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Explore the US by train as Amtrak resumes its normal schedules

America is a vast and beautiful land, offering all kinds of scenery, from gorgeous beaches, to mountains, to deserts and lush green lands. Instead of queuing up at an airport and flying in a crammed plane, there are better ways to see the 50 states. Yes, you can jump in your car and head off on a road trip, but whoever is driving misses out on the views along the way. Likely the best way to see the country is by train, where the whole family can relax and watch the passing parade of beautiful scenes along the way.

Amtrak resumes daily service for 12 long-distance routes

What better way to explore the USA than on a comfortable train? While service has been limited over the last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the good news is that starting in May 2021 Amtrak will fully restore its daily service for 12 of its long-distance routes across the USA.

Daily schedules will be grouped into three phases, with May 24 being the first with the launch of Amtrak’s Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, California Zephyr and Texas Eagle. The second phase starts on May 31, when the Southwest Chief, City of New Orleans, Capitol Limited and Lake Shore Limited services take off. The third phase starts on June 7, with the Crescent, Palmetto, Silver Meteor and Silver Star services restored.

Amtrak destinations and schedules stay the same

Those who regularly use the Amtrak long-distance service will be pleased to hear that the destinations and scheduled departure and arrival times will be the same. Besides the daily Auto Train, Amtrak will continue the tri-weekly Cardinal and Sunset Limited trains as well.

Amtrak CEO, Bill Fly said in a recent statement that offering daily long-distance services represents a “vital step” on the country’s road to recovery, as well as getting people back to work. He went on to thank Congress for “enabling service restoration and helping us recall furloughed employees.”

Safety And Health Measures On Amtrak

With the COVID-19 pandemic still continuing, Amtrak will place its safety and cleaning measures at the forefront. All customers and employees are required to wear face marks or face coverings while on the train and waiting in the stations.

To allow for social distancing in the seating areas, reservations have been limited. Amtrak has also put enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols in place at all stations and onboard its trains. Trains are also equipped with onboard filtration systems, with a fresh air exchange rate every four to five minutes.

For true comfort, Amtrak offers private room accommodations on many of the routes. These are located in the Sleeping Car and offer amenities and comfort for those traveling overnight.

One of the options available is Roomettes, which feature two comfortable seats during the day. These convert to a comfortable upper and lower berth at night. Each Roomette features a large picture window for passengers to enjoy the scenery. They are also equipped with a private restroom with a shower, along with fresh towels and linens.

Even better, passengers traveling in a private room have all meals included in the price. A variety of options are available on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Experience America on an Amtrak long-distance train this year, while enjoying the ultimate in comfort for the whole family.