Amtrak serves more than 500 communities nationwide, with over 150 of them being rural areas, providing affordable and accessible intercity transportation options to many Americans.

Amtrak launches the Metroliner Express Service between Washington, D.C., and New York, offering a quick trip completed in 2 hours and 59 minutes with limited stops at Baltimore and Philadelphia.

Amtrak implements the Arrow computerized reservation and ticketing system nationwide, enhancing system functionality and reliability, leading to a significant reduction in lost customer calls.

President Richard Nixon signs the Rail Passenger Service Act (RPSA), establishing the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, later known as Amtrak, to manage intercity passenger rail services previously operated by private railroads.

Eight original Incorporators of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation are confirmed, with David W. Kendall elected as Chairman of the Board of Incorporators.

The Inter-American (Fort Worth-Laredo) train makes its first journey, offering service to the Mexican border with a bus link connecting to the Aztec Eagle (Nuevo Laredo-Mexico City).

On March 22, 1971, Amtrak formally announced its intended routes for passenger train services.

On March 30, 1971, Amtrak was officially incorporated in Washington, D.C., marking a significant step in the establishment of the new passenger rail company.

Amtrak launches the ARTS (Amtrak Reservation and Ticketing System), a new national computerized ticket reservation system, replacing multiple railroad reservation systems.

The Articles of Incorporation of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation were established on April 17, 1971. This marked the official formation of Amtrak, the national rail service in the United States.

On April 28, 1971, Roger Lewis was confirmed as the first president of Amtrak, taking on a key leadership role in the newly formed passenger rail company.

On May 1, 1971, Amtrak started its passenger train services with 184 trains a day and 323 stations. The first train to depart was a Clocker from New York City to Philadelphia.

On May 10, 1971, trains 68/69, later known as the Lake Shore service from New York to Chicago, became the first service added to the Amtrak Basic System. Despite being intended as a State Supported train, it was discontinued in January 1972 due to lack of funding from states along the route.

On May 17, 1971, the Bay State State Supported train started operating between Boston and New York via the Inland Route with financial backing from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Amtrak and Greyhound sign an agreement to make rail-to-bus and bus-to-rail connections more seamless, allowing customers to purchase combination tickets from any agent of either company.

Michigan becomes the fifth state to partially finance Amtrak service under section 403(b) of the RPSA with the launch of Blue Water service between Chicago and Port Huron.

On October 1, 1971, Amtrak opened its first Reservations Sales Office in Chicago, consolidating the reservation bureaus of several major railroads, including the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe, Illinois Central, and others.

In January 16, 1972, Amtrak highlighted the importance of quality equipment in running a successful railroad. They assessed and retained the best 1200 out of 3000 passenger cars, focusing on improving the overall passenger experience.

On July 17, 1972, Amtrak started its international service with the daily Pacific International route between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., marking a significant expansion of its operations.

On October 29, 1972, Amtrak added daily service to Montreal, Quebec, with the Washingtonian southbound and Montrealer northbound trains, enhancing its connectivity and reach.

The Turboliner was introduced into service in 1973 by Amtrak, featuring futuristic design and high speeds achieved by diesel-turbine engines.

Regional reservation centers in Manhattan, Bensalem, Jacksonville, Chicago, and Los Angeles provide 24-hour nationwide toll-free reservations, ticketing, and information.

Paul Reistrup assumes the role of the second president of Amtrak.

The November 30, 1975 All-America Schedules showcased the historical evolution of American railroads, emphasizing the significance of quality equipment. It featured iconic rail cars throughout history, including the introduction of Amtrak's Amfleet first-class car in 1975.

On January 15, 1976, Amtrak became the first nationwide transportation company to provide a reservation system specifically designed for deaf customers.

Amtrak assumes control of the 457-mile Northeast Corridor mainline, including trains, track forces, dispatching, signaling, and maintenance from Penn Central. The purchase also includes over 100 railroad stations, maintenance shops, and rail yards.

Amtrak collaborates with VIA Rail Canada to introduce the daily Maple Leaf service between New York, Niagara Falls, and Toronto. Amtrak provides the equipment and oversees the train in the U.S., while VIA staff takes over once the train crosses into Canadian territory.

California begins funding an additional roundtrip San Diegan service between Los Angeles and San Diego, in addition to the three existing roundtrips funded by Amtrak.

Amtrak takes over the Los Angeles Eighth Street shop and yard complex from the Santa Fe Railway, responsible for the last large fleet of steam-heated cars during the conversion to all-electric operations.

