For those opting out of the gridlock on North Carolina highways, it appears that NC By Train has become an increasingly popular alternative, with the Amtrak service breaking its ridership record for a third consecutive year in 2024. Hauling over 720,000 passengers last year, a 12% jump from the previous year and showing a robust 55% uptick since pre-pandemic 2019, the service is rapidly cementing its role as a contender in the state’s transport options. According to NCDOT, this surge is attributed to the user-friendly nature of the service, its wallet-friendly fares, and the eco-positive choice it represents for environmentally conscious travelers.