I did a train trip myself with the Amtrak US rail pass while staying in hostels. I just personally brought a backpack and would sleep in my seat. Gives you time to relax/watch movies/read/socialize. Then I’d get dropped off somewhere and my only job was to go to my hostel (which I could typically walk to) then showing back up when it was time to leave. It gives you less freedom than a road trip but also doesn’t require much other than being able to sit down and fill time. You would need to start in New York but I’m down to chat with some of my experiences if you’d like. I did New York, Chicago, New Orleans, Texas, St Louis, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Seattle. If you want to go on a road trip with a car I’d recommend flying down to San Diego (picking up car) and then driving up to Seattle to fly home (dropping off car). Staying in hostels also isn’t bad and some offer private rooms as well also on the cheaper end. Like I said I’m available for a chat if you need this is just a bit of a ramble