Passenger Intercity Amtrak urges passengers to book early for Thanksgiving

Amtrak urges passengers to book early for Thanksgiving

By Trains Staff | October 30, 2025

Company projects record ridership after carrying 1.2 million riders during 2024 holiday period

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crowds in station
Crowds at Chicago Union Station’s Great Hall crowd benches waiting for their train to be called on the afternoon before Thanksgiving, Nov. 22, 2023. Once that happens, Amtrak is urging passengers to book early for Thanksgiving. Bob Johnston

WASHINGTON — Amtrak is advising passengers to book early for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday period to get the best prices and ensure seating, saying it is expecting record-breaking ridership based on early bookings. Last year, the company saw 1.2 million riders during the Thanksgiving season.

The company will add cars to Northeast Regional routes between Nov 25-30, and says expanded service will be available at Northeast Corridor destinations including Washington, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston.

“Amtrak offers a comfortable, convenient alternative to congested highways and crowded airports all year round – especially during the busy holiday season,” Amtrak Chief Commerical Officer Eliot Hamlisch said in a press release. “Whether you’re a longtime guest or joining us for the first time, we invite you to experience the ease and hospitality of Amtrak as you travel to your holiday gatherings.”

Tickets can be booked at the Amtrak website, on the Amtrak mobile app, at station ticket kiosks, ticket windows at staffed stations, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.

One thought on “Amtrak urges passengers to book early for Thanksgiving

  1. I am telling anybody who is taking Amtrak (at anytime of year) to have a plan B in mind or in place. Just last week I was bumped from a sleeping car to coach due to a bad ordered sleeper. I called guest rewards, had them cancel the trip and provide an immediate refund. when you get a refund on a sleeper fare, thats more than enough money to buy anairplane ticket, even last minute.

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