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Luxury Train Travel in the USA: Discover the Top 5 American Luxury Train Journeys

If you’ve ever mulled over taking a trip and using luxury US trains as your mode of transport for exploring new and exciting parts of the country, options for luxury train travel in the USA are eclectic, giving you plenty to consider. This blog is going to dig a little deeper into the world of American luxury train travel and discover the five luxury train journeys in the USA that fulfil their promise and deliver unique experiences for passengers who love adventure. All aboard!

Strasburg Railroad: A Quintessential American Luxury Train Experience

The Strasburg Railroad is the country’s oldest operating railroad and offers up a wonderfully authentic steam railroad adventure. Dating back to the early 1930s, the railroad operates six magnificent steam locomotives and twenty passenger cars that deliver some of the finest luxury train rides in the USA. When you book your ticket on one of these luxury trains in the USA, you’ll get to hop on board and relax during a 45-minute round trip through the heart of Lancaster County.

Guests climbing onboard can opt for a seat in a coach car that includes a beautifully authentic Victorian-era interior or the open-air car that lets the wind whistle through your hair, as this fine example of luxury train travel in the US treats passengers to a view of the vast countryside and Amish farms. Or perhaps you’d like to indulge in the splendour of the Parlour Car or one of the lounge cars with their finely upholstered swivelling captain chairs. Whichever option you choose, you can relax during these luxury train rides in the United States, enjoying a drink or a meal in the company of other like-minded people who cherish trips on luxury US trains.

Rocky Mountaineer: A Premier Luxury Train Trip in the US

The heart of North America opens up for anyone travelling on the Rocky Mountaineer, as these luxury train vacations in the USA offer the highest on and off-train standards regardless of which route you choose. These luxury train USA vacations deliver a frankly extraordinary rail experience that whisks passengers away on a spellbinding odyssey and showcases the awe-inspiring panoramic scenery of the Rockies. You can take your place on this USA luxury train, settle into one of the plush carriages with vast picture windows, and be in awe of the snow-topped mountain peaks, rich, dense forests, and winding freshwater rivers.

Recognised for its world-renowned service, passengers taking luxury train trips in the USA on the Rocky Mountaineer get pampered with fine dining that would satisfy the most ardent foodaholic using locally sourced ingredients and a fabulous selection of top-quality wines. Onboard accommodation isn’t too shabby either, consisting of sumptuously furnished cabins that provide a tranquil hideaway on these luxury train rides in the USA that traverse iconic routes like the First Passage to the West and Rainforest to Goldrush. The luxury train journeys in the USA offered by the Rocky Mountaineer epitomise the climax of luxury train travel and ensure a truly unforgettable experience.

Grand Canyon Railway: Experience a Memorable Luxury Train Ride in America

A day onboard a train riding the Grand Canyon Railway undoubtedly represents one of the country’s best luxury train trips. In USA terms, the remarkable collection of diesel-powered locomotives and luxurious rolling stock provide their passengers with an all-American experience that delivers an unforgettable journey along this historic rail line. Once a ticket has been purchased, each journey begins from Williams, Arizona. These luxury train rides in America take those onboard on an adventure through some spectacular landscapes en route to the world-famous and truly majestic Grand Canyon.

The beautifully restored vintage rail cars evoke a sense of timeless elegance and provide an immersive journey for their passengers that gives a nod to the golden age of rail travel. These luxury train rides in the United States give guests six accommodation choices, including Pullman, Coach, and First Class. And for something truly extraordinary, Luxury and Observation Dome cars are available to provide you with an outstanding view during your journey. The final car is the Luxury Parlour, where you can enjoy a private bar and a viewing platform that epitomises luxury train travel in America. The Grand Canyon Railway ensures that even the most discerning travellers’ tastes get catered to with a seamless blend of nostalgia and contemporary luxury. Without a doubt, this iconic USA luxury train is a testament to the charm and grandeur of high-end rail travel.

Napa Valley Wine Train: A Unique Luxury Train Travel Experience in the US

Undeniably and deservedly considered among the most outstanding luxury train rides in America is a trip taken onboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. While the railroad has operated since 1864, these luxury train trips in the USA have been running since the 1980s. The epitome of luxury train travel in the US, the train traverses through the outlandishly picturesque landscape of California’s world-famous wine country, treating passengers to an unrivalled union of vintage charm and contemporary comfort. The painstakingly restored Pullman rail cars provide a harmonious setting, ornamented with sumptuous furnishings and large panoramic windows that showcase the breathtaking views of the Californian vineyards. 

These luxury train trips in the USA include tasting journeys featuring incredible gourmet offerings from renowned chefs. A Legacy Experience, a full-day adventure filled with wine tasting and astonishing cuisine, is available. Whether you love the romance of a sunset dinner, the sophistication of a classic lunch, or the allure of a themed event like a murder mystery or a seasonal trip with Santa, this is luxury train travel in America at its absolute finest.

Alaska Railroad: Embark on a Luxury Train Journey Across the USA

The great state of Alaska is home to the Alaska Railroad, which delivers year-round service across Southcentral and Interior Alaska, taking in some of the most spectacular remote and wild landscapes you’ll find on luxury trains in the USA. This incredible railroad twists through breathtaking countryside, including soaring mountains and pristine lakes. Passengers enjoying this American luxury train travel have a front-row seat to the state’s untouched beauty. Settling into the swanky interior, passengers indulge in the views through panoramic windows and drench themselves in the majestic scenery.

These luxury train vacations in the United States allow for a complete immersion in the magnificence of the Last Frontier while relishing gourmet cuisine in the dining car, masterly crafted to complement the journey. These American luxury trains are operated by incredibly attentive staff who ensure each and every trip is a delight. Multiple day trips and excursions with destinations include Anchorage, Denali, Seward, Girdwood, Portage, Grandview, Whittier, and more. 

Why Should Everyone Experience Luxury Sleeper Train Travel in the USA?

Luxury sleeper train travel in the USA is a highly favoured way to vacation, and the industry sees many passengers return annually to enjoy all these luxury US trains offer. Journeying luxury sleeper trains in the USA transcend the ordinary and immerse their passengers in a world of opulence and excitement. Those onboard these American luxury trains enjoy the rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks and the iconic whistles of authentic steam trains. Luxury trains in the USA redefine the essence of exploration, where you can adventure out into some remote parts of the US in total comfort, sip on a glass of bubbly and feast on spectacular foods. 

To prove the popularity of the best luxury train trips, in USA statistic reports, over 300,000 passengers visit the Strasburg Railway annually. By any standards, that’s a considerable amount of people choosing luxury train rides in America. Luxury train USA vacations offer something different from the norm and give us a glimpse into the past and the golden era of travel when times were far more straightforward. These days, journeys are made in slightly more comfortable surroundings, and the level of service passengers can expect is the highest degree.

Nearly All American Luxury Trains Offer Amazing Dining Experiences!

A journey onboard luxury US trains is about more than just the travel itself. These luxury train journeys in the USA also take their passengers on a culinary adventure. From the historic elegance of the Strasburg Railway to the more contemporary feel of the Rocky Mountaineer, almost all American luxury trains engage their guests in a gastronomic exploration that tickles the tastebuds in a decidedly unique setting. Can you imagine indulging in gourmet delights that world-class chefs have exquisitely crafted to be enjoyed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country as the backdrop? 

Whether it’s one of the Napa Valley Wine Train’s culinary excursions that winds through Californian wine country or an elegant dinner onboard one of the Grand Canyon Railways with the stunning backdrop of the Arizona landscape, these experiences are tough to beat. Luxury train travel in the US is more than just the comfort of the carriages. What makes them luxury US trains is the first-class dining experiences, the outstanding service, and the atmosphere created by other like-minded individuals who choose a US luxury train for their vacation. 

Book Your 2024 Luxury Train Vacation in the United States Today!

From California and Arizona to Alaska and Pennsylvania, luxury train vacations in the USA come in many different guises. We’ve looked at some of the most relevant and popular luxury train journeys in the USA, and all you need to do is decide which one ticks the most boxes for you. These luxury train rides in the United States range in price from a little over $20 to over $5000, so there are undoubtedly budget-friendly options available where passengers can still indulge. Whichever of these luxury train vacations in the USA fits the bill, all you need to do is book your ticket and get packing!

THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

Luxury train travel usa faqs, what are the best luxury train trips available in the usa.

Some of the best luxury train travel in the USA can be had on trains such as the Rocky Mountaineer, the Napa Valley Wine Train, the Grand Canyon Railway, the Strasburg Railroad, and the Alaska Railroad. All these services offer fabulous journey options and are regularly touted as the luxury train rides in America. 

How can I experience luxury train travel across America?

Assuming that you’re a first-timer in the realm of American luxury train travel, a few standout journeys should be high up on your list for consideration. Depending on whether you’re travelling from outside of the US, already in the country, and the distance you’re prepared to travel, luxury US trains operate far and wide from the Strasburg Railway up in Pennsylvania to the Napa Valley Wine Train in California and the Alaska Railroad. You’ve also got the Grand Canyon Railway that runs American luxury trains daily.

What options are there for luxury train vacations in the United States?

There are many attractive options for day trips and luxury sleeper trains in the USA that cover large parts of the United States. These luxury train vacations in USA destinations offer something unique, whether through the journey itself or the experiences you can expect from them. The Rocky Mountaineer is an ever-popular option that delivers unrivalled and breathtaking vistas. The Grand Canyon Railway also has a fabulous following with day trips and incredible accommodations.

Which of the top luxury sleeper trains are operating in the USA?

The Strasburg Railroad, Napa Valley Wine Train, Grand Canyon Railroad, Alaska Railroad, Rocky Mountaineer, Coast Starlight, and Amtrak Cascades all operate in the US. Luxury train vacations in the United States have steadily grown in popularity, and passengers enjoy a great experience from something away from the ordinary. Many of the lines these luxury US trains run on date back to the golden era of rail travel and provide a nostalgic nod to the past and exceptional luxury.

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10 luxury train rides in the us that are worth splurging on.

W hen you think of luxury train rides, you probably imagine something along the lines of the famed Orient Express (the most expensive train ride in the world), or South Africa’s iconic Blue train , or even Switzerland’s GoldenPass Express . But you don’t have to go all the way to Europe or Africa for luxury trains — luxury train travel in the USA is alive and well.

