Reno is a great place to visit; it offers a lot to do. Some people find the airport to be aggravating and a waste of time. Luckily, taking the train to Reno is a solution. The train is relaxing, cheap, and oh-so-Scenic. This guide is full of resources, including tickets, schedules, and tips, to help you get to Reno from major cities such as New York, Chicago, Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and Denver. The guide is made with the traveler in mind. It covers every detail of your trip. It helps you figure out the best train to take and the best class to ride. Train travel is also one of the best ways to travel (better than by bus or by car). This guide covers every detail you need to answer all your questions. This guide will even help you if this is your first time ever riding Amtrak.
Why Take a Train to Reno? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
Reno is an extremely popular destination for travelers to Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and Nevada’s casinos. Although flying can be fast, trains offer the kind of travel experience that many tourists now enjoy.
The main reasons why people choose to travel by train, rather than flying or driving
- Value of the scenic route: The way to Reno passes through parts of the Sierra Nevada, including Donner Pass and the Truckee River canyon, offering one of the most stunning mountain landscapes on any US railroad route.
- Free baggage allowance: Amtrak offers generous free baggage allowances, unlike many budget airlines that charge for each checked bag.
- A less stressful boarding experience: no security lines, no shoe removal, no restrictions on liquids, and boarding closes only minutes before departure.
- Downtown convenience that connects to downtown: Reno station is located in downtown, near casinos and hotels, so you don’t need lengthy taxi rides from a far-away airport.
- Cost-effective for lengthy journeys: For those traveling from nearby cities such as Sacramento, Truckee, or Salt Lake City, rail fares are usually less expensive than last-minute flights.
- Comfortable sleeping in a car: Ideal for those traveling long distances, rooms and bedrooms are ideal for sleeping, working, or just relaxing in a space that isn’t restricted by an economy flight.
- Environmentally friendlier: trains generally leave less carbon emissions per passenger than driving or flying on your own.
To those who view that journey as part of their trip rather than simply a way to get there, taking the train from Reno makes travel an experience.
Which Trains Go to Reno? Major Rail Services Explained
The primary rail service for Reno is Amtrak. The California Zephyr is a long-distance train that stops in Reno and is one of Amtrak’s top long-distance rail journeys.
| Service | Operator | Route Covered | Frequency |
| California Zephyr | Amtrak | Chicago to Emeryville (San Francisco Bay Area), stopping in Reno | Daily |
| Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach | Amtrak (bus connection) | Connects Reno to nearby cities like Sacramento, Truckee, and South Lake Tahoe | Multiple daily connections |
| Regional connections | Amtrak partner services | Connects via Sacramento or Salt Lake City to other Amtrak lines | Varies by route |
The California Zephyr is a cross-country train line that operates daily trips between Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. Zephyr makes a stop in Reno. Compared to all other train lines that go to Reno, the Zephyr is easily the most important. This train gives access to the Midwest and up to Northern California. Travels With Kev
If you want to get to Reno by train, the Zephyr is your best option. Reno continues to be an important stop for cross-country and regional travel, often combined with bus travel. These systems all utilize the Thruway connection.
Popular Train Routes to Reno From Major US Cities
Reno can be reached by a single train from many major cities, as the California Zephyr travels coast to coast and offers numerous connections.
| Starting City | Route Path to Reno | Approx. Travel Time |
| Chicago, IL | Direct on California Zephyr | Around 2 days |
| Denver, CO | Direct on California Zephyr | Around 15-16 hours |
| Salt Lake City, UT | Direct on California Zephyr | Around 10-11 hours |
| Sacramento, CA | Direct on California Zephyr | Around 3-4 hours |
| Emeryville/San Francisco, CA | Direct on California Zephyr | Around 5-6 hours |
| New York, NY | Connecting train via Chicago | Around 2.5-3 days total |
| Los Angeles, CA | Connecting via Sacramento or bus-train combination | Around 1-1.5 days |
Travelers from the West Coast, particularly Sacramento and the Bay Area, enjoy the fastest and most efficient train service from Sacramento to Reno. People from the East Coast should plan for more than one day of travel, as they need to connect through Chicago.
Summary of the key points to expect:
- West Coast travelers take short day excursions with mountain views.
- Midwest travelers can take a two-night or overnight trip using sleeper vehicles.
- East Coast travelers need to reserve extra time and prepare for at minimum one trip.
- Travelers from Utah and Colorado can enjoy a pleasant day-long or overnight trip with breathtaking views throughout the journey.
NYC to Reno Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
Travelers from New York City cannot take a direct train to Reno. To board an Amtrak train that travels to Reno, travelers must first take a train to Chicago to board the California Zephyr.