Amtrak and the federal government partner to start the $1.75 billion Northeast Corridor Improvement Project (NECIP) to modernize the mainline's infrastructure, including track, signaling systems, maintenance facilities, and stations.

On April 25, 1978, Alan S. Boyd became the third president of Amtrak.

In July 1978, Amtrak showcased its new Track Laying System in Kingston, R.I., which could renew track three-and-a-half times faster than conventional methods.

On October 27, 1978, Amtrak received its first Superliner car, a 77-seat coach, from Pullman Standard.

On November 13, 1978, Mickey Mouse marked his 50th birthday by embarking on a cross-country trip on Amtrak, greeted by fans and Amtrak President Alan Boyd.

On February 1, 1979, Amtrak began operating the Crescent service between New York and New Orleans via Atlanta. This service was previously operated by Southern Railway and was known as the Southern Crescent.

Amtrak introduced the Superliner into service on October 28, 1979, as the first new long-distance train in two decades. It featured double-decker cars influenced by the Hi-Level cars and offered various passenger accommodations.

On October 29, 1979, Missouri collaborated with Amtrak to extend daily service across the state, connecting its major cities, after the discontinuation of the National Limited route. This extension led to the introduction of the St. Louis Mule and Kansas City Mule routes in October 1980.

On May 9, 1980, Locomotive No. 901, the first AEM-7 locomotive, entered revenue service with Amtrak, departing from Washington to New York leading the Metroliner Service train No. 108.

In January 1981, Amtrak debuted Express, an on-board general interest magazine that was first distributed on trains along the Northeast Corridor. The magazine provided passengers with reading material during their journey.

W. Graham Claytor, Jr. is appointed as the fourth president of Amtrak on June 11, 1982.

On July 15, 1983, Amtrak reroutes the San Francisco Zephyr through Colorado, renaming it the California Zephyr. This new route follows the scenic Colorado River.

Amtrak starts tri-weekly Auto Train service to transport customers and their cars from Lorton, Va. to Sanford, Fla. It expands to daily operation the following year.

Amtrak and the Long Island Rail Road agree to modernize New York Penn Station, including a new train control system and passenger facility improvements.

NBC's Today Show embarks on a five-day trip across the central U.S. via a special Amtrak train known as the 'Today Express.'

The first Viewliner prototype was completed in 1986, showcasing advancements in train design and technology.

On September 29, 1988, Washington Union Station reopened after a significant $160 million renovation project, marking one of the largest private-public partnerships in the U.S. Amtrak also relocated its corporate headquarters to the station.

In 1989, Amtrak carried more passengers between Washington, D.C. and New York than all airlines combined, showcasing its popularity and efficiency in transportation.

With financial backing from North Carolina, Amtrak launches the Carolinian train service connecting New York, Raleigh, and Charlotte. This service was an extension of a previous trial service that ran from 1984 to 1985.

The Empire Connection tunnel in New York City, linking New York Penn Station with the Albany Line along the Hudson River, is completed. This leads to a shift of Empire Service trains and those serving other destinations north and west of the city from Grand Central Terminal to Penn Station.

Philadelphia 30th Street Station is rededicated after a major renovation, enhancing its facilities and services for travelers.

Caltrans and Amtrak collaborate to launch the Capitol Corridor service, initially operating between San Jose and Sacramento, later extending eastward to Auburn.

Amtrak and Metra complete a $32 million renovation of Chicago Union Station and its facilities, enhancing the infrastructure for passengers and rail services.

Siemens introduced the ICE 1 train from Germany on the Northeast Corridor as part of the ICE Train North America Tour, starting operations on July 3, 1993. This initiative aimed to test high-speed train technology in the U.S.

Amtrak commences the operation of leased Talgo trains in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Transportation, enhancing its service offerings in the region.

Amtrak launches the daily Vermonter service in collaboration with the state of Vermont, offering a daylight train route that replaces the previous overnight Montrealer service.

In January, during a blizzard, Amtrak remains the only intercity mode of transportation to maintain service in the Northeast region.

Ground is broken for the electrification of the North End, a 157-mile section of the Northeast Corridor between New Haven, Conn., and Boston, to improve speed and efficiency of train services.

Ethan Allen Express debuts, offering the first direct rail service between New York and Rutland, Vt., in 40 years, enhancing connectivity.

On December 11, Amtrak President Thomas Downs resigns, and George Warrington is appointed as the acting president, marking a leadership change.

On December 21, 1998, George Warrington was appointed as the sixth president of Amtrak, after serving as acting president since December 1997.

