way to buy a train ticket is online at Amtrak.com . Travelers can also use their Amtrak mobile app. If they are old school or just like speaking to real people and find it easier, they may still buy their tickets at the ticket counter at any Amtrak station.

Also, not only is it easier to buy Amtrak tickets online or via the app, but it's also cheaper since travelers normally get the best rates. In addition, passengers can sometimes avail of discounts and special deals when they use the official Amtrak website and Amtrak app. Waiting until one gets to the station typically entails paying the highest price since Amtrak tickets increase in cost as seats are booked and the departure date gets closer.

Study All Amtrak Seating Options Before Purchasing A Ticket

Travelers may choose from a variety of seating arrangements while traveling by Amtrak train. Additionally, there are several alternatives for sleeping cars. They can select a Roomette, a Bedroom, an Accessible Bedroom, a Bedroom Suite, or a Family Bedroom according to the train they are on.

Travelers may also browse images and the specifications of each seat or sleeper car on the Amtrak official website to know more about their seating options.

• Some seat types on Amtrak trains: First Class, Business, Coach, and Sleeper Cars

Book The Appropriate Trip Duration When Buying An Amtrak Ticket

When travelers buy their tickets, they have a lot of various scheduling options accessible to them. One train, for instance, may go to its final station in just ten hours and without any stops. However, there may also be a few different itineraries that take 15 to 20 hours and have layovers.

Therefore, Amtrak riders should decide on the destinations they would like to visit before booking their tickets. That way, they can make a sightseeing vacation out of their train journey. Alternatively, if they want to get straight to their destination, booking an Amtrak train with minimal stops is better.

Related: The Joy Of Train Travel: Unwind & Relax With These Top 10 Amtrak Sleeper Train Routes

Download The Amtrak App

If travelers want to make their trip more efficient, they can install the Amtrak application on their smartphones. It is a useful tool for booking an Amtrak ticket and later showing it instead of printing it, finding a station at a certain location, and checking the status of a train.

Additionally, travelers will never need to be concerned about losing out on crucial information.

• Mobile operating systems: The Amtrak app is compatible with Android, Windows, and iPhone.

Participate In The Amtrak Guest Rewards Program

A terrific method to get free class upgrades, hotel and rental car savings, and access to travel bargains is through Amtrak's free rewards program. Getting started with the program is free and just takes a few minutes.

Even if travelers do not book a trip frequently, it is a good idea to join up for Amtrak Guest Rewards since any points they earn are valid for two years as long as there is activity on their account.

Know Amtrak Baggage Limits

Before travelers get to the train station to book a ticket and board, it is crucial to be aware of how much luggage they may carry. In this manner, they steer clear of snags and unanticipated costs. There are baggage allowances of two personal items and two carry-on bags per Amtrak traveler.

Each traveler is also permitted to carry up to 4 checked baggage with them . The first two items are free with the purchase of admission. However, any extra bag after that will cost extra fees.

• Amtrak Baggage Cost: $20 per additional bag

Choose An Amtrak Sleeper Bedroom Or Roomette For The Most Comfortable Experience

Although there are several booking options, as mentioned earlier, the most comfortable way to travel on long-distance trains is to reserve an Amtrak Roomette or Bedroom (and there are differences between the two) .

Travelers should know that all dining car meals, free bottles of water, hot showers, soft drinks with ice, and hot coffee are all included in their reservations. A special sleeping car attendant will also be assigned to them.

Travelers should make sure to tip the sleeping car attendant.

I spent 60 hours on Amtrak trains with a carry-on bag and a backpack. Here are 7 things I regret not packing and 9 items I'm glad I brought.

• I traveled from New York to Miami and back in Amtrak sleeper cars. Each ride was 30 hours.
• For 60 hours of train travel, I brought a carry-on duffel bag and my camera backpack.
• I was glad I brought some odor-eliminating spray, but I regret forgetting flip-flops for the shower.

For a weeklong trip to Florida in 2021, I traveled round-trip from New York to Miami on Amtrak trains . Each ride was about 30 hours long, and my tickets included a private room with a bed, access to a bathroom, and complimentary meals.

On my way to Miami, I booked a roomette , a 20-square-foot private space with two seats across from each other, a table that folded out in between, and a bed above the seats that pulled down. The seats also pulled out into a bed. Some Roomettes also include a toilet and sink.

On my way home, I booked an Amtrak bedroom . It's twice the size of a roomette with an additional chair and a shower.

Knowing I'd be staying overnight in sleeper cars , I packed some travel essentials I thought would be helpful for sleeping, eating, working, and relaxing on a train. I tried my best to ensure my duffel bag and backpack included all the items I'd ever want to ensure a comfortable and entertaining 60 hours of travel. But I regretted leaving some items behind.

