Amtrak Real Time Map
Traveling by train is a unique and exciting way to explore the United States. With Amtrak’s Real Time Map, you can track your train’s progress and plan your itinerary accordingly. This comprehensive travel guide will cover everything you need to know about visiting the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences along the Amtrak route.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions along the Amtrak route is the Grand Canyon. Take a detour from the Southwest Chief route to visit this natural wonder and explore the hiking trails. Another must-see attraction is Niagara Falls, located near the Empire Service route.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider stopping in the small town of Marfa, Texas. This quirky desert town is home to unique art installations and a vibrant cultural scene. Another hidden gem is the abandoned mining town of Garnet, Montana, located near the Empire Builder route.
Food Scene
The Amtrak route offers a diverse range of food options. In Chicago, don’t miss the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s or the famous hot dogs at Portillo’s. In New Orleans, indulge in Cajun cuisine at Acme Oyster House or Commander’s Palace. And in San Francisco, be sure to try the seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, consider purchasing a rail pass that allows you to travel on multiple Amtrak routes for a set price. You can also save money by packing your own snacks and meals for the journey.
Outdoor Adventures
The Amtrak route offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and skiing. Take a detour from the California Zephyr route to explore the Rocky Mountains, or stop in Glacier National Park near the Empire Builder route.
Historical Landmarks
From the Freedom Trail in Boston to the Alamo in San Antonio, the Amtrak route is full of historical landmarks. Visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. or the Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah to learn more about U.S. history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? The Amtrak route offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including visiting the San Diego Zoo or the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. You can also take a scenic boat tour of the Chicago River or explore the Space Needle in Seattle.
Natural Wonders
The Amtrak route offers breathtaking views of natural wonders, including the Rocky Mountains, the Pacific coastline, and the Grand Canyon. Take a detour from the Empire Builder route to explore Yellowstone National Park or the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Amtrak route also offers plenty of options for nightlife, including live music in Austin, Texas and the vibrant bar scene in New Orleans. You can also take a sunset cruise in San Francisco or explore the nightlife in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience local culture is by visiting a farmers’ market. Stop in the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco or the Pike Place Market in Seattle to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous mountain getaway, the Amtrak route has something for everyone. Visit the beaches of southern California or the mountains of Colorado and Utah.
Cultural Immersion
The Amtrak route offers plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion, including visiting the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. or exploring the art scene in Santa Fe, New Mexico. You can also take a walking tour of historic Charleston, South Carolina.
Art and Music Scene
The Amtrak route is home to some of the country’s most vibrant art and music scenes. Visit the galleries and museums in New York City or explore the live music venues in Nashville. You can also take a tour of the street art in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot. Take a walking tour of historic Savannah, Georgia or explore the street art in Philadelphia. You can also take a guided tour of the architecture in Chicago or the historic landmarks in Boston.
Architectural Marvels
The Amtrak route is home to some of the country’s most iconic architectural marvels, including the Empire State Building in New York City and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, Illinois or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.
Historical Sites
The Amtrak route offers plenty of opportunities to explore U.S. history. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania or the USS Arizona Memorial in Hawaii. You can also explore the historic landmarks in Philadelphia or the Civil Rights Trail in Alabama.
Biking Routes
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the Amtrak route, consider biking. The Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania offers a scenic biking route, while the Katy Trail State Park in Missouri is the longest rails-to-trails biking route in the country.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re in need of some relaxation and rejuvenation, consider stopping at one of the wellness retreats along the Amtrak route. Visit the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in San Luis Obispo, California or the Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa in Tucson.
Adventure Sports
The Amtrak route offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports, including white-water rafting in Colorado or skiing in Utah. You can also go kayaking in the San Juan Islands or take a hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley.
With so much to see and do along the Amtrak route, this travel guide will help you plan the ultimate train adventure. From natural wonders to cultural immersion, there is something for everyone along the tracks.