Taking the Train With Children in the USA and Canada

Taking the train with children provides a unique way to see North America. Many families find rail travel easier than enduring a long car ride or navigating airport security. Kids can walk around the train, look out of big windows and meet other travelers along the way. Both Amtrak and VIA Rail offer child discounts, making it a cost-effective option for family vacations. You can choose from short daytime trips to multi-day cross-country journeys with sleeping accommodations. This guide covers everything you need to know about booking family tickets, selecting the right seats or cabins, and keeping younger passengers comfortable and entertained while on board.

Why trains work for families

Rail travel removes the stress of traffic and the confinement of a car seat. Children have the space to stand up, stretch their legs and walk through the cars. Big windows provide constant entertainment as the scenery changes. Families can sit together at a table in the lounge or dining car to play games or eat a meal. On some long distance routes, Trails and Rails volunteers from the National Park Service give talks in the lounge car in season. This provides an educational element to the trip that you will not find on a highway. Trains also offer restrooms in every car, so you never have to search for a rest stop when a child needs to go.

Fare discounts for children

Booking train tickets for a family is often more affordable than buying multiple airline seats. Amtrak children's fares are discounted for ages 2 to 12 traveling with an adult. Children under 2 can travel on an adult's lap for free on many trains, though limits apply. VIA Rail also offers child discounts for Canadian routes. Always check the current timetable and fare rules before booking, as policies can change and some promotions require advance purchase. If you are taking the Pacific Surfliner from San Luis Obispo to San Diego, which takes about 8 to 9 hours, these discounts make a big difference for a family of four.

Choosing family accommodation

For overnight journeys, booking a sleeping car provides privacy and a flat surface for naps. The Superliner Family Bedroom is the best option for larger groups. This room sleeps two adults and two children, utilizing the full width of the train car. You can find this cabin type on double-decker trains like the California Zephyr, which runs from Chicago to San Francisco and takes about 51 to 52 hours end to end. The Auto Train from Lorton to Sanford also features the Family Bedroom for its overnight trip of about 17 to 18 hours. If a Family Bedroom is unavailable, booking two adjoining Superliner Bedrooms or two Superliner Roomettes is a practical alternative.

Keeping kids busy and comfortable

While trains offer plenty of space, bringing your own supplies is essential for a smooth trip. Pack snacks, downloaded entertainment and a change of clothes for younger children. Wi-Fi is not available on all routes, and cellular service frequently drops in remote areas. Download movies, audiobooks and games to tablets or phones before you leave home. Bring a small bag of toys, coloring books and travel games that do not have small pieces that could roll away. Since the air conditioning on trains can be strong, pack extra layers or a small blanket to keep children warm during the journey.