Amtrak's Train Route From NYC To Pittsburgh Offers A Scenic Winter Voyage

There's a train that carries passengers across the state of Pennsylvania and through what is arguably one of the most beautiful winter landscapes in the United States. The route operated by Amtrak covers 444 miles and takes nearly 9.5 hours to complete, but the chance to see the beauty of America's northeastern winter is unmatched — especially from the warmth and comfort of the train's cars.

The route is appropriately called the "Pennsylvanian" and takes travelers westward from New York City's Moynihan Train Hall in Manhattan toward Pittsburgh, often cited as one of the 10 most beautiful cities in the country. Along the way, more than a dozen stops provide ample opportunity to see small towns, rural communities, and frozen landscapes full of ice-filled rivers, lakes, and gorges.

The train operates largely during daylight hours, meaning that even during snowy conditions, the winter scenery is easy to spot through the train's windows. As you travel west, the New York City skyline vanishes, giving way to farmland, and eventually transforming into one of the most impressive and famous portions of the track. Just west of Altoona, Pennsylvania, the rail follows a horseshoe pattern as it climbs the Allegheny Mountains, creating a scene reminiscent of a train track around the base of a Christmas tree. The tracks then make a 180-degree turn, giving passengers a glimpse of their own train as it winds around the world-famous curve.

Besides seeing the beautiful landscapes across three states — New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania — The Pennsylvanian offers passengers creature comforts that can make the long, scenic journey even more enjoyable. Café service, free Wi-Fi, and baggage services are all part of the trip. Dogs and cats are also allowed onboard, as long as they and their carrier weigh under a combined 20 pounds.

As with any journey, it's important to research things in advance, including schedules and seat availability, and the Pennsylvanian Train offers two options for travelers. The less expensive coach sections feature open seating, meaning they are first-come-first-served. Meanwhile, the more expensive business class option offers additional legroom through wider, assigned seats, and also serves complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. With that in mind, researching your options before buying your ticket is one of many ways to make your journey more comfortable. It's also among the most common booking mistakes you should avoid if you're traveling solo and want peace of mind.

As for other amenities, the onboard Corridor Café offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options throughout the long journey, and often serves as an unofficial observation lounge. For those traveling east to west, the journey comes to a close in America's Rust Belt, which is lined with remnants of old steel towns on either side of the tracks. The final stop of the Pennsylvanian is at Pittsburgh Union Station, near the heart of the city's historic downtown.