Top 12 Railroad Travel Books

Kimberly Williams
11 min readSep 4, 2024

Step back in time and embark on a journey through America's history with our selection of railroad travel books. From tales of the old west to accounts of the country's first transcontinental railroad, these titles transport you to a bygone era of steam-powered engines and cross-country voyages. Let our roundup of railroad travel books ignite your curiosity and offer a glimpse into the past.

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1. All Aboard!

All Aboard! | Image

The Complete North American Train Travel Guide

Embark on an unforgettable journey through North America with the revamped All Aboard! : The Complete North American Train Travel Guide. Author Jim Loomis takes readers through a captivating voyage filled with the latest updates from Amtrak, the continent's largest passenger rail system. This exhaustive guidebook includes invaluable information on booking procedures, on-board etiquette, comprehensive maps, and detailed floor plans for standard coach and sleeping cars.

Perfect for seasoned travelers or train enthusiasts eager to explore North America's railways, All Aboard! ensures that every journey truly becomes an adventure.

Prepare to explore the beauty of North America in comfortable and sophisticated style with this indispensable guide to train travel.

  • Authors: Jim Loomis
  • Publisher: Prima Lifestyles
  • Published Date: May 16, 1998
  • Page Count: 436.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Canada
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

2. Travel by Train

Travel by Train | Image

The American Railroad Poster, 1870-1950

Join Michael E. Zega and John E.

Gruber on an unforgettable journey through the Golden Age of the American railroad, as they delve into the captivating world of railroad poster art. Spanning from 1870 to 1950, this beautifully illustrated history illuminates the trends that indelibly shaped the industry, exploring its evolution with more than 200 stunning, full-color reproductions. Don't miss this enlightening, artistic expedition through the annals of American rail history.

  • Authors: Michael E. Zega, John E. Gruber
  • Published Date: May 16, 2002
  • Page Count: 140.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Art
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

3. Rails Across Dixie

Rails Across Dixie | Image

A History of Passenger Trains in the American South

Rails Across Dixie: A History of Passenger Trains in the American South takes readers on a journey through time, exploring the rich history of intercity passenger trains in twelve Southeastern states. From steam locomotives to the modern-day Amtrak, this book delves into the technological advancements, romance, and economic impact that traveling on the rails brought to the region.

Beginning with the birth of steam locomotives in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1830, the narrative continues through the mid-1930s transition to diesel engines and the creation of Amtrak in 1971. The stories behind legendary and lesser-known trains come to life, offering a glimpse into the golden age of train travel.

Rails Across Dixie also covers contemporary museums and excursion trains, the rise of commuter rails, monorails, light rails, and other intracity transit systems. The social impact of train travel is examined, as well as the history of rail terminals and facilities.

More than 160 images and 10 appendices add depth and visual appeal to this comprehensive historical account, making it a must-read for fans of transportation history and enthusiasts of all things rail. With a page count of 476, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in uncovering the fascinating past of passenger trains in the American South.

  • Authors: Jim Cox
  • Publisher: McFarland
  • Published Date: November 17, 2010
  • Page Count: 476.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Transportation
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

4. The Golden Age of Train Travel

The Golden Age of Train Travel | Image

"Step aboard the luxurious Super Chief and 20th Century Limited with 'The Golden Age of Train Travel' by Steve Barry. Immerse yourself in the opulent world of passenger trains as Bloomsbury Publishing takes you on a journey through the grandeur of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Discover the lavish interiors and the vintage advertisements that elevated train travel to a level of elegance never before seen. Featuring stunning illustrations and historical context, this book is a testament to the golden age of rail travel - an era still celebrated and remembered today.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through a bygone era with 'The Golden Age of Train Travel'. ".

  • Authors: Steve Barry
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published Date: May 10, 2014
  • Page Count: 65.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

5. All Aboard

All Aboard | Image

The Complete North American Train Travel Guide

"All Aboard: The Complete North American Train Travel Guide" is your ultimate guide to planning and enjoying unforgettable train journeys across the continent. Written by an experienced traveler with a passion for train journeys, this comprehensive guide offers a wealth of information about railroad history, operation, and travel tips.

First published in 1995, the book has undergone significant updates and revisions to reflect the modern train travel landscape. With trains experiencing a resurgence in popularity, the timing for this fourth edition couldn't be better.

