Operator profileAmtrak (National Railroad Passenger Corporation)
Amtrak is the United States' national intercity passenger railroad, operating a network of long-distance overnight trains that cross the country in one to four nights. Western routes use bi-level Superliner equipment, while eastern routes constrained by New York's tunnels use single-level Viewliner cars in which every Roomette has its own private toilet and sink.
Key facts
Superliner bi-level cars on western long-distance routes (California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder); Viewliner single-level cars on eastern routes (Lake Shore Limited, Crescent).
Two free checked bags with size/weight limits; additional bags cost around $20 each.
No formal check-in; board at the platform. Sleeper passengers get complimentary lounge access at some larger stations.
Full refund within 24 hours of purchase; refund percentage after that depends on fare type (Flexible, Value, Saver).
Prices shown are per-person 'from' fares using dynamic, airline-style pricing that can rise sharply closer to departure or in peak season.
Rail passes
Eurail/Interrail don't cover North America; a separate USA Rail Pass (Coach class, 10 segments within a 120-day window) is available as a regional alternative, though it does not cover sleeper accommodation.
Routes operated
Emeryville 
52h 14m
Amtrak
How to book Amtrak
- Check the route and date on our route page, then note the cabin you want.
- Go to the operator’s own booking site — we never resell or mark up fares.
- Pick your cabin: prices rise as the train fills, so book early for the lowest fare.
- Bring photo ID for border crossings, and arrive a few minutes before departure — there is no airport-style check-in.
We link to the operator — we never mark up the fare.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance can you book Amtrak?
Tickets usually go on sale around 330 days before departure, and the cheapest fares go first.
Does Amtrak accept Interrail and Eurail passes?
Eurail/Interrail don't cover North America; a separate USA Rail Pass (Coach class, 10 segments within a 120-day window) is available as a regional alternative, though it does not cover sleeper accommodation.
What cabins does Amtrak offer?
Amtrak sells Seat, Sleeper Cabin, Private Cabin. Comfort and privacy differ a lot between them.
What is the luggage policy on Amtrak?
Two free checked bags with size/weight limits; additional bags cost around $20 each.
Can I cancel or change a Amtrak ticket?
Full refund within 24 hours of purchase; refund percentage after that depends on fare type (Flexible, Value, Saver).
Which routes does Amtrak run?
We track 5 Amtrak routes, including Chicago–Emeryville, Seattle–Los Angeles, Chicago–Seattle.