Luxury trains in Colorado

Luxury new england trains, luxury trains to us national parks, luxury trains in california, luxury alaska trains, are there sleeper trains in the usa, what is the longest sleeper train in the us, what is the most luxurious train in the us, rocky mountaineer: rockies to the red rocks.

• Route: Between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah
• Distance: 355 miles
• Duration of the ride: Two days
• What makes it luxurious: Glass-dome cars, gourmet cuisine, excellent service, and luxury hotels

Often believed to be the best option for luxury train travel in the US, the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route is meant for those who want to take in the Southwestern scenery in extreme comfort. Passengers can choose between two classes of service: SilverLeaf or SilverLeaf Plus, both of which offer a spacious car with oversized glass-dome windows, reclining seats, and seat-side service. SilverLeaf Plus, however, offers a little more: exclusive access to the lounge car and to a small outdoor viewing area, as well as elevated dining experience with wine pairings, premium alcoholic beverages, and signature cocktails. While the classic journey takes you between Denver and Moab, special packages allow travelers to start or end their journey in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. The Rockies to the Red Rocks route is a two-day trip, but the Rocky Mountaineer is not a sleeper train. Instead, passengers disembark in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, where they stay in a luxury hotel for the night before getting back on the train the next morning.

Royal Gorge Train

• Route: Starts and ends in Cañon City, Colorado
• Duration of the ride: Between 1.5 to three hours, depending on the trip chosen
• What makes it luxurious: Panoramic windows cars, award-wining dining experience, Champagne.

The Royal Gorge Train runs daily throughout the year, taking passengers on a short but scenic journey along the Arkansas River, through the narrow 1,200-foot-deep Royal Gorge. You can make your trip on board the Royal Gorge Train as casual or as luxurious as you want by choosing the class of service that suits you best. The fanciest way to ride this route is by booking the First Class Dinner Train in Vista Dome which lasts 2.5 hours. You’ll be served Champagne and an award-winning three-course meal while looking at the surrounding views from the huge panoramic windows. Fist Class Dinner Train passengers also have access to a private open-air car.

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad

Photo: PT Hamilton /Shutterstock

• Route: Between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado
• Distance: 64 miles
• Duration of the ride: From 4.5 to eight hours, depending on the trip chosen
• What makes it luxurious: Restored Victorian Parlor Cars, great service, comfortable seats, snack and beverages served on board.

The steam train of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad runs from early June to late October, six days per week. The most luxurious way to ride the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad is by booking a seat in the adult-only, historic Parlor Car, where you’ll be served pastries, hot and cold beverages, and snacks by thoughtful train attendants. The Parlor Car is designed to provide the best views during the long train trip, with strategically placed seats and panoramic windows. Parlor Car passengers, alongside every other passenger on the train, have access to the open-air car. Note that the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad runs the single trip between Chama and Antonito once per day only. You can opt to take a luxury motorcoach back to the departing station or stay overnight in the arrival town and ride the train again the next day to get back to where you came from.

Cape Cod Dinner Train

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cape Cod Central Railroad (@capecodcentralrailroad)

• Route: Departs from and ends in Hyannis, Buzzards Bay, or Falmouth, depending on the date.
• Duration of the ride: Three hours
• What makes it luxurious: Candlelight five-course gourmet meal served at a private table, formal attire required, full bar, vintage club car with lounge chairs

The Cape Cod Central Railroad’s most luxurious train ride offering is the Cape Cod Dinner Train , a three-hour ride during which passengers are served a candlelight five-course meal while traveling through the peninsula’s charming small towns. To make the most of your train ride, book the Platinum Class: You’ll benefit from a private table, you’ll be served one alcoholic beverage, and all taxes and gratuities will be included. The Cape Cod Dinner Train is only available for travelers aged 12 or older, but if you’d rather have an adult-only train journey, book Cape Cod Central Railroad’s Gourmet Wine Tasting Train in Platinum Class. The Cape Cod Dinner Train operates multiple times per week from May until October.

Green Mountain Railroad

• Route: Roundtrip from Burlington to Charlotte
• What makes it luxurious: 1930s train cars with comfortable leather seats, adult-only experience, delicious finger foods and cocktails, limited capacity to 18 passengers

The Green Mountain Railroad, also known as the Vermont Rail System, offers a Cocktails on the Rails ride every Saturday from late June to late October. This adult-only luxury experience takes place in a 1930s train car with plush leather seats and a full bar. The ride includes finger foods and snacks, and passengers can purchase drinks from the bar while listening to live music. The ride only allows for 18 passengers, making for a special evening.

If it’s a fancy dinner aboard a train you’re looking for, the Green Mountain Railroad can do that, too. Every weekend between late June and late October, you can book the Champlain Valley Dinner Train , a three-hour roundtrip ride between Burlington and Charlotte that includes a three-course meal and all gratuities. Make sure you book a private table if you don’t want to share the space with your fellow passengers. (Note that the Champlain Valley Dinner Train is not an adult-only experience, it welcomes all passengers aged five and up.)

The Empire Builder to Glacier National Park

• Route: Between Chicago, Illinois, and Seattle, Washington
• Distance: 2,200 miles
• Duration of the ride: The full ride takes 46 hours
• What makes it luxurious: Large accommodation with two in-room sinks, toilets, and showers, complimentary meals, dedicated train attendant

What makes Amtrak’s Empire Builder route unique is that from mid-April to mid-October, it serves East Glacier Park train station, located in the heart of Glacier National Park. And because the train station is just a few steps away from Glacier Park Lodge, you can go directly from the comfort of the train to that of a lovely hotel.

While you might think that traveling with Amtrak is far from luxurious, there are ways to make your train ride extremely comfortable. All you need to do is book a Bedroom Suite and you’ve got an all-inclusive and enjoyable train ride. A Bedroom Suite can sleep four travelers by turning the two sofas and chairs into sleeping berths when night comes, but if there are only two of you, you can enjoy all the extra space. There are also two in-room sinks, toilets, and showers so you don’t have to share the facilities with strangers. By booking a Bedroom Suite, you also get a dedicated First Class attendant, complimentary lounge access at the departing train station, priority boarding, and complimentary meals on board.

If you’re interested in visiting America’s national parks by train, check out Matador’s guide to the seven most scenic Amtrak routes through national parks .

Grand Canyon train ride

• Route: Roundtrip from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
• Distance: 65 miles one way, 130 miles return
• Duration of the ride: Two hours one way, four hours return
• What makes it luxurious: Dome car with panoramic windows, lounge with plush sofas and chairs, full private bar, complimentary sparkling wine, access reserved to travelers aged 16 or older.

The Grand Canyon Railway offers rides from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon daily throughout the year. The ride between Williams and the South Rim takes two hours, and passengers are given three hours on site to visit, making for a seven-hour day trip. With six classes of service available, you can make your ride with the Grand Canyon Railway as cheap or as luxurious as you want it to be. If you’re ready to splurge for a very comfortable experience, choose the Luxury Dome Class , reserved to travelers over the age of 16. The Luxury Dome Class consists of a two-story car: on top, there is a dome car with panoramic windows, while below is a parlor-style lounge car with very comfortable seats and a full bar. You’ll be served sparkling wine, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages during the journey.

Napa Valley Wine Train

• Route: Between Downtown Napa and St. Helena
• Distance: 36-mile loop
• Duration of the ride: Between two and three hours on board the train, depending on the experience you choose
• What makes it luxurious: Beautifully restored vintage Pullman rail cars, Wine tasting on board, gourmet meals, wineries visits, cocktail attire recommended

The Napa Valley Wine train operates year-round and offers a variety of experiences to prospective travelers, all of which have an element of formal luxury for which you need to dress up. The most decadent of the experiences available is the Legacy Experience , a six-hour trip that includes three hours on the train, and three hours visiting vineries. Passengers on the Legacy Experience enjoy breakfast and lunch on board, as well as wine tasting. While most of the trip takes place in the restored vintage Pullman rail cars, the open-air car is also available to passengers.

For a shorter, but no less luxurious experience on board the Napa Valley Wine train, opt for the Vista Dome Dinner (a two-hour, multiple-course journey in the glass-dome elegant dining car), or the Afternoon Tea (a three-hour trip filled with cocktails, tea, finger sandwiches, miniature deserts, and more.)

Denali Star

• Route: Between Anchorage and Fairbanks, via Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park
• Distance: 356 miles
• Duration of the ride: 12 hours
• What makes it luxurious: Glass-dome cars, meals and drinks included, comfortable seats, access to open-air cars

The Denali Star route, operated by the Alaska Railroad , is one of the most scenic train trips you can take in the US. Not only is the scenery between Anchorage and Fairbanks beautiful, but you can also take it in in extreme comfort if you opt for the Goldstar Service. The Goldstar Service includes a meal, soft beverages, and two adult drinks in the dining car. Goldstar passengers also benefit from comfortable forward-facing seats, and have access to outdoor viewing platforms and glass-dome cars from where you can enjoy the beauty of the Alaskan Wilderness.

Coastal Classic

• Route: Between Anchorage and Seward, via Girdwood
• Distance: 120 miles
• Duration of the ride: 1.5 hours

Another iconic Alaskan train route , the Coastal Classic is operated by the Alaskan Railroad. The Coastal Classic is a much shorter ride than the Denali Star and is the perfect route for travelers with a tight schedule. Just like with the Denali Star route, those who want to make their train journey extra fancy should opt for the Goldstar Service — the views from the glass-dome cars never get old.

Yes, there are sleeper trains in the USA, all of them being operated by Amtrak. Amtrak’s overnight and long-distance routes have sleeper cars with multiple accommodation options to choose from, including Roomettes, Bedrooms, Accessible Bedrooms, Bedroom Suites, and Family Rooms. If you want to travel cheap, you can opt for a reclining seat in coach class.

The longest sleeper train in the US is the California Zephyr , operated by Amtrak. The California Zephyr route runs between Chicago, Illinois, and Emeryville, California, a 51-plus hour ride.

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10 Luxury Train Rides in the USA With Breathtaking Views

I don’t know about you, but I don’t usually equate the USA with trains (at least passenger trains). But hang on a second! There are actually quite a few scenic trains throughout the United States, many of which give you an incredible way to see all those breathtaking sites that are simply everywhere in North America!

You know what they say: it’s about the journey, not the destination. So, don’t just think about the beautiful things you’ll see, but the luxurious train you can also ride while seeing these sights!