"All Aboard" offers more than just a mile-by-mile scenic guide. Readers will learn about the development of the first railroads, the construction of America's transcontinental railroad, and the inner workings of various train types. Throughout the book, author Jim Loomis shares his expertise, offering advice on booking trips, finding affordable fares, and avoiding common pitfalls.

Additionally, this revised edition includes a new chapter focusing on eight major railway stations, enhanced with updated information and photographs. It also covers advancements in Amtrak's locomotives and Viewliner sleeping cars, changes in pet and bicycle policies on trains, and much more.

Whether you're a long-time train enthusiast or new to the joys of rail travel, "All Aboard" is the indispensable guide to planning your next adventure. Don't miss the chance to experience the romance, comfort, and thrill of train travel with this invaluable resource at your side.

  • Authors: Jim Loomis
  • Publisher: Chicago Review Press
  • Published Date: January 01, 2015
  • Page Count: 418.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Travel
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

6. Great American Railroad Journeys

Great American Railroad Journeys | Image

Join award-winning host Michael Portillo on a thrilling journey through the heart of America in Great American Railroad Journeys. This official tie-in to the popular television series takes readers from the bustling East Coast to the historic Deep South, tracing the path of North America's vibrant rail history.

Packed with captivating illustrations and original maps from Appleton's General Guide, this stunning travelogue brings to life the rich social history woven into the fabric of the young nation. From the architects of the first transcontinental railroads to the diverse communities that settled this vast new land, Great American Railroad Journeys is a must-read for any fan of travel, history, and adventure. Experience the beauty, color, and excitement of America's great rail journeys in this unforgettable, 256-page exploration.

  • Authors: Michael Portillo
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published Date: January 26, 2017
  • Page Count: 256.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Travel
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

7. Diverging Tracks

Diverging Tracks | Image

American Versus English Rail Travel in the 19th Century

Diverging Tracks takes readers on a fascinating journey through the 19th century railroad cultures of America and England, offering a captivating contrast between the two nations. Exploring the evolution of global transport, Trevor K.

Snowdon provides insight into the divergent construction, operation, administration, and passenger experiences of these two world powers. By delving into travel narratives and a wealth of contemporary sources, Snowdon reveals how the railroad fit into the broader industrial landscape, highlighting the distinct social structures and value systems that shaped these railroad cultures. With a comprehensive page count of 306, this meticulously researched book sheds light on an era of rapid transformation, making it a must-read for transportation enthusiasts and historians alike.

  • Authors: Trevor K. Snowdon
  • Publisher: McFarland
  • Published Date: December 18, 2018
  • Page Count: 306.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Transportation
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

8. USA by Rail

USA by Rail | Image

plus Canada's main routes

Embark on a breathtaking journey through America's diverse landscapes and unforgettable cities with USA by Rail, the ninth edition of Bradt's comprehensive guidebook. Discover the beauty of over 500 destinations, including iconic landmarks such as Disney World, the Grand Canyon, and Niagara Falls, as you explore the country via its extensive train networks.

With detailed information on 37 major cities, a wide range of accommodation options, and all the practical advice you need to make the most of your rail pass, this book is your indispensable companion for a successful and unforgettable trip.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history of North American railroads, admire current steam train operators, and indulge in the charm of local tourist railways and museums. With hundreds of Internet contacts at your fingertips, planning and making reservations for your dream journey has never been easier. Get ready to experience the grandeur of America's scenery and uncover the beauty of its vast landscapes from the comfort of a train.

Written by an expert author with 80,000 miles of train travel under their belt, Bradt's USA by Rail is the essential guide for anyone seeking to explore the United States and Canada by rail. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to see the best of North America and create memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Authors: John Pitt
  • Publisher: Bradt Travel Guides
  • Published Date: May 03, 2019
  • Page Count: 428.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Transportation
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

9. Overground Railroad

Overground Railroad | Image

The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America

Delve into the incredible history of the Green Book in Overground Railroad, an insightful exploration of black travel in America during the Jim Crow era. Published from 1936 to 1966, the Green Book provided African-Americans with a much-needed guide to navigating a country rife with segregation. Author Candacy A.

