In our digital nomad life, we’re constantly seeking ways to travel smarter, not just harder. While flights are often the quickest option, and road trips offer flexibility (we know this well from our years living in our fifth wheel!), there’s a unique charm and surprising efficiency to cross-country train travel that has completely won over our family.

Train travel has become one of our favorite ways to traverse long distances, especially when Tabitha is between her NICU nursing assignments and we have the luxury of slower travel. It’s a chance to slow down, connect as a family, and truly see the landscape unfold outside our window – something we’ve grown to appreciate even more after years of homeschooling the boys using the Montessori approach, where observation and discovery are key.

Forget airport security lines with two energetic boys and cramped car rides where “Are we there yet?” starts within the first hour. Instead, imagine settling into a spacious seat, Asher and Noah playing board games or working on their travel journals, and panoramic views becoming your backdrop. After exploring 37 countries and countless train systems, we’ve discovered that cross-country train routes offer not just an unforgettable journey, but a truly smart way to travel that often saves both money and time.

Why Our Digital Nomad Family Loves Train Travel

Before we dive into the specific routes, let’s talk about why trains have become a go-to for our family:

• Cost-Effectiveness: When you factor in baggage fees, airport transfers, and the need for car rentals at your destination, trains often come out ahead. Plus, overnight trains can double as accommodation, saving on hotel costs. We always look for family passes or discounts.
• Time Efficiency: While trains might not always beat a direct flight in pure travel time, they save immense time on the overall experience. No need to arrive hours before departure, less time spent in security, and direct routes to city centers mean less transit time from airport to downtown.
• Comfort and Space: This is huge with kids! Trains offer more legroom, the ability to walk around, and often dedicated dining cars and observation lounges. Our kids love the freedom to move, and we appreciate not being confined to a tiny seat for hours.
• Environmental Impact: As a family, we try to make conscious choices. Train travel generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to flying, making it a more sustainable choice for our eco-conscious adventures.
• Scenic Views: Many train routes are specifically designed to showcase breathtaking landscapes that are inaccessible by road or air. It’s like a moving picture show for the whole family!

Our Family’s Top Cross-Country Train Routes for Savings and Scenery

Here are some of the most popular and rewarding cross-country train routes that offer a fantastic travel experience without breaking the bank.

1. The California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)

Often hailed as one of the most beautiful train rides in North America, the California Zephyr has become our family’s absolute favorite cross-country route. This incredible journey traverses the vast landscapes between Chicago and San Francisco, taking you through the heart of the Rockies, across the Sierra Nevada, and past stunning canyons and deserts that left all of us speechless.

The California Zephyr through the Rockies is pure magic – even Asher and Noah were glued to the windows for hours.

The 51-hour journey might sound daunting with young kids, but it’s honestly been one of our most memorable family experiences. Noah loves tracking our progress on the map and learning about the different geological formations we pass through – it’s like a moving geology lesson! Asher is fascinated by the engineering marvels, especially when we wind through mountain tunnels.

We’ve learned that booking a Roomette or Bedroom is worth the investment for families, as it gives the boys space to spread out and play, plus the beds convert for comfortable sleeping. However, coach is still quite comfortable if you’re budget-conscious. The key is booking well in advance through Amtrak and looking for off-peak travel dates to get the best fares. We’ve found that traveling in shoulder seasons can save up to 40% compared to peak summer rates.

Key Highlights for Families:

• Rocky Mountains: Witness the majestic peaks and deep canyons of Colorado. The kids will love spotting wildlife!
• Sierra Nevada: Experience the dramatic ascent and descent through this iconic mountain range.
• Observation Car: Our kids love the glass-domed observation car for 360-degree views.

The views from the observation car on the California Zephyr were absolutely breathtaking! Our kids were glued to the windows. Our Roomette on the Zephyr was cozy and perfect for family time, even on a long journey.

2. The Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)

Following the historic footsteps of Lewis and Clark, the Empire Builder offers a journey through the American Northwest. This route splits in Spokane, Washington, with one section continuing to Seattle and the other to Portland. You\’ll pass through the vast plains of the Midwest, the rugged beauty of Glacier National Park, and the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest. This route is particularly popular for its access to national parks, making it a fantastic educational trip for kids. Check out the National Park Service website for more information on parks along the route.

Key Highlights for Families:

• Glacier National Park: Unforgettable views of mountains, forests, and lakes. We loved pointing out the different landscapes to the kids.
• Mississippi River: Follow the mighty river through its early stages – a great geography lesson!
• Family-Friendly Dining: The dining car offers a unique experience, and we always enjoy meals together while watching the scenery.

Boarding the Empire Builder with Glacier National Park as our backdrop was an exciting start to our adventure.