I’ve compiled a list of 10 luxury train rides in the USA with breathtaking views to help you plan your dream train trip right here in America.

Table of Contents

1. Rocky Mountaineer

Route: Rockies to the Red Rocks Duration: Two to four days Highlights: Iconic views of the American Southwest from a dome train car Cost: Starting at $1,456

Rocky Mountaineer ’s “Rockies to the Red Rocks” travels between Denver , Colorado , and Moab , Utah via Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

The Rocky Mountaineer only travels during the day so you don’t miss any views (with a hotel in Glenwood Springs included!) and serves incredible, locally-sourced meals, accompanied by sights such as Arches National Park and the Rocky Mountains.

2. The Grand Canyon Railway

Route: Williams, AZ to Grand Canyon Historic Village Duration: One day Highlights: Traveling in a dome car with views of the Grand Canyon that are only accessible via rail Cost: First class & luxury starts at $159

For a true rail baron experience, the Luxury Parlor car on the Grand Canyon Railway is where it’s at! The stunning views of this world wonder will be accompanied by history luxuriousness, with a panoramic dome car, access to outdoor space, and complimentary cocktails and snacks.

It’s just a one-day trip to the South Rim, where you’ll have several hours to explore the Historic Village before your return trip, but it’s a day of grandeur and life-changing vistas.

3. Alaska Railroad

Route: Alaska by Daylight Duration: 10 days and nights Highlights: The only outdoor, upper-level viewing platform in the world gives you breathtaking access to Alaska Cost: Starting at $4,735 for GoldStar Service

Starting out in Anchorage, the Alaska by Daylight route on the Alaska Railroad takes you past glaciers and fjords, through tundra and meadows, and deep into the wilds of Denali National Park. This trip includes several excursions as well as luxury train travel, such as cruises and wildlife tours.

The GoldStar Service includes meals, drinks, a guide, and panoramic views of Alaskan scenery through the glass dome ceiling.

4. Napa Valley Wine Train

Route: Round trip from downtown Napa to St. Helena, in Napa Valley Duration: 3-6 hours Highlights: All experiences include wine tasting and locally-inspired, gourmet food, within a beautifully restored train car Cost: Starts $200, depending on the experience you choose

The historic Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique way to tour one of the world’s most famous wine countries—and is practical, too, so you don’t have to drive between wineries (lots of wine tastings + driving is not a good look).

Experience packages start at $200 and include stops at wineries, wine tastings on the train, a gourmet meal, and even an afternoon tea service. Incredible food with a view of incredible vineyards (and wine, of course)? Sign me up.

5. Coast Starlight

Route: Between Los Angeles, California, and Seattle, Washington Duration: About 35 hours Highlights: Sightseer Lounge Car provides floor-to-ceiling views of the most stunning West Coast scenery Cost: Starts at $700 for a roomette

Considered one of the most spectacular scenic train rides in the United States (and maybe the world), Amtrak’s Coast Starlight travels between Los Angeles and Seattle .

The scenery, as you can imagine, is stunning, through redwood forests, along the Pacific coast, through dense forests, past mountains, and rivers and canyons. Book a suite for a more luxurious version that includes meals and your own attendant.

6. California Zephyr

Route: Between Chicago and San Francisco (Emeryville, CA) Duration: 52 hours Highlights: Crossing both the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range Cost: Starts at $2,000 for a bedroom

See unforgettable parts of the United States on the cross-country Amtrak train, the California Zephyr . Traveling between Chicago , with stops in Omaha , Denver, and Salt Lake City , you’ll see some of the greatest American landscapes: prairies and mountains, plains and canyons, wild forests, and sweet farmland.

Relax in the luxury of your own bedroom with room service, your own attendant, first-class dining in the Dining Car or from the comfort of your own suite, and incredible views from this overnight scenic train ride.

7. Strasburg Rail Road

Route: Amish Country in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour Highlights: Views of the picturesque and unspoiled Amish Country from the comfort of a historic and luxuriously restored parlor car Cost: First-class tickets start at $32

For a luxury experience on the Strasburg Rail Road , America’s longest-running railroad, you don’t have to spend too much of your precious dollars.

However, to really class up the experience, you must book a special train, such as the “Elegant Express,” for a sophisticated dining experience (with the views included, of course!).

8. Conway Scenic Railroad Mountaineer

Route: Round trip from North Conway, New Hampshire Duration: 4-6 hours, depending on the trip Highlights: If you go in the fall, leaf-peeping from the upper dome is a truly once-in-a-lifetime moment! Cost: Starts at $165 for the Mountaineer Dome Dining Class

When a heritage railroad known for its scenic trips is crowing about the scenery on one of its routes, you know you’ve found some views with a capital ‘V.’ The Mountaineer , Conway Scenic Railroad ’s most luxurious (and yes, most scenic) train ride, winds through the Mount Washington Valley and around Crawford Notch.

All of their cars are nice, but the Mountaineer Dome Dining Class will give you views guaranteed to bring a tear to your eye—along with some amazing food, as well.

9. Southern Comfort

Route: Between New Orleans and Fort Worth, TX Duration: 7 days & 6 nights Highlights: This one is all about the luxury in your private, lush rail car, accompanied by gorgeous views of the American Southeast Cost: Suites start at $7,560

Combine some of the most iconic cities in the American South with some incredible views—Mississippi River, anyone? For that matter, New Orleans , anyone?—all while in your own moving luxury hotel, and you have the Southern Comfort train .

The private, luxurious cars (staffed, of course) will make you feel like a true Southern gentleman or lady. During the day, take in the views, visit the parlor or dining cars, or disembark to visit some classic cities, such as San Antonio and the Big Easy.

10. The Empire Builder

Route: Between the Pacific Northwest (Seattle or Portland) and Chicago Duration: 45 hours Highlights: The scenery, you guys! The Cascades, Glacier National Park, Puget Sound, the Columbia River Gorge…you get it. Cost: Starts at $1,500 for a bedroom

Although Amtrak’s “The Empire Builder” sounds sort of like an evil genius’ plan to take over the world, really, it’s just an incredibly gorgeous train ride from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest.

For the best chance at views, take the train near the summer solstice (you know, more daylight). For the most luxury? Book a bedroom or a bedroom suite, to enjoy the views in pure comfort.

Luxury train trail is possible here in the United States, whether you want a short excursion through pretty farmland or an epic, multi-day adventure through some of the wildest lands around (ahem, Alaska).

I have a feeling that once you start traveling by train, you’ll be hooked! Trains take you far from normal roads and paths, giving you truly unique views, and this is especially true in the United States. This country is so vast, and train travel ensures you see all the beautiful places you can!

And although trains aren’t always known for their creature comforts, luxury trains also exist, proving that you can have the experience of timeless train travel in timeless luxury.

So, what do you think? Which of these luxury train rides in USA sounds most enticing to you? Let’s discuss in the comments! And if you’re thinking of experiencing luxury train rides outside the USA, check out these Swiss train rides !

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The Best Luxury Train Rides in North America

There’s something so alluring (and romantic) about sitting sitting quietly, cup of bone-china tea (or coffee) in hand, cellphone cast aside, and watching as mountains, sea, deserts, small towns, and big cities, gently roll by — all in a seemingly slower yet grander motion. While North America’s railways have never quite matched Europe’s decadent and storied train culture — a menagerie of glamorous Art-Deco 1920s interiors with Michelin-star dining, swanky bar cars, and white-gloved livered wait staff — the U.S., Canada , and Mexico are no strangers to the genteel art of luxury train travel. In the late 1860s, the Chicago-based Pullman Company (led by George Pullman) produced the first range of truly ornate dining, sleeping, and parlor train cars. The company also created private train carriages for the super wealthy that were attached to commercial passenger trains — creating a ‘train set’ of  mini mansions. It was on such private train cars that New York City’s elite (Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans) escaped from their New York City brownstones to the Adirondacks where they built ‘Great Camps’ — elaborate, made-from-timber lakefront homes to escape the summertime heat. 

While trains are primarily used today in the U.S. as a means of commuting to and from work, luxury train travel experiences are still in motion on trains like America’s Trains Southern Comfort line (featuring lavish sleeping cars), and the Napa Valley Wine Train (offering food-and-wine day experiences). From scenic Canada to the rugged terrains of Mexico to notable rail rides in between, here are North America’s most fabulously luxurious train rides.

Overnight Sleeping Trains

The canadian (vancouver to toronto).

Built in the 19th century, The Canadian by VIA Rail is an iconic North American luxury train connecting Canada’s major cities and coasts. One of the most adored (and luxurious) routes is between Toronto and Vancouver, carrying passengers from the forests of Ontario through the prairies and past snow-capped Rocky Mountains. For ultimate luxury, reserve Prestige Class which features a spacious cabin for two, private bathroom and shower, leather couch, and gourmet meals prepared onboard and served in the dining car.

Southern Comfort

(New Orleans to Fort Worth)Make like the Vanderbilts (Rockefellers, Astors, and Morgans) and ride in your own private ‘train set’ aboard America’s Trains . In luxurious modern carriages designed to look and feel vintage, this eight-day journey aboard Southern Comfort begins in New Orleans and snakes its way to Fort Worth, Texas, with stops in Houston and San Antonio. Passengers sleep onboard their respective carriages, which come with private bathrooms and cushy beds. Up to five carriages traveling together is a ‘train set and provide sleeping, lounge, and dining facilities, creating an ultra-luxe, intimate vacation.

The Royal Canadian Pacific (Departs Calgary, Alberta, 4 nights/5 days)

Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, while still a princess, traveled in one of the Royal Canadian Pacific cars. Today, passengers can relive the romance of rail travel aboard this luxury vintage train. Dine in the elegant Craigellachie dining car, sip cocktails on the observation deck, and overnight in a sumptuous stateroom with a private bathroom and shower. The historically inspired fleet of rail cars winds through the magnificent Canadian Rockies to British Columbia and back again. Intriguingly the train stops on the tracks every night, sometimes in the wilderness, enabling the experience and enjoyment of the Rockies in their entirety.

Napa Valley Wine Train (Napa to St. Helena)

This three-hour (36-mile) day train journey through California’s famed wine region rolls past rows of grapevines, twisty farmlands, and wineries. The route — from Napa through Yountville, Rutherfield, and Oakville, to St. Helena — follows a rail line originally built in 1864. Renovated train carriages in their polished brass, mahogany paneling, and opulent fabrics evoke a vintage ambiance. Enjoy a gourmet meal, and wine of course, along the way.

