Travel By Train Across The USA

Last revised: January 6, 2025

This section looks to cover passenger train travel available state to state, including both commuter and long-distance services.

Amtrak is our nation's intercity passenger train carrier (and has been since 1971) and as such virtually all such services that are provided across state lines is operated by the company.

Finally, all of the known commuter and light-rail agencies currently in service across the country can be found here.

As passenger trains have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in recent years due to spiking oil prices and increased highway congestion Amtrak has been forced to add new trains and/or purchase more equipment to meet.

This task has been made increasingly difficult by an ever-tightening budget due to government oversight and politics in general.

Routes By State

Because of funding issues a number of state agencies have, for several years now, picked up the tab by subsidizing service.

In some cases these states have added their own trains most notably in the New England region (New York, Connecticut, and Vermont) as well as North Carolina and California.

There have also been recent start-ups such as Nashville's Music City Star and New Mexico's Rail Runner service.

Delaware & Hudson PA-1 #19 leads the "Laurentian" southbound along Lake Champlain during the late 1960s. Jim Shaughnessy photo. American-Rails.com collection.

Alabama

Alabama hosts a single Amtrak passenger train, the Crescent (New York - New Orleans), which serves stations at Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Anniston.

There are also multiple bus stops/stations Amtrak provides across the state. To learn more please visit the carrier's website.

Alaska

Alaska's passenger train services are provided entirely by the state-owned Alaska Railroad, which also operates freight service. It is the only private company in the United States which also offers regularly scheduled passenger service.

It makes multiple stops along its system between Seward and Fairbanks, via Anchorage although there are different summer and winter schedules. Its notable trains include the Denali Star, Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery, and Hurricane Turn. For complete information please visit the railroad's website.

Arizona

Arizona is served by two passenger trains, both operated by Amtrak. To the north the Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles) stops at Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams Junction, and Kingman.

Additionally, to the south there is the Sunset Limited (New Orleans - Los Angeles) serving Benson, Tucson, Yuma, and Maricopa. Bus service to various cities is also offered. Please visit Amtrak's website to learn more.

In 2008, the state's first light-rail operation entered service; known as Metro Light Rail it runs 20 miles and serves the cities of Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. Finally, the Sun Link streetcar line opened in Tucson in 2014, running 3.9 miles within city limits.

Arkansas

Arkansas is served by one Amtrak train, the Texas Eagle (Chicago - Los Angeles, via Dallas/San Antonio), which makes stops at Walnut Ridge, Little Rock, Malvern, Arkadelphia, Hope, and Texarkana.

There is no bus service offered to other cities across the state. Finally, in Little Rock operates a heritage streetcar system known as the River Rail Streetcar.

It was opened in November of 2004 and expanded in 2007; currently it operates 3.4 miles between Little Rock and North Little Rock utilizing historic Birney trolley cars.

California

California has multiple passenger and commuter rail services. They are so expansive they will only be briefly highlighted here.

To learn more about them please visit each website. Amtrak's intercity services include:

California Zephyr (Chicago - San Francisco)

Coast Starlight (Seattle - Los Angeles)

Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles)

Sunset Limited (New Orleans - Los Angeles)

Texas Eagle (Chicago - Los Angeles, via Dallas/San Antonio)

The state also operates station stops (both rail and bus) that provide connecting services to these trains.

California's subsidized commuter rail services, operated in conjunction with Amtrak via the heading "Amtrak California," include:

Capitol Corridor (which serves Oakland/San Francisco-Sacramento-San Jose)

Pacific Surfliner (which operates along the coast between San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles, and San Diego)

San Joaquin (between Oakland and Bakersfield)

Additionally, there are numerous other state or city-funded transit services including:

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), a rapid transit system serving its namesake region

Altamont Corridor Express (ACE), a traditional commuter rail service in the Bay Area

Caltrain, another standard, heavy-rail system that also serves the Bay Area

San Francisco's classic trolley/cable cars which operate within the city

Metrolink, which operates a traditional commuter rail service in the Los Angeles region

COASTER service between San Diego and Oceanside (traditional commuter rail service)

Metro Rail, a light rail service also located in Los Angeles

SPRINTER light-rail service running between Oceanside and Escondido

Sacramento's RT Light Rail system spanning nearly 39 miles

San Diego's trolley system

San Francisco's Muni Metro light-rail service

San Francisco's F Market & Wharves system which utilizes historic PCC streetcar

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority serving the San Jose area

These provide the bulk of California's commuter/light rail services, and each offers their own website for information including routes, schedules, and fares.

Colorado

Colorado has two passenger trains which serve the state, both operated by Amtrak. The California Zephyr (Chicago - San Francisco) stops at Fort Morgan, Denver (Union Station), Fraser, Granby, Glenwood Springs, and Grand Junction.

The Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles) also makes stops in the state at Lamar, La Junta, and Trinidad. Finally, a few cities are also provided bus services. To learn more please visit Amtrak's website.

Connecticut

Connecticut is one of several Northeastern states providing expansive passenger/commuter rail services. Amtrak's long-distance trains include:

"Northeast Regional" service (Boston - Norfolk/Newport News) with stops at Mystic, New London, Old Saybrook, Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Kensington, Meriden, Wallingford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford

"Shuttle" service between New Haven and Springfield, Massachusetts

Additionally, the Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington, D.C.) stops at Hartford, Kensington, Meriden, Wallingford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford.

There are also state-sponsored services including the Metro-North Railroad (a division of MTA) providing connections into New York City with trains reaching as far as New Haven, Waterbury, Danbury, and New Canaan.

Finally, Connecticut also operates the Shore Line East commuter service throughout the state. For information about these services please visit each agency's respective website.

Delaware

Delaware may be small but because the Northeast Corridor travels through its northern fringe many trains pass through the state.

However, none actually stop in the state. It is served by:

Amtrak's high-speed Acela Express (Washington - Boston) at Wilmington

Cardinal (New York - Chicago) at Wilmington

Carolinian/Piedmont at (New York - Charlotte) Wilmington, Crescent (New York - New Orleans) at Wilmington

"Northeast Regional" service (Boston - Norfolk/Newport News) at Wilmington and Newark

Silver Service (New York - Savannah/Jacksonville/Orlando/Tampa/Miami) at Wilmington

Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington) at Wilmington

Florida

Amtrak currently operates two services in the state including:

Auto Train (operates between only Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida)

Silver Service (New York - Jacksonville/Miami/Orlando) with stops at Jacksonville, Palatka, DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee, Tampa, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Sebring, Okeechobee, West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Miami

Also, Florida is home to three commuter rail systems:

Tri-Rail has served Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach since 1987

SunRail began service in 2014 within Orlando, currently utilizing a 32-mile network with 12 stations

All Aboard Florida, now known as Brightline, is a new privately-operated and funded service operating between Miami, West Palm Beach, and Orlando

Finally, the TECO Line Streetcar System is a small trolley service opened in 2002, running 2.7 miles within the streets of Tampa.

Georgia

Georgia is served by two routes and two Amtrak services. To the west traveling through Gainesville and Atlanta is Amtrak's Crescent, which makes an additional stop in Toccoa.

To the east traveling through Savannah and Jesup is Amtrak's popular Silver Service.

Finally, Atlanta operates a light-rail transit service known as MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) offering four different services; the Gold Line, Blue Line, Green Line, and Red Line.

Finally, the city's streetcar system opened in 2014, offering a 2.7 mile "Downtown Loop."

Hawaii

Currently Hawaii has no passenger rail service although an effort is under way to build a light rail transit system around Honolulu. Known as the Honolulu High-Capacity Transit Corridor Project, or HART, it will run 20 miles between East Kapolei and Ala Moana Center. The system is expected to open in 2017.

Illinois

Given that Chicago is "Ground Zero" of railroad operations in this country it should come as no surprise that nearly two-dozen different intercity and regional trains serve Illinois. Several of Amtrak's services converge either in Chicago or cross the state.

Chicago is also home to one of the busiest commuter rail systems in the country, Metra, while the "South Shore Line" (Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District/NICTD) provides service as far east as South Bend, Indiana (part of the historic Chicago, South Shore & South Bend system).

