This was a bucket list experience. We had never been on a 52 hour trip before on a train and didn't know what to expect. We took the zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago. This was an older train so not everything was perfect. All meals were included. We definitely enjoyed ourselves. The views were amazing and we made some friends and spoke to a few people, especially our table mates as we had to share tables. The staff were amazing and explained everything to us & They kept us fed. We had a 1 bedroom that included a full bathroom. There was an observation car which was nice with it's big windows. The price was good. Would definitely take another trip on Amtrak.

We took the California Zephyr from Chicago Union Station to Emeryville January 21-23.

We rode in a bedroom which was very comfortable.

Overall, this was a truly magnificent experience, allowing us to see America west of Chicago in a truly unique perspective.

The scenery between Chicago and Denver is perhaps not as magnificent, but it is still a powerful slice of Americana.

From Denver west to the Rockies and then onto Utah, Nevada and the Sierra Nevada of California, the scenery is truly breathtaking.

On the train, the service is excellent, three meals a day are included at no additional cost. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is excellent and on our train Chef Michael came around to speak with the guests. He was wonderfully outgoing and charismatic.

Having read some horror stories of monumental delays, we were not sure if we would arrive on time in Emeryville. However, despite a 90-minute delay in Utah, we arrived ten minutes ahead of schedule in Emeryville.

Compared to driving it was so much more enjoyable and relaxing, and while clearly much slower than flying the train truly allowed us to experience the vast and gorgeous landscape of America.

Much more so even than driving, where--especially if you are on the Interstate--you basically experience little more than a wide strip of asphalt and endless gas stations, fast-food restaurants and truck stops.

Plus, on the train you don't have to drive and you're not stuck in the little "box" that is your car.

We met lots of Amtrak fans during this trip for whom the train is always their first choice for long-distance travel in the United States.

Highly recommended.

My journey on the Amtrak California Zephyr began with a ride from Longview Station, Texas, to Chicago. Arriving in Chicago, I stayed overnight near Union Station, giving me a chance to explore the city’s vibrant downtown and iconic architecture. The next morning, I boarded the California Zephyr, eagerly anticipating the renowned cross-country journey to San Francisco.

The California Zephyr lived up to its reputation as one of the most scenic train routes in the United States. The journey took me through a breathtaking variety of landscapes, each more stunning than the last. From the vast plains of the Midwest to the towering Rocky Mountains and the arid deserts of Nevada, the views were nothing short of spectacular. As the train wound through the rugged canyons and snow-capped peaks, it was like traveling through a living postcard.

The train’s comfortable seating, large windows, and friendly atmosphere made the journey even more enjoyable. The dining car offered delicious meals, and the observation car was the perfect place to soak in the panoramic views. By the time we arrived in San Francisco, I felt like I had experienced the heart of America in the most unique way possible. This train journey was truly unforgettable.

Make sure you book a sleeper cab and you can ask your porter cabin staff to bring your meals to your room...oh and add ear muffs and plugs as the train horns every crossing day and night