Looking for a train journey that offers more than just transportation? Want to see parts of the country that are often missed when flying or driving? Then it’s time you discovered the Amtrak Cardinal train.
Connecting major cities like New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago, the Cardinal takes a stunning path less traveled, particularly through the mountains of Virginia and West Virginia. It’s a journey known for its breathtaking views and classic long-distance train experience.
But how does this unique route work? What cities does it visit? How often does it run? And how do you plan your trip? Let’s dive into the details of the Amtrak Cardinal route, stops, schedule, cost, and essential booking tips!
What is the Amtrak Cardinal Train?
The Amtrak Cardinal is a long-distance passenger train service operating between New York City and Chicago. What sets it apart is its picturesque route, bypassing some of the more direct paths to showcase the incredible natural beauty of the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains. Because of its unique path and length, it operates as a tri-weekly train, meaning it runs only three times per week in each direction. This makes planning a bit more specific, but the scenery is well worth it!
The Amtrak Cardinal Route: A Scenic Journey
The Amtrak Cardinal route covers over 1,100 miles, passing through nine states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.
Beginning at New York City’s Penn Station, it travels south through Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore before reaching Washington D.C.’s Union Station. From there, it turns westward, venturing into the heart of the mountains in Virginia and West Virginia – this is the section famous for its stunning river valleys and mountain vistas. It continues through Ohio, Indiana, and finally arrives at Chicago Union Station.
It’s a journey that transitions dramatically, from urban landscapes to rolling hills, and rugged mountain beauty to the flatlands of the Midwest.
Amtrak Cardinal Stops & Stations
As a long-distance train, the Amtrak Cardinal makes a significant number of stops along its route, serving both major metropolitan areas and charming smaller towns, especially through the more rural mountain regions.
Key Amtrak Cardinal stations and cities include:
- New York, NY – Penn Station
- Newark, NJ
- Trenton, NJ
- Philadelphia, PA – William H. Gray III 30th Street Station
- Wilmington, DE
- Baltimore, MD – Penn Station
- Washington, D.C. – Union Station
- Alexandria, VA
- Charlottesville, VA
- Staunton, VA
- White Sulphur Springs, WV (serving The Greenbrier resort)
- Alderson, WV
- Charleston, WV (the state capital)
- Huntington, WV
- Ashland, KY (yes, a brief dip into Kentucky!)
- Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Union Terminal
- Indianapolis, IN
- Crawfordsville, IN
- Lafayette, IN
- Rensselaer, IN
- Dyer, IN
- Hammond, IN
- Chicago, IL – Union Station
Remember, this is a selective list; the Cardinal stops at many smaller stations along its extensive path. Major stations offer a wider range of amenities and transit connections.
Amtrak Cardinal Schedule: The Tri-Weekly Rhythm
Understanding the Amtrak Cardinal schedule is crucial because it doesn’t run daily. As a tri-weekly train, it operates on specific days of the week in each direction. For example, it might depart from New York on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday, and from Chicago on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
The journey from end-to-end takes approximately 24-26 hours, involving an overnight segment regardless of direction.
This is important: Because the schedule is limited and specific, you MUST check the official Amtrak source for the exact departure days and times for your planned travel date. The most accurate place to find the current Amtrak Cardinal schedule is always the official Amtrak website or the Amtrak app.
Amtrak Cardinal Cost & Accommodations
The Amtrak Cardinal cost varies significantly based on several factors, including:
- How far in advance you book: This is critical for long-distance trains! Prices increase as the travel date approaches and as the train fills up.
- Which days you travel: Mid-week travel might be slightly cheaper than weekends or holidays.
- Your destination/origin: Fares are based on distance.
- Your chosen accommodation: This is a major factor on an overnight train.
You have two primary choices for where to sleep (or just sit) on the Cardinal:
- Coach Class: The most budget-friendly option. You get a comfortable, reclining seat with plenty of legroom. Coach is perfectly fine for shorter segments or if you’re comfortable sleeping in a seat overnight.
- Sleeping Accommodations (Roomettes & Bedrooms): For privacy, comfort, and a horizontal bed overnight, booking a private room is highly recommended for the full journey. Roomettes are compact and suitable for one or two people, featuring seats that convert into beds. Bedrooms are larger, offering more space, a private restroom, and shower access. The cost of a Roomette or Bedroom includes all your meals in the Dining Car, which adds significant value.
Prices can range from under $100 for a short Coach segment booked early to $500 – $1000+ for a private room for the full journey, depending heavily on how far in advance you book.
Booking early, especially for Roomettes or Bedrooms, is essential for the Cardinal due to limited availability and rising prices.
Booking Your Trip on the Amtrak Cardinal
Ready to embark on this scenic rail adventure? Here are some Amtrak Cardinal booking tips:
- Book WAY in Advance: For the best prices and to secure sleeping accommodations, plan and book your trip several months ahead, if possible.
- Use the Official Amtrak Channels: Always book directly through the Amtrak website (Amtrak.com) or the official Amtrak mobile app.
- Decide on Accommodation: Consider the length of your trip and your budget. For an overnight journey, a Roomette or Bedroom is a significant upgrade in comfort (and includes meals).
- Check the Tri-Weekly Schedule Carefully: Double-check the specific operating days for your desired route and date.
- Look at Fare Types: Understand the refund and change policies associated with different fare classes (Saver, Value, Flexible).
- Factor in Meal Costs: If traveling in Coach, you’ll need to budget for meals from the Cafe Car or Dining Car (if available for coach passengers – check current service levels). Sleeping car passengers have meals included.
- Plan Connections: If New York or Chicago aren’t your final destination, factor in time and logistics for connecting trains or local transit.
Why Choose the Amtrak Cardinal for Your Journey?
Taking the Amtrak Cardinal train is about more than just reaching your destination; it’s embracing the journey itself.
- Spectacular Scenery: The route through the Virginias and West Virginia is unparalleled on the Amtrak system.
- Relaxing Travel: Avoid the hassles of airports or the stress of driving long distances.
- See Hidden America: The train passes through towns and landscapes you simply don’t see from the interstate.
- Onboard Experience: Enjoy the rhythm of the rails, walk around, visit the Cafe Car, and perhaps enjoy a meal in the Dining Car.
- Unique Adventure: It’s a classic way to travel and offers a different perspective on the country.
For a memorable, scenic, long-distance train travel experience connecting major East Coast cities with the Midwest, the Amtrak Cardinal stands out. It requires a bit more planning due to its tri-weekly schedule, but the views and the journey itself are a wonderful reward.