
Best Train Journeys Around the World in Madison, Wisconsin, United States
1. Hiawatha Route
Journey through Wisconsin's scenic landscapes on the iconic Hiawatha Line, offering a unique blend of city and rural views.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of Wisconsin's natural landscapes and quaint towns.
- Historical Significance: Travel on a rail line with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
- Accessibility: Easy access from Madison, making it an ideal day trip destination.
2. Empire Builder Route
Experience the vast plains and glacial lakes of North Dakota and Montana on Amtrak's Empire Builder.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the stunning beauty of Glacier National Park and the Missouri River.
- Long Distance Travel: Cover a vast distance, offering an unparalleled train journey experience.
- Comfortable Journey: Enjoy comfortable seating, dining cars, and sleeper accommodations during the trip.
3. California Zephyr
Traverse the Rockies aboard the California Zephyr, passing through eight states and iconic locations like the Colorado River and the Great Salt Lake.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from the Rockies to the plains.
- Iconic Landmarks: Pass by renowned landmarks such as the Colorado River and the Great Salt Lake.
- Long Duration: A multi-day journey, perfect for those who appreciate extended train travel.
4. Capital Limited
Travel between Washington D.C. and Chicago on the Capital Limited, passing through the heart of America's Midwest.
- Historical Significance: Follow in the footsteps of U.S. Presidents, traveling on a historic rail line.
- City Exploration: Explore two iconic cities: Washington D.C. and Chicago.
- Efficient Travel: Cover a significant distance in a relatively short time compared to other long-distance journeys.
5. Adirondack Route
Journey through the picturesque Adirondack Mountains of New York on the Adirondack Line.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain.
- Nature Immersion: Enjoy a close encounter with nature, from the comfort of your train seat.
- Relaxation: Unwind as you travel through some of America's most serene landscapes.
6. Cascades Route
Marvel at the majestic Cascade Mountains and cross the Columbia River Gorge on the Cascades Line.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the stunning beauty of the Cascade Mountains and the Columbia River Gorge.
- Scenic Photography: Capture unforgettable photographs of the region's breathtaking landscapes.
- City Exploration: Explore vibrant cities like Seattle and Portland along the way.
7. Coast Starlight
Travel from Los Angeles to Seattle along the stunning Pacific Coast aboard the Coast Starlight.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast, from the redwood forests to the ocean.
- Iconic Cities: Explore iconic cities such as Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco.
- Ocean Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean for much of the journey.
8. Southwest Chief
Journey from Chicago to Los Angeles on the Southwest Chief, passing through the heartland of America.
- Historical Significance: Travel on a historic rail line that has been in operation since the early 20th century.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from rolling prairies to towering canyons.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Albuquerque and Flagstaff along the way.
9. Sunset Limited
Travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans aboard the Sunset Limited, taking in the vast landscapes of the American Southwest and Gulf Coast.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from the desert to the bayou.
- Historical Significance: Travel on a rail line that has been in operation since the early 20th century.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as San Antonio, Austin, and Houston along the way.
10. Texas Eagle
Travel from Chicago to San Antonio or Los Angeles on the Texas Eagle, passing through the Lone Star State's diverse landscapes.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from rolling prairies to rugged canyons.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the unique culture and history of Texas.
- City Exploration: Explore vibrant cities such as Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin along the way.
11. Palmetto Train
Journey from New York City to Miami on the Palmetto Train, taking in the diverse landscapes of the East Coast and South.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from urban skylines to tropical beaches.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Washington D.C., Charlotte, and Atlanta along the way.
- Tropical Escape: Relax and unwind as you approach the tropical paradise of Miami.
12. Silver Meteor
Travel from New York City to Tampa or Miami on the Silver Meteor, taking in the diverse landscapes of the East Coast and South.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from urban skylines to tropical beaches.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Washington D.C., Orlando, and Jacksonville along the way.
- Tropical Escape: Relax and unwind as you approach the tropical paradise of Tampa or Miami.
13. Silver Star
Travel from New York City to Miami or Orlando on the Silver Star, taking in the diverse landscapes of the East Coast and South.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from urban skylines to tropical beaches.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Washington D.C., Raleigh, and Savannah along the way.
- Tropical Escape: Relax and unwind as you approach the tropical paradise of Miami or Orlando.
14. Auto Train
Travel from Washington D.C. to Florida on the Auto Train, a unique service that allows you to travel with your car.
- Convenience: Travel with your car, making it easy to continue your journey upon arrival.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from the rolling hills of Virginia to the tropical paradise of Florida.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Lorton and Sanford along the way.
15. Crescent
Travel from New York City to New Orleans or Atlanta on the Crescent, taking in the diverse landscapes of the East Coast and South.
- Scenic Diversity: Experience a variety of landscapes, from urban skylines to tropical swamps.
- City Exploration: Explore iconic cities such as Washington D.C., Birmingham, and Mobile along the way.
- Historical Significance: Travel on a rail line with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.