Jose Cuervo Express, Mexico (Guadalajara to Tequila)

Tequila is on the menu of Mexico’s famed vintage Jose Cuervo Express (aka tequila train), now even more decadent with its new Elite wagon; the carriage’s oversized windows offer dazzling views of the agave fields. This all-day (Saturday-only) train ride begins with a guided three-glass tequila tasting and includes a tour of Jose Cuervo’s La Rojeña distillery, a visit to Reserva de la Familia private cellar, an agave field harvesting demonstration, festive snacks and meals, mariachi, and a bus back to the city.

Rocky Mountaineer (Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah)

Renowned for its glass-domed rail cars, The Rocky Mountaineer , which once served only Canada, also offers a stunning U.S. route: Rockies to Red Rocks. Enjoy truly breathtaking views and a luxury dining experience, while traversing past Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and crossing the Continental Divide. This two-day journey begins in Moab, Utah, and makes one stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, where passengers disembark and overnight in a hotel of their choosing, before continuing to Denver.

Copper Canyon Railroad, Mexico (Los Mochis to Creel)

Much of the terrain covered on this spectacular nine-hour journey through Mexico’s Copper Canyon (four times the size of the Grand Canyon) is said to be otherwise inaccessible. Opened in 1961 — and designed originally to connect the Pacific Ocean with Mexico’s desert territory and state of Chihuahua — the railroad took almost 90 years to complete. The train, aka El Chepe Express , crosses 37 bridges and passes through 86 tunnels; the landscape a collage of rugged terrain, mountains, gorges, and deep ravines.

Adirondack Train (New York City to Montreal)

Considered one of America’s top scenic train rides, this ten-hour train journey is all about the view — which is especially stunning during fall foliage season. Operated by Amtrak, the Adirondack departs daily from New York City’s Penn Station passing through the Hudson Valley and Adirondacks/Lake Champlain Region before ending in Montreal, Quebec. Brush up on your French and  awhile a while. While the train itself isn’t luxury, the view is absolutely worth the trip.

Pacific Surfliner (San Luis Obispo to San Diego)

Also by Amtrak, Southern California’s Pacific Surfliner sojourns 350 miles of Pacific coastline, from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, stopping in ocean towns like Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and San Juan Capistrano along the way. Watch from the window, the mesmerizing ocean views, beaches, craggy cliffs, and rocky coastlines. Dogs and cats (up to 20 pounds, including the weight of the carrier) are welcome with an advanced pet reservation.

Featured image by Balazs Busznyak via Unsplash ; Travel Curator may earn a commission from product or booking links on this page

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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

From coastal routes to journeys through the mountains, these train rides spotlight all of America's most stunning scenery.

From redwood groves to sprawling desert landscapes to miles of picturesque countryside, America has no shortage of stunning scenery across its 50 states. One of the best ways to take in all the beauty is by hopping aboard a train. 

While a road trip through America is always a great choice to see the country's sights, we'd argue train travel is even better. Not only is riding  on a train a timeless experience with notes of romance and nostalgia, but there's no airport stress or need to be at attention behind the wheel. Instead,  you can sit back, relax and simply stare out the window as you take it all in. 

Below, you'll find the best and most scenic train rides across the country. On the West Coast, take in ocean views aboard the Coast Starlight (from Los Angeles to Seattle ) or the Surfliner, which hugs the California coast for miles. On the East Coast, the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you through the Mount Washington area in New Hampshire. Looking for something even more adventurous? Head to Alaska  to catch the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage.

Whether you're looking for a multi-day adventure or a route that only lasts a few hours, these train rides won't disappoint.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best train rides in the USA

1.  rockies to the red rocks.

Denver, CO to Moab, UT

Trip length: Two days

The first U.S. offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the ' Rockies to the Red Rocks ' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA . The 2024 season runs from April 14 through October 9.

2.  Coast Starlight

Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA

Trip length: 36 hours

Traveling by train instead puts a spin on the classic left-coast road trip. The advantages? There are zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland, and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car,' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

3.  Pacific Surfliner

San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA

Trip length: 8-9 hours

If you're looking for a train ride with ocean views, you can't beat Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner , which travels along a 351-mile route, many of the trip is directly along the California coast. The route starts out in San Diego before meandering up through Anaheim, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and other stops before ending in San Luis Obispo in the central part of the state. 

4.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon, AZ

Trip length: 2 hours 15 minutes

Sure, you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway , you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

5.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, IL to Portland, OR

Trip length: 45–46 hours

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

6.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, AK to Fairbanks, AK

Trip length: 12 hours

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad ’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

7.  Skunk Train

Willits, CA

Trip length: 2 hours

Hopping aboard  Skunk Train  is like traveling back in time—this historic train has been traversing Mendocino County in California since 1885. Today, you can choose from a variety of routes and experiences. The most popular journey is Wolf Tree Turn. This 16-mile route will take you through old-growth redwood groves within Noyo River Canyon, over trestle bridges, and under tunnels, ending with a stop in Crowley, where you can take in the majesty of one of the oldest trees in the area, the Wolf Tree. Enjoy snacks and beverages (including alcoholic ones) before heading back toward Willits.

8.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson City, NC

Trip length: 3.5 hours

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has various routes, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers, take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

9.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton Woods, NH

Trip length: 3 hours

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288-foot peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

10.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley, CA

Trip length: 3 to 6 hours on average

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train comprises a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

11.  California Zephyr

Emeryville, CA to Reno, NV

Trip length: 6 hours 45 minutes

At more than 2,400 miles long, the  California Zephyr —stretching from San Francisco to Chicago—is Amtrak's longest route. While we don't recommend you do the route in its entirety (unless that floats your boat), we highly recommend the route stretching from the Bay Area (hop on in San Francisco or Emeryville) to the Lake Tahoe area (get off in Reno or Truckee). This scenic journey is an ideal way to get to Tahoe, beat the traffic, and take in dreamy views.  

12.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Trip length: 1.5 hours

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride aboard the Hawaiian Railway Society shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

13.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, CO to Silverton, CO

Trip length: 3.5 hours

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

14.  The Ethan Allen Express

New York City, NY to Burlington, VT

Trip length: 7 hours 35 minutes

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. On the Ethan Allen Express , you’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains, before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

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8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 6 min read

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely sightseeing experience.© Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

There’s no getting around the sheer size and scale of the USA – it’s an absolute, supersized whopper – and the best way to see it all is via train.

The US has close to 3.8 million sq miles (10 million sq km) of sublime mountain ranges, parched desert, entire states engulfed in deep snow, you-gotta-go-see-it-to-believe-it cities, endless prairie land, six whole time zones and lakes so large you could lose whole countries down there. So while traveling around by plane might make sense from a convenience point of view – it’s not quite six hours to dart directly from New York to LA – there really is no better way to experience the sheer grandeur of the country than by taking one of these train vacations.

Considerably more relaxing than driving or flying, the best train rides in the US offer a leisurely, nostalgic sightseeing experience, often passing through pristine landscapes inaccessible by other means. The US is rich with amazing train journeys, but the routes listed below are the cream of the crop. From California to New England ,  here are eight epic US train trips our editors have selected, taken from Lonely Planet's  Amazing Train Journeys .

1. The Sunset Limited

Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1995 miles (3211 km); 2 days

Amtrak's Sunset Limited is the ultimate American railroad ride and one of its most famous train journeys: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of taking a journey across the USA, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer.

Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana ’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston , across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, pardner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

2. The Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle – Portland – Sacramento – Los Angeles Distance and duration: 1377 miles (2216 km); 35 hours

Trace America’s “left coast” in all its varied splendor. The 35-hour (OK, it’s Amtrak, so maybe more) trip between Seattle and Los Angeles curves alongside crashing Pacific waves, cuts through America’s lushest agricultural land and passes below snowcapped mountains and towering redwoods. Of all the Amtrak routes, the Coast Starlight offers the most scenic variety in the fewest hours.

It’s also the only Amtrak service with a dedicated parlor car, open only to passengers who book sleepers. The parlor conjures old-time rail romance, with wood paneling and soft lighting, plus a special menu and wine-and-cheese tastings. Highlights of this train ride include dramatic sunrise perspectives on 14,179ft (4322m)  Mt Shasta , and a gorgeous midday traverse of Oregon's Cascade Range.

3. Metro-North Hudson Line

Route: New York City – Poughkeepsie Distance and duration: 69 miles (111 km); 1½ hours

Depart from New York City ’s iconic beaux arts Grand Central Terminal , stopping to admire the ornate astronomical ceiling painting in the vaulted main concourse and to slurp up oysters and a martini at the famous Oyster Bar.

Then roll through Manhattan and the Bronx and into the glorious green Hudson River Valley. Hugging the eastern banks of the river, New York’s Metro-North's Hudson line travels deep into American history. The names of the stops along the way speak to the area’s origins: Native American (Ossining, Poughkeepsie); Dutch (Spuyten Duyvil, Yonkers, Cortlandt, Peekskill); English (Hastings-on-Hudson, Scarborough). It’s a land so famously beautiful an entire art movement – the Hudson River School – was once dedicated to capturing its glory. For the cost of a burger and a beer, this view can be yours for almost two hours.

4. The California Zephyr

Route: Chicago – Omaha – Denver – Salt Lake City – San Francisco Distance and duration: 2438 miles (3924km), 51 hours 20 minutes

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak’s California Zephyr train. This classic three-day journey travels nearly 2500 miles (4000km) across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from Chicago to San Francisco. The scenery is magnificent throughout – especially when seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the lounge car – but if you can only do one section, opt for the riveting 185-mile (298km) stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, where the train travels through an often roadless wilderness of deep, narrow gorges near the Colorado River’s headwaters.

Near sunset, the train emerges into the majestic red rock desert of eastern Utah , then crosses overnight into the forbidding vastness of Nevada's sagebrush country, with salt flats and stark, arid mountains as far as the eye can see. Sunrise on day three reveals an entirely different desert: the blinding-white alkali flats and ghostly grey mountains near Winnemucca, Nevada. Just beyond the gambling-happy little city of Reno, the Zephyr climbs into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, then enters California’s imposing granite high country beyond the photogenic frontier town of Truckee.