Typical NYC to Reno train journey structure:
- Travelers must first board an eastern Amtrak service, such as the Lake Shore Limited, to travel from New York City to Chicago.
- Travelers usually have a several-hour layover in Chicago before the next train departs.
- Travelers must board the California Zephyr for the next train service to Reno.
Travelers must pass through the states of Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and finally Nevada to reach their destination of Reno.
| Leg of Journey | Approx. Duration |
| New York to Chicago | Around 19-20 hours |
| Layover in Chicago | 2-6 hours (varies by schedule) |
| Chicago to Reno | Around 2 days |
Ticket tips for NYC to Reno travelers:
- Make sure to book both flights together if feasible, as Amtrak frequently offers combined tickets for connecting journeys.
- Pick a sleeper automobile (roomette or bedroom) to rest your legs overnight and get a good night’s sleep, especially since the trip spans several days.
- Create buffers during the Chicago layover, in case trains running on the east side are late. Long-distance trains are prone to delays.
- Bring snacks and other entertainment because a trip across the country that long spans several days and different time zones.
- Take a break and consider making an overnight stop in Chicago or Denver if you’d like to explore the area along the way, since Amtrak usually allows stopovers on long-distance tickets at no extra expense.
This option is suitable for those who truly appreciate trains as a way of life rather than seeking the most efficient way to get to Reno.
Reno Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
If it’s your first experience with a long-distance train, some pre-planning can make a difference.
Prior to your travels:
- Be at the station 30 to 45 minutes before departure, especially when checking luggage.
- Print or download your ticket as an actual copy. This is because the smaller stations may not have ticket counters with full service.
- Be sure to check baggage allowances in advance if you have more than two pieces of luggage.
- Fully charge all your devices because not every train will have a functional outlet at your exact seat.
While traveling:
- Wear a warm jacket because train cars tend to run cool, especially in the sleeper section.
- Bring snacks to go along with a refillable water bottle regardless of whether dining or snack vehicles are on hand.
- Make sure to keep medications and valuables in a bag you can carry on rather than checked baggage.
- Utilize the lounge or observation vehicle during this Sierra Nevada segment, since it is generally regarded as to be the most picturesque stretch of the entire road.
When you arrive in Reno:
- The Reno railway station is conveniently located, and many casino and hotel accommodations are within walking distance or a short rideshare away.
- Have your hotel’s address ready for a taxi or rideshare, since there isn’t a large vehicle rental counter.
- Make sure to check your Thruway bus information in advance if you’re traveling to Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
| Task | Why It Matters |
| Arrive early | Avoids missing boarding, especially with baggage |
| Bring ID and ticket | Required for boarding verification |
| Pack layers | Train cars vary in temperature |
| Charge devices | Outlet access is not guaranteed everywhere |
| Confirm connections | Long trips often involve transfers |
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Reno
The distinction between direct and connecting routes can help you have a smoother journey.
Direct trains from Reno (single train; no transfer required):
- Sacramento to Reno
- Emeryville/San Francisco to Reno
- Salt Lake City to Reno
- Denver to Reno
- Chicago to Reno
The cities are all within the California Zephyr’s only continuous line. This means passengers from these cities can board a single train and continue straight to Reno without switching trains.
Connecting routes leading to Reno (require at minimum the transfer of one):
- New York City to Reno (via Chicago)
- Boston to Reno (via Chicago)
- Los Angeles to Reno (via Sacramento or a bus-train Thruway connection)
- Seattle to Reno (via connections via California or via a Thruway bus route)
- Portland through Reno (via connections to Sacramento)
The importance of connections in the planning of your trip:
- Connection trips typically take longer, but they can occasionally be less expensive when booked separately at lower rates.
- The delay in connecting to the internet tends to occur more frequently on lengthy trips with multiple legs. Therefore, you should build in additional buffer time.
- A few connecting routes use Thruway motorcoaches instead of an additional train. This is typical for those traveling towards Reno coming from Southern California.
Business Class vs Coach on Reno Trains
Riding an Amtrak train to Reno is a lengthy journey, so having the optimal seating arrangement is essential to your overall comfort. Amtrak offers multiple fare tiers for seating and accommodations.
| Feature | Coach Class | Business Class | Sleeper (Roomette/Bedroom) |
| Seat type | Standard reclining seat | Wider, more legroom seat | Private cabin with bed |
| Price | Lowest | Moderate | Highest |
| Best for | Short daytime trips (e.g., Sacramento to Reno) | Regional trips with extra comfort | Overnight or multi-day trips |
| Meals included | Snack car available, meals purchased separately | Sometimes includes complimentary snacks or drinks | Meals typically included |
| Privacy | None | None | Full private cabin |
| Power outlets | Usually available | Usually available | Available |
| Availability on Reno routes | Available on all Zephyr trains | Limited, mainly regional segments | Available on Chicago-Reno long-distance segment |
Point-by-point comparison:
1. If you’re traveling by bus on a short trip from Sacramento to Reno, coach class works just fine.
2. For the business traveler interested in daytime regional travel, paying for business class means you get the extra room for the price of just over half a fully private room.
