Train travel in the United States is experiencing renewed enthusiasm. While rail networks in Europe, Japan, and China have long dominated global headlines, American passenger rail is beginning to see a resurgence.

Amtrak — the country’s primary national rail provider — has recently reported record-breaking ridership, and new routes from both public and private operators are helping spark fresh interest in train travel.

From scenic mountain journeys to new connections between major cities, several recently launched or expanded rail routes are making it easier than ever to explore the country by train.

Here are five notable rail trips gaining attention among travelers.

1. Amtrak Borealis: Chicago to Minneapolis–St. Paul

Launched in 2024, the Borealis route strengthens rail connections across the Great Lakes region.

Although the line does not use the same tracks as Amtrak’s long-distance Empire Builder — which runs from Chicago to Seattle or Portland — or the Hiawatha route linking Chicago and Milwaukee, it still adds valuable service for travelers in the Midwest.

Passengers departing from Chicago can easily take a quick trip to Milwaukee, a city known for its historic breweries rooted in German immigrant traditions.

Travelers who continue north to Minneapolis–St. Paul will find a thriving arts and culture scene. Highlights include the Walker Art Center, the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture located in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and live music venues like the Guthrie Theater and First Avenue & 7th St Entry, both closely associated with Prince’s hometown legacy.

2. Canyon Spirit: Salt Lake City to Denver

For travelers seeking breathtaking scenery, the Canyon Spirit route is widely considered one of the most visually spectacular train journeys in the United States.

This privately operated luxury train follows part of the route made famous by Amtrak’s legendary California Zephyr, long regarded as one of the world’s most iconic rail trips.

Canyon Spirit — previously known as Rocky Mountaineer — operates only during daylight hours so passengers can enjoy uninterrupted views of the dramatic landscapes along the journey.

The route winds through Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and across Utah’s striking red-rock desert. Previously the service ended in Moab, a gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. However, beginning in 2026, the line will extend to Salt Lake City, providing easier access through its international airport and major highway connections.

3. Amtrak Floridian: Chicago to Miami

Amtrak introduced the Floridian service in 2024 by combining two existing routes: the Capitol Limited line between Chicago and Washington, D.C., and the Silver Star, which previously connected New York City to Miami.

The result is a new rail journey that allows travelers to move between the Midwest and South Florida without changing trains.

The route includes 46 stops and takes approximately 47 hours to complete.

This arrangement is temporary, however. Once the East River Tunnel Rehabilitation Project in New York City is completed in 2027, the two original services are expected to return to their separate routes.

Until then, the Floridian provides a convenient direct link between Chicago and Miami.

4. Brightline: Miami to Orlando

Among American rail operators, Brightline stands out as the country’s only privately owned intercity passenger train service.

The line connects Miami and Orlando, two of Florida’s most visited destinations, with plans already underway to expand the network to Tampa.

Brightline places a strong emphasis on comfort and modern design. Passengers can enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and sleek stations that even feature a signature citrus scent. The seats themselves are reportedly upholstered with the same leather used in Bentley automobiles.

The company is also looking beyond Florida. Construction is underway for a true high-speed rail line between Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Las Vegas, located about 40 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. The ambitious project is expected to be fully operational by 2029.

5. Amtrak Mardi Gras Service: New Orleans to Mobile

The Mardi Gras Service, launched in August 2025, marks the return of passenger rail service between New Orleans, Louisiana, and Mobile, Alabama.

This route revives a portion of the historic Sunset Limited line, which once ran across the southern United States from Los Angeles to Orlando.

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused severe damage to rail infrastructure east of New Orleans, forcing the suspension of passenger service in the region. While freight trains eventually returned to the line, passenger trains remained absent for nearly two decades.

The new twice-daily service reconnects two cities famous for their Carnival celebrations.

New Orleans hosts the nation’s largest Mardi Gras festival, known for its massive floats and vibrant marching bands. Meanwhile, Mobile’s celebration dates back to 1703, making it the oldest Mardi Gras tradition in the United States.

A New Era for Rail Travel in America

Although the U.S. rail network is still developing compared with systems overseas, these new routes suggest growing momentum for passenger train travel.

With scenic landscapes, improved connections between major cities, and new private rail investments, travelers are finding fresh reasons to explore the country by train.

For many passengers, the appeal is simple: rail travel offers a slower, more scenic way to experience the journey — not just the destination.