Finally, Chicago's CTA also operates the rapid transit system nicknamed the "L" serving the city and nearby suburbs.

Indiana

Being just due east of Chicago, Indiana has multiple trains traveling through the state (from Ohio, Michigan, and Kentucky) heading towards the Windy City.

These Amtrak trains include:

Capitol Limited (Chicago - Washington) stopping at Waterloo, Elkhart, and South Bend

Cardinal/Hoosier State (New York - Chicago) stopping at Connersville, Indianapolis, Crawfordsville, Lafayette, Rensselaer, and Dyer

Lake Shore Limited (New York - Chicago) at South Bend, Waterloo, and Elkhart

Michigan Services (Chicago - Port Huron/Detroit - Pontiac which includes the Blue Water, Pere Marquette, and Wolverine) at Hammond and Michigan City.

Finally, the "South Shore Line" (Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District/NICTD) commuter system serving Chicago offers service as far east as South Bend.

Iowa

Iowa has two Amtrak trains which serve the state, the California Zephyr (Chicago - San Francisco) heading west makes stops at Burlington, Mt. Pleasant, Ottumwa, Osceola, and Creston while the transcontinental Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles) stops at Fort Madison. Finally, Amtrak provides bus service to Davenport.

Kansas

Kansas is served by one long-distance Amtrak train, the Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles), with stops at Lawrence, Topeka, Newton, Hutchinson, Dodge City, and Garden City.

Kentucky

Kentucky is served by Amtrak's north-to-south City of New Orleans (Chicago - New Orleans) at Fulton. Additionally, the carrier's east-to-west Cardinal/Hoosier State (New York - Chicago) stops in Ashland, South Portsmouth, and Maysville.

Louisiana

Louisiana is served by Amtrak's long-distance City of New Orleans (Chicago - New Orleans) at New Orleans and Hammond.

The Sunset Limited (New Orleans - Los Angeles) also serves the state at New Orleans, Schriever, New Iberia, Lafayette, and Lake Charles.

Lastly, the Crescent (New York - New Orleans) reaches New Orleans while also stopping at Slidell. Amtrak also provides bus service to Baton Rouge and Shreveport.

Finally, New Orleans' historic streetcar system, which dates back to 1835, leisurely takes visitors and commuters over more than 22 miles in the downtown area.

It is operated by the the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) via four different segments; the St. Charles Avenue Line, the Riverfront Line, the Canal Street Line, and the Loyola Avenue Line.

Maine

Maine is served by one Amtrak service, the Downeaster running between Brunswick and Boston. The train's other stops within the state are at Portland, Freeport, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Wells. Finally, Amtrak provides bus service to several cities throughout Maine.

Maryland

Thanks to the busy Northeast Corridor located within its borders Maryland is served by multiple regional and intercity Amtrak trains including:

Acela Express which makes multiple stops between Boston and Washington, D.C.

"Northeast Regional" service operating between Boston and Norfolk/Newport News

Capitol Limited (Washington - Chicago) stopping at Cumberland

Cardinal (New York - Chicago) with stops in Baltimore

Carolinian/Piedmont (New York - Charlotte) with stops at Baltimore

Crescent (New York - New Orleans) with stops at Baltimore

Silver Service trains (New York - Florida points) stopping at Baltimore

Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington) with stops at Baltimore, New Carrollton, and the Baltimore–Washington International Airport

Amtrak also provides bus service to a number of cities in Maryland.

Finally, the Baltimore Light Rail has provided rapid transit service to the city since 1992 utilizing a 30-mile system and Washington, D.C. has operated the Metro subway system since 1976 covering 117 miles over six different lines.

Additionally, MARC Train provides commuter/heavy rail service via a 187-mile system linking Washington and Baltimore as well as the outlying communities at Perryville/Frederick, Maryland and Martinsburg, West Virginia.

Also, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) commuter system serves the state's northern region with two routes (the Manassas Line and Fredericksburg Line) running into Washington.

An Amtrak HHP-8 leads a set of Amfleet cars over the Susquehanna River at Havre de Grace, Maryland on May 12, 2006. Wade Massie photo.

