Key Takeaways
- Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass is on sale for $250, a 50% discount from the normal price of $499, until January 20
- The pass allows passengers to ride up to 10 trains in coach over a 30-day period, with no blackout dates
- The pass is valid for travel on all Amtrak trains except Acela, Auto Train, and certain Thruway buses
- Regional deals are also available, including discounted fares on the Downeaster and Pacific Surfliner routes
- Passengers can book segments individually and change their itineraries as long as the revision occurs before the next ticketed train leaves
Introduction to the USA Rail Pass
The USA Rail Pass is a great option for travelers who want to explore the country by train, and Amtrak is currently offering a significant discount on the pass. Normally priced at $499, the pass is on sale for $250 until January 20, a discount of nearly 50%. This is an excellent opportunity for passengers to ride up to 10 trains in coach over a 30-day period, regardless of trip length. The pass is valid for travel on all Amtrak trains except Acela, Auto Train, and certain Thruway buses, making it a great option for those who want to see the country without breaking the bank.
Restrictions and Travel Tips
While the USA Rail Pass offers a lot of flexibility, there are some restrictions and travel tips to keep in mind. Not all trip segments need to be booked up front, but the pass is only valid for a 30-day period, which begins up to 120 days after purchase. This means that passengers need to plan their trip carefully to ensure that they can complete all their travel within the 30-day window. Additionally, passengers can change their itineraries as long as the revision occurs before the next ticketed train leaves, but they may be limited to "sale" or "value" fares, which could be a problem if the desired train is close to sellout.
Booking and Changing Segments
Once the pass is obtained, each segment can be booked directly using its confirmation, by going to "My Trip" on the Amtrak website or by looking up the reservation on the Amtrak mobile app. This makes it easy for passengers to book their segments and make changes to their itinerary as needed. Passengers can also break up a multi-day trip mid-route, such as at Las Vegas, N.M., or Tucson, Ariz., which can be a great way to see more of the country and experience different destinations.
Regional Deals
In addition to the USA Rail Pass, several state-supported routes are offering significant discounts for a limited time. The Boston-Brunswick, Maine, Downeaster is offering $26 round-trip or $13 one-way fares using promo code V530 for tickets bought at least three days in advance. This is a great option for passengers who want to explore the Northeast and see the beautiful scenery of Maine. On the West Coast, Pacific Surfliner passengers can get a 20% discount for trips beginning January 26 through March 13, 2026, using code V526 at checkout. This is a great opportunity to see the stunning coastline of California and experience the comfort and convenience of the Pacific Surfliner.
New Schedule and Routes
The Pacific Surfliner is also launching a new round-trip schedule on January 26, which will fill gaps in the current "memory" schedule. The added trains will leave San Diego at 7:01 a.m. and Los Angeles at 7:10 p.m., providing more options for passengers and making it easier to plan their trip. This new schedule, combined with the discounted fares, makes the Pacific Surfliner an attractive option for passengers who want to explore the West Coast.
Conclusion
The USA Rail Pass is a great option for travelers who want to explore the country by train, and the current discount makes it an even more attractive option. With the ability to book segments individually and change itineraries as needed, passengers have a lot of flexibility to plan their trip and make the most of their time on the train. Additionally, the regional deals on the Downeaster and Pacific Surfliner routes offer even more options for passengers who want to see specific parts of the country. Whether you’re a seasoned train traveler or just looking for a new way to see the country, the USA Rail Pass and regional deals are definitely worth considering.
