Station guide · TX, USA
Houston Train Station Guide
The Houston Amtrak station offers a gateway to long-distance rail travel across the southern United States, connecting passengers to major cities between Louisiana and California.
- Station
- Houston
- City
- Houston, TX
- Code
- HOS
- Routes
- 1
At a glance
- A small Amtrak station northwest of downtown, by the freight yards
- Served by the Sunset Limited three times a week
- Houston has no other Amtrak service as of 2026
Located northwest of downtown Houston, the station is a small facility situated by the freight yards. It serves as the sole Amtrak stop in the city as of 2026. While Houston is a massive metropolis, its passenger rail footprint remains modest. The station provides basic amenities for travelers waiting to board the transcontinental service. Because the facility is small and surrounded by industrial rail infrastructure, passengers should arrive with realistic expectations about the available services. It functions primarily as a practical boarding point rather than a grand civic landmark.
Trains from Houston
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Sunset Limited | New Orleans to Los Angeles | Three times a week in each direction |
Houston is served exclusively by the Sunset Limited, operated by Amtrak. This long-distance train travels between New Orleans and Los Angeles. As of 2026, the service runs three times a week in each direction. A journey from end to end takes about 46 to 48 hours, making it an overnight trip for most passengers traveling long distances. For example, the popular direct trip from Los Angeles to Houston takes about 35 to 42 hours. The next stops on either side of Houston are Beaumont to the east and San Antonio to the west. Because the train operates three days a week, travelers must plan their itineraries carefully and check current schedules when booking.
Getting to and from the station
The station is located northwest of downtown Houston, adjacent to the working freight yards. Passengers should check local public transportation websites for current bus routes serving the area. Taxis and ride-hailing services are usually the most reliable way to reach the station from the city center or surrounding suburbs. Always allow plenty of time to navigate Houston traffic, especially if you are traveling during busy commuter hours. Since the train departs three times a week, missing your connection means a long wait for the next departure.
Around the station
Due to its location by the freight yards northwest of downtown, the immediate vicinity of the Houston station is highly industrial. There are few tourist attractions, restaurants or shops within a short walk. Passengers looking for meals or entertainment should head toward the city center before making their way to the station. Downtown Houston offers a wide variety of dining, parks and cultural institutions. It is best to purchase any necessary snacks or travel supplies in the central business district or your neighborhood before arriving at the Amtrak facility.
Station tips
- Review Amtrak and VIA booking tips before purchasing your ticket to secure the best accommodation.
- Check the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA to ensure your bags meet the current size and weight requirements.
- If you require mobility assistance, read about accessible train travel and contact Amtrak in advance.
- Arrive early to account for local traffic and find your way around the small station.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as nearby options by the freight yards are very limited.
Popular trips from Houston
Questions travellers ask
How often do trains stop in Houston?
As of 2026, the Sunset Limited stops in Houston three times a week in each direction. Because there is no other Amtrak service at this station, you will need to plan your departure carefully. Always check the latest timetable to confirm which days the train operates.
Where does the train from Houston go?
The Sunset Limited travels between New Orleans and Los Angeles. From Houston, the next stop to the east is Beaumont, and the next stop to the west is San Antonio. You can ride all the way to California or Louisiana without changing trains.