USA Sleeper Train –
Riding Across The Country With Amtrak
USA Sleeper Train
There is something so wonderful and nostalgic about train travel. No rushing through an airport security line or cramped, crowded planes. Just plenty of space to relax and the chance to enjoy the journey, not only the destination.
Traveling across the country in an Amtrak sleeper train is nothing short of magical. Watching the countryside pass by as the train rocks you to sleep is so peaceful and cozy. Best of all, you can do this trip for FREE by travel hacking.
So tuck in, pour yourself a glass of wine from your roomette and prepare to soak in the sites from a sleeper car!
Watch the full recap of my trip here:
Private Sleeper Car
After sharing my Amtrak trip on my Instagram and TikTok accounts, I realized just how many people didn’t know about the private sleeper cars!
Taking an Amtrak train anywhere can be a lovely experience but it’s far better when you have a private room to yourself. And even better yet with a bed!
Perks of a private room:
- Complimentary Meals (Dinner, breakfast and lunch)
- Lounge Access
- Car Attendant
- Access to Showers/Bathrooms
- Comfortable bed (All your pillows & bedding included)
You can read more about the different rooms here. And be sure to check out the following video to see the roommettes!
Chicago to New Orleans
I boarded the train at the stunning Union Station in Chicago and rode it for 19 hours down to New Orleans.
Dinner was served almost immediately after boarding. I opted for the sesame salmon the comes with a salad, sides, a brownie and wine. It was absolutely delicious!
I’ve had food on Amtrak trains before but found the salmon option particularly good.
After dinner, an attendant came around and readied everyone’s beds. I had the smallest size room available, which was plenty for me! But there was a second bunk bed in the room if you are traveling as a pair.
That night I drank wine and watched movies. It was lovely!
The next morning, I had the omelette breakfast option. (Just make sure you order your breakfast before 9am!) Then I drank coffee from the glass ceiling observation car and hung out in my private room before lunch.
I had my third final meal before disembarking. You will certainly not go hungry on an overnight Amtrak trip! I felt like I was constantly being served food.
There is also an additional concession shop if you want more sweets, snacks or alcohol than what is included.
By the time I arrived in New Orleans, I was very well fed and rested. Not to mention, I was sad that my dreamy train ride was coming to an end. I’m already looking forward to booking my next Amtrak trip!
How To Get This Trip For FREE
You can easily get this trip for free through the process known as travel hacking.
I signed up for the free Amtrak Guest Rewards Mastercard. Once you spend $1,000 in the first 90 days of opening the account, you are eligible for the sign up bonus. Then I usually book my Amtrak travel through their app with the points I’ve earned.
For even more perks, you can sign up for the card with the $79 annual fee. If you continue to use your card, you’ll keep wracking up the Amtrak points!
You can sign up for the card here.
Other Train Travel Adventures
Traveling by train has always been a favorite of mine! Read about my train ride across Sweden here.
And the historic steam train in Durango, Colorado here.
Shop my travel favorites:
