How to travel across the U.S. Coast-to-Coast via Amtrak from California to New York for Under $300

Discover how to travel from California to New York aboard Amtrak’s scenic 76‑hour route for just $286. Tips on tickets, upgrades, and travel experience. Embark on an unforgettable cross-country train journey from California to New York for an incredible $286. Hop aboard Amtrak’s spectacular route—approximately 3,500 miles and 76 hours of travel through dazzling landscapes including the Sierra Nevadas, Rocky Mountains, and the expansive American plains. Your ticket includes a dining car experience, with optional upgrades for added comfort.

Whether you're a budget-savvy traveler or someone craving a scenic adventure, this coast-to-coast train offers spectacular views, onboard amenities, and a relaxed pace that planes simply can't match. From rolling through Donner Pass to watching the Rockies transition into the Midwest, each mile offers both comfort and discovery. The train takes off from a station just outside San Francisco, in Emeryville, California, and makes its way to Salt Lake City, then Denver, along the way passing through the beautiful scenery of Redrock country, and the towering Rocky Mountains. After that, it heads over the plains to Chicago and finally New York. Clocking in at nearly 3,500 miles, this trip might call for more than a few stopovers along the way.