There’s a good case for taking the long, scenic route this winter – A train won’t beat a plane to Chicago, but it will take you through high desert, past red rock and across the Plains, which you’d miss from 30,000 feet. Right now that slower trip could cost you less than usual.
Amtrak Winter Wanderlust 2026 sale
hrough next Thursday, Nov. 12, Amtrak’s Winter Wanderlust Sale is discounting fares on select long-distance routes. Here’s what one-way Coach seats cost on the two lines that serve Los Angeles:
- Los Angeles to Chicago (Southwest Chief train): starting at $128
- Los Angeles to Seattle (Coast Starlight train): starting at $105
- Los Angeles to Albuquerque (Southwest Chief train): starting at $60
The fares only apply to trips taken between Dec. 1 and March 14.
The 2026 winter sale also covers the Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, California Zephyr, Texas Eagle, Empire Builder, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Crescent, Lake Shore Limited, Silver Meteor, Palmetto, Auto Train, Northeast Regional and Acela.
The Pacific Surfliner isn’t included, so check the fare finder before you plan a San Diego or Santa Barbara trip around the sale.
The Secret LA team took the Coast Starlight from LA to the Bay Area this past summer. We got work done on board, and for long stretches north of Santa Barbara, the tracks run right along the ocean. Here’s what that looked like:
Blackout dates and the fine print
Blackout dates fall over the winter holidays (Dec. 18 to Jan. 3) and Presidents’ Day weekend (Feb. 12 to 15). The rest of the Dec. 1 to March 14 window is open.
The terms are strict on changes. Changes are not permitted. You can cancel before departure, but a 50% cancellation fee would apply.
How to book
Buy on the Winter Wanderlust Sale page, where the fare finder shows your dates and routes. You can also use the Amtrak mobile app, a ticketing kiosk, a staffed station, or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.
Happy and safe travels this holiday season!
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