If you’ve ever looked at your Amtrak ticket and wondered, “What does Train 41 even mean?”—you’re not alone. Or maybe you’ve asked, “Why do trains have both numbers and names?”
Train numbers serve several important purposes, while names make routes easier to remember.
For example, a route like the Hiawatha can have up to 12 trains daily, and each requires a unique number to prevent confusion. These numbers help passengers, station staff, and railroad dispatchers identify each train and its direction of travel. This is helpful if a train is delayed; you want to ensure you get on the correct train.
For beginners, Amtrak’s train numbers might seem random—but there’s a system behind most of them… with a few fun exceptions.
The Odd vs. Even Rule (Usually)
Even numbers = northbound or eastbound
Odd numbers = southbound or westbound
Examples:
Southwest Chief: Train 8 (east to Chicago) / Train 7 (west to Los Angeles)
City of New Orleans: Train 58 (north to Chicago) / Train 59 (south to New Orleans)
But Wait—There Are Exceptions!
Some trains break the pattern:
The Acela uses 2000-series numbers (like #2150, #2151)
State-supported routes (like the Pacific Surfliner) often use their systems. Most Midwest trains are 300s.
Trains with numbers starting with 1XXX often indicate that the train is not running according to its regular schedule, such as during daylight saving time, track work, seasonal trains, or for other reasons. The exception to this is the Borealis (1333 & 1340), which is a daily train.
Trains with Dual Numbers
Some long-distance trains split or merge en route and use “dual” train numbers to indicate their origin or destination. Learn more about trains with multiple numbers.
Examples:
Lake Shore Limited (westbound):
Train 49: to Chicago via New York
Train 449: to Chicago via Boston (They combine in Albany before heading west.)
In this example, if you are going between Chicago and Albany, you will hear 49 and 449 announced at stations.
Empire Builder: splits in Spokane for Portland and Seattle
Texas Eagle: becomes part of the Sunset Limited when continuing to Los Angeles (as Train 421/422). This occurs in San Antonio, TX.
Why Some Numbers Feel Random
Blame other railroads!
Amtrak inherited many of its train numbers from the private railroads that operated before 1971.
Sunset Limited: still uses #1/#2 from its Southern Pacific days
Coast Starlight: #11/#14 reflects quirks from Southern Pacific and Union Pacific practices
Fun fact: There’s no Train 666 or 13—Amtrak skips it, maybe for superstitious reasons!
Where You’ll See Train Numbers
You’ll find train numbers on:
Your ticket (digital or paper)
Station signs and announcements
Delay alerts and Amtrak tracking tools
Why it matters:
Helps you find the right platform, and numbers can be easier to find.
Useful if multiple trains are boarding close together
If you’re crossing into Canada, such as on the Maple Leaf to Toronto, the train numbering might switch between Amtrak and VIA Rail, adding a little twist for curious travelers.
While in the USA, the trains are 63 and 64; in Canada, they are VIA trains 97 and 98.
Want to know more? Let me know!
The Maple Leaf Amtrak 63 VIA 97
Mardi Gras Train Sells Out Fast!
Amtrak’s new Mardi Gras Service—running between Mobile, AL, and New Orleans, LA—officially begins on August 18, 2025, and is already proving popular. Just two days after tickets went on sale, some of the first departures sold out quickly, including the 6:30 a.m. departure from Mobile and the 4:30 p.m. weekday return from New Orleans.
This new Gulf Coast route offers twice-daily service with coach fares starting at $15. If you're planning to ride, make sure to book early—seats are filling up fast!
Thursday was one of those perfect days when everything fell into place—thanks to the magic of trains, toddler determination, and a touch of spontaneity.
The highlight? Watching my nephew light up as the train pulled into the station. When asked if he liked the train, his verdict? "Again!" (Cue my immediate search for more kid-friendly rail routes.) Metra’s looking like a solid option—affordable, quieter midday, and full of potential for mini-adventures.
I’ll admit, my sister was overprepared (Parenting 101). The stroller? A total non-starter. This kid walked the entire time, proud as could be, while we played a silent game of "Why did we bring this giant stroller again?" Pro tip: If your destination has storage, use it.
Now I’m imagining more trips. Union Station for lunch sounds lovely… until I realize two hours each way with a restless kiddo might be tough. (Reality check: Hard pass.) But shorter trips? Perfect. Ride a few stops, explore a new neighborhood, grab a bite, and return before the witching hour hits. Once again, compromise proves best.
The lesson? Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones you scale with tiny legs (and attention spans). And honestly? I’m here for it.
Looking at the Markers 🚂
Thank you for reading this newsletter and reaching out—it means a great deal to me!
Thanks to Michael H. for hitting the green button at the bottom of the page.
If you enjoy my work, consider supporting this free resource. You can visit my support page to learn how to help keep this train rolling, or click the green button at the bottom of this newsletter to pitch in.
Your support makes everything I do possible. Every little bit truly helps—and together, we’re inspiring more people to explore the world, one train trip at a time! 🚆✨
Until Next Week…
Happy planning and safe travels, Kev Monteith
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