Amtrak Sunset Limited: A Guide to Train Travel in the American Southwest

There’s no better way to explore America’s Southwest than on Amtrak’s Sunset Limited. This legendary train travels through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the country, making stops at popular destinations like Los Angeles, San Diego, Tucson, and New Orleans. If you’re looking for an unforgettable rail journey, read on for everything you need to know about Amtrak’s Sunset Limited!

History of Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train has been running since 1993. It is named after the original Sunset Limited train that operated from 1894 to 1971. The current Amtrak Sunset Limited route runs from New Orleans to Los Angeles, with stops in Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Arizona along the way. Amtrak’s Sunset Limited is one of the longest-running passenger trains in America and it continues to be a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the Southwest.

Southern Pacific and Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train is operated by Amtrak, but it runs on Southern Pacific (SP) tracks. The SP was one of the largest railroad companies in America and it operated trains all over the country, including the original Sunset Limited. Amtrak took over operations of the Sunset Limited in 1971 when the SP stopped running passenger trains. Amtrak continued to operate the Sunset Limited on SP tracks until Amtrak took over ownership of the SP in 1996. Amtrak now owns and operates the Sunset Limited train and its associated tracks.

New Gulf Coast Train Service in Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

In 2005, Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train was the first Amtrak train to resume service after Hurricane Katrina. The hurricane had caused major damage to the SP tracks and Amtrak’s New Orleans station, but Amtrak was able to quickly repair the damage and get the Sunset Limited back on track. Amtrak also added a new Gulf Coast Train Service between New Orleans and Orlando to the Sunset Limited schedule. This new service gave passengers a direct connection to Amtrak’s Silver Service/Palmetto trains, which run between New York and Miami.

Potential Daily Service in Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

Amtrak is currently considering adding daily service to the Sunset Limited schedule. Amtrak officials say that they are committed to providing reliable and frequent service on the Sunset Limited, but they have not yet made a decision about whether or not to add daily service. Amtrak will continue to evaluate the need for additional trains on the Sunset Limited route and make a decision about daily service in the future.

Things To Know about Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited is one of the most iconic trains in America. If you’re looking to explore the Southwest, there’s no better way to do it than on Amtrak’s Sunset Limited. With stops at popular destinations like Los Angeles, San Diego, Tucson, and New Orleans, the Amtrak Sunset Limited is a rail journey you won’t want to miss!

Here’s what you need to know about Amtrak’s Sunset Limited:

• The Amtrak Sunset Limited train offers two levels of service: coach and business.
• Coach class tickets include a reclining seat, complimentary meals, and access to onboard entertainment.
• Business class tickets include all of the above, plus upgraded accommodations and amenities.
• The Amtrak Sunset Limited train is one of the few Amtrak trains that offers sleeping accommodations.
• Sleeping accommodations on the Amtrak Sunset Limited train are available in both coach and business class.
• The Amtrak Sunset Limited train offer a variety of onboard amenities, including a dining car, lounge car, and observation car.

Schedule of Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train departs Los Angeles at 11:05 am and arrives in San Diego at 12:40 pm.

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train departs San Diego at 12:50 pm and arrives in Tucson at 11:35 pm.

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train departs Tucson at 11:50 pm and arrives in New Orleans at 11:05 am.

Major Stops of Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

• Los Angeles, CA
• San Diego, CA
• Tucson, AZ
• New Orleans, LA

Station List of Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

• Los Angeles, CA
• Fullerton, CA
• San Bernardino, CA
• Palm Springs, CA
• Indio, CA
• Coachella, CA
• El Centro, CA
• Calexico, CA
• Imperial, CA
• Winterhaven, CA
• Yuma, AZ
• Tucson, AZ
• Marana, AZ
• Picacho, AZ
• Red Rock, AZ
• El Paso, TX
• San Antonio, TX
• Houston, TX
• Beaumont, TX
• Lake Charles, LA
• Lafayette, LA
• Baton Rouge, LA
• New Orleans, LA

Attractions of Amtrak Sunset Limited Train

• Los Angeles, CA: Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train departs from Los Angeles Union Station, one of the most iconic Amtrak stations in America.
• San Diego, CA: The Amtrak Sunset Limited train arrives in San Diego at the Santa Fe Depot, a beautiful historic train station built in 1915.
• Tucson, AZ: The Amtrak Sunset Limited train arrives in Tucson at the historic Tucson Depot, built in 1907.
• New Orleans, LA: The Amtrak Sunset Limited train arrives in New Orleans at the historic Union Passenger Terminal, built in 1954.