On March 9, 1999, Amtrak revealed its plan for the Acela Express, a high-speed train operating on the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C. and Boston. This initiative involved various changes to the corridor to accommodate faster electric trains.

After a 20-year absence, Amtrak reintroduces daily passenger service in Oklahoma with the Heartland Flyer, which runs from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City. Oklahoma provides financial support for the train, marking a significant return of passenger service to the state.

On January 31, 2000, the first electrified service across the entire Northeast Corridor commences with Acela Regional No. 131 running from Boston to Washington without changing power in New Haven, Conn. This marks a milestone in efficient rail travel along the Northeast Corridor.

On November 29, 2000, Amtrak introduced the Amtrak Guest Rewards program, offering customers a way to earn points for travel rewards. Points could be redeemed for Amtrak travel, hotels, car rentals, and more.

On December 11, 2000, the first Acela Express trainset began revenue service, marking the start of high-speed rail in America. Initially operating between Washington and Boston, the service expanded with more frequencies as additional trainsets were delivered.

On December 15, 2001, Amtrak starts daily Downeaster service between Boston and Portland in collaboration with the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority, marking the revival of passenger rail service in Maine after several decades.

On May 15, 2002, David Gunn assumes the role of the seventh president of Amtrak, bringing new leadership to the organization.

In 2003, repairs to the Acela Express and HHP-8 locomotive yaw damper brackets are successfully finished, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.

A book by Brian Solomon that provides insights into Amtrak. It was published in 2004 in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

On January 18, 2005, the General Mitchell Airport station in Milwaukee opened, providing direct access to an airport, a unique feature in the Amtrak system.

On November 9, 2005, David Hughes assumed the role of acting president of Amtrak, taking on leadership responsibilities within the organization.

Amtrak and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania celebrate the first run of newly restored electrified, high-speed service on the 104-mile Harrisburg Line, connecting the state capital with Philadelphia. The service is a result of the Keystone Corridor Improvement Project, allowing for top speeds of 110 mph and 90-minute express service for some trips.

November of the year marks a record Thanksgiving for Amtrak, possibly indicating a significant increase in passenger numbers and travel during the holiday season.

Amtrak organizes the first National Train Day on May 10, 2008.

The bill was signed into law by President Bush after being spurred on by the September 12 Metrolink collision in California. It appropriates $2.6 billion a year in Amtrak funding through 2013.

On November 15, 2008, the Heartland Flyer, operating between Fort Worth and Oklahoma City, celebrated its one-millionth passenger, represented by university student Rooke Jackson of Oklahoma City.

Joseph H. Boardman becomes the ninth president of Amtrak on November 26, 2008.

President-elect Barack Obama and Vice-President-elect Joe Biden travel from Wilmington, Del., to Washington, D.C., aboard an Amtrak charter train on January 17, 2009, to attend their inauguration.

On August 17, 2009, the Lake Shore Limited service was operational.

Virginia partners with Amtrak to operate State Supported trains, starting a daily roundtrip Northeast Regional trip funded by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Amtrak introduces complimentary Wi-Fi service at major stations in the Northeast and on all Acela Express trains.

The Vermonter and Valley Flyer train services were introduced on January 23, 2011.

On April 4, 2011, Amtrak introduced the Gateway Program, a comprehensive initiative for rail infrastructure improvements in the New York City area, aiming to enhance track, tunnel, bridge, and station capacity.

From May 2011 to May 2012, Amtrak celebrated its 40th anniversary with various festivities across the country, including the publication of a commemorative book, creation of a documentary, painting of six locomotives in Amtrak's prior paint schemes, and a touring Exhibit Train.

The Southwest Chief is a passenger train service operated by Amtrak that runs between Chicago and Los Angeles, passing through several states in the Southwest region of the United States.

Amtrak moves the Mid-Atlantic Centralized Electrification and Traffic Control function from Philadelphia to the Consolidated National Operations Center in Wilmington, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

On July 30, 2012, Amtrak expanded its e-ticketing system nationwide, offering passengers a more convenient and efficient way to purchase and manage their train tickets.

In partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, Amtrak extends daily Northeast Regional service to Norfolk, VA, marking the first intercity passenger rail service to South Hampton Roads since 1977. Additionally, Downeaster Service is expanded to Freeport and Brunswick, Maine.

Amtrak introduces the 'Select Executive' tier in Amtrak Guest Rewards program for members earning 20,000 or more qualifying points in a calendar year.

Auto Train passengers are now able to purchase Priority Vehicle Offloading, ensuring their vehicle is among the first 20 offloaded from the train.