Massachusetts

Amtrak provides extensive service in Massachusetts. Its long-distance, intercity trains include:

Downeaster serving Brunswick, Maine and Boston with stops in Haverhill and Woburn

Lake Shore Limited (New York/Boston - Chicago) with stops in Pittsfield, Springfield, Worcester, Framingham, and Boston

Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington, D.C.) with stops in Amherst and Springfield

Additionally, Amtrak's high-speed Acela Express runs throughout the Northeast Corridor between Boston and Washington as does the "Northeast Regional" service (extending as far south as Norfolk/Newport News).

Finally, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates extensive commuter rail and rapid transit service throughout the greater Boston area.

Michigan

Michigan is served by three Amtrak trains including the Blue Water, Pere Marquette, and Wolverine which are collectively part of its "Michigan Services."

These trains make station stops at New Buffalo, Niles, Dowagiac, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, East Lansing, Durand, Flint, Lapeer, Port Huron, St. Joseph, Bangor, Holland, Grand Rapids, Albion, Jackson, Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Detroit, Royal Oak, and Pontiac. Amtrak also provides expansive bus service across the state.

Minnesota

Minnesota is primarily served by Amtrak's Empire Builder (Chicago - Seattle) with stops in Winona, Red Wing, St. Paul (at restored Union Depot), St. Cloud, Staples, and Detroit Lakes.

The state also began opening commuter/light rail services: in 2004 the METRO rapid transit system opened in the Twin Cities via three lines serving 41 stations; in 2009 the commuter/heavy rail system known as the Northstar Line also entered service covering 40 miles from Big Lake to downtown Minneapolis at Target Field.

Mississippi

Mississippi is served by two of Amtrak's premier trains; the north-to-south City of New Orleans (Chicago - New Orleans) makes stops at Greenwood, Yazoo City, Jackson, Hazlehurst, Brookhaven, and McComb; and the Crescent (New York - New Orleans) stops at Meridian (Union Station), Laurel, Hattiesburg, and Picayune.

Amtrak also offers bus service to Gulfport and Hattiesburg while Greyhound service is available to Biloxi.

Missouri

Missouri is served by three of Amtrak's intercity trains;

The regional Missouri River Runner (St. Louis - Kansas City) makes additional stops in Independence, Lee's Summit, Warrensburg, Sedalia, Jefferson City, Hermann, Washington, and Kirkwood

Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles) stops in Kansas City and La Plata

Texas Eagle (Chicago - Dallas/San Antonio - Los Angeles) serves St. Louis and Poplar Bluff

Finally, St. Louis operates its MetroLink system, a light-rail/rapid transit service spanning 46 miles and connecting Lambert-St. Louis International Airport; Shrewsbury, Missouri; Scott Air Force Base; Shiloh, Illinois; and downtown St. Louis.

Montana

Montana has attempted to increase its passenger rail services offered by Amtrak over the years.

However, currently only the transcontinental Empire Builder (Chicago - Seattle) serves the state stopping in Wolf Point, Glasgow, Malta, Havre, Shelby, Cut Bank, Browning, East Glacier Park, Essex, West Glacier, Whitefish, and Libby.

There is also bus stations or stops offered at/to Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Glendive, Livingston, Miles City, and Sidney. Finally, Greyhound service is available at Missoula.

Nebraska

Nebraska is served only by Amtrak's long-distance California Zephyr (Chicago - Denver - San Francisco) which serves Omaha, Hastings, Lincoln, Holdrege, and McCook. There are no bus services offered within the state.

Nevada

Nevada's only Amtrak service is via the long-distance California Zephyr(Chicago - Denver - San Francisco) with station stops at Elko, Reno, and Winnemucca.

There is also bus service to Las Vegas, Laughlin, Sparks, and Stateline. Finally, the "X Train" or Las Vegas Railway Express is a relatively new company which plans to provide upscale, luxury passenger rail service between Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

There have been multiple delays since the company was launched in 2010 and a scheduled start-date is unknown.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is served only by Amtrak's Downeaster (Brunswick - Boston) with stops at Dover, Durham, and Exeter. Amtrak also offers bus stops at Berlin, Conway, Lincoln, Littleton, Manchester, New Hampton, Plymouth, and Tilton.

