[corodra]

Have you ever ridden on a cross country train?

Because it sounds like you haven't. I think you're confusing Harry Potter with reality. The I-5 Amtrak is great and all between Seattle and Portland, but it sucks after the first hour. Now, do 10 for long distance. I'd rather have the same suck for 4 hours instead of 10.

Plus, trains especially don't really do straight shots for long distance. Lot's of connecting trains. Just as bad as plane connections.

The only benefit is the food car. But it's just as expensive as a plane.

And no, the ticket is not cheaper. The big price difference, you don't save all that much between buying a ticket a month ahead of time and day of. The price is the price. Planes reward you for being able to plan ahead. Trains don't.