Is This The Most Scenic Train in America?

Happy Monday Reader!

A few days ago, we boarded a train in Chicago with a simple question:

Is the California Zephyr really the most scenic train ride in America?

So we rode it all the way across the country.

For the next 52 hours, the train carried us from the Midwest to California — farmland turning into mountains, mountains into desert, and landscapes changing faster than we could take them in. It’s one of the things we love most about this country: how dramatically it transforms when you travel across it slowly enough to notice.

But here’s the thing about train travel…

It’s not faster.
It’s not cheaper.

And honestly, that’s kind of the point.

Sometimes the best part of travel is choosing the long way on purpose.

We’ll let the video tell the rest of the story.

A huge thank you to Nomad Lane for making this adventure possible for us. Their Bento Bag and Tomodachi Sling were perfect for this trip. Since our trip, I've gotten the Ikigai Backpack and I absolutely love it. Nomad Lane is giving our viewers 10% off when you use code ADVENTURECREWS10

Would you ever cross America by train? Watch the full video and let us know in the comments.

Thank you for being here,

Emily

Reader, this may be our last sailing trip!

Yes you read that right.

For nearly three years, the ocean was our home.

We woke up in quiet anchorages, explored islands you can’t reach by road, and shared some of the most unforgettable adventures of our lives—and many of you have been here the entire journey.

But as our channel has shifted to our new focus (Unique America), we’re not sure when (or if) we’ll host another sailing trip again.

That’s why Cruise with the Crews – Exumas 2026 feels especially meaningful.

In May of 2026, we’ll be setting sail to explore the turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and hidden gems of the Exumas, Bahamas.

From snorkeling vibrant reefs and swimming with sea turtles to beach picnics, island hopping, and sunset dinners on deck, this is your chance to experience the magic of boat life firsthand.

And like every Cruise with the Crews trip, the best part is the people—adventurers who show up as strangers and leave feeling like lifelong friends.

If sailing the Exumas with us has ever been on your bucket list, this might be the moment.

You’ve watched our adventures… now it’s your turn to live one.