Amtrak's "Capitol Limited" stops at Martinsburg, West Virginia on March 24, 2014. Jon Wright photo.

New Jersey

Being home to the Northeast Corridor there are numerous passenger trains which pass through New Jersey including:

Acela Express (stops at Newar, Iselin, and Trenton)

"Northeast Regional" (stops at Newark, Iselin, New Brunswick, Princeton Junction, and Trenton)

Cardinal (New York - Chicago) at Newark and Trenton

Carolinian/Piedmont (New York - Charlotte) at Newark and Trenton

Crescent (New York - New Orleans) at Newark and Trenton

Keystone (New York - Harrisburg) at Trenton, Princeton Junction, New Brunswick, Iselin, and Newark

Palmetto/Silver Service trains (New York - Florida points) at Newark and Trenton

Pennsylvanian (New York - Pittsburgh) at Newark and Trenton

Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington) at Newark, Iselin, and Trenton

Finally, NJ Transit provides extensive commuter rail and rapid transit services throughout the northern region of the state to provide transportation into and out of New York City.

Additionally, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), serving the greater Philadelphia area, operates as far as Atlantic City.

Also, PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) is a joint New York/New Jersey rapid transit operation serving Newark, Harrison, Hoboken, and Jersey City as well as Manhattan in New York City. It is operated by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey.

New Mexico

New Mexico is served by Amtrak's Southwest Chief (Chicago - Los Angeles) to the north with stops at Raton, Las Vegas, Lamy, Albuquerque, and Gallup. The Sunset Limited (New Orleans - Los Angeles) also makes stops at Deming and Lordsburg.

Amtrak also provides bus service to Las Cruces. Finally, the state-funded New Mexico Rail Runner Express, opened in 2006, provides commuter rail connections over a 97-mile system between Santa Fe and Belen via Albuquerque.

New York

Amtrak provides multiple long-distance and regional rail services within the state of New York. It also offers bus stops at Dunkirk, Jamestown, and Lake Placid.

The state also funds several of its own heavy commuter rail and rapid transit/light rail services including the Long Island Railroad and Metro-North Railroad, operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

Additionally, PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) is a joint New York/New Jersey rapid transit operation serving Newark, Harrison, Hoboken, and Jersey City as well as Manhattan in New York City.

It is operated by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. Finally, Buffalo Metro Rail provides light rail service over 6.4 miles of trackage within the city limits. For more information regarding all of these services please visit their individual websites.

North Carolina

North Carolina is served by several Amtrak trains including a few that are partially subsidized by the state; t

Carolinian/Piedmont (New York - Charlotte) serves Rocky Mount, Wilson, Selma, Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Burlington, Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, Kannapolis, and Charlotte

Crescent (New York - New Orleans) stops at Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, Charlotte, and Gastonia

Palmetto/Silver Service trains (New York - Raleigh - Florida points) stop in Rocky Mount, Wilson, Selma, Raleigh, and Fayetteville.

Amtrak also offers bus service to various locations. In 2004 the city of Charlotte launched its new rapid transit/light service known as Lynx Rapid Transit, operating 9.6 miles.

The state's long-term plan is to have passenger service established from the coast (Wilmington) to the western mountains (Asheville). You can learn more about their website, NCByTrain.org.

North Dakota

North Dakota is served only by Amtrak's long-distance Empire Builder (Chicago - Seattle) which stops at primarily at Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Rugby, Minot, Stanley, and Williston.

Ohio

Ohio is served by three intercity Amtrak trains. These include the Capitol Limited (Washington - Chicago) with stops in Alliance, Cleveland, Elyria, Sandusky, and Toledo; Lake Shore Limited (New York/Boston - Chicago) serving Bryan, Toledo, Sandusky, Elyria, and Cleveland; and the Cardinal/Hoosier State stopping in Cincinnati.

Finally, Cleveland offers light rail/rapid transit service via two lines that span more than 15 miles stopping at 34 stations.

The system entered service in 1913 and has went by different names over the years. For more information about this service please visit the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority's website.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma is only served by Amtrak's regional Heartland Flyer, which connects Oklahoma City with Fort Worth. Intermediate stops include Norman, Purcell, Pauls Valley, Ardmore, Gainesville (Texas).