Amtrak unveils a locomotive, P-42 No. 42, painted in red, white, and blue to honor American veterans, featuring a special 'America's Railroad Salutes Our Veterans' logo.

On February 7, 2014, Locomotive No. 600 became the first Amtrak Cities Sprinter (ACS-64) to enter revenue service, leading a Northeast Regional train from Boston to Washington.

On February 10, 2014, Amtrak provided Wi-Fi coverage to about 85 percent of passengers by launching the AmtrakConnect Wi-Fi service on eight key State Supported routes in Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

On June 11, Amtrak introduces a Chinese-language version of its website (zh.amtrak.com) to cater to the growing number of Chinese-speaking residents and visitors in the United States.

On September 24, Amtrak selects 24 members of the literary community to participate in the inaugural #AmtrakResidency program. These writers spend the next year working on their projects aboard Long Distance trains.

Amtrak switches the route of the Vermonter to the Connecticut River Line in western Massachusetts on December 29. This change leads to the opening of new stations in Northampton and Greenfield, Mass., and the discontinuation of the Amherst stop.

On October 1, 2015, a Blue Ribbon Panel appointed by Amtrak issued a report with recommendations to address delays in the 'Chicago Gateway' affecting passenger and freight traffic. The recommendations included operational improvements and funding for priority projects in northern Illinois and Indiana.

A document containing Amtrak schedule information for November 25-30, 2015, not officially produced by Amtrak but possibly created by an Amtrak partner or using public schedule information from amtrak.com.

The route of the Texas Eagle between Fort Worth and Dallas is shifted to tracks shared with Trinity Rail Express commuter trains to avoid congested freight train operations.

On June 18, 2016, Amtrak organized a special trip between Washington and Philadelphia to say goodbye to the AEM-7 locomotives, with locomotives No. 942 and No. 946 leading the farewell journey.

On August 19, 2016, former Norfolk Southern Railway President & CEO Charles 'Wick' Moorman was named as the successor to Joseph Boardman as the CEO of Amtrak, with a focus on reorganizing the company.

In August 26, 2016, Amtrak announced a contract with Alstom to manufacture 28 next-generation high-speed trainsets, part of a $2.45 billion investment for modernizing the Northeast Corridor and replacing Acela Express equipment.

Charles W. 'Wick' Moorman IV assumes the role of the tenth president of Amtrak. Prior to this, he had retired as chairman and CEO of Norfolk Southern Corporation in 2015.

Amtrak reveals its first national on-board magazine called The National.

In collaboration with the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency, state of California, and BNSF Railway, Amtrak introduces two daily frequencies to the Pacific Surfliner service.

On November 17, 2016, the Gateway Program Development Corporation (GDC) was established to oversee rail infrastructure improvements, including the Hudson Tunnel Project and the Portal North Bridge, aimed at enhancing rail capacity in the Northeast Corridor.

On April 1, 2017, Amtrak published the National System Timetable, containing updated information on train schedules and routes for passengers.

Amtrak unveiled the National System Timetable on May 1, 2017, providing travelers with the latest train schedule details for their trips.

The Amtrak National System Timetable was released on July 1, 2017, offering updated schedule information for passengers planning train journeys.

On July 12, 2017, Richard Anderson assumed the role of the eleventh president of Amtrak, having previously served as the CEO of Delta Air Lines.

Amtrak published the National System Timetable on September 1, 2017, providing passengers with detailed schedules for train routes nationwide.

On September 7, 2017, Amtrak revealed plans for a comprehensive refurbishment of the interiors of around 450 Amfleet I cars utilized on multiple popular routes in the Northeast and Midwest.

Amtrak launches a new national advertising campaign encouraging travelers to choose Amtrak for a more comfortable and convenient travel experience, in collaboration with FCB New York.

Amtrak Police, Operation Lifesaver, and various law enforcement agencies conduct the largest railroad safety law enforcement operation in the U.S. to enhance safety measures.

A publication by David Randall Peterman providing an overview of Amtrak. It was released in September 2017 by the Congressional Research Service in Washington, D.C.

Amtrak unveils the 'Ready to Build' campaign highlighting essential investments in bridges, tunnels, and stations crucial for a modern passenger rail system.

Amtrak, Virginia, and the city of Roanoke celebrate the return of intercity passenger rail via the Northeast Regional after a 38-year absence.

On November 1, 2017, Amtrak released the National System Timetable, offering passengers updated schedules for train travel across the country.

Amtrak awards an $850 million contract to Siemens Mobility for 75 new Tier 4 passenger diesel locomotives with advanced safety systems, 4,400 horsepower, and speeds up to 125 mph.

