Looking to explore America’s vast landscape? Then hop on board the Amtrak Southwest Chief and journey from Chicago to Los Angeles. This legendary train ride offers unparalleled views of the country’s most stunning scenery, from the rolling hills of Illinois and Missouri to the majestic Rocky Mountains in Colorado. With plenty of train stops along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to explore some of America’s most popular attractions. So what are you waiting for? Book your ticket today!
- History of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- National Chief
- Accidents And Incidents of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Operations of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Kansas Downgrade of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Route Changes of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Things To Know about Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Schedule of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Major Stops of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- What to see in Chicago:
- What to see in Albuquerque:
- What to see in Flagstaff:
- What to see in San Bernardino:
- What to see in Los Angels:
- Attractions of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Questions about Amtrak Southwest Chief
- What route does the Southwest Chief take?
- Which is better Amtrak Southwest Chief or California Zephyr?
- How long does Amtrak Southwest Chief take?
- Is there WiFi on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- Can you shower in Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- Can I bring food to Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- What is the difference between a coach seat and a business class seat on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- How fast do Amtrak Southwest Chief trains go?
- What is included with an Amtrak Southwest Chief roomette?
- Do I need a reservation for Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- Do you tip Amtrak Southwest Chief sleeping car attendants?
- What is the age limit for an unaccompanied minor on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
- Can you sleep in coach on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
History of Amtrak Southwest Chief
Amtrak’s Southwest Chief first began operating in 1974, when it took over the route of the Santa Fe Railway’s Super Chief. The Super Chief was one of the most famous trains in America, known for its luxury service and Hollywood clientele. When Amtrak took over the route, they kept the name and continued to operate it as a premium service. In the early 2000s, Amtrak began to make changes to the Southwest Chief, adding new amenities and upgrading the train cars. Today, the Southwest Chief is one of Amtrak’s most popular routes, carrying over 500,000 passengers each year.
National Chief
In 2015, Amtrak launched a new train called the National Chief. This train runs from Chicago to Los Angeles as well, but it makes stops in Kansas City and Albuquerque instead of Denver. The National Chief is a more budget-friendly option for travelers looking to experience the same legendary route as the Southwest Chief.
Accidents And Incidents of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- On June 24, 2018, the Southwest Chief derailed near Cimarron, Colorado after hitting a landslide. There were no injuries or fatalities, but the train was stranded for over 24 hours before passengers could be evacuated.
- In March 2019, a freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed near Flagstaff, Arizona. The derailment caused minor damage to the track, but no injuries or fatalities were reported.
- In October 2019, the Southwest Chief was delayed for over 24 hours near Las Vegas, New Mexico after a freight train derailed and caught fire. Again, there were no injuries or fatalities reported.
Operations of Amtrak Southwest Chief
The Southwest Chief is operated by Amtrak and is one of their long-distance routes. It runs from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California. The train makes stops in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Flagstaff, Arizona; and Barstow, California. The train is powered by two General Electric Genesis locomotives and can reach speeds of up to 90 miles per hour (140 km/h).
The Southwest Chief is one of Amtrak’s most popular routes, carrying over 500,000 passengers each year. The train has a capacity of 450 passengers and offers both coach and sleeper cars. Onboard amenities include a dining car, lounge car, and observation car.
Prices for a one-way ticket on the Southwest Chief start at $97 for a coach and $ 448 for a sleeper car. Discounts are available for seniors, students, children, and military personnel. Amtrak also offers a variety of rail pass options that can save you money if you plan on taking multiple trips.
Kansas Downgrade of Amtrak Southwest Chief
In 2017, Amtrak announced that they would be making changes to the Southwest Chief route. Instead of stopping in Denver, Colorado, the train would now stop in Kansas City, Missouri. This change was made to save money on repairs to the track. The downgrade caused a lot of controversies, as many passengers preferred the convenience of Denver as a stop. However, Amtrak has said that the Kansas City stop is more centrally located and will be easier for passengers to get to their final destination.
The Southwest Chief is composed of 12 passenger cars and two locomotives. The train has a capacity of 450 passengers and offers both coach and sleeper cars. Onboard amenities include a dining car, lounge car, and observation car.
Coach Class: Coach class seats are the most economical way to travel on the Southwest Chief. Seats are located in the lower level of the passenger cars and have access to large windows. There are also overhead bins for storing carry-on luggage.
Sleeper Class: Sleeper class accommodations are perfect for travelers who want to experience the Southwest Chief in style. Seats convert into beds and passengers have access to private bathrooms. Sleeper cars also have access to a lounge car.
Dining Car: The dining car on the Southwest Chief offers a variety of hot and cold entrees, as well as a selection of wines and beers. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the dining car.
Lounge Car: The lounge car is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The lounge car has large windows, comfortable seating, and a bar.
Observation Car: The observation car is located at the rear of the train and offers panoramic views of the scenery. The observation car also has a small library where passengers can borrow books.
