There has been a resurgence of sleeper trains, and alongside it are scenic rides only a long-haul trip can give. There are many amazing train rides in the world, especially in Europe, where more train routes are being added. Tourists who want to have worthwhile travel experiences should try a long-haul ride at least once.
From the scenic train rides of Europe to the stunning long-haul trips in Africa, train passengers will have a classic and satisfying journey. The United States is not one to be outdone because it also has scenic train destinations matched by the comfort and luxury of the coach.
Many train journeys in the US take tourists to stunning sights, like the Grand Canyon Railway, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, and the Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic, the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, among others. However, Amtrak is the best-known and leading provider of such travel adventures. Their Crescent train is a must-try because it takes guests to many places, offering them the chance to try many experiences. New York to New Orleans, who wouldn’t love to experience this mesmerizing journey? Tourists will go loco aboard this Amtrak locomotive.
Plan The Trip
For a total Amtrak experience, tourists should take the New York-Atlanta-New Orleans route, boarding at the iconic Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in NY and ending their journey at the Union Passenger Terminal in Louisiana. The price of the accommodation varies, so travelers should plan well and consider traveling either during the shoulder or off-season.
Amtrak offers five fare types (saver, value, flexible, business, and premium) for a coach, business, or sleeper accommodation. Whichever they choose, the passenger experience is unmatched.
It’s always better to pack light, but for those who want to bring lots of items, here are some reminders.
- Onboard, passengers can have two personal items (up to 25 pounds) and two carry-on bags (up to 50 lbs.)
- Passengers can have up to two checked-in bags weighing no more than 50 lbs. Sporting equipment and other large items are considered checked baggage (weight and size requirements apply).
- There’s a $20 fee for each excess or oversized baggage.
Thirty Hours, 34 Stations, 12 States Plus D.C.
The journey aboard the Crescent train will take passengers to a mishmash of wonders along the southern American countryside. From the changes in the weather to the varying views, this Amtrak trip is the best representation of traveling for the journey, not the destination.
The tour takes more than 30 hours to finish and will lead passengers to 12 states, plus Washington, D.C. There are 34 stations to be seen in NY, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, D.C., Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and LA. The tracks look good and they are always ready for a journey.
Major Stops
With such wonderful states that offer unique attractions, tourists might have a hard time choosing what to check out at every stop. As stated earlier, it’s all about the journey and not the destinations, but here are major stops where travelers can enjoy doing the things they love. That is, living life to the fullest.
New York City
The Big Apple does not need any introduction. This world-famous city is home to some iconic landmarks, they are easy to spot – even foreigners will immediately know. That’s how popular this city is, a true representation of what the US is: filled with life.
From Penn Station, tourists can explore Manhattan, especially its Central Park, the towering Empire State Building, and the mesmerizing Madison Square Garden. This city never sleeps, and sleeper train passengers will know why.
Philadelphia
Upon reaching 30th Street Station, passengers should be excited to explore Philadelphia’s wonders. They can first visit the Schuylkill River Trail, where unwinding is always within grasp, thanks to the river’s welcoming presence. Along the multi-use trail, tourists can have a stroll, stretch their legs, or just enjoy sightseeing. Feeling good in Philly is an easy task.
Baltimore
The East Coast is proud of Baltimore, so when passengers stop at the Baltimore Pennsylvania Station, they should know they are in good hands. The key attraction they should visit is the Inner Harbor, where they can explore the National Aquarium. For history buffs, they should drop by the USS Constellation, a warship that served the nation for a century. The “city of boats” has all the reason to boast.
Washington, D.C.
The exploration of the seat of the nation starts at Washington Union Station. Aside from the majestic United States Capitol, tourists can also visit landmarks like the National Mall, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others. The district is also proud of its museums, especially the world-famous Smithsonian, where learning is fun. In D.C., being busy means being happy – at least for tourists.
Charlotte
Charlotte’s got a lot, like public art, museums, performing arts centers, zoos, gardens, historic landmarks, and even libraries (maybe tourists want a really quiet time). The list of attractions is long because this city knows how to impress. Right before arriving at the station, tourists should be excited to explore Charlotte’s beautiful spots.
Greenville
Everyone’s talking about Greenville but who are the lucky ones? The Amtrak passengers. They will alight at the station and start a journey through this “underrated” city. Its downtown is an inviting place where good food and good times work together for an unparalleled SC experience. Those who want to do more than just eat can visit cultural sites, nature spots, and even waterfalls. Greenville won't disappoint them.
Atlanta
Arriving at Atlanta Peachtree Station, passengers will be eager to alight knowing the city welcomes them as its residents. Atlanta offers Lake Lanier, its mid and downtown, museums, and Georgia Aquarium, one of the world’s largest. Atlanta is indeed on a different level, tourists just need to be out there.
Birmingham
Alabama’s Birmingham is not one to be ignored. The city has wide-ranging attractions for the science lover to the history enthusiast. It has such attractions as the McWane Science Center, Alabama Theatre, Regions Field for baseball fans, and ziplines for those who want to have an adrenaline rush. Alabama means business, and it shows.
New Orleans
NOLA is the last stop but not the least. Upon arriving at the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, tourists already know that it's time to say goodbye to Amtrak, but there’s more to explore. There’s Lake Pontchartrain, Caesars Superdome, Smoothie King Center, and the National WWII Museum, among others. The tour ends in New Orleans, but the journey just started. How about a ride back to New York?