How to Book Train Travel From Dallas To Los Angeles

Amtrak offers two itineraries for passengers headed from Dallas to Los Angeles via train. One has a change in train, but that one is actually considerably faster than the direct route. For travelers who like to make it easy, the direct route allows you to hang out onboard with no disruption. Either way, Los Angeles Union Station will be your arrival point. From there, you'll have access to the historic downtown area and other modes of transportation available just outside of the station. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.

Instructions

Book Travel on the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited Trains

1

Book your ticket through Amtrak by visiting the Web site (see Resources below) or calling (800) 872-7245.

2

Prepare yourself for the long ride. The travel time for both trains totals about 40 hours, with 10 hours aboard the Texas Eagle and 30 hours on the Sunset Limited.

3

Arrive at San Antonio Station and pick up your checked baggage in Baggage Claim. You're allowed three pieces of checked luggage when you board in Dallas.

4

Change trains and board the 1 Sunset Limited train. It heads westbound all the way to Los Angeles.

5

Save your appetite for the train. Both trains have a dining car that accepts reservations for lunch and dinner. There's also a more casual lounge that's ideal for take-out.

6

Book travel on two trains. The 21 Texas Eagle takes you to your connecting train in San Antonio that's called the Sunset Limited.

Travel by the Texas Eagle Train

7

Select an itinerary aboard the 421 Texas Eagle train headed westbound for Los Angeles. The train departs and arrives daily.

8

Know that this particular Texas Eagle train requires about 48 hours to reach its destination. This estimate doesn't include any layovers or unexpected changes in train number.

9

Bring all of your luggage on board with you. The 421 Texas Eagle doesn't have a car for checked luggage. You'll need to carry all of your belongings onboard.

10

Bring your own meals and snacks. The 421 Texas Eagle has no formal dining car. Light snacks are the only fare provided.