Amtrak Overnight Trains: A Leisure Experience Beyond Transportation

Traveling across the United States often presents a choice between air and rail, each offering its unique advantages. While many opt for the speed and convenience of air travel, others discover the charm of Amtrak overnight trains for a more leisurely journey. This article explores the appeal of using Amtrak trains for both transportation and leisure, offering insights from personal experiences and expert observations.

Leisure vs. Transportation

The choice between air and train often hinges on personal preferences and the nature of the journey. While a flight in 2023 might cost less and save considerable time, especially for a transcontinental trip, an overnight train offers an entirely different kind of experience. As Nicholas Stone notes, in his June 2016 journey on the westbound Amtrak California Zephyr, the journey becomes an adventure in itself:

Ludovic Kennedy, in his BBC Television series Great Railways Journeys of the World, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that crossing the U.S. by plane is cramped and disorienting, while train travel opens up the country and distance.

Comfort and Convenience

Amtrak overnight trains, particularly those like the California Zephyr, Crescent, and South West Chief, provide a level of comfort and convenience that cannot be matched by air travel. The California Zephyr, for instance, spans from New York City to Los Angeles via Chicago or via New Orleans, offering several daily departures and Coach service that mimics the experience of first-class seating.

On such overnight trains, passengers enjoy several perks. Comfortable seats, multiple dining options, and a wide range of entertainment—such as observation cars—transform the journey into a memorable experience. As for accommodation, the roomettes provide a private sleeping space, complete with a small table and chairs, making it ideal for resting and preparing for the day ahead. In contrast, air travel often leaves little room for such luxuries, with cramped seating and limited amenities.

The Adventure of Train Travel

The California Zephyr, for example, allows travelers to experience breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. These panoramic views, along with the opportunity to move around the train or partake in onboard dining, create a sense of adventure that is often absent from a flight. As one traveler noted, the combination of transportation and leisure makes train travel particularly enjoyable, especially for those who value the journey as much as the destination.

“To make the most of a long-distance railway—whether it takes one day or more—then the journey becomes part of your holiday experience. If travel is always a chore, then take the form of transport which treats it as such: an airline journey. If travel offers a sense of adventure, then take the train.” — Nicholas Stone

Practical Considerations

For those looking to book an Amtrak overnight train, several practical tips come into play. Booking far in advance ensures the best deals, especially for rooms or roomettes. With meals included, the experience becomes even more enriching, allowing passengers to savor a variety of cuisines while enjoying the night scenery. Imagine sipping a glass of wine and dining by a large window, watching the world pass by in a leisurely pace.

While air travel is undoubtedly faster and more suited for those in a hurry, train travel offers a more leisurely, comfortable, and memorable experience. For those who value the journey as much as the destination, Amtrak overnight trains provide an unparalleled blend of transportation and leisure.