3. Pay for the fully private room if you’re traveling overnight from Chicago to Reno or from Denver to Reno. Coach class means the whole leg of the trip is uncomfortable.
4. Upgrading to a sleeper is the best option for families or business travelers. You arrive less fatigued, so the sleeping upgrade pays for itself.
Reno Train Station: Everything You Need to Know
Reno Station is also Reno’s only Amtrak station. It is very significant to the travel industry in western Nevada. The station is located at 135 East Commercial Row in Reno’s downtown. Yelp
Reno Station key facts:
- Reno Station is located in downtown Reno and is within walking distance of many resorts.
- The California Zephyr is the primary train serving Reno Station, making daily round trips.
- Reno Station is an Amtrak Thruway stop. Thruway motorcoaches travel to Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and Sacramento.
- The ticket counter does not remain open throughout the day. Passengers should print tickets or save them to their phones prior to arrival, as there is no guarantee that ticket services will be available.
- If you are driving to the station, there is a parking lot. Because the station is in downtown Reno, many visitors prefer to walk or rideshare from their hotel.
What travelers commonly ask about the station:
- Rental cars are not available at the station. Rental cars can be reserved at other locations in downtown Reno or at the airport.
- Because Reno Station is small, it does not take a long time to navigate. This is not the case for larger stations like Chicago Union Station.
- There is usually free Wi-Fi available for passengers.
| Station Detail | Information |
| Station Name | Reno Station |
| Address | 135 East Commercial Row, Reno, NV 89501 |
| Location Type | Downtown Reno |
| Main Service | California Zephyr (daily) |
| Additional Service | Amtrak Thruway motorcoach connections |
| Nearby Attractions | Downtown casinos, hotels, Riverwalk District |
How to Book Train Tickets to Reno: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking a train ticket to Reno is simple, whether online, via the Amtrak app, or over the phone.
Booking process step-by-step
- Determine your travel dates and your city of origin. Make sure that your travel route requires an immediate train ride or a connection.
- Check out the official Amtrak site or download the Amtrak mobile application. It will provide you with precise, current prices and schedules.
- Choose your departure city, and set Reno as the location. The system will display the available train options for the dates you have selected.
- Compare seats available. Examine business-class, coach sleeper, and coach options, including costs.
- Verify your baggage and connections. If you are planning an airport transfer, ensure that your layover time is reasonable.
- Choose your preferred departure time and class. Also, add any other extras, such as priority boarding, if available.
- Fill in the information of the passenger and confirm your reservation. Double-check that names match valid identification.
- Full payment. Most major credit cards and electronic payment methods can be used online.
- Print or save your ticket as a single file. Make it available in case you need to board or check in at a station.
Additional booking tips:
- Make reservations earlier for long-distance routes, such as Chicago to Reno, as sleeper cabins sell out more quickly than coach seats.
- Make sure you sign up for a rewards or loyalty account when you book to earn points on your journey.
- Consider flexible options for your airfare if your trip dates aren’t fully confirmed. These typically allow for free cancellations.
- Compare prices for weekend and weekday travel, as weekday schedules are typically more affordable on regional segments.
Reno Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
The price of a train ticket to Reno varies widely depending on your departure city and the distance to your destination. Costs will vary based on how far in advance you buy your ticket and which class you plan on buying.
| Route | Coach Class (Approx.) | Sleeper/Business (Approx.) |
| Sacramento to Reno | Budget-friendly, short trip pricing | Business class moderate upgrade |
| Emeryville/San Francisco to Reno | Budget to mid-range | Moderate upgrade for business class |
| Salt Lake City to Reno | Mid-range | Higher, due to overnight sleeper option |
| Denver to Reno | Mid-range to higher | Higher, sleeper recommended for comfort |
| Chicago to Reno | Higher, due to long distance | Highest, full sleeper cabin pricing |
Strategies to cut costs on the cost of Reno train tickets:
- Plan your travel well in advance, as prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches.
- It is better to go on a weekday than on a weekend, as prices and demand are usually lower.
- Subscribe to Amtrak’s loyalty reward program and redeem points for future trips.
- Keep an eye out for seasonal sales. These are typically released during holidays or slow traveling times.