I packed a duffel bag and my camera backpack, both of which I kept with me on the trains.

I had the option to check a bag , but I decided to keep all my belongings with me throughout the trip.

Since each ride was an overnight trip, I was glad I packed a comfortable outfit separately from my clothes for the rest of my trip so they were easy to find in my bag.

I packed comfy pants and shorts since I was traveling south to warmer temperatures. 

I was grateful I packed various forms of entertainment, especially some that didn't require an internet connection, which could sometimes be spotty.

I brought a Nintendo Switch , a tablet, and a book to pass the time. I made sure to download a bunch of podcast episodes to my phone in case I lost service and internet at any point during the trip.

I always keep a disinfecting spray with me to make sure the surfaces I use are clean.

Even though Amtrak sanitizes rooms between visitors, according to its website , bringing my own disinfectant gave me peace of mind and made me feel more comfortable relaxing in my rooms.

Every time I travel, I also pack some Vitamin C for an immunity boost.

This packing tip comes from my mom. She always brought some sort of immunity-boosting chewable to protect us from germs while traveling. And as Business Insider previously reported, Vitamin C can help your immune system fight off some infections.

One of the most important items I brought was my comfiest pair of shoes — they feel like pillows under your feet.

I picked up these memory foam babies at  T.J. Maxx for only $20. They slipped on and off very easily, which was great for leaving my room quickly with shoes on.

I tried to make the train feel like home, and at home, I dance pretty much all day, so I'm glad I brought a pair of headphones with me.

I took frequent dance breaks in my room, where I closed the curtains and blasted music in my ears. This, of course, required a pair of headphones. 

While I danced throughout the day, I was glad I could listen to music as loudly as I wanted without bothering my neighbors.

I was especially glad I brought my odor-eliminating Poo Pourri spray with me when I saw that my Roomette's toilet was next to my seat.

In some roomettes (mine included), a side table swings open to reveal a toilet. Above, there's a folding sink and mirror. 

I may have had a bigger problem with having a toilet so close to my bed, but thankfully, I had packed some Poo Pourri , a spray that goes in the toilet just before you poop to eliminate odors.

While my train tickets included meals, I was glad I brought my own snacks for the in-between times.

I thought many of my meals on the train were decent, but there were times, like when I tried and disliked a salmon dish, that I was thankful for this bag of trail mix with my favorite ingredient, coconut chips.

But it turns out that I also missed a few key things when packing. While I'm glad I brought a water bottle, I wish I'd brought a smaller one that would fit in Amtrak's cupholders.

An Amtrak attendant brought me disposable water bottles every few hours, but I was still glad I brought my own pre-filled water bottle.

But my bottle was too wide for the provided cupholders, which were just big enough for 12-ounce bottles. So, I wish I had brought a smaller reusable water bottle.

One thing I missed the most on this trip was medication for motion sickness. Both train rides felt as bumpy as a flight when the seat belt sign is on.

I figured this would only be temporary, but I thought the whole ride was shaky. I ended up feeling motion sickness for the majority of both trips and kicking myself for not bringing any remedies.

On my way home, I stayed in a bedroom with a private shower. I would have used it, but I forgot my flip-flops to keep my feet safe from germs.

I planned on showering during my 30-hour ride home from Miami, but I decided not to when I realized I had forgotten my flip-flops. I usually wear them in public showers , since experts told BI that it's pretty easy to pick up germs from places where many people have walked barefoot.

Since there weren't many visible outlets in the rooms, I wished I had packed a couple of outlet splitters to charge more than a few devices at a time.

I only saw a couple of sets of outlets in the rooms. With several devices to plug in, I should have brought an outlet splitter or two. 

For the same reason, my portable charging battery would have come in handy had I remembered to bring it.

I could have sworn I packed this and was so disappointed when I wanted to use it.

I usually bring my neck pillow when I fly, but I didn't think to take it on my Amtrak trek, since my tickets came with beds. But I think it would have made the waking hours more comfortable.

This specific neck pillow wraps around 1.5 times, making adjusting to various long-term sitting situations easy. 

While the train beds and blankets were much more comfortable than I expected, the pillows weren't as cushy as the ones I had at home. So I wish I'd brought my own.

The bed on the Amtrak was firm and slightly cushy on top, just the way I like a bed. But when I was drifting off to sleep each night, I thought of my fluffy, dense, soft pillows at home. 

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Could passenger rail access make its way to Centre County? Officials hope to conduct 2025 study

While it could still be multiple years away and many hurdles remain, passenger rail access — such as Amtrak — might one day be coming to Centre County.

