About 5 years ago, my husband and I took a bucket trip on Amtrak. It was amazing. We went from San Antonio TX to Chicago, so we could see Lake Michigan. From there, we took the California Zephyr to San Francisco so we could ride through the Moffat Tunnel. We were lucky enough to see the Aspens turning in Colorado. We spent four days in San Francisco with friends. We got to see redwood trees and sea lions. My husband stuck his feet into the Pacific Ocean. We rode the Coast Starlight to LA.We returnd to San Antonio, and spotted a Mountain Lion in the foothills. It was the most relaxing trip we ever made. No driving, no maps, just sit back and watch the scenery.

We want to ride from Houston to Atlanta, and take an east coast trip to New York City, then to Chicago, so we can see the leaves turning next fall. There aren't many trees which change color in south Texas, lol. Thanks again.

Likewise my Wife & I also did the California Zephyr in 2023 & Coast Starlight in 2012. Thanks for sharing your experience and hope you get to do your Houston - Atlanta -NYC- Chicago bucket list, sounds like an interesting trip!