Watch the review of the Southwest’s bedroom before booking:
Route Changes of Amtrak Southwest Chief
In 2017, Amtrak announced that they would be making changes to the Southwest Chief route. Instead of stopping in Denver, Colorado, the train would now stop in Kansas City, Missouri. This change was made to save money on repairs to the track. The downgrade caused a lot of controversies, as many passengers preferred the convenience of Denver as a stop. However, Amtrak has said that the Kansas City stop is more centrally located and will be easier for passengers to get to their final destination.
Things To Know about Amtrak Southwest Chief
- The Southwest Chief is one of Amtrak’s most popular routes, carrying over 500,000 passengers each year.
- The train has a capacity of 450 passengers and offers both coach and sleeper cars.
- Onboard amenities include a dining car, lounge car, and observation car.
- Prices for a one-way ticket on the Southwest Chief start at $97 for a coach and $ 448 for a sleeper car.
- In 2017, Amtrak announced that they would be making changes to the Southwest Chief route. Instead of stopping in Denver, Colorado, the train would now stop in Kansas City, Missouri.
- The downgrade caused a lot of controversies, as many passengers preferred the convenience of Denver as a stop. However, Amtrak has said that the Kansas City stop is more centrally located and will be easier for passengers to get to their final destination.
- If you’re looking for an adventure, take the Amtrak Southwest Chief from Chicago to Los Angeles. The journey takes about two days and offers travelers the chance to see some of America’s most beautiful scenery. Along the way, you’ll make stops in Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff before reaching your final destination. The Amtrak Southwest Chief is a great way to see America and experience the beauty of the country.
Schedule of Amtrak Southwest Chief
The Amtrak Southwest Chief leaves Chicago at 11:05 am and arrives in Los Angeles at 11:50 pm. The train makes stops in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Flagstaff, Arizona; and San Bernardino, California. The total trip time is 38 hours and 45 minutes.
The Amtrak Southwest Chief has a few different ticket options. A one-way coach ticket from Chicago to Los Angeles costs $213. A one-way business class ticket from Chicago to Los Angeles costs $453. A sleeper car is available for an additional fee.
Major Stops of Amtrak Southwest Chief
What to see in Chicago:
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- The Field Museum
- Navy Pier
- Shedd Aquariumn
Read our special article about Chicago’s highlights.
What to see in Albuquerque:
- Old Town Albuquerque
- Albuquerque Biological Park
- Petroglyph National Monument
Visit this site to get more info about Albuquerque.
What to see in Flagstaff:
What to see in San Bernardino:
- San Bernardino National Forest
- Lake Arrowhead
- Big Bear Lake
What to see in Los Angels:
- Griffith Observatory
- The Getty Center
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Attractions of Amtrak Southwest Chief
- Dining car
- Sleeper cars
- Baggage car
- Lounge car
- Coach seating
- WiFi
- Power outlets
- Onboard entertainment
- Observation car
- Library
- Dining options
Read more about Amtrak trains there.
Questions about Amtrak Southwest Chief
What route does the Southwest Chief take?
The Southwest Chief takes the following route: Chicago, Illinois; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Flagstaff, Arizona; and San Bernardino, California.
Which is better Amtrak Southwest Chief or California Zephyr?
It depends on what you are looking for. The Southwest Chief has more scenic routes and stops, while the California Zephyr has more amenities onboard
How long does Amtrak Southwest Chief take?
The Amtrak Southwest Chief takes 38 hours and 45 minutes.
Is there WiFi on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
Yes, there is WiFi on Amtrak Southwest Chief
Can you shower in Amtrak Southwest Chief?
No, you cannot shower in Amtrak Southwest Chief. However, there are restrooms on board.
Can I bring food to Amtrak Southwest Chief?
Yes, you are allowed to bring food and drinks onboard Amtrak Southwest Chief. There is also a dining car if you prefer to purchase food on the train.
What is the difference between a coach seat and a business class seat on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
A coach seat is a standard seat with access to all onboard amenities. A business class seat is a premium seat with additional legroom and access to the lounge car. Business-class tickets are also refundable.
How fast do Amtrak Southwest Chief trains go?
Amtrak Southwest Chief trains can reach up to 110 mph. However, the average speed is 55 mph.
What is included with an Amtrak Southwest Chief roomette?
A roomette includes two facing seats that convert to a bed, a small table, and access to the lounge car.
Do I need a reservation for Amtrak Southwest Chief?
Yes, reservations are required for all tickets. You can make a reservation online or by calling Amtrak.
Do you tip Amtrak Southwest Chief sleeping car attendants?
Yes, it is customary to tip Amtrak sleeping car attendants $20 per day.
What is the age limit for an unaccompanied minor on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
The age limit for an unaccompanied minor on Amtrak Southwest Chief is 18 years old.
Can you sleep in coach on Amtrak Southwest Chief?
No, you cannot sleep in coach on Amtrak Southwest Chief. However, there are sleeper cars available for an additional fee.
