Courtesy of Amtrak

Theres nothing like atrain tripthrough theAmerican Westto take you back in time.

The journey, which passes through eight states,promises stunning landscape viewsnot visible from interstate highways.

Now, this is why wed arguetrain traveldeserves a full comeback.

An Amtrak train on the Southwest Chief Route traveling past a farm in Santa Fe

Credit:Courtesy of Amtrak

Heres what you better know before hopping aboard Amtrak’s Southwest Chief route.

Not long after you slink out of the Windy City, youllcross the Mississippi Riverin Fort Madison, Iowa.

The shift into New Mexico marks the start of what is arguably the most scenic part of the trip.

After briefly dipping into the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the train crosses the Colorado River and drops into California.

From there, its not long until thesprawl of Los Angelesand the Pacific Ocean come into view.

Roomette guests get a dedicated first-class attendant, complimentary meals, priority boarding, and lounge access.

Plus, there’s a bathroom and shower room in each car.

The Superliner Bedroom is a first-class offering with double the space of a Roomette.

This room punch in features two adjoining rooms and two in-room sinks, bathrooms, and showers.

There are also Superliner Family Bedrooms and Accessible Bedrooms aboard the Southwest Chief.

A selection of kid-friendly items is also available.

Small dogs and cats are also welcome, withsome restrictions.

Its worth noting that the Southwest Chief does not have Wi-fi, and cell service can be spotty.