The Centre Region Council of Governments is looking to conduct a study in 2025 for how feasible a passenger rail access system in Centre County would be, so there are a lot of obstacles to overcome and questions to answer before discussing concrete plans. This is simply the first step of a long process.

But, if one of the more prominent visions is realized, residents could one day see a shuttle system that uses existing railroad tracks and operates from State College to other close Amtrak stations in Tyrone and Lewistown.

Again, however, a lot of work remains to be done. The study, which still needs to secure $3,042 before moving forward, would start no earlier than July 1, 2025. It’s then expected to last until the following year.

After that, the COG could then begin looking at what type of rail programs could be created. And any development wouldn’t come until even later after that.

“As far as my knowledge extends, no new rail is going to be constructed,” said James Saylor, COG’s Principal Transportation Planner. “Everything is going to be done on pre-existing tracks. We really just would like to see Centre County residents have an easier time linking up to Amtrak to try and make traveling more convenient for them.”

No costs have been provided yet to determine how much this shuttle service would cost, as the project is still just a concept. But municipal governments in the Centre Region have already greeted the idea with enthusiasm.

State College Borough Council recently reviewed COG’s 2025 Program Plan — which included the passenger rail study, along with other projects/studies to secure funding for in 2025 — and most council members appeared to be excited about potentially having passenger rail access.

Before Borough Manager Thomas Fountaine could finish reading the prompt regarding the study on July 8, most council members had already interjected with a “Yes!”

The discussion of a potential local passenger rail comes after Amtrak recently announced a $122 million investment in track improvements along the Harrisburg Line — a line that hasn’t seen any track improvements since the 1950s.

In 2023, it was also announced that Pennsylvania was to receive another $143 million from the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant Program to support the Pennsylvania Pennsylvanian Rail Modernization Project. This funding is meant to improve Amtrak railways in the western half of the Commonwealth, specifically from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg.

Once all member municipalities have gotten their comments back to the COG regarding the study, it can then begin to consider these comments to decide whether the study should be included in the preparation of the 2025 COG budget.

If the rail study is included with the budget, COG can then begin work on securing the necessary funding.

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 15 best amtrak trips from cincinnati.

If you’re looking for a unique getaway from Cincinnati, you can board the Cardinal Amtrak route at Union Terminal to reach destinations across the country. Trains travel to Chicago where you can connect with a variety of scenic Amtrak routes , or you can visit cities, resorts and national parks in the eastern half of the United States without a train transfer.

To start planning your rail adventure, see the best Amtrak trips from Cincinnati below. Note that train frequency in Cincinnati is only three days each week (not daily). Departure and arrival times at the Amtrak station are also during overnight hours, so you may want to book sleeping accommodations on the train and get a flight for the return trip.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page. For current schedules and ticket prices, visit Amtrak.com .

The Greenbrier

A luxury resort in West Virginia, The Greenbrier is a short walk away from the White Sulphur Springs Amtrak Station on the Cardinal route. It’s a wonderful getaway with endless things to see and do . In addition to a casino, there is a spa, golf course, swimming pools, bike rentals, bowling alley, horseback riding, bunker tours, whitewater rafting trips and more. Travel time is about 8.5 hours and you’ll arrive midday.

For great food,  live music and museums , plan a trip to  Chicago . There are many  festivals and events  to plan a trip around, and  top attractions  include the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Chicago Riverwalk, Lakefront Trail, Navy Pier and Wrigley Field. Beaches, baseball games and boat tours are also fun activities in the summer. Travel time is 9.5 hours with an arrival in the morning. See the best Amtrak trips from Chicago if you want to continue your rail travels from the Windy City.

Almost 14 hours away from Cincinnati via the Cardinal and Hiawatha  Amtrak routes, Milwaukee is full of breweries , sporting events and festivals (including Summerfest, Polish Fest and German Fest). After changing trains in Chicago, you’ll arrive near the Historic Third Ward  neighborhood, the RiverWalk and the Harley-Davidson Museum. Check out the popular  Discover Iconic Milwaukee tour  to see top sights and hidden gems.

New River Gorge

Travel through the New River Gorge on the Cardinal for one of the most scenic train trips on the East Coast. We recommend traveling to Alexandria, Virginia if you want to see the gorge and have easy access to an airport ( DCA ) at the end of your trip. Travel time is about 15 hours, or if you want to travel to the New River Gorge National Park instead of view it from the train, travel five hours to Charleston, WV and rent a car there. Drive time is just over one hour.