Amtrak unveiled the National System Timetable on January 1, 2018, providing travelers with the latest train schedule information for their journeys.

The Amtrak National System Timetable was issued on March 1, 2018, presenting updated schedules and routes for passengers to plan their train trips.

On April 1, 2018, Amtrak published the National System Timetable, containing information on train schedules and routes for travelers.

Amtrak released the National System Timetable on May 1, 2018, offering passengers updated schedule details for their train journeys.

Amtrak released the National System Timetable on June 1, 2018, providing schedule information for various routes across the country.

Amtrak releases a Request for Proposals for a new fleet of single-level passenger rail vehicles to replace Amfleet I cars, providing new equipment with contemporary amenities to better serve customers.

Amtrak introduces “Share Fares” as a way for customers to save up to 35 percent on tickets when traveling with up to four companions. In August, Share Fares are expanded to offer savings up to 45 percent for six traveling companions.

Amtrak and NJ TRANSIT announce a joint $31 million investment to improve railroad infrastructure along the Northeast Corridor in New Jersey and to conduct renewal work throughout spring and summer 2019 as part of their ongoing partnership.

In partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Amtrak introduces the Valley Flyer, a new State Supported train service connecting Greenfield, Mass., and New Haven, Conn.

Amtrak inaugurates the Acela Nonstop service, providing direct train service between Washington, D.C., and New York City with a weekday-only schedule and amenities like complimentary beverages and at-seat cashless cart service.

The Amtrak Police Department and Operation Lifesaver, Inc. coordinate a nationwide safety operation involving over 600 police and sheriff's departments to enforce railroad safety laws and distribute safety information at grade crossings.

Amtrak extends its flexible dining service to sleeping car customers on the Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Crescent, and Silver Meteor routes, introducing a new dining menu and room service options.

On January 15, 2020, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

On March 16, 2020, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

William J. Flynn, appointed by the Amtrak Board of Directors, takes on the role of chief executive officer. With four decades of transportation and logistics experience, Flynn previously served as president and CEO of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc.

On May 1, 2020, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

The new Amtrak Employee Safety Rulebook comes into effect, consolidating seven existing rulebooks to ensure universal application of safety expectations for all Amtrak employees.

Amtrak starts reducing many Long Distance routes from daily to tri-weekly service in response to lower travel demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amtrak introduces the first four Viewliner II sleeping cars into revenue service on the Silver Meteor and Silver Star, marking the first addition to the sleeping car fleet in over two decades.

Amtrak expands its presence in New York City by opening the Moynihan Train Hall inside the historic James A. Farley Post Office building, in partnership with Empire State Development. The hall operates in conjunction with New York Penn Station.

The first of the 28 new Acela trainsets, without interiors, departs the Alstom facility in Hornell, N.Y., for high-speed testing at the Transportation Technology Center in Colorado. Prototype trains are tested on the Northeast Corridor and at TTC, reaching speeds of 166.8 mph.

Amtrak, along with the Commonwealth of Virginia, CSX, and Virginia Railway Express, finalize a $3.7 billion investment plan to enhance passenger, commuter, and freight rail services in Virginia. The initiative includes funding for new State Supported round trips and the development of a Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor.

Amtrak offers private room accommodations (Roomettes and Bedrooms) on overnight Northeast Regional trains between Washington and Boston. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable sleep in a Viewliner Sleeping Car and access to Metropolitan Lounges at select stations.

President Joseph Biden participates in a ceremony in Philadelphia to celebrate Amtrak's 50th anniversary. The event recognizes the contributions of past and present employees and unveils plans for future expansion and improvement of rail service.

Amtrak restores daily service for 12 Long Distance trains as part of COVID-19 recovery efforts. This decision follows pandemic-related schedule reductions in 2020, aiming to improve passenger connectivity and service frequency.

Amtrak introduces the Amtrak Connects US vision to enhance intercity passenger rail service by 2035. The initiative aims to serve over 160 additional communities and 20 million more passengers annually through collaboration with various stakeholders.

On June 29, 2021, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

President Biden signs a law providing Amtrak with a $22 billion investment for capital projects and fleet acquisitions, along with $44 billion for rail projects, marking the largest investment since Amtrak's inception.

On June 20, 2022, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

The Winter Park Express service is scheduled for June 25, 2022.

On December 7, 2022, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

On January 9, 2023, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

On January 13, 2023, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

On March 4, 2023, the Carolinian / Piedmont with other Atlantic Coast Service was operational.

Vermont Translines with connecting Amtrak service is scheduled to start on July 15, 2023.