Amtrak's Crescent Train Offers Scenic Overnight Journey Through Diverse Landscapes
Amtrak's Crescent train, starting in Midtown Manhattan's Moynihan Train Hall, offers one of the most scenic journeys in the U.S. The overnight route stretches 1,370 miles, taking travelers through diverse landscapes and charming towns, as noted by The Independent's US Travel Editor Ted Thornhill.
The adventure begins in the bustling city of New York, passing through Philadelphia and Baltimore before reaching the nation's capital, Washington D.C. The train then heads south, crossing epic bridges and traversing lush forests in the Hudson Valley. In Virginia, the landscape softens into rolling hills and vineyards, with Charlottesville offering historic charm and local wineries.
Further south, the Crescent traces the legacy of the American South in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, AL, with authentic Deep South scenery. The journey continues through Atlanta, GA, blending antebellum charm with modern culture and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. Greenville, SC, is a highlight, known for its dramatic curved suspension bridge and the Swamp Rabbit Trail. The scenery transitions to Carolina countryside in Greensboro and Charlotte, with tobacco fields, red barns, and changing maples.
The Crescent train journey ends in New Orleans, LA, with a breathtaking crossing over the Mississippi River into the vibrant French Quarter. This overnight route, one of Amtrak's most scenic, takes travelers through diverse landscapes, historic towns, and cultural attractions, offering a unique perspective on the United States.