For easy access to Washington D.C. and Mount Vernon without DC crowds, travel to Alexandria, Virginia . George Washington considered Alexandria his home town, and you can experience his colonial life in the well-preserved  Old Town  historic district. The  National Harbor , The Wharf and Georgetown  are also accessible via  water taxi  or board a train at the  King Street-Old Town Metro Station  to reach all the sights in Washington D.C. Travel time from Cincinnati is 15 hours.

Washington DC

Travel just over 15 hours on the Cardinal to Washington D.C.  for the many  activities , museums, monuments,  year-round events  and  great restaurants . Consider a  sightseeing tour  to easily explore the many attractions, and plan your trip in March to view the  cherry blossoms or in fall for great weather and fewer tourists. View the best Amtrak day trips from DC for more sightseeing options.

Baltimore  is 16 hours away from Cincinnati via train. Once you arrive, you can connect with a taxi, Lyft or Uber for a ride to the  Inner Harbor  or attraction of your choice, including the  National Aquarium , Fort McHenry and  Fell’s Point neighborhood. Consider a boat tour for a unique way to see the city, and rail fans should consider visiting the  B&O Railroad Museum .

Springfield

Springfield is the Illinois capital and full of must-see historic sites. Top attractions are the  Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum , Lincoln Home National Historic Site,  Illinois State Museum  and various other historic homes and parks. Travel time is about 16.5 hours, which includes travel to Chicago and transferring to a different train. You’ll have time to get a late breakfast or lunch in Chicago before continuing to Springfield.

A small city getaway with parks , museums (including Nemours Estate pictured above) and nightlife in  Trolley Square , Wilmington , Delaware is almost 17 hours away from Cincinnati. You can rent a car at the train station (including with Avis , Budget , Enterprise , Hertz ) or use Lyft and Uber to get around. With a rental car, you can visit the beautiful Longwood Gardens , Pennsylvania Amish Country and the New Jersey coast .

Philadelphia

Travel to  Philadelphia  to eat an authentic Philly cheesesteak and visit the  Liberty Bell , Independence Hall , museums and the waterfront . Amtrak travel time is over 17 hours with the option to connect with commuter trains, subway, Lyft, Uber, tourist trolleys and bikeshare  once you’re in the city. The  Schuylkill River Trail  is an especially beautiful place for a bike ride.

Wisconsin Dells

A great destination for kids,  Wisconsin Dells  is full of  water parks , theme parks and unique rocks carved by glaciers. It’s a 18-hour train ride from Cincinnati with a train transfer in Chicago. Upon arrival you can walk to restaurants, attractions and places to stay near the Amtrak station (including  White Rose Inns  and  Alpine Motel ) or check out  hotels with shuttles  (verify service with the hotels before booking).

New York City

For big city fun, travel to  New York City . It’s the last stop on the Cardinal route, almost 19 hours away from Cincinnati. You’ll arrive in  Penn Station  with easy access to the subway, commuter trains, taxis and rideshare services, which makes it easy to visit the many museums , attractions , restaurants , Broadway shows  and  shopping  destinations. You can also transfer to other Amtrak routes here for a trip through the beautiful Hudson River Valley, including to  Niagara Falls , Vermont and  Canada .

Colorado Rocky Mountains

The  California Zephyr  is one of the most scenic Amtrak routes , especially the journey through the Colorado Rocky Mountains. You can connect with the train in Chicago and travel the entire route to Northern California (which includes travel through the Sierra Nevada) or 39 hours to charming  Glenwood Springs  to spend time in the Rockies. For the return trip, we recommend traveling to Denver, Sacramento or Emeryville (near Oakland Airport and San Francisco) and flying back to Cincinnati.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park  is the easiest national park to reach on Amtrak and has stunning scenery. You’ll travel to Chicago and transfer to the  Empire Builder  to reach  one of four stations near the park . East Glacier Park Station is the first stop and is in walking distance of the  Glacier Park Lodge , but you won’t travel into the mountains on the train if you exit here. Travel time is 44 to 46.5 hours depending on the station you choose. Tip: There is an airport near the Whitefish Station if you want a flight option.

Southwest Desert

For a trip through the US Southwest, including travel through Apache Canyon and Raton Pass, travel from Cincinnati to Chicago and transfer to the  Southwest Chief . There are several great places to visit along the way, including Albuquerque , Gallup and Flagstaff (which is the stop for the  Grand Canyon ). You’ll end the trip in Los Angeles if you ride the entire route (over 57 hours from Cincinnati). Consider booking a flight home from one of the L.A. area airports.

More Information

• Midwest Amtrak Routes
• 10 best Midwest Amtrak trips
• Amtrak Roomette vs Bedroom
• Amtrak’s 15 long-distance Amtrak routes and the places they go

Top photo by daveynin/Flickr.com (via Creative Commons ) – New River Gorge

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

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