Amtrak Encourages Travelers to Book Thanksgiving Travel Early as Travel Demand Surges

Image: New Acela 21 at Washington Union Station (Photo Credit: Amtrak)
Image: New Acela 21 at Washington Union Station (Photo Credit: Amtrak)
Noreen Kompanik
by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 4:55 PM ET, Thu October 30, 2025

Amtrak is encouraging travelers to book now for the Thanksgiving holidays for best prices and guaranteed seats before they sell out.

The rail company reported that in 2024, more than 1.2 million passengers traveled on Amtrak during the Thanksgiving season. As a result, Amtrack is predicting record breaking 2025 travel due to double digit growth in early bookings relative to last year and strong customer satisfaction scores thus far.

To meet increased Thanksgiving travel demand, Amtrak is maximizing capacity by adding extra cars to Northeast Regional routes between November 25-30. Popular destinations along the Northeast Corridor—including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston will also offer expanded service.

New this Thanksgiving travel season, recently launched NextGen Acela trains are also available on select departures. NextGen Acela is the all-new, premium ride from Amtrak, operating between major city centers on the Northeast Corridor from Washington, D.C. to New York and Boston with destinations in between. Designed with innovative features and amenities, guests can experience First Class and Business Class travel on America’s only high-speed rail service.

“Amtrak offers a comfortable, convenient alternative to congested highways and crowded airports all year round – especially during the busy holiday season,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch in a statement.

He added, “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.

Amtrak guests experience an easy boarding process, wide reclining seats, plenty of leg room, no middle seats, picturesque window views and the ability to walk around when traveling.

Travel is currently available for booking on the Amtrak website, mobile ap, at in-station ticketing kiosks, in-person at staffed stations or by calling 800-USA-RAIL.


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