Starting in 2015 a trial passenger train will link Oklahoma City with Tulsa; schedules and fares are not yet known.

Oregon

Oregon has seen its passenger rail services steadily increase over the years.

Today, two intercity Amtrak trains make stops within the state; the Coast Starlight (Seattle - Los Angeles) serves Portland, Salem, Albany, Eugene, Chemult, and Klamath Falls; the Amtrak Cascades (Vancouver, British Columbia - Seattle - Eugene) is a regional service with stops at Eugene, Albany, Salem, Oregon City, and Portland.

Amtrak also offers extensive bus service within Oregon. Additionally, the state plays host to a commuter rail system known as the Westside Express Service; initiated in 2009 it spans nearly 15 miles between Beaverton and Wilsonville in the Portland metropolitan area.

Finally, Portland is also home to two light-rail system; the Portland Streetcar began service in 2001 via two lines that total 7.2 miles within the downtown area; also, MAX Light Rail serves the city's much broader metropolitan area via a system of more than 52 miles and 87 stations.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is served by more than a dozen regional and intercity passenger trains operated by Amtrak.

These trains operate on either the Northeast Corridor serving north-south regions, or connect Philadelphia - Pittsburgh, and Cumberland - Pittsburgh as well as points further west.

Finally, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides extensive commuter and light-rail service within the greater Philadelphia region. Additionally, Pittsburgh Light Rail ("The T") provides rapid transit service via a 26-mile system.

Rhode Island

While small, tiny Rhode Island being part of the Northeast Corridor is served by Amtrak's regional services the high-speed Acela Express (stops at Providence) and "Northeast Regional" (stops at Providence, West Kingston, and Westerly).

South Carolina

South Carolina is served by Amtrak's Silver Service trains as well as the Palmetto (New York - Florida points) with stops in Dillon, Florence, Kingstree, North Charleston, Yemassee, Camden, Columbia, and Denmark. Finally, the Crescent (New York - New Orleans) makes stops in Spartanburg, Greenville, and Clemson.

South Dakota

At this time South Dakota has no passenger train service.

Tennessee

Surprisingly, the state of Tennessee is served by only a single Amtrak long-distance train with the City of New Orleans (Chicago - New Orleans) stopping in Newbern and Memphis.

Also, there a bus station is offered in Nashville. In 2006 a new commuter rail service was launched to serve Nashville. Known as the Music City Star it currently runs 32 miles and serves 6 stations.

Finally, in Memphis the MATA Trolley utilizes historic streetcars as it operates a 10-mile system within city limits with 25 stops via three routes.

Texas

There are currently three long-distance Amtrak trains serving the Lone Star State:

Heartland Flyer (Oklahoma City - Fort Worth) stops in Fort Worth and Gainesville

Sunset Limited (Los Angeles - New Orleans) serves Beaumont, Houston, San Antonio, Del Rio, Sanderson, Alpine, and El Paso
Texas Eagle (Chicago - Los Angeles) makes stops in Marshall, Longview, Mineola, Dallas, Fort Worth, Cleburne, McGregor, Temple, Taylor, Austin, San Marcos, San Antonio, Del Rio, Sanderson, Alpine, and El Paso

There are also three notable commuter/heavy rail systems operating in the state:

The A-Train began in 2011 serving Denton County via 6 station stops

Trinity Railway Express began service in 1996 serving Dallas/Fort Worth over a system of 34 miles and 10 stations; and Capital MetroRail serves the Austin area, which began service in 2009 over a 32-mile system with 9 station stops
Finally, Dallas features two light-rail services; the McKinney Avenue Transit Authority is a historic streetcar operation while the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is a traditional rapid transit system spanning 90 miles and 62 station stops

Also, Houston's METRORail, which began in 2004 features a 12.8 mile system with 24 stations.

Utah

Amtrak's only intercity train serving Utah is the California Zephyr (San Francisco - Chicago) with stops in Green River, Helper, Provo, and Salt Lake City. There are also bus services Salt Lake City and St. George. Utah's FrontRunner heavy commuter rail system connects Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden.

