In the USA, Amtrak night trains in particular offer an authentic night train experience. Although the route network is not as dense as in Europe, the trains enable a comfortable journey where long distances can be travelled in a relaxed manner while you sleep. Although the other providers have interesting routes, they usually only offer journeys until late in the evening.
This article introduces the most important night train providers in the USA, highlights the features of the trains, presents the most popular routes and offers tips for booking and buying tickets.
The night train providers in the USA
- Amtrak (overnight)
- Rocky Mountaineer (only in the evening)
- Alaska Railroad (only in the evening)
- Brightline (coming soon)
1. Amtrak - The largest overnight train provider in the USA
Amtrak is the leading provider of passenger trains in the USA and offers a comprehensive network of long-distance trains, including numerous night train connections. Amtrak operates some of the best-known long-distance night trains in the USA, connecting major cities and travelling through breathtaking landscapes.
Train equipment
Amtrak offers different travel categories and comfort levels on its overnight trains:
- Seats (Coach Class)The most affordable option, ideal for short to medium-length journeys. The seats are wide and have generous legroom, recline and footrests. Power sockets and free Wi-Fi are available on many trains.
- RoomettesRoomettes are small compartments for one or two people with two seats that can be converted into a bed. The roomettes offer privacy and in most cases meals are included in the price. Shared toilets and showers are available.
- Sleeping car (Bedrooms)Larger compartments with beds for two to three people. These compartments offer more comfort and are ideal for families or longer journeys. They have a private bathroom with shower and toilet. Meals are also included in the price here.
- Dining carMost Amtrak long-distance trains have a dining car where hot meals are served. The menu offers a choice of breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Travellers in sleeping cars receive meals free of charge.
- Observation carSome Amtrak night trains, such as the California Zephyr and the Empire BuilderThe trains have special panoramic coaches with large windows that offer breathtaking views of the passing landscape.
Popular routes
- Amtrak Crescent: New York - New Orleans
- Amtrak Silver Meteor: New York - Miami
- Amtrak Empire BuilderChicago - Seattle/Portland
- Amtrak California ZephyrChicago - San Francisco (Emeryville)
- Amtrak Coast StarlightLos Angeles - Seattle
- Amtrak Sunset Limited: New Orleans - Los Angeles
- Amtrak Lake Shore Limited: New York/Boston - Chicago
These routes cover the entire continent and connect the east and west coasts as well as the northern and southern states.
Ticket booking
Tickets for Amtrak trains can be booked directly on Amtrak's website, via the Amtrak app or by phone. Early bookings are often cheaper, and Amtrak offers different fares that vary depending on flexibility and cancellation options.
2. Rocky Mountaineer - Luxury train journeys through the Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountaineer is a well-known luxury train company that offers breathtaking train journeys through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Recently, Rocky Mountaineer has also introduced a new route to the USA. This luxury train service is aimed at travellers looking for a unique scenic experience, but without overnight accommodation on board.
Train equipment
Rocky Mountaineer trains are known for their exceptional comfort and service:
- GoldLeaf ServicePanoramic carriages with two-storey glass domes, gourmet meals served in an elegant dining car and first-class service. This service offers the ultimate luxury experience.
- SilverLeaf ServiceA high-quality service with comfortable seats, panoramic windows and excellent catering served directly at the seat.
During the trip, all meals, drinks and snacks are included in the price. There are also informative lectures on board about the history and geography of the regions travelled through.
Popular routes:
- Rockies to the Red RocksDenver - Moab (Utah)
This route offers a two-day journey through the majestic Rocky Mountains and the breathtaking desert landscapes of Utah. Although the train is not an overnight option, there is an overnight stay in a hotel halfway through the journey (in Glenwood Springs).
Ticket booking
Tickets for the Rocky Mountaineer can be booked via the company's website. The trips are seasonal and in high demand, so early booking is recommended.
3. Alaska Railroad - Travelling by train in the Alaskan wilderness
The Alaska Railroad offers breathtaking train journeys through the unspoilt nature of Alaska. While most journeys take place during the day, there are some longer connections that end or begin at night. These journeys offer a unique opportunity to experience the Alaskan wilderness at night, even if they are not considered classic night trains.
Train equipment
The Alaska Railroad offers various comfort options:
- Seats (Adventure Class)Comfortable seats with large windows that are ideal for observing the scenery. This class is suitable for price-conscious travellers.
- GoldStar Dome Service (only in summer): A luxurious panoramic coach with glass domes from which travellers can enjoy the landscape to the full.
- There is a Dining carwhere fresh meals are served.
Although there are no sleeping cars with couches or beds, the trains are comfortably equipped for long journeys.
Popular routes
- Denali Star (in summer): Anchorage 8:30 AM - Fairbanks 8:30 PM
- Aurora Winter Train (in winter): Anchorage 8:30 AM - Fairbanks 8:30 PM
The Aurora Winter Train-This service operates in winter and offers partial night journeys that offer a unique view of the Northern Lights (Fairbanks area). This connection is aimed at adventurers and nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of Alaska in winter.
Ticket booking
Tickets can be booked via the Alaska Railroad website or by telephone. Early bookings are advisable, especially for popular summer trips.
4. Brightline - Luxury trains in Florida
Brightline is a regional train provider in Florida that is characterised by luxury and comfort. From 2024/2025, Brightline plans to offer night train connections between Florida's major cities. Although Brightline does not currently operate night-only trains, the trains are so comfortable that they are an attractive alternative to flights or car journeys.
Train equipment
Brightline trains offer different travel classes:
- Smart ClassStandard class with comfortable seats, power sockets, free Wi-Fi and generous storage space. Snacks and drinks can be purchased on board.
- Premium ClassA more luxurious option with more spacious seats, included snacks and drinks and access to premium lounges in the 1TP4 stations. Premium Class offers more legroom and additional comfort for longer journeys.
Popular routes
- Miami 08:45 PM - Orlando 12:15 AM (arrival shortly after midnight)
- Miami - Away Lauderdale - West Palm Beach (several times a day)
These connections provide fast and convenient access to major Florida cities, and with the planned extension to Orlando, Brightline could offer an attractive connection for longer journeys in the region.
Ticket booking
Tickets for Brightline trains can be booked online via the Brightline website or its app. Early booking prices and special offers make travelling with Brightline attractive.