Houston Ballet

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train makes a stop in Houston, TX, home to the world-renowned Houston Ballet. The Houston Ballet is one of the largest ballet companies in the United States and offers a variety of performances throughout the year. If you’re looking for a cultural experience, be sure to check out the Houston Ballet while you are in town. If you want to get more info about the Ballet read this article.

Houston Symphony

The Houston Symphony is one of the oldest orchestras in the United States and offers a variety of performances throughout the year. If you’re a fan of classical music, be sure to check out the Houston Symphony while you are in town. More details about the history of the Symphony can be found there.

The Alley Theatre

The Amtrak Sunset Limited train makes a stop in Houston, TX, home to the Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is one of the oldest and most prestigious theatres in the United States and offers a variety of performances throughout the year. If you’re a fan of live theatre, be sure to check out The Alley Theatre while you are in town. Book the tickets on the official website before visiting.

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Amtrak passengers can disembark the train and explore all that Houston has to offer. One popular attraction is the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. The center hosts various Broadway shows, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Tranquility Park

Those looking for a more relaxing activity can visit Tranquility Park. The park is located in downtown Houston and features a serene pond, walking trails, and a beautiful view of the city skyline. Amtrak passengers can easily access the park by exiting the train at the Houston Amtrak station.

San Antonio Convention Center

The Amtrak Sunset Limited also stops in San Antonio, Texas. Amtrak passengers can explore the city’s many attractions, including the San Antonio Convention Center. The convention center is a popular destination for business travelers and features a variety of events throughout the year.

Historic Sunset Station

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train also stops at Historic Sunset Station. The station is located in downtown San Antonio and was originally built in 1903. Today, the station is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses. Amtrak passengers can explore the station’s many attractions or take the train to their next destinations.

Most Popular Amtrak Sunset Limited Routes

• Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train runs from New Orleans to Los Angeles.
• The Amtrak Sunset Limited train also stops in Houston, San Antonio, and Phoenix.

Quickview

Amtrak Sunset Limited Train Coverage

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train covers over 2500 miles of track.

What Travelers Are Saying About Amtrak Sunset Limited

The Amtrak Sunset Limited is a great way to see the American Southwest. The train is comfortable and the scenery is beautiful. I would definitely recommend this train to anyone looking for a unique travel experience

Helen, Amtrak Passenger

I loved riding the Amtrak Sunset Limited! The train was very clean and the staff was very friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend this train to anyone looking to travel in the American Southwest

Bob, Amtrak Passenger

The Amtrak Sunset Limited was a great experience! The scenery was beautiful and the train was very comfortable. I would definitely recommend this train to anyone looking for a unique travel experience

Boris, Amtrak Passenger

Traveling on Amtrak Sunset Limited Train During Covid-19

Amtrak is taking a number of steps to keep passengers safe during the Covid-19 pandemic. Amtrak is requiring all passengers to wear face masks while onboard the train. Amtrak is also increasing its cleaning and disinfecting procedures. For more information, please visit Amtrak’s website.

Onboard Experience in Amtrak Sunset Limited Train 

Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train offers a variety of onboard amenities, including comfortable seating, a dining car, and a cafe car. Amtrak’s Sunset Limited train also has Wi-Fi service, so passengers can stay connected while on the train.

Watch the video about the experience in Sunset Limited:

Visit the official website of Amtrak to find more info about it.

Amtrak Sunset Limited Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your Amtrak Sunset Limited train ticket, you can do so up to 24 hours before the train’s departure time. Amtrak will refund the cost of your ticket, minus a $25 cancellation fee.

Other Amtrak routes you can find there.

Questions about Amtrak Sunset Limited Train