5. Amtrak Downeaster

Route: Boston – Portland – Brunswick Distance and duration: 145 miles (233 km); 3 hours 25 minutes

As car-free city breaks go, this train escape is hard to beat, chugging from the downtown main streets of urban Boston to Maine ’s rural greens in under four hours. That’s from the seventh most densely populated city in the US to the state with the highest percentage of forest coverage, all in less time than it takes to cook an old-style Yankee plum pudding.

Even better, every stop on the Amtrak Downeaster features historic New England cities and towns, parks and seascapes, cottage arts and crafts, world-class shopping and stellar foods fashioned from farm-and-sea-fresh ingredients.

6. The New Mexico Rail Runner

Route: Albuquerque – Santa Fe Distance and duration: 97 miles (156 km); 90 minutes

One of America’s great unsung commuter railways, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a regional train that runs down the Rio Grande Valley , connecting the state’s largest city, Albuquerque, with its cultural and political capital, Santa Fe.

On the way it crosses the wide, high desert, giving views of arid mountains in all directions, and even passes through several of the state’s Native American tribal lands. A no-nonsense, clean and quick journey, its highlights are the sweeping views from the upper seats of the double-decker carriages. Taken as a day trip or a scenic but practical form of intra-state transport, the Rail Runner is a wonderful introduction to New Mexico ’s epic landscapes.

7. The Empire Builder

Route: Chicago – St Paul or Minneapolis – Spokane – Portland or Seattle Distance and duration: 2764 miles (4448 km); 46 hours

The Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle glides through Wisconsin 's woodlands, Minnesota's lake country and the North Dakota prairies en route to a western horizon swarming with snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks.

From Browning , Montana, an unforgettable 60-mile run along the southern edge of Glacier National Park leads to the park entrance at West Glacier, where nature lovers will want to break their journey before continuing to Seattle.

8. The Vermonter

Route: Washington, DC – New York City– Springfield – Essex Junction ( Burlington ) – St Albans Distance and duration: 611 miles (983 km); 13 hours 45 minutes

The Amtrak Vermonter runs once daily from Washington, DC to St Albans, VT. This is the most scenic route east of the Mississippi, especially in its northern reaches, where it snakes for four hours through the bucolic green hills and photogenic villages of rural Vermont.

Starting from the nation's capital, Washington, DC, the train runs north through one of the USA's greatest metropolises, New York City, before bowling out through Connecticut , Massachusetts and New Hampshire en route to the bucolic Vermont countryside and St Albans.

This article was first published Dec 4, 2020 and updated Jan 29, 2024.

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The Best Train Trips to Take Across America

Explore the U.S. by rail on these scenic train rides.

There's a romance to train travel — the leisurely pace of a rail trip compared to the hustle of an airport or a crowded highway encourages you to relax. There are the historic train stations and roomy seats, plus the chance to get up and walk around, visit the dining car, or just sit and take in the scenery.

There are many rail journeys you can take across the United States, with stops in exciting cities, historic landmarks, and national parks along the way. From Napa Valley to New England, here are ten of the best rides in the USA.

The Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train takes riders through the picturesque wine country northeast of the San Francisco Bay Area. The route follows a rail line originally built in 1864. Visitors can take a 36-mile journey from downtown Napa to picturesque St. Helena and back while indulging in delicious wine and California cuisine. After boarding the train at the McKinstry Street Station, travel through the old industrial section of Napa, then continue through the scenic vineyards of Northern California. Experiences range from three-hour lunches in the panoramic Vista Dome car to full-day adventures where you can hop on and off the train along the way. Don't forget to plan an overnight stay at one of the incredible hotels in Napa Valley .

The Pacific Surfliner

Traveling 351 miles along the coast of Southern California, Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner is one of the world's most scenic train rides . Start in San Diego and head north, stopping along the way in quaint ocean towns like Carpinteria, San Juan Capistrano, and Ventura. Be sure to leave some time to explore Santa Barbara, or head all the way to the end of the line at San Luis Obispo before looping back.

The Coast Starlight

Ride up the West Coast on Amtrak's Coast Starlight , a 35-hour journey that goes all the way from Los Angeles to Seattle, passing through Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland. The scenery along the way includes snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, forests and valleys, and long stretches of Pacific Ocean shoreline.

Empire Builder

Those looking to follow the trail of Lewis and Clark should hop aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder train , which runs between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest. With stunning views of the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains, there's a reason this is one of the most popular long-distance train rides in the U.S. Hop off in Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Minnesota, and again in Glacier National Park before finishing the trip in either Seattle, Washington, or Portland, Oregon.

The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway , which dates back to 1901, offers riders a lesson in history from the Wild West and the opportunity to see the beautiful scenery in this iconic region. Kick back in the restored cars and listen to crews' incredible stories the crew as you ride the railway from Williams to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park on a 65-mile trip across the high desert plateau. You'll then have three hours to explore before heading back in the afternoon. Looking to make your journey even more fun? Book a ride on one of the railway's vintage steam trains , which depart on select dates between March and October.

Amtrak Cascades

Cross over the United States' northern border on Amtrak Cascades , stretching from Vancouver, Canada to Eugene, Oregon, passing through Portland and Seattle along the way. Stop in cities for day trips or overnight stays, and then hop back on a train to pass by Mount St. Helens and cross the Columbia River Gorge.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Ride this historic railway across the Yukon on the Bennett Scenic Journey , which travels from Alaska to Canada. The 67.5-mile trip takes you between Skagway, Alaska, and Carcross, Yukon Territory, Canada, along the same route that the Klondike stampeders traveled in 1898. Stop along the way to tour the historic Bennett Station and museum.

The Rocky Mountaineer

Voted the best train by T+L readers , The Rocky Mountaineer once only served Canada, bringing passengers from east to west with an exceptional display of scenery. It now offers a U.S. route: Rockies to Red Rocks , which transports passengers through the American Southwest from Denver to Moab, Utah, with a stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Journeys run between April and October and include meals and accommodations in nearby hotels.

Hawaiian Railway Society

The Hawaiian Railway Society offers locomotive enthusiasts rides along 12 miles of Oahu's historic railroad tracks. Along the way, take in views of the ocean while listening to stories about the golden days of train travel in Hawaii. The two-hour round-trip rides run three days a week, and there's also a toy train museum to check out before or after your journey.

The Maple Leaf Train

Take a train trip that starts at Niagara Falls and ends in New York City on Amtrak's Maple Leaf train . You'll travel through the scenic Hudson River Valley, New York's wine country, and the gorges of the Finger Lakes region. While at Niagara Falls, stop for a cruise on The Hornblower to the rushing falls or take a Journey Behind the Falls tour , which brings you 150 feet below ground to tunnels that lead to observation spots at the foot of the falls.

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14 Best Train Trips to Take Across America for Breathtaking Scenery

Vacation in a new way to see some beautiful sights.

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Harry Potter and the Polar Expres s crew aren’t the only ones who should get to indulge in luxurious train trips with magical scenery and endless adventure. Explore any of these best train trips in the United States to feed your own dose of wanderlust.

While traveling by train can certainly be a more inexpensive option for a family getaway when compared to air travel or a boat cruise, that doesn't mean you'll be cramped and crowded. Many of the trips we have listed include luxury sleeper trains, amazing dining and, of course, unbeatable views. There are routes like the Surfliner, which runs along the Pacific Ocean (and would be an unforgettable destination for spring break ), the Grand Canyon Railway, a two-hour ride of bliss and tons more that are sure to pique your interest.

Let the best train rides in America also inspire you to make locomotives your transportation of choice even when you head to international destinations (we recommend you hop aboard Norway’s famous Flåm Railway ).

Still need help deciding where to go and what to pack? Check out Good Housekeepin g 's 2023 Family Travel Awards for expert advice, top-tested gear and more.

Amtrak Auto Train

If you’re traveling to a destination that requires use of a vehicle, Amtrak’s Auto Train allows you to pack it with you! It transports your car (or other recreational vehicles) as well as you and your family on a route from Washington, DC to Sanford, Florida.

Good Housekeeping’s Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab executive director, Lexi Sachs boarded the train with her family for a trip to Orlando, which she described as “just as fun of an experience for my two kids” as their trip to Disney World.

Sachs also pointed out that the train trip featured a range of seating options, from coach to bedrooms with pull down beds, lovely views of the East Coast, delicious dinner and breakfast, and allowed her to feel like she wasn’t losing a day of vacation due to travel. Plus, Amtrak offers priority offloading, “which means your car comes off first,” Sachs said, adding that “It was definitely worth it in my opinion!”

America's National Parks with Rocky Mountaineer

See eight destinations over 11 days when you embark on this incredible journey through canyons and mountains. You’ll have the chance to explore Arches National Park with its many sandstone arches, Canyonlands National Park, which is full of rock columns and original Native American cave paintings and Yellowstone National Park, where you will see its majestic hot springs and geysers. Not only does this package include multiple sightseeing tours, but it also covers 10 nights of hotel stays and three meals.

Grand Rail Experience

Visit great American cities, including Washington, Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles and New Orleans, on this 14-day cross-country journey. Included in the package is six nights of hotel accommodations, seven nights onboard one of Amtrak’s sleeper trains, sightseeing tours and priceless landscape views.

You also get to take your pick from attractions such as the Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), Woodland Park Zoo and Chihuly Garden and Glass for no additional cost.

Northern Rail Experience

Get your fill of adventure when you embark on this nine-day train vacation with stops in Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and Muir Woods.

Amtrak offers an all-inclusive package with a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour, and breathtaking views of the great plains and the Pacific Coast. Plus you and your family will enjoy three nights of hotel accommodations and five nights on board Amtrak in private sleeping rooms. One meal is also included.

Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic

Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic departs from Anchorage and winds along the Turnagain Arm before turning off into the backcountry wilderness and eventually ending in Seward.

Look for views of the steep Chugach Range mountains plummeting right into the ocean, and the stunning shores of Resurrection Bay; wildlife sightings along the way could include beluga whales, sheep, bear and moose. Daily service is available seasonally, from mid-May through mid-September. Take a variety of tours in Seward — like glacier treks or sled dog rides — before heading back to Anchorage.

Amtrak’s famous Surfliner route runs between San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and San Diego, with multiple daily departures.

The route runs along the Pacific Ocean — almost close enough to catch a wave — for gorgeous views throughout the journey. And yes, you can bring along your surfboard; special racks are designed to hold travelers’ outdoor gear.