Dining on the train is always an adventure for the kids, and the views from the dining car were spectacular.

3. The Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)

For those who love coastal views, the Coast Starlight is a must-do. This route hugs the Pacific coastline for much of its journey, offering spectacular ocean vistas, lush forests, and fertile valleys. The train features a Pacific Parlour Car (for sleeping car passengers) with swivel seats and large windows, perfect for soaking in the scenery. While not a direct cross-country route, it connects seamlessly with other routes like the Empire Builder, making it a great add-on for a longer trip. We often use this route to explore the beautiful West Coast. For more on the Pacific Parlour Car experience, check out this review: Pacific Parlour Car Review.

Key Highlights for Families:

• Pacific Ocean Views: Miles of stunning coastline – perfect for whale watching if you’re lucky!
• Cascade Mountains: Pass through the scenic mountains of Oregon.
• Family Photo Ops: The scenery provides endless opportunities for memorable family photos.

The Pacific Ocean views from the Coast Starlight were absolutely mesmerizing. We spent hours just watching the waves.

So many amazing photo opportunities on the Coast Starlight!

4. The Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)

Journey through the heart of the American Southwest on the Southwest Chief. This route takes you through eight states, showcasing diverse landscapes from the farmlands of the Midwest to the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico. You\’ll see historic pueblos, vast mesas, and stunning red rock formations. This route is a great option for those interested in Native American history and culture, offering a unique educational experience for the whole family. Consider a stop at the Grand Canyon via a connecting bus for an unforgettable detour. For more on the history of the Southwest Chief, check out Wikipedia.

Key Highlights for Families:

• Grand Canyon (via connecting bus): Easy access to one of the world\’s natural wonders – a definite bucket list item!
• Painted Desert: Witness the vibrant colors of this unique landscape.
• Native American Culture: Opportunities to learn about the rich history and traditions of indigenous peoples.

The red rock landscapes on the Southwest Chief were unlike anything we’d ever seen. The kids were fascinated by the changing colors.

A quick detour from the Southwest Chief to the Grand Canyon was absolutely worth it! What an incredible sight.

5. The Crescent (New York to New Orleans)

Experience the charm of the American South on the Crescent. This route connects the bustling metropolis of New York City with the vibrant culture of New Orleans. You’ll travel through historic cities, picturesque small towns, and the scenic landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains. This route is ideal for those looking to explore the rich history and culinary delights of the South, offering a fantastic cultural immersion for the family. For more on things to do in New Orleans, visit New Orleans & Company.

Key Highlights for Families:

• Appalachian Mountains: Enjoy the rolling hills and forests.
• Atlanta: A major hub with plenty to explore, including the World of Coca-Cola and Georgia Aquarium.
• New Orleans: The vibrant culture, music, and food of the Big Easy – a sensory feast for all ages!

The Appalachian Mountains from the Crescent train were so peaceful and green. A perfect backdrop for some quiet family time.

New Orleans was a burst of color and music! The kids loved the street performers in the French Quarter.

Our Digital Nomad Family’s Tips for Saving Money on Train Travel

• Book in Advance: Just like flights, train tickets are often cheaper when booked several weeks or months ahead of your travel date. We use Amtrak’s website directly for the best deals.
• Consider Rail Passes: For extensive travel, multi-day or multi-ride rail passes can offer significant savings compared to individual tickets. Do the math to see if it makes sense for your itinerary.
• Travel Off-Peak: Avoid holidays and peak seasons for lower fares and fewer crowds. Flexibility is key for budget travel!
• Be Flexible with Dates: If your schedule allows, use flexible date searches to find the cheapest days to travel. Sometimes shifting your departure by a day or two can save a lot.
• Look for Discounts: Many rail companies offer discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, and AAA members. Always ask!
• Pack Your Own Food: While dining cars are a great experience, bringing your own snacks and meals can save a lot of money, especially with hungry kids. We pack a cooler with sandwiches, fruits, and drinks.
• Choose Coach Class (Smartly): While sleeping cars offer more comfort, coach class is significantly cheaper and still provides a comfortable ride for most journeys. For overnight trips, we have brought travel pillows and blankets to make it more comfortable.

Conclusion: Train Travel – A Smart Choice for Our Traveling Family

Cross-country train travel offers a unique and rewarding way to see the country, combining stunning scenery with comfort and affordability. For our digital nomad family, it’s more than just transportation; it’s an integral part of the adventure, allowing us to bond, learn, and experience the vastness of the landscape together. By planning ahead and utilizing these tips, your family can embark on an unforgettable rail adventure that saves you money and time, allowing you to truly enjoy the journey. Happy rails!