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Is the Overnight Train A Luxury or a Necessity?

Before the advent of the car in the 1960s, sleeper trains were America's primary method of long-distance transportation — but today, it's more often seen as a luxury. Is it time for that to change?

By Apoline Lamy

9:01 PM PDT on March 18, 2025

Is the Overnight Train A Luxury or a Necessity?

Before the advent of the car in the 1960s, sleeper trains were America's primary method of long-distance transportation — but today, it's more often seen as a luxury. Is it time for that to change? With the recent fear of air traveling, is the time for a sleeper train's comeback?

history | Transportation Alternatives | Travel guides

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