The Southwest Chief offers amazing views of the New Mexico desert, but you can see even more scenery and visit unique attractions if you get off the train at stops along the route. From big cities to desert towns (and even a national park), there’s a lot of variety of things to see and do.
In this guide, learn about 10 attractions along the Southwest Chief route worth planning a trip around. You’ll need to book each leg of your trip separately (multiple one-way tickets) if you get off the train for a night or more.
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Table of Contents
Chicago River
The Chicago River isn’t just any river. It’s been engineered to flow in a different direction than nature intended. Originally the river emptied into Lake Michigan, but this polluted Chicago’s drinking water supply. So in a stunning engineering feat, the river flow was reversed.
There are many boat tours for experiencing the water and Chicago’s stunning buildings, including the popular architecture river cruises. As a bonus, the Amtrak station (Chicago Union Station) is next to the river and you can board a water taxi nearby to reach the many tour providers and city attractions including the Riverwalk and Magnificent Mile.
National World War I Museum
For one of the largest collections of World War I artifacts in the world, plan a trip to Kansas City, Missouri. The National World War I Museum has many exhibits and events, and you can walk there from the Amtrak station in about 10 minutes. The Westin at Crown Center is closest to the station and the museum, and there are other attractions nearby, which makes it easy to sightsee without a car. Be sure to eat some of the city’s famous barbecue while you’re in town.
Boot Hill Museum
If you love Old West history, then the Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City is a must visit. Built on the original site of the 1870s Boot Hill Cemetery, there are interactive displays, artifacts, and activities that recreate the townās past. Nearby things to do include theĀ Gunfighers Wax MuseumĀ and theĀ Dodge City Trail of Fame.
View places to stay within walking distance of the Amtrak station. Trains arriving very early in the morning and late at night, so being able to walk a short distance to/from lodging is helpful. There are also several restaurants, bars, and a coffee shop near the station that you can visit after arriving or before departure.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Kids and adults will enjoy seeing the many hot air balloons at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event typically takes place over several days in October, and you can view the balloons from the ground or go for a ride. It’s also the perfect time to ride the Sandia Peak Tramway into the Sandia Mountains for panoramic views and hiking trails.
Book your hotel room early as this event is popular. Several hotels are a short walk away from the Amtrak station, including Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, and Hotel Adaluz. Be sure to also explore Old Town while you’re visiting the city and note that you’ll need to rent a car or use rideshare to reach the tramway.
Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial
Gallup, New Mexico’s major event is the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial in August. It features a week of traditional dances, a major all-Native rodeo, and one of the best juried Native American art shows in the country. There are also multiple shops in town with Native American jewelry, art and other goods.
The area around the Amtrak station is very walkable, but the closest hotels require a 15-minute walk: Best Western Plus and the Historic El Rancho Hotel.
Flagstaff Night Sky
The first Dark Sky City in the United States, Flagstaff is an amazing place for stargazing. Plan to visit the Lowell Observatory, which is a drive away from downtown Flagstaff. Taxis and rideshare services are available. You can also rent a car in town (Budget is closest to the Amtrak station and provides pick-up service).
Trains arrive in Flagstaff at odd hours, so you may want to consider booking a room at a hotel in walking distance of the Amtrak station, including at the Weatherford Hotel, Rodeway Inn, or Hotel Monte Vista (view all places to stay near the station).
Grand Canyon
One of the most visited national parks, the Grand Canyon is a stunning natural wonder. Exit the train in Flagstaff and either rent a car or book a tour to get there. Drive time is just over 1.5 hours to the South Rim, where you’ll also find the Grand Canyon Village and visitor center. Stay at a hotel near the South Rim if you want more time to enjoy activities such as hiking and helicopter rides.
Route 66
Route 66 travels near segments of the Southwest Chief route, with Arizona having the longest stretch of the historic road. You can get off the train at several different places to experience this US landmark — we like Winslow best as you can stay at the beautifully restoredĀ La Posada Hotel, one of the last survivingĀ Harvey HousesĀ in the country.
Mission Inn Hotel
If you love old hotels, you’ll love the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California. American presidents and celebrities including Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand, and Tom Hanks have stayed at this National Historic Landmark, which started as a boarding house in 1876. Many additions later, the hotel now features multiple restaurants, spa treatments, building tours, and is the host of the Festival of Lights that takes place late November through early January.
The hotel is less than a 15-minute walk from the Riverside Amtrak Station or request an Uber or Lyft car for a quick ride. While you’re in Riverside, consider visiting the nearby California Citrus State Historic Park to learn about the history of citrus farming in California.
L.A. Film Attractions
Home to movie studios and celebrities, Los Angeles has a long been associated with the film industry. Popular things to do include celebrity home tours, viewing the Hollywood sign, visiting the Dolby Theatre, exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame, going on the Warner Bros. Studio tour, and having fun at the Universal Studios theme park.
The Southwest Chief stops at the Los Angeles Union Station, where you can rent a car or use rideshare to get around. Bus tours are also a helpful way to see the sights. For places to stay near all the activities, check out hotels in Universal City,Ā Burbank, West Hollywood, andĀ Beverly Hills.
More Information
- Los Angeles Amtrak Guide
- Amtrak to the Grand Canyon
- Southwest Chief vs Texas Eagle
- Southwest Chief vs California Zephyr
- Most scenic part of the Southwest Chief route (and how to ride it)
Top photo ā0039 Grand Canyon Scenic View from Village Indian Gardenā by Grand Canyon National Park, CC BY 2.0
Last updated March 2026
US Train Travel Guide 