Napa Valley Wine Train

If you love wine and vintage aesthetics, you absolutely must experience the Napa Valley Wine Train. Century-old railcars traverse a 150-year-old rail corridor on this 36-mile round-trip journey. The railroad once transported guests to a spa resort in Calistoga and now winds its way across the pastoral California landscape from Napa to St. Helena and back, stopping at the famed region’s wineries all along the route. Four on-board kitchens provide locally sourced, top-end cuisine for a full luxury dining experience.

Grand Canyon Railway

This trip re-creates the historic voyage to the Grand Canyon by rail, which opened to its very first passengers in 1901. Passengers aboard the Grand Canyon Railway depart from Williams Depot and make their way to the Grand Canyon Depot, which is the last operating log depot in the country. The depot is located right in the middle of the National Park’s historic district, near the storied El Tovar Hotel, and merely 200 yards from the edge of the canyon’s South Rim. In all, the trip covers 65 miles of scenic terrain, with unmatched views and photo opps.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad takes passengers on a scenic rail journey through this beautiful mountain range. Choose from two versions of the trip, named for standout attractions: the Nantahala Gorge Excursion (44 miles) or the Tuckasegee River Excursion (32 miles). Both offer a range of seating classes, including an open-air gondola and first-class dining car. Specialty versions of the trip include wine and dine, fall foliage spotting, and even a Peanuts-theme Easter ride.

Cass Scenic Railroad

The steam-driven Cass Scenic Railroad takes passengers through the mountains of West Virginia on revamped flat cars that hauled lumber to the Cass mill more than a century ago. The 11-mile heritage railroad runs from May through October, offering a trip through both history and scenery. Ride to the overlook at Bald Knob, the third highest point in West Virginia, for unforgettable views and picture-taking spots.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Cape Cod Central is a heritage railroad that operates on 27 miles of former New Haven Railroad tracks on Cape Cod. It takes passengers through marshes, cranberry bogs, dunes — places you can only access by rail. Come for a historic narrated daytime ride, Sunday brunch, sunset dinner, or a special festive holiday ride.

Sunset Limited

Travel between Louisiana and California on Sunset Limited, Amtrak’s Southernmost route. On the way from New Orleans through San Antonio, Tucson, Phoenix and Los Angeles, see diverse scenery including the bayou country, Southwestern deserts, and California mountains. Three trains depart weekly in each direction.

Coast Starlight

The Coast Starlight works its way along the west coast from Los Angeles to Seattle. On the route, pass Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento and Portland. Catch scenery from verdant valleys and forests to the snow-topped mountains of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta and the Pacific Ocean shoreline to boot. This striking route runs daily.

Empire Builder

Amtrak’s famous Empire Builder route runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest. It covers portions of the Lewis and Clark trail, following the route of the pioneers. Urban views include the twinkling skyline of Minneapolis and St. Paul; natural landscapes include the North Dakota plains, Big Sky country in Montana and Glacier National Park. The route runs daily.

Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Insider, Glamour, Shondaland, AFAR, Parents, TODAY, and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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The 20 Most Gorgeous Scenic Train Rides You Can Take In America

Discover the best scenic train rides in America, offering breathtaking views and unique travel experiences.

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Cars are king these days, but there's something to be said for winding through the beautiful landscapes of America in an old-fashioned train car. These are the best scenic train rides in America , and they'll allow you to see the sights without lifting a finger - except, perhaps, to lift your drink. Skip the traffic and cruise through the valleys, mountains, and fields of this nation on one of these dreamy railroad adventures. These train trips are scenic, romantic, and adventurous.

Short Scenic Train Tours

1. Arcade & Attica Railroad, New York

• Location: Arcade and North Java, New York
• Known for: This short-line scenic ride aboard a WWII-era diesel train travels between Arcade and North Java.
• Where to stay nearby: Cozy Two-Story Barndominium

The scenic Arcade & Attica Railroad will take you across 15 miles of breathtaking terrain in western New York. It passes through historic and beautiful areas near Buffalo and is positively amazing during the fall. It runs from Memorial Day through October, usually, and also offers festive holiday rides during the winter.

2. Tuckasegee River Excursion, North Carolina

• Location: Bryson City, North Carolina
• Known for: This 32-mile round-trip scenic train ride through North Carolina's countryside travels between Bryson City and Dillsboro.
• Where to stay nearby: Great Smoky Mountain Tiny House Cabin "Cedar Heights"

The Tuckasegee River Excursion is only one of the numerous routes offered by this railroad, but we think it's the best. Hop on at Bryson City and roll for 4.5 hours, soaking up the gorgeous countryside of North Carolina. You'll pass through the Cowee Tunnel and alongside "The Fugitive" movie set. An hour's excursion in Dillsboro will let you refuel and stretch your legs before you head back.

3. White Pass Summit Excursion, Alaska

• Location: Skagway
• Known for: Take a vintage passenger train through gorges, past glaciers, and even Dead Horse Gulch. You'll also see the original Klondike Trail of '98.
• Where to stay nearby: The Cable House, Charming Historic Home built in 1901

This trip will leave you awestruck. Cruise on up to 3,000 feet in elevation while passing glaciers, mountains, waterfalls and iconic natural landmarks like Bridal Veil Falls and Dead Horse Gulch. You'll want to bring your camera for this 40-mile round-trip ride. This White Pass & Yukon Route excursion is truly unforgettable.

4. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train, Kentucky

• Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
• Known for: Take a lunch or dinner train excursion aboard a vintage train. Enjoy a gourmet dinner as the train treks through Kentucky's countryside.
• Where to stay nearby: Stay in a historic Early 1800s Guest House

This is an old-fashioned way to see the splendor of the Bluegrass state. The 35-mile round-trip adventure starts in Bardstown and will take you through some of the most stunning fall foliage in the region. You'll get to dine in vintage cars while experiencing the natural beauty of Kentucky .

5. Cass Scenic Railroad, West Virginia

• Location: Cass, West Virginia
• Known for: The 11-mile journey aboard the Cass Scenic Railroad is one of the best scenic train trips you can take. And it's all aboard a steam locomotive that will take you back in time!
• Where to stay nearby: Snowshoe Log Cabin - Dancing Star

This is one of the most picturesque train routes in the country. Visitors will be ferried across the wilderness of West Virginia on an old-fashioned steam engine train, taking in the sights between Whittaker Station and Bald Knob during this 4.5-hour trip. The train reaches an astounding 4,700 feet in elevation, so you'll feel like you're jetting through the mountain peaks. The Cass Scenic Railroad is an unforgettable adventure indeed!

Overnight Scenic Train Rides

6. Coast Starlight, California

• Location: Los Angeles, California and Seattle, Washington
• Known for: Take a 35-hour train ride between LA and Seattle in your very own first-class train car. The Coast Starlight is one overnight train adventure you won't soon forget!
• Where to stay nearby: Modern Waterfront Log Cabin for Two in Seattle/Bellevue

This is definitely a lengthy train ride, but it's surprisingly affordable. You'll breeze by amazing landmarks like Mount Shasta, San Francisco Bay, the Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the stunning cliffs along the Pacific Coast Highway. There's truly no better way to see the sights along the Pacific Coast than the Coast Starlight , and with the cost of gas these days, it might be the deal of the decade! It's one of the best. luxury train vacations you can take.

7. Empire Builder

• Location: Chicago, Illinois and Seattle, Washington
• Known for: The Empire Builder will take you on a magnificent 46-hour journey between Chicago and Seattle. Of course, you can choose a shorter trek along the route but why do that when you can do the whole thing?
• Where to stay nearby: Charming 3-BR House in Logan Square

With a name like Empire Builder, expectations are high for this train to deliver a monumentally great experience. The good news: it doesn't disappoint. You'll be taken across the Great Plains on pretty much the same route that Lewis and Clark took across the West. You'll get to see Glacier National Park, the Cascade Mountains, Whitefish, and countless other scenic spots. The best part may be the glass-domed observation lounge that provides a view like no other. At 2,206 miles, this trip clocks in as the longest on the list. This is one of your best options for luxury train travel in the USA.

8. Southwest Chief

• Location: City name
• Known for: Sleep aboard an Amtrak train that travels through eight states. See the country like you've never seen it before on this memorable trip on the Southwest Chief .
• Where to stay nearby: Luxury Condo with Rooftop Pool & Spa

Take an overnight journey aboard Amtrak on its

Southwest Chief route. You'll travel between Chicago and Los Angeles with stops in Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff. You'll pass through eight states and see a variety of landscapes from mountains and valleys to plains, fields, and deserts. It's a great way to see the variety of landscapes across America.

Luxury Train Travel in the USA

9. Alaska Railroad, Alaska

• Location: Fairbanks and Seward, Alaska
• Known for: Travel between Fairbanks and Seward while seeing some of the best scenery Alaska has to offer.
• Where to stay nearby: Fairbanks Log Cabin

See the Last Frontier in style with a ride on the Alaska Railroad . This historic railroad has been ferrying passengers across the wild and dazzling Alaskan terrain since 1914. They offer an extremely popular holiday train ride that feels just like hopping aboard the Polar Express. You'll spot snow-covered mountains, fields of sparkling ice, and some pretty amazing sunset vistas.

10. Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, Arizona

• Location: Williams, Arizona
• Known for: Ride a classic restored train with the Grand Canyon Railway. Choose one of six classes of service and travel through the ever-changing landscape that Arizona is known for.
• Where to stay nearby: Elephant Rocks Golf Cottage

Get up close and personal with the Grand Canyon from the comfort of an air-conditioned train car. You'll skip the traffic and be taken directly to the Grand Canyon's south rim on the Grand Canyon Railway . Along the way, keep a lookout for bald eagles, elk, and the dramatic plateaus of the reservation. You'll travel around 130 miles round-trip, and each mile will be more beautiful than the last.

11. Napa Valley Wine Train, California

• Location: Napa, California
• Known for: See California's best-known wine region aboard the luxurious Napa Valley Wine Train . Enjoy wine and delicious cuisine as the train travels through the gorgeous scenery Napa Valley is known for.
• Where to stay nearby: Spanish Bungalow with Hot Tub

Have you ever been to Napa Valley? Whether or not you've visited California's most famous wine region, seeing it by train is a whole different experience! Climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train for an unforgettable adventure as you take in the serene beauty of the wine region while sipping on wine and enjoying a delicious gourmet meal.

