This Amtrak route was named the best train line in the U.S.

Traveling by train is not the fastest, yet one of the most romantic and relaxing ways to explore the world. Train passengers could enjoy picturesque views, comfortable seats, and a relaxing atmosphere. Trains are also more environmentally friendly than any other mode of transportation.

In 2019, rail accounted for just 4 percent of the transport industry’s global emissions, according to data from Boston Consulting Group. Recently, Wanderu, a bus and train travel booking platform, announced the winners of the “2023 Passengers’ Choice Awards for Excellence in Ground Travel”. The company used reviews from users to determine the best bus and train carriers in the United States and Canada. 

The National Railroad Passenger Corporation, Amtrak, is the absolute winner in the “Best of the Best" category. Wanderu named Amtrak the best ground travel provider in the country after Concord Coach Lines. Amtrak also claimed the top five spots in the “Best Train Line in the United States” section. In addition, 20 of Amtrak’s regional services were recognized as winners or honorees across several of the “Best by Region” categories.

The Amtrak Maple Leaf line, which connects New York City and Toronto, was ranked the No.1 best train line in the U.S. This train route is known for its scenic views of New York countryside. The one-way trip takes 12.5 hours and includes stops at Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany. Wanderu users described Amtrak trains with service between Toronto and New York City as “very comfortable” and “clean”. 

“My favorite thing about the awards is the fact that they are based entirely on feedback we’ve gathered directly from people who have actually traveled with these bus and train carriers,” said Polina Raygorodskaya, co-founder and CEO of Wanderu. “That makes these accolades a genuine representation of the highest quality ground travel service available out there as experienced by the passengers themselves.”

The Hiawatha train, which runs between Milwaukee and Chicago, climbed to second place on the “Best Train Line in the United States” list. The Amtrak Keystone Service, connecting New York City and Harrisburg, rounded the top 3 list. The Saluki service, which travels between Chicago and Carbondale, was named the fourth-best train line in the country, and the fifth place was shared between Amtrak’s Downeaster and Illini.

Image credit:

Amtrak

Resources:

“Wanderu announces the winners in the 2023 Passengers’ Choice Awards for Excellence in Ground Travel,” by Staffo Dobrev (Wanderu, 2023)

“6 Amtrak Routes Were Just Named the Best Train Lines in the U.S.” by Serena Tara (thrillist, 2023)