The Amtrak Cardinal: A Scenic Train Journey from New York to Chicago

This route appeals to travelers who prioritize scenery over speed. While other trains connect the East Coast and the Midwest more directly, the Cardinal takes a southern alignment through Virginia and West Virginia. It is an excellent choice for passengers wanting to see the Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River from the comfort of a train. The schedule runs three times a week in each direction as of 2026, meaning you need to plan your trip around its specific departure days. It suits those connecting to the Midwest from cities like Washington, DC or Charlottesville, and anyone looking to reach the national park at New River Gorge without driving.

Route overview

The Cardinal covers about 1,147 miles between New York and Chicago. The complete journey takes about 26 to 28 hours end to end. As of 2026, the train operates three times a week in each direction. The route begins at New York Penn Station and Moynihan Train Hall and travels south along the Northeast Corridor. It stops at major cities including Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore and Washington, DC.

From the capital, the train turns west into Virginia and West Virginia. Passengers spend one night on board. Westbound travelers typically pass through the New River Gorge in afternoon daylight before crossing the Ohio River. The train serves Cincinnati in the middle of the night at the Art Deco Union Terminal. It then continues through Indiana, stopping at Indianapolis and Lafayette, before terminating at Chicago Union Station.

Because the train only runs three days a week as of 2026, passengers often use it as part of a longer itinerary. You can connect to western long distance trains in Chicago, or transfer to various services running up and down the East Coast in New York or Washington.

What you see, section by section

Charlottesville to Clifton Forge

After departing Charlottesville, the train climbs into the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley area. The tracks cross the mountains near Staunton, offering sweeping views of the forested landscape. Depending on the time of year and direction of travel, you might see this section in daylight or near dusk. The route winds through valleys and small towns, showcasing the rugged terrain of western Virginia before reaching Clifton Forge.

Clifton Forge to Charleston

This section features the New River Gorge, known for its deep forested canyon walls. The train travels right alongside the river. Westbound passengers pass through the gorge in afternoon daylight, making it a major highlight of the trip. The route includes stops at Prince and Hinton, which provide access to the nearby national park. The train also stops at White Sulphur Springs, serving guests heading to The Greenbrier resort, before continuing toward Charleston.

Huntington to Cincinnati

Leaving West Virginia, the train meets the Ohio River and follows it for many miles along its southern bank in Kentucky. The route passes through Maysville before crossing the river into Ohio. The train arrives in Cincinnati in the middle of the night. Passengers disembark or board at the historic Art Deco Union Terminal. Because of the schedule, much of the river scenery is viewed in darkness or early morning light depending on your direction.

Classes and onboard

• Coach
• Viewliner Roomette
• Viewliner Bedroom
• Accessible Bedroom
• Café and dining service for sleeping car passengers

The Cardinal offers Coach seating and private sleeping accommodations. Coach passengers receive large reclining seats with ample legroom. For overnight travel, you might consider upgrading to a sleeper. The train features Viewliner Roomettes, Viewliner Bedrooms and an Accessible Bedroom. Roomettes are compact spaces for one or two people with seats that convert into beds. Bedrooms provide more space and include a private toilet and shower.

You can read more about Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms explained to decide which option fits your budget. Sleeping car passengers receive complimentary meals during the journey. The train provides café and dining service for sleeping car passengers, while Coach passengers can purchase snacks and light meals from the café. If you are sleeping in coach overnight, bring a blanket and a travel pillow for extra comfort.