Like other cities, does Amtrak go to Las Vegas? Previously, the Amtrak Desert Wind train ran between Chicago and Los Angeles. However, the train stopped its services in 1997 due to low passenger demand. Because of this, currently, Las Vegas does not have a direct Amtrak passenger train service. However, passengers can use other options such as Amtrak Thruway Bus, shuttle services, or car rentals to travel. In the future, the Brightline West project will introduce a high-speed rail plan to connect Las Vegas with Southern California, offering a faster and more convenient travel option once completed.
Does Amtrak Stop in Las Vegas?
No, Amtrak does not go to Las Vegas, Nevada. However, travelers can still reach Las Vegas by taking an Amtrak train to a nearby city and then transferring to a connecting bus. This combination allows passengers to enjoy the comfort of train travel while still reaching their destination conveniently. Here is how this journey works:
- Book a single Amtrak ticket that includes both the train portion and the connecting bus to Las Vegas.
- While Amtrak does not go to Las Vegas, NV, ride the train to a city like Kingman, Needles, or Los Angeles.
- From the train station, board an Amtrak Thruway bus or partner bus service to reach Las Vegas.
- The bus will stop at a central location in Las Vegas, often near major hotels or transit hubs.
Where Does Amtrak Thruway Bus Drop Passengers Off?
Passengers travelling to Las Vegas through Amtrak Thruway Bus can pick one of the following stops closest to the final destination:
South Strip Transfer Terminal (LVT): This bus terminal is near Harry Reid International Airport. Amtrak goes to Las Vegas through this short ride-share or bus ride away from the major Strip resorts.
RTC South Strip Transit Terminal (SSTT): It is a popular hub for local Las Vegas buses.
Downtown (LVS): Some services drop off near the Fremont Street Experience area.
Popular Amtrak Routes That Connect to Las Vegas
While there is no direct Amtrak route to Las Vegas, the following routes are commonly used as part of the journey:
Southwest Chief: This route runs between Chicago and Los Angeles with stops in cities like Kingman and Needles. This route is famous among people travelling to Las Vegas from the Midwest or Southwest.
California Zephyr: Amtrak does go to Las Vegas through nearby stations and partner bus connections rather than a direct train. Travellers from cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, or San Francisco can use these routes and then connect through California.
Nearest Amtrak Stations to Las Vegas
Amtrak does not have a station in Las Vegas. However, passengers can use nearby stations and continue their journey by bus, rental car, or shuttle.
Kingman, Arizona: The Amtrak Kingman Station is located about 100 miles from Las Vegas. The primary train serving this route is the Southwest Chief. It is best suited for travellers coming from the East, including the Midwest, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff.
Needles, California: The distance to Las Vegas from the Needles Amtrak station is about 110 miles, which usually takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours by bus. This option is best for passengers who miss the Kingman connection or those traveling from western cities like Los Angeles or Fullerton.
Barstow, California: Amtrak does go to Las Vegas through the Amtrak Train Station in Barstow, CA. It is located about 155 miles away and is best for passengers who prefer a bus terminal connection.
Bakersfield, California: The distance between the Bakersfield Amtrak station and Las Vegas is around 285 miles. It is ideal for travelers coming from Northern California, including San Francisco, Sacramento, or Fresno.
Note: Check the Amtrak station near me to reach Las Vegas.
Amtrak Future Plans in Las Vegas
Currently, Amtrak does not go to Las Vegas, but in the future project Brightline West project is under construction. This is a high-speed rail project that aims to connect Las Vegas to Southern California with trains reaching speeds of up to 200 mph. Once completed, this will provide the direct, high-speed rail link that travelers have wanted for decades. Until then, the Amtrak-to-Bus connection remains the best way to connect the American West to Las Vegas.
Essential Travel Tips for Amtrak to Las Vegas
Travelling to Las Vegas with Amtrak focuses more on comfort and experience than quick travel. Here are a few travel tips make the most of the journey:
- Book the Amtrak train ticket a few months in advance to save a significant amount of money compared to last-minute fares.
- Baggage rules may differ between trains and stations. Check which Amtrak stations allow checked baggage services thoroughly.
- Allow enough time between train and bus connections to avoid missing transfers.
- Bring snacks and water for long journeys, as Thruway buses do not have cafe cars and dining cars.
- Reach stations early to ensure smooth boarding. See how early to arrive at the Amtrak station.
Final Words!
While Amtrak does not go to Las Vegas, passengers can reach the city through nearby train stations and connecting bus services. Popular routes such as the Southwest Chief, California Zephyr, connecting bus services, such as Thruway Amtrak Bus, proper planning, and booking help make the journey more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Amtrak does not have a direct train route to Las Vegas.
Kingman, Needles, Barstow, and Bakersfield are among the closest train stations.
Yes, Amtrak allows travelers to book combined train and bus tickets to Las Vegas.
Travel time varies by starting city, but it typically takes several hours to a few days, including connections.
The Southwest Chief and California Zephyr are the most commonly used routes for Las Vegas connections.
No, Amtrak does not stop in Las Vegas, but it offers bus connections to the city.
Drop-off locations are usually near major hotels or central transit hubs such as the South Strip Transfer Terminal (LVT), the RTC South Strip Transit Terminal (SSTT), and the Downtown (LVS).