It began service in 2008 with 16 stations and is 88 miles in length. Finally, two light-rail systems serve Salt Lake City including TRAX and the S Line.

Vermont

Vermont is served by two Amtrak passenger trains; the Ethan Allen Express (Rutland - New York) stops at Rutland and Castleton while the Vermonter (St. Albans - Washington) serves St. Albans, St Albans, Essex Junction, Waterbury, Montpelier, Randolph, White River Junction, Windsor, Bellows Falls, and Brattleboro.

Another experimental service was Amtrak's "ICE Train," a Siemens product from Germany and precursor to Acela. It is seen here heading west near Port Byron, New York on August 13, 1993. Wade Massie photo.

Virginia

There are several long-distance or regional Amtrak trains that serve the state of Virginia including:

Carolinian/Piedmont (New York - Charlotte) stopping at Alexandria, Quantico, Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Petersburg

Crescent (New York - New Orleans) with stops at Alexandria, Manassas, Culpeper, Charlottesville, Lynchburg, and Danville

Palmetto/Silver Service trains (New York - Florida points) with stops at Alexandria, Richmond, and Petersburg

Cardinal (New York - Chicago) with stops at Alexandria Manassas, Culpeper, Charlottesville, Staunton, and Clifton Forge

"Northeast Regional" (Boston - Norfolk/Newport News) extending as far south as Newport News

Auto Train (Lorton - Sanford, Florida) launches from Lorton

There is also bus service at Blacksburg, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach. In 2011 a new light-rail service was launched serving Norfolk and known as The Tide.

It operates 7.4 miles and serves 11 stations. In addition, Virginia Railway Express provides commuter service to the state's northern metropolitan area.

Washington

Amtrak's services to Washington State includes:

Cascades (Vancouver, British, Columbia - Eugene, Oregon) with stops in Vancouver, Kelso, Centralia, Lacey, Tacoma, Tukwila, Seattle, Edmonds, Everett, Stanwood, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham

Coast Starlight (Seattle - Los Angeles) serving Seattle, Tacoma, Lacy, Centralia, Kelso, and Vancouver

Empire Builder (Seattle - Chicago) stopping at Spokane, Pasco, Wishram, Bingen, Vancouver, Ephrata, Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Everett, Edmonds, and Seattle. Extensive bus services are also provided to various cities within Washington

Finally, the state-sponsored Sounder Commuter Rail system provides commuter service between Seattle, Everett, and Lakewood via an 82-mile system serving 12 stations.

Also, Sound Transit provides extensive light rail services within the Puget Sound region while Seattle's streetcar system provides service within the downtown area.

Amtrak AEM-7 #948 races through Halethorpe, Maryland with train #158 on May 6, 2006. Wade Massie photo.

West Virginia

West Virginia's only intercity service as the current time is Amtrak's Cardinal (New York - Chicago) which offers a handful of stops across the southern part of the state between White Sulphur and Huntington running near the beautiful New River much of the way.

Finally, Maryland's MARC Train commuter service extends as far west as Martinsburg where it takes passenger back into the Washington, D.C./Baltimore metropolitan region. Its entire system spans about 187 miles and extends through other parts of Maryland.

Wisconsin

The one long-distance Amtrak train to serve Wisconsin is the Empire Builder (Chicago - Seattle) which stops at Milwaukee, Columbus, Portage, Wisconsin Dells, Tomah, and La Crosse.

The regional Hiawatha (Chicago - Milwaukee) makes an intermediate stop at Sturtevant. The state also features extensive bus services.

Finally, the Kenosha Streetcar service has a history that traces back to the early interurban/streetcar era at the turn of the 20th century. It currently operates on a 2-mile loop. For more information about Amtrak and the streetcar please visit their respective websites.

Wyoming

Wyoming offers no passenger train services at this time.