Best Train Rides Through the Mountains

12. The Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

• Location: Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, New Hampshire
• Known for: Giving scenic train trips for more than 150 years, The Cog is the first of its kind in the world and leads to spectacular views from the summit of Mt. Washington.
• Where to stay nearby: Romantic Cottage for Two in the Heart of the White Mountains

This little railroad offers what is definitely one of the most gorgeous train journeys in the country. The Mount Washington Cog Railway, also known as the Cog Railway is like nothing you've ever experienced before, and we think you'll love it.

13. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

• Location: Silverton
• Known for: The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a National Historic Landmark and provides stunning views of the mountains and the San Juan National Forest.
• Where to stay nearby: Downtown Silverton Historic Mountain Home, White Wolf Haus

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad locomotive ride will make you feel like a true explorer. The railroad operates between Durango and Silverton, and is a designated National Historic Landmark. Cruise along sheer cliffs, past historic mines and stunning panoramic views of the dramatic countryside.

14. Mt. Hood Railroad, Oregon

• Location: Hood River, Oregon
• Known for: Take an exciting scenic train ride through the Columbia River Gorge with views of Mount Hood. This train ride through the mountains is one to remember!
• Where to stay nearby: Westside Hood River Home

This gorgeous vintage train twists and winds through the lush forests and orchards on Mount Hood . Every single ride on this train is incredibly picturesque, but they do offer a variety of themed excursions. Try out the scenic train, holiday train, and and Easter train.

15. Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Colorado

• Location: Manitou Springs, Colorado
• Known for: This train travels to Pikes Peak, one of the most beautiful mountains in the country.
• Where to stay nearby: Manitou Springs Cottage with Mountain Views

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway will take you straight to the summit of Pikes Peak. You'll scale the 14,115-foot mountain and have about 30-40 minutes to check out the view at the top. This train actually goes so high up that staying any longer than the allotted time at that lofty height can result in altitude sickness. Obviously, you'll want to bring your camera and sense of adventure.

16. Conway Scenic Railroad, New Hampshire

• Location: North Conway, New Hampshire
• Known for: Hop aboard the Mountaineer for one os the best scenic train rides in America! Traveling through Crawford's Notch and Mount Washington Valley, this 4-to-5.5-hour train ride should go straight to the top of your bucket list.
• Where to stay nearby: Scenic Cathedral Ledge Bavarian Chalet

New England isn't as lousy with amazing train rides as the western half of the country, but there are plenty of amazing railroad excursions to be had on the East Coast. The Conway Scenic Railroad will take you through 50 miles of gorgeous forest and mountainous terrain, delivering amazing views of the White Mountains and fall foliage. There's a first class car as well as a fabulous dining car. This train travels everyday, so you're in luck no matter the season.

17. Amtrak's Adirondack

• Location: Manhattan, New York
• Known for: This journey aboard Amtrak's Adirondack will start in Manhattan, wind its way through the Hudson Valley, and will cross the Canadian border where it will stop in Montreal.
• Where to stay nearby: Luxury in the City

Time aboard the Amtrak Adirondack is time well spent. Not only will you get to spend some time in NYC (we suggest coming a day or two early to explore the city) but you'll get to see Hudson Valley's wine country. Remember your passport for this journey as the train will cross into Canada and make its final destination in Montreal.

18. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico

• Location: Chama, New Mexico
• Known for: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad winds its way through the mountains from Chama, New Mexico and through the highest mountain pass reachable by a train in the United States.
• Where to stay nearby: Log Sided Home in the Heart of Chama NM

For a train ride through the mountains, being aboard the

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is hard to beat! Starting in Chama, New Mexico, this rail journey will take you to an elevation of over 10,000 feet as it travels through Cumbres Pass. This is the highest mountain pass reachable by train in the country so it's a journey worth taking. Eventually the train will reach Antonito, Colorado before returning to Chama.

Best Coastal Train Rides

19. Amtrak Cascades, Oregon

• Location: Eugene, Oregon
• Known for: As one of the most scenic Amtrak train rides, you'll travel between Eugene, Orgeon and Vancouver, B.C. in Canada, with several other stops in between on the Amtrak Cascades .
• Where to stay nearby: Charming Cottage by CosiDesign

What could be more amazing than winding your way through fields of colorful irises on your way past the Olympic Mountains? Pretty much nothing. Amtrak Cascades goes all the way from Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia, so it's a great way to experience a bit of international adventure without lifting a finger.

20. The Pacific Surfliner, California

• Location: San Luis Obispo
• Known for: The Pacific Surfliner is one of the most incredible Amtrak scenic rides to see the Pacific coast. It travels between San Luis Obispo and San Diego.
• Where to stay nearby: Historic Cozy Downtown Property

Hopping aboard this train is almost like spending a day at the beach. The Surfliner travels between San Luis Obispo to San Diego, and cruises by the world-famous Del Mar beach. Be sure to sit on the correct side of the train to get the best view of the waves!

There's truly nothing like a classic railway adventure. Have you been aboard one of the best scenic train rides in America yet? For more U.S. travel inspiration, check out our list of the 24 places you absolutely must go to in America.

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16 Scenic & Seasonal Train Rides to Enjoy Across America This Fall and Winter

The best train rides in the USA are here! Explore scenic fall foliage, magical winter routes, and year-round adventures across the country.

From the beautiful colors of the leaves in the fall to the stunning snowy landscapes in the winter, train rides in America can offer some of the most unique and wonderful ways to see the country. You can travel through the Adirondack Mountains, see the grandeur of the Rockies, or explore the charming Southern states. Whether you want a cozy trip or an exciting adventure, these 16 train rides across the U.S. will guide you through a magical winter or a paradise of fall foliage.

Fall Train Rides

Is there any better way to experience the beautiful fall colors than by taking a train ride? It’s such a unique way to view the fall foliage from vantage points you wouldn’t have access to by foot or car.

Did your favorite fall train rides make the list?

1. Adirondack Railroad - Utica, NY

Hop aboard Adirondack Railroad 's The Fall "Gateway" for a picturesque trip through the Adirondack Mountains. You'll start in Utica, New York, and spend a day traveling to the charming village of Old Forge, with a lovely stop in Thendara.

As the train winds through the landscape, you can take in the stunning fall foliage, rivers, and mountains. When you reach Old Forge, you'll have the chance to explore local shops and restaurants and soak in the town's charm. And don’t worry about comfort or food - the train has cozy seating and a café car with delicious options.

2. North Shore Scenic Railroad - Duluth, MN

Enjoy a beautiful train ride through the North Shore region of Minnesota and see the stunning colors of fall. The round-trip journey aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad begins in Duluth and takes you to the lovely coastal town of Two Harbors .

You'll see amazing views of Lake Superior, rocky cliffs, and colorful forests. In Two Harbors, you'll have a couple of hours to check out the historic town, visit shops, view the Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum, and walk the waterfront along Agate Bay.

3. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad - Bryson City, NC

Bryson City's Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers fantastic fall train rides through the beautiful Nantahala Gorge and along the Tuckasegee River. These scenic train rides wind through the heart of the Smoky Mountains, showcasing the vibrant autumn colors of the region.

You can take a round trip through the Nantahala Gorge, which includes crossing over the Fontana Lake Trestle and a stop at the Nantahala Outdoor Center . There's also a round trip along the Tuckasegee River, with a stop in the charming town of Dillsboro.

Both rides provide outstanding views of the mountains and rivers, making them perfect for enjoying the fall foliage in one of the most beautiful areas of the Southern Appalachians.

4. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - Antonito, CO & Chama, NM

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad has an excursion through the Rocky Mountains. Departing from either Antonito, Colorado, or Chama, New Mexico, this historic narrow-gauge railroad takes you on a scenic 64-mile trip. As you wind through the San Juan Mountains , marvel at the stunning fall foliage, rugged peaks, and deep canyons.

The train makes stops at various points along the route, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and check out nearby attractions. Highlights include the Cumbres Pass, the highest point on the railroad, and the Toltec Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Toltec River.

With its vintage steam locomotives and nostalgic atmosphere, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is definitely worthy of your bucket list!

Polar Express & Holiday Train Rides

A wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit is by going on a festive train ride. It’s a fantastic option for the entire family. The adults can take in the sights, and the little ones can enjoy visits from Santa. And hey, maybe the adults can enjoy the visits from Santa, too.

5. Southern California Railway Museum - Perris, CA

The Polar Express at the Southern California Railway Museum is a wonderful holiday activity for the whole family. Located in Perris, California, this seasonal train ride brings the beloved children's story to life.

The historic train takes you on a magical journey through a beautifully decorated route, just like in the book. On the train, you can enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and fun entertainment with characters from the story.

The best part is meeting Santa at the “North Pole” and receiving a holiday gift. The train is decked out in festive decorations, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere that's perfect for a family outing.

6. Illinois Railway Museum - Union, IL

Get ready for a magical holiday adventure at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union, Illinois, the best festive experience in the greater Chicago area! Their Happy Holiday Railway takes you on a charming train ride through a winter wonderland.

You can meet Santa, sip on hot chocolate, see beautiful lights, and sing along to festive songs. Plus, the museum has cool exhibits of vintage trains, streetcars, and model railroads. It's a fun way to make memories with your family and friends during the holiday season!

7. Strasburg Rail Road - Ronks, PA

An enchanting time awaits with the Christmas Train Experiences at Strasburg Rail Road . Departing from Ronks, Pennsylvania, these special train rides take you through the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with Christmas decorations, caroling, and even visits from Santa Claus. There are different options to choose from, such as Santa's Paradise Express, Night Before Christmas Train, and Santa Claus Limited. Also, some rides include extra fun like a Christmas Tree Train or a Christmas Feast with Mrs. Claus.

8. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum - Chattanooga, TN

Experience the magic of Christmas at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga with their seasonal holiday train rides. Board the North Pole Limited for a delightful trip to meet Santa Claus and enjoy yummy treats and festive entertainment.

If you're in the mood for something fancier, you can opt for the Christmas Dinner Train, which offers a four-course meal in a beautifully restored dining car. And don't miss the Holiday Lights Train Ride, where you can take in the twinkling Christmas lights of Chattanooga.

Winter Train Rides

Imagine cozying up in a warm train car, gazing out at a winter wonderland (or sunny palm trees if you're escaping the cold up north). From snowy peaks to charming towns, these train rides offer a magical escape during the coldest season of the year.

