Train Travel Is Trending For Holiday Vacations This Year And It's Clear Why

With Thanksgiving nearly upon us and Christmas just around the corner, thousands of travelers will be going the distance to join family and friends all over the U.S. But since federally mandated flight reductions and delays caused nationwide chaos, many travelers have been skipping the crowded airports for a more comfortable and reliable travel experience: taking the train. According to Amtrak, 34.5 million passengers have chosen to take the scenic route over the past year, showing a 5.1% increase from 2024. "With the uncertainty over air travel, we have seen an uptick in demand across the country," Amtrak president, Roger Harris, told Today. "We expect to see it throughout [the] Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays."

The American Automobile Association (AAA) agrees, estimating that around 2.5 million people will travel by train, bus, or cruise this Thanksgiving — the highest number in years. This has been happening since the government shutdown saw unpaid air traffic controllers walk off the job. The increase in this underrated method of travel has resulted in record revenue for Amtrak, who has invested in more services and upgrades to stations, tracks, and signals, with more upgrades planned for 2026. And with the introduction of high-speed trains reaching up to 160 mph, you're more likely than ever to reach your destination on time.

Train travel is one of the best ways to get around, especially during the holiday season. As well as avoiding the chaos of the airports, you don't have to suffer the long check-ins and endless waiting times that come with flying. And unlike airports, boarding is much more straightforward, with minimal security lines and considerably less stress. Compared to driving, passengers agree that train travel is much easier, with a chance to enjoy a truly relaxing experience during the hustle and bustle of the holiday rush. 

There's no better way to watch the panoramic views over the fields, mountains, and rivers of the American countryside than during some of the most scenic train rides in the U.S. Plus, trains offer a much more sustainable way to travel, meaning you're doing your bit for the environment too. But train travel isn't perfect. In December 2024, Amtrak was forced to cancel or delay services due to downed power lines. And the weather can still derail even the best-laid travel plans, no matter what mode of transportation you choose. If you're well prepared, you can avoid some common mistakes when traveling by train – make sure you arrive in plenty of time, pack light, and download the Amtrak app to keep track of travel news.