An Unconventional American Rail Adventure: Your Guide to Circle Touring by Train
The wait is over! Your comprehensive guide to circling America by train is finally here!
This incredible journey spans 3,138 miles and covers 124 hours of unforgettable travel. Imagine sharing a cozy private room for two, with all your meals included, experiencing the rhythm of sunrise and sunset as you traverse the diverse landscapes of America through all four seasons.
The Grand Itinerary
Our adventure was meticulously planned across three distinct Amtrak routes, offering a taste of America's diverse scenery:
- Los Angeles to Seattle: Coast Starlight - A breathtaking 34-hour journey along the stunning Pacific coastline.
- Seattle to Chicago: Empire Builder - A 46-hour cross-country expedition through majestic mountains and plains.
- Chicago to Los Angeles: Southwest Chief - A classic 44-hour ride through the heart of the American West.
Navigating Ticket Prices and Room Options
For this epic trip, we opted for a Romette, a private compartment for two, which thoughtfully included three daily meals and complimentary coffee, plus comfortable bedding. The total cost for our shared experience was $747 for the Coast Starlight, $946 for the Empire Builder, and $1080 for the Southwest Chief. For solo travelers looking for their own private space, expect to deduct approximately $200 from each ticket price. An Amtrak representative shared that fares are quite dynamic; booking well in advance or very last minute can often yield the best deals. We learned this firsthand when a tempting $800+ fare for the Chicago to Los Angeles leg vanished, and the next available option was $1080. Since returning home was the goal, we secured that booking.
Your Cozy Rail Dwelling: The Romette Experience
Our Romette provided an intimate and efficient space, featuring two comfortable chairs that transform into a bed for sleeping. A simple bell call to the attendant ensures your bed is made, or you can easily arrange it yourself. The main consideration is sharing bathroom and shower facilities with fellow travelers. Fortunately, our journey wasn't during peak season, so train occupancy was low, meaning no queues for the restrooms and a generally serene atmosphere throughout the carriage.
Reflections on the Rail: A Traveler's Perspective
Having completed this journey in late February and early March, I can offer some insights into each segment. My overall ranking leans towards the Coast Starlight, followed by the Southwest Chief, and then the Empire Builder. The Coast Starlight truly dazzled with its ever-changing panoramas of ocean, mountains, snow-capped peaks, and forests. The service was also the most welcoming and enthusiastic, though the observation car often felt crowded. The Empire Builder journey largely hugged the Canadian border. I imagine this route would be absolutely spectacular in July or August. However, traveling in spring and winter often meant overcast skies and snow, which could be a dream for snow enthusiasts. The Southwest Chief offered a sense of vast openness; the sunsets were simply magnificent, and we spotted numerous small animals along the way, adding to the overall romantic feel of the trip.
This rail odyssey was filled with delightful surprises, and revisiting these memories through photos is always a joy. For a sneak peek, don't forget to like and follow! A vlog capturing these moments is coming soon!
