This Scenic Train Ride Takes You On A Fun Journey From New York To New Orleans
The U.S. isn't known for its trains. In a country where the car is definitely king, the rail network is often overlooked or forgotten, seen as something old-fashioned and out of date. Most people looking to travel across the country will choose an airplane, with flying seen as faster, cheaper, and more convenient. But this attitude is a shame, because jumping on a train is one of the most underrated ways to travel. Traveling by train is one of the best ways to experience and appreciate America's unbelievably beautiful landscapes, which is harder when you're flying above the clouds or stuck in traffic, concentrating on the road ahead.
The U.S. offers some incredible train journeys to choose from, with routes like Amtrak's Empire Builder and the Denali Star Train rivaling Europe's most scenic train rides. One of the most exciting routes in the country is the Amtrak Crescent, a glorious overnight adventure that encompasses the vast majority of the east coast, sweeping majestically down from New York all the way to New Orleans, and showcasing the rich beauty of the deep south.
The Amtrak Crescent route begins in New York's Penn Station, and passes through some of the east coast's most famous cities — Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C. – before heading south. Highlights of the route include Charlottesville, Virginia, Charlotte, North Carolina, Atlanta, Georgia, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, before reaching Mississippi, and finally, Louisiana and New Orleans.
From the East Coast to the Deep South
Described by The Independent as one of the most scenic train journeys in the U.S., the Amtrak Crescent offers stunning views along its 1,370-mile route. Once the train has raced past the high-speed Northeast Corridor, the countryside opens up and the train seems to slow down to match. The journey feels more gentle as it trundles through quaint small towns, across vintage suspension bridges, and through river valleys that snake their way through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Georgia brings with it the soft-focus, faded peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as the verdant foliage of the Nantahala and Talladega National Forests, which makes this journey particularly spectacular during fall, as the woods put on their finest reds, golds, and oranges. The final moments of the route are perhaps the most dramatic, as the train crosses the 5.8-mile Huey P. Long Bridge over the Mississippi River on its final approach to New Orleans.
The Crescent also passes through some of the most charming small towns and cities in the country, and it's arguably worth breaking up the journey to enjoy some time in one or two of the stops along the route. Greenville, South Carolina is consistently named one of "America's Best Downtowns," and offers some excellent museums and restaurants. Laurel, Mississippi and Tuscaloosa, Alabama are both delightful examples of southern culture and hospitality, while Atlanta is a cultural showstopper, combining cosmopolitan big-city vibes with laidback antebellum charm. And of course, at either end of the route lie two of America's most remarkable cities, New York and New Orleans!
How to make the most of your journey
Buying tickets for the Amtrak Crescent is a relatively simple affair, but there are a few things to bear in mind before you book, as well as some simple train hacks that'll transform your journey. There are three ticket tiers to choose from, providing different levels of comfort.
Coach Class is the cheapest and most basic, offering standard airplane-style seating for the entire journey. These tend to cost around $100. Roomette Class is pricier, at around $400 for two, but gives you a private sleeper compartment with fold-out beds, as well as water, coffee, and meals included. The most luxurious option is Bedroom Sleeper Class at $900 for two, which offers comfier beds and a private bathroom with a stand-up shower. There's WIFI throughout the train.
It's worth choosing your travel dates carefully, as fares can be significantly higher at certain times of the year, particularly during Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz Festival. September to November tends to be the most popular time to travel, as the landscape lights up in a fiery blaze of fall foliage colors. It's also worth maximizing comfort, particularly if you choose to travel in Coach Class. Bring a blanket, slippers, a pillow, and an eye mask, and you'll be able to arrive at your destination rested and relaxed after enjoying a good night's sleep.