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This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati…
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The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour.
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Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."
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Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings.
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Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions.
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The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with…
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Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985.
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North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal.
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Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour…
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Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene
May 21, 26 12:37 PM
If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers.
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Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington
May 21, 26 12:34 PM
There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad.
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New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:24 PM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here!
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Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:16 PM
The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here!
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Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit
May 21, 26 11:58 AM
A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a…
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Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex
May 20, 26 11:55 AM
Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme…
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Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M
May 20, 26 11:54 AM
If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can.
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Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM
May 20, 26 11:52 AM
The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist…
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California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:51 AM
When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…
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Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:50 AM
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados.
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Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 20, 26 11:48 AM
In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure.
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Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)
May 20, 26 11:10 AM
Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."
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Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series
May 20, 26 10:30 AM
Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026).
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The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service
May 20, 26 09:49 AM
ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average…
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Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)
May 19, 26 11:55 PM
Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."
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New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:59 AM
There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here!
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Illinois 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:56 AM
Among Illinois's scenic train rides, one of the most unique and captivating experiences is the murder mystery excursion.
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Kentucky 'Dinner Train' Rides From Bardstown
May 19, 26 11:53 AM
The essence of My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is part restaurant, part scenic excursion, and part living piece of Kentucky rail history.
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Vermont 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:50 AM
There are currently murder mystery dinner trains offered in Vermont but until recently the Champlain Valley Dinner Train offered such a trip!
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Ohio - Beer Tasting - Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:49 AM
The Ohio Rail Experience's Quincy Sunset Tasting Train is a new offering that pairs an easygoing evening schedule with a signature scenic highlight: a high, dramatic crossing of the Quincy Bridge over…
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Texas 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:43 AM
Texas State Railroad's “Pints In The Pines” train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the line: a vintage evening departure, craft beer samplings, and a catered dinner at the Rusk depot un…
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South Dakota 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:40 AM
For wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike, South Dakota introduces a novel way to experience its local viticulture: wine tasting aboard the Black Hills Central Railroad.
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New Mexico 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 19, 26 11:33 AM
For oenophiles and adventure seekers alike, wine tasting train rides in New Mexico provide a unique opportunity to explore the region's vineyards in comfort and style.
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Amtrak's First Airo Trainset Arrives in Seattle
May 19, 26 10:01 AM
Amtrak's next-generation Airo passenger trainset has officially arrived in Seattle, marking a major milestone in the railroad's largest fleet overhaul in decades and the start of a new era for travel…
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Maine "Ice Cream" Tasting Train Rides
May 19, 26 09:49 AM
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum’s Ice Cream Train is a family-friendly Friday-night tradition that turns a short rail excursion into a small event.
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TP&W Railway Timetables (January, 1930)
May 18, 26 03:23 PM
Featured here is the Toledo, Peoria & Western Railway's timetables listed in the January, 1930 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."
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CSX SD40-2 8888, "Crazy Eights": The 2001 Runaway Train
May 18, 26 02:02 PM
On May 15, 2001, a single locomotive—CSX SD40-2 No. 8888—began one of the most infamous runaway train incidents in American railroad history.
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North Carolina "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:40 PM
One of the most popular warm-weather offerings at NCTM is the Ice Cream Train, a simple but brilliant concept: pair a relaxing ride with a classic summer treat.
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New York "Ice Cream Tasting" Train Rides
May 18, 26 01:32 PM
While CMRR runs several seasonal excursions, one of the most family-friendly (and, frankly, joyfully simple) offerings is its Ice Cream Express.
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New Mexico 'Murder Mystery' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:31 PM
Among Sky Railway's most theatrical offerings is “A Murder Mystery,” a 2–2.5 hour immersive production that drops passengers into a stylized whodunit on the rails.
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Michigan 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:28 PM
Among the lesser-known treasures of this state are the intriguing murder mystery dinner train rides—a perfect blend of suspense, dining, and scenic exploration.
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Ohio 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:24 PM
Among the intriguing ways to experience Ohio's splendor is aboard the wine tasting trains that journey through some of Ohio's most picturesque vineyards and wineries.
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Pennsylvania 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:22 PM
Wine tasting trains are a unique and enchanting way to explore the state’s burgeoning wine scene while enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque landscapes.
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Minnesota BBQ Tasting Train Rides
May 18, 26 12:10 PM
If you’re looking for a perfect mix of nostalgia, stunning Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering food, the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, delivers—literally.
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