The list
- California Zephyr — Denver to Glenwood Springs. Sit either side, move around.
- Coast Starlight — Vandenberg coastline. Right side southbound.
- Empire Builder — Marias Pass and Glacier. Left side westbound.
- Adirondack — Lake Champlain. Right side northbound.
- Cardinal — New River Gorge. Left side eastbound.
- Southwest Chief — Raton Pass. Either side.
- Amtrak Cascades — Puget Sound. Left side northbound.
- Pacific Surfliner — San Clemente to Del Mar. Right side southbound.
- Maple Leaf — Hudson Valley. Left side northbound.
- Vermonter — Connecticut River in October. Either side.
- Downeaster — Maine coast approach. Right side northbound.
- Sunset Limited — Sonoran Desert dawn. Either side.
How to actually see it
The Sightseer Lounge on western long-distance trains has floor-to-ceiling windows and swivel chairs, and it is first come first served. Get there before the scenery starts, not when it starts.
Clean windows matter more than you would think. Ask the attendant when the next servicing stop is and which side gets washed.
Seat requests
Amtrak does not guarantee specific seats in coach, but sleeping-car room assignments can be requested by side of the train. We note the request on every booking where the view genuinely matters — which, on this list, is all twelve.
Want this handled for you?
Everything in this guide is something our agents do on every call as a matter of routine. Call +1 (888) 821-4679 and describe the trip — most bookings are confirmed in under five minutes.
Published May 5, 2026. Rail schedules, fares, equipment and carrier policies change frequently. This guide reflects our understanding at the time of writing and is provided for general information only — always confirm current details with your agent before travelling.