- Consider coach classes for short regional excursions, and save the upgrade to sleepers for longer overnight trips.
- Take a look at senior, student, military, or group discounts if you are eligible, as they could significantly lower the cost of travel.
- Whenever you can, avoid booking last minute, because walk-up tickets tend to be the most expensive on the market.
Since prices change frequently based on demand and seasonality, it is recommended to check the official Amtrak reservation system for the most current and accurate prices before finalizing any schedule.
Best Time to Visit Reno by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
Seasonal changes in Reno’s scenery and climate affect both the traveler’s experience and travel costs.
| Season | Weather & Scenery | Travel Notes |
| Spring (March-May) | Mild weather, melting snow in the Sierras | Good time for lower fares and fewer crowds |
| Summer (June-August) | Warm, sunny, peak tourist season | Higher prices, book early, great for Lake Tahoe side trips |
| Fall (September-November) | Cooler temperatures, changing foliage | Balanced pricing, scenic mountain views |
| Winter (December-February) | Snow-covered mountains, ski season | Stunning scenery through the Sierra Nevada, but watch for weather-related delays |
Point-by-point seasonal tips:
- Everybody wants to go to Lake Tahoe in the summer, so plan ahead for tickets and sleeper cabins.
- For winter trips, snow-capped mountains make beautiful views on the train, but be sure to account for the weather and build extra time for delays.
- Travelers really like spring and fall because of the overall good weather, low prices, and few crowds.
- If you’re headed to Lake Tahoe to ski, plan to take the train to Reno and then a Thruway bus to the mountains.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Reno: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Transportation to Reno has its strengths based on your priorities, starting location, and budget.
| Factor | Train | Bus | Car |
| Comfort | High, especially with sleeper cars | Moderate | Depends on driver and vehicle |
| Scenery | Excellent, especially through the Sierra Nevada | Limited, depends on route | Good, but requires driver focus |
| Cost | Moderate to higher for long distances | Usually cheapest | Variable, includes fuel and parking |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed schedule | Most flexible |
| Baggage | Generous free allowance | Limited allowance | No restrictions |
| Best for | Long trips, scenic travel, relaxation | Budget travelers on regional routes | Travelers wanting full control of schedule |
| Downtown access | Direct, station is central | Direct, most stations are central | Requires parking arrangements |
Point-by-point comparison:
- Pick the train you prefer if you are looking for a tranquil, picturesque ride with minimal effort, especially for longer distances, with sleeper cabins that offer genuine peace.
- Pick the bus you prefer to travel on if it is the cheapest, and you’re travelling a short distance.
- Pick the right car if you want complete control over your timetable, want to visit multiple places along the way, or are taking lots of baggage or gear, like ski equipment.
- For trips that involve Lake Tahoe alongside Reno, most travelers connect the train with a Thruway bus, which offers the most scenic train travel experience and the flexibility of last-mile transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a train to Reno from Chicago that isn’t a transfer?
Yes, there is a direct train to Reno from Chicago with the California Zephyr.
2. How many hours does it take to travel from Sacramento to Reno by train?
The trip takes only 3-4 hours, one of the quickest and easiest options to get to Reno.
3. Is there an Amtrak route directly from New York to Reno?
No, there is no direct route from New York to Reno. The California Zephyr requires a connection in Chicago.
4. Where exactly is the train station in Reno?
The train station in Reno is located at 135 East Commercial Row in Downtown Reno, very close to the hotels and casinos.
5. What is the best way to book an overnight trip to Reno by train?
The overnight legs to Reno should be booked with a private sleeping space, either a roomette or a bedroom.
6. How expensive is a train ticket to Reno?
Ticket prices vary greatly based on distance, season, and ticket class. Coach tickets on shorter trips are a budget option. Sleeper tickets on long-distance trips such as from Chicago to Reno will be more expensive.
7. Is it possible to travel by train from Reno to Lake Tahoe?
There is no direct train to Lake Tahoe. However, the Amtrak Thruway motorcoach bus connects to Reno Station and provides access to multiple locations around Lake Tahoe.
8. What time of the year has the best train traveling conditions to Reno?
Generally, in the Spring and Fall, crowds are smaller, prices lower, and the weather is optimal. Summer travelers contend with a more crowded and expensive travel season, but with better access to Lake Tahoe.
9. Is the Reno train an attractive way to travel?
The train ride through the Sierra Nevada and Donner Pass is recognized as one of the most beautiful train rides in America.
10. For the optimal price, how far in advance must I purchase a Reno train ticket?
It is best to book a few weeks in advance for long, sleeper train tickets. This is because prices go up as the train date gets closer.