Taylor takes readers on a captivating journey through the roots of this groundbreaking publication, shedding light on its founders, the courageous establishments that supported it, and the lasting impact it had on the fight against racial injustice. Through intriguing stories and meticulous research, Taylor paints a vivid portrait of a country torn apart by segregation and a remarkable grassroots movement that dared to challenge the status quo. Don't miss this powerful reminder of our collective past and the importance of standing up for what is right.

  • Authors: Candacy A. Taylor
  • Publisher: Abrams
  • Published Date: January 07, 2020
  • Page Count: 460.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

10. Train Tracks

Train Tracks | Image

Work, Play and Politics on the Railways

Step onto the journey of "Train Tracks: Work, Play and Politics on the Railways" and discover the exhilarating social life of trains beyond their functional role in transport. Join authors Gayle Letherby and Gillian Reynolds as they delve into the intriguing world of leisure travel, enthusiasts, railway workers, and commuters, shattering the stereotype that trains are merely a means to an end.

As you traverse through the pages of "Train Tracks, " you'll encounter the fascinating ways in which train travel has influenced and been portrayed in cultural media, including music, films, books, and art. Unravel the complex relationship between trains and politics, the personal politics of train travel, and the impact trains have on both leisure and work.

Through extensive research and interviews, Letherby and Reynolds challenge conventional wisdom, proving that the romance of train travel continues long after the steam locomotive era. "Train Tracks" is an essential read for anyone who seeks to understand the true essence and allure of train travel, its social significance, and its role in shaping our lives, work, and leisure endeavors.

  • Authors: Gayle Letherby, Gillian Reynolds
  • Publisher: Routledge
  • Published Date: August 25, 2020
  • Page Count: 179.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Science
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

11. Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train

Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train | Image

An Account of a Tour of Railroad Conductors from Philadelphia to the Pacific Coast and Return

Experience an unforgettable journey through Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train. This meticulously crafted account, penned by the talented Milton M. Shaw, takes you on a captivating tour of railroad conductors from the bustling city of Philadelphia to the breathtaking Pacific Coast, and back again.

Throughout this thrilling adventure, Shaw provides vivid descriptions of the breathtaking landscapes, exhilarating incidents, and inspiring encounters that occurred during the course of the journey. Embarking on this literary expedition, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the rich history, culture, and charm of each destination, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a Pullman train.

Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train is the perfect travel companion for those seeking to satisfy their wanderlust or discover the hidden gems of America. With its enthralling narrative and richly detailed storytelling, this engaging book is sure to transport you to a world of intrigue, wonder, and possibility, all within the pages of a single volume.

Join Milton M. Shaw in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and experience the magic of the rails as you traverse the vast, diverse landscapes of North America. Nine Thousand Miles on a Pullman Train is not just a book; it's a journey you'll never forget.

  • Authors: Milton M. Shaw
  • Publisher: DigiCat
  • Published Date: May 29, 2022
  • Page Count: 143.0
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Travel
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

12. The Chatsworth Wreck

The Chatsworth Wreck | Image

Step aboard the train of time with C. C. Burford's "The Chatsworth Wreck" - a riveting historical tale set in the heart of the American Midwest in the 1880's. Pack your bags for an unforgettable journey through the golden age of excursion train travel.

With rich details and vibrant prose, Burford transports you back to an era defined by adventure, luxury, and the thrilling allure of the open road. Step into the shoes of the passengers traveling on-board the esteemed Chatsworth Wreck, an iconic train that offered more than just a means of transportation. It was a luxurious experience that brought together people from all walks of life, united by their shared love for the magic of adventure and their determination to forge their own destinies.

"The Chatsworth Wreck" is not simply a book about a train - it's an enchanting journey into a bygone era, one that invites you to experience the beauty of history through the rich tapestry of stories that still echo through time. Each chapter brings new passengers, new adventures, and new layers to the narrative, weaving together an unforgettable tale that will keep you captivated from beginning to end.

Whether you're a history buff, a lover of adventure, or simply someone seeking a brief escape from the everyday, "The Chatsworth Wreck" by C. C. Burford offers an enthralling journey through time that is sure to leave you spellbound. Get ready to step on board and experience the nostalgia and excitement of America's golden age of rail travel.

  • Authors: C.C. Burford
  • Publisher: Рипол Классик
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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