My Cross Country Train Adventure: From the Big Apple to the Emerald City ( NYC to Seattle)
Join me on a scenic Amtrak journey from NYC to Seattle, with breathtaking views, practical tips, and personal stories to inspire your adventure.
The Spark of Wanderlust
As an avid traveler, the thrill of the open road has always called to me. I’ve driven across the country twice, covering 7,232 miles through 25 states. The journey was nothing short of epic, with highlights including a deadly winter storm, sandstorms, a rainstorm, and temperatures ranging from -33°F to 64°F. With 3 time zones, 130 hours of drive time, and countless adventures, these trips etched unforgettable memories into my life.
This year, however, I craved a different kind of adventure. With a substantial amount of vacation days saved up, I decided to trade the steering wheel for the tracks and embark on a cross-country journey by train. The allure of traveling by Amtrak, witnessing the changing landscapes from the comfort of a train, was irresistible. And so began my journey from New York City to Seattle via Chicago on the Shore Line and Empire Builder routes, a total of 68-hour train ride!
The Route and the Ride
The journey covered approximately 2,926 miles, divided into two segments:
- Amtrak Shore Line from New York to Chicago: 959 miles, approximately 22 hours.
- Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle: 1,967 miles, approximately 46 hours.
The states we crossed included New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, and Washington. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, from the coastal beauty of Connecticut to the majestic Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Parks, and the sweeping plains of North Dakota.
I chose the coach class for $397 one-way, driven by the thrill of adventure and the opportunity to meet new people. But for those seeking more comfort, Amtrak offers various classes, details of which can be found on its website. Coach class on Amtrak operates on an open seating basis, meaning seats are first come, first served, although every passenger is guaranteed a seat.
To secure a good seat, I recommend arriving at the station early. At Moynihan Train Hall in New York City, passengers should wait for the track line announcement and form a line as soon as the track is announced. The same process applies at Chicago Union Station. Being among the first in line can help ensure you get a preferred seat, whether it’s by the window for scenic views or an aisle seat for easier access.
This setup not only adds an element of excitement but also offers a chance to meet fellow travelers and share the journey. If you prefer a more structured seating arrangement or additional comforts, consider exploring other classes available on Amtrak, such as Business Class or Sleeper accommodations, which provide assigned seating and additional amenities. For more details on seating options and pricing, check out Amtrak’s official website.
Chicago Layover and the Journey Onward
Upon arriving in Chicago, there’s typically a layover before boarding the Empire Builder. This break provided a chance to stretch my legs and explore the Windy City. However, delays can occur; my train was delayed by 1.5 hours, though we made up the time overnight and arrived in Seattle half an hour early!
Although I’ve been to Chicago multiple times, I had hoped to visit Cloud Gate (commonly known as “The Bean”) again. Unfortunately, as soon as we arrived, it started to thunderstorm and pour. So, I had to spend time in the station. Chicago Union Station is a very large station with a great amount of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s definitely worth exploring the station itself and taking pictures.
But if the weather is good, don’t miss the chance to enjoy deep-dish pizza and explore Millennium Park and Cloud Gate. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks are perfect for a quick adventure during your layover.
Empire Builder: The Crown Jewel
The Empire Builder route is a double-decker train, and I recommend choosing a seat on the right side for the best views. One of the highlights was crossing Glacier National Park at the end of the second day — an awe-inspiring sight that made waking up early totally worth it. The final day of the journey brought breathtaking views of Washington State’s water streams, rivers, and landscapes. Don’t miss the long tunnel the train passes through — it’s quite an experience!
Onboard Experience
The Empire Builder has an observation car with large windows offering spectacular views, and the café is located downstairs. Each seat also has full glass windows, allowing you to enjoy the views from your seat.
The dining car is accessible to all passengers, though meals are included for sleeper-class passengers. I enjoyed both breakfast and lunch there — breakfast was $20, lunch $25. The café car offered affordable options too, with coffee at $2.75 and a breakfast bagel with cream cheese for $3.75.
In the dining car, remember to wait to be seated by a crew member. Baggage can be stored overhead, under the seat, or downstairs. For more details on baggage policies, visit the Amtrak website.
Food options on the train are convenient, but it’s a good idea to carry your own snacks or even meals to enjoy during the journey. If you make a good connection with the café crew, they might be willing to heat up your food items. Additionally, if you bring your own cup noodles, you can ask for hot water from the café. Having your own snacks and meals can add variety and comfort to your trip, ensuring you have your favorite treats on hand.
Alternative Travel Options
For those looking to explore multiple destinations by train, the Amtrak 10-Segment Pass (USA Rail Pass) is a fantastic option. Priced at around $500, this pass allows for 10 segments of travel within 30 days, offering flexibility and a cost-effective way to see the country.
Exploring Seattle and Beyond
Upon arriving in Seattle, there’s no shortage of things to do. My plans included visiting Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and North Cascades National Park before flying back on a 5.5-hour flight with Alaska Airlines. Seattle itself offers attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
For those planning a similar journey, I recommend taking the 3:40 PM departure train from NYC and the 3:05 PM departure from Chicago for some amazing views on both lines.
Packing List for a Cross-Country Train Journey
- Comfortable Clothing: Layers to adjust to varying temperatures on the train.
- Snacks and Meals: Your favorite snacks, cup noodles, and any special dietary needs.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the journey; drinking water is available throughout the train.
- Travel Pillow and Blanket: For added comfort during naps and overnight travel. A light blanket provides amazing comfort, and a pillow is essential for sleeping comfortably.
- Chargers and Power Banks: Keep your devices charged throughout the journey. There are 120v charging plugs beside every seat and in the observation area.
- Small Bag or Backpack: Easy access to essentials without rummaging through larger luggage.
Additional Tips:
The restrooms are spacious and clean, with good water quality. The air conditioning and temperature inside the trains are generally comfortable, but it is advisable to layer to adjust as needed.
Final Thoughts
This cross-country train journey from New York City to Seattle was an experience like no other. From the planning stages to the breathtaking views and onboard amenities, it’s a trip that offers adventure, relaxation, and a unique way to see the diverse landscapes of the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or looking for a new adventure, this journey will surely create lasting memories.
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