9. Lake Shore Limited - Chicago to NYC & Boston

The Lake Shore Limited is a scenic overnight train route operated by Amtrak, connecting Chicago with New York City and Boston. Departing from Chicago, the route follows through the heart of the Midwest and along the southern shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Erie, passing through major cities like Cleveland, Buffalo, and Albany before reaching its eastern terminus in New York City or Boston.

During the winter months, you can admire the snow-covered landscapes, sparkling lakes, and charming towns. Enjoy the comfort of your private room or roomette, complete with comfortable bedding and amenities. Relax and unwind as you watch the world go by, enjoying the scenic winter ride.

10. Empire Builder - Chicago - Seattle or Portland via two routes west of Spokane, WA

The Empire Builder is an Amtrak route running between Chicago and either Seattle or Portland, with a scenic split west of Spokane, Washington. Departing from Chicago, the train travels through major cities like Milwaukee and Minneapolis before branching off.

In the winter, on the Empire Builder, you'll be able to see picture-perfect views of snowy landscapes, including the beautiful Cascade Mountains, Glacier National Park , and the rugged terrain of the Pacific Northwest. You'll pass quaint small towns, scenic rivers, and outstanding mountain views. With its winter scenery, comfortable accommodations, and chances to explore iconic destinations, the Empire Builder is perfect for enjoying the beauty of winter.

11. Sunset Limited - New Orleans to Los Angeles

The Sunset Limited is a train route that goes from New Orleans to Los Angeles. It's the best way to escape the cold winter weather and enjoy a trip through the southern United States. The train makes stops in cities like Houston, San Antonio, and Tucson.

As the train travels through the American Southwest, you can expect to see beautiful desert views, mountains, and open plains through the large windows. The train has comfortable seating and dining options, making the journey that much more enjoyable. Highlights of the trip include crossing Texas and passing through the scenic deserts of Arizona . It's the perfect escape from the cold!

12. California Zephyr - Chicago to San Francisco Bay Area

The California Zephyr is a scenic train route run by Amtrak, traveling between Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. This train ride offers fantastic views of beautiful terrain, including the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado River, and the Sierra Nevada.

The train stops in Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno before reaching its final destination near San Francisco. Points of interest you can't miss are the climb through the Rockies and the crossing of Donner Pass, both revealing gorgeous winter vistas. The train provides comfortable accommodations, dining options, and an unforgettable travel experience.

Year-Round Train Rides

From bustling cities to scenic wide open spaces, experience the best of America by train . Explore coast to coast, any time of year.

13. Northeast Regional - Boston to Washington, D.C.

The Northeast Regional is Amtrak's busiest route that runs through the heart of the Northeast Corridor, connecting major cities from Boston to Washington, D.C. This route makes key stops in cities like New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, with extensions to Springfield, Massachusetts, and parts of Virginia, making it an excellent way to travel along the East Coast and more.

You can expect a comfortable ride with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and spacious seating options. You'll get to see glimpses of well-known landmarks, such as the Manhattan skyline, the harbors of Baltimore, and the historic sites of Philly.

The Northeast Regional is ideal for year-round travel, whether you're catching fall foliage, enjoying a snowy winter setting, or soaking up the summertime sunshine on a weekend getaway or a family vacation. With frequent departures and a range of onboard services, it's a reliable and scenic way to explore some of the best cities in the U.S.

14. Cardinal - NYC to Chicago

The Cardinal is a beautiful train route that goes from New York City to Chicago. It takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the eastern United States, including Washington, D.C., Charlottesville, WV, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis. You'll see the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Ohio River along this route.

On the train, you'll have a comfy seat, and you can go to a café car for snacks and drinks. You can also book a private room if you're taking a long trip. The Cardinal is a great year-round, no matter what time of year it is. Whether in spring, fall, or in winter when the mountains are covered in snow.

15. Crescent - NYC to New Orleans

The Crescent is a long-distance Amtrak route that travels between New York City and New Orleans, passing through cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, Atlanta, Birmingham, and more.

It shows off a mix of city and country views, from busy streets to peaceful countryside. You can take the Crescent at any time of year. It's perfect for getting away from cold winters up north or seeing beautiful spring and summer landscapes. Whether you're going to New Orleans for the fun vibes or just want a relaxing trip, the Crescent gives you a great view of a diverse part of the United States.

16. Coast Starlight - Seattle to Los Angeles

Amtrak's Coast Starlight is a popular train route, running all the way from Seattle to Los Angeles. This journey offers some seriously beautiful views of the West Coast, including the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and rugged mountains. The train stops at fun cities and charming towns like Portland, Eugene, Sacramento, San Francisco , and Santa Barbara before it finally gets to Los Angeles.

You will have all the amenities you've come to expect - plus, there's a super cool Sightseer Lounge that has big windows for awesome views. Some of the best parts of the trip include seeing the California coastline and the Cascade Mountains and getting to see all kinds of different landscapes, from green forests to dry deserts.

Have you taken any of the train rides across America? Do you think they're some of the best train rides in the U.S.? Have I missed any? Let me know - I'd love to hear all your recommendations!

So pack your bags and check out a train near you - I think you'd be pleasantly surprised. And if you're looking for fun stuff to do along your train route, check out these unique experiences .

A Spontaneous, 24-Hour Trip To Chicago, Illinois, Created A Core Memory

When I turned 40 , I made a promise to myself that this would be my best year yet. I would get reacquainted with the "me" that existed before becoming a partner, mom, and coworker; I would tap into my truest self and embrace the awesome and wise woman I am. I would travel to the places I write about, alone and with my kids. I would get out of my own way; making "yes, and" my mantra and see where that got me.

It got me to Chicago, Illinois. To a P!INK concert at Soldier Field with one of my favorite people in the world .

My spontaneous "yes and" mindset was put to the test a few weeks ago, when I got a text on a random weekday asking if I'd be up for seeing P!INK the following weekend in Chicago. I thought about it for less than a minute; I was in. I found a cheap (and direct!) flight from CVG to Midway, and Jackie used her budget traveling stealth to secure us a room at the Congress Hotel , a historic hotel right on Michigan Avenue just minutes from the stadium.

Packing for such a quick trip was a breeze; I was able to fit everything into a sleek backpack. I'd never flown into Chicago before; the waters of Lake Michigan are a brilliant cobalt blue and the cityscape -- with its striking architecture and iconic attractions -- is breathtaking. My 10-year-old is super into baseball right now and was delighted at this photo I snapped flying over the White Sox stadium:

I landed around 3 p.m. and took an Uber to the hotel. After a quick shower, we decided to make the most of a beautiful Saturday afternoon and take in the (iconic) views along Lake Shore Drive. Chicago is an incredibly walkable town and it's easy to get around on foot or with public transportation, which kept this trip extremely affordable, especially as we split the bill (and our concert tickets were just $40).

The concert itself was awesome - if you ever get the chance to see P!INK, do it. She put on an incredible show that brought me back to high school in all the best ways. More importantly, though, if you ever get the opportunity to drop everything and rendezvous with a lovely friend for a night in the city, do it. This kind of spontaneous travel makes way for the kind of memories that last a lifetime.

Writing for Only In Your State has awakened a curiosity about the world for which I'm incredibly grateful. Travel fuels my soul and makes me a more inspired writer and better human. The perspective that comes with age has let me embrace a "Yes and" mantra and the opportunities that come my way. Adventures are all around us and sometimes, a spontaneous getaway with a friend is all you need to be reminded of just how awesome life is.

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Private Rail Cars: America’s Luxury Train Travel

U.S. Luxury Train Travel is Here…with your own Private Rail Cars

By Jennifer Bellenoit Updated December 2021

After Covid-19 induced delays, Private Train Journeys start in June 2023!

Remember when trains were the most popular means of travel? Remember the romance of the exquisite finishing of a rail car seen in old black and white movies?

The slow chugging rhythms of the locomotive? The deep lull of the wheels running over the tracks? These private train cars are luxury hotels on rails!

Today, luxury train travel in the US appears to exist as a memory. Unless you’re North Korea’s Kim Jong-Un and own a private train, you can’t ride in your own train car. Until now.

Meet America’s Trains.

Luxury Train Travel USA: Like the Olden Days in Private Rail Cars

America’s Trains Inc is offering guests the same luxury travel and private rail cars that used to be reserved for only the wealthiest of Americans.

You can travel between many popular cities throughout the U.S. and into Canada, with many more to come.

Barry Jones from America’s Trains stated that “present demand already ensures that full occupancy will probably occur, keeping in mind that the relatively long average lead time between when a Journey passenger makes a reservation and the departure date, is over eight months.”

The trips aren’t cheap, but they are a serious throwback to the grand old days of railroad travel. You’ll feel like a robber baron in one of your own luxury private train cars!

Amtrak Train Sets

The train cars are part of Amtrak trains. They include “Train Sets” which are multiple cars traveling together that provide bedrooms, gourmet meals, lounge, and bar facilities. America’s Trains provide Private Cars that include up to four bedrooms, dining, and lounge facilities that operate as part of the Train Sets or just alone.

More than Repainted

America’s Trains rail cars are not older units with new paint and furniture, by the way. They are fully rebuilt, redesigned, and refurbished to exceed Amtrak’s mechanical specifications and to meet the desires of discriminating luxury consumers.

“We are not trying to replicate antiquated capabilities that were in vogue when trail travel was at its peak. Instead, the best of these features are combined with modern conveniences and systems that make the cars the best in America and equal to the world’s finest,” Barry said.

Train’Share, as in Timeshare

America’s Trains offer two methods of travel which include individual, all-inclusive Journeys by Rail (typical commercial train vacations) and Train’Shares (rail car timeshares). Train’Share travelers have the option to reserve trips on a timeshare basis which “makes up one of the fastest-growing segments of leisure travel,” according to Jones.

Guests have the option to take the journey by Rail vacations at a lower cost than individual Journey vacation passengers or passengers on comparable foreign luxury trains (there are no others in the USA). They also have the option to exchange a Journey (train vacation) for a vacation at a wide selection of the world’s best resorts. You can even exchange them for a cruise.

Perpetual Term Option

According to America’s Trains website , Train’Share buyers can purchase a “perpetual term” for never-ending additional years or an “initial term” of 10 years.

Some of the best Journey by Rail benefits include on route layovers where passengers live on board the luxurious rail cars while enjoying nearby hosted and optional attractions without have to move to and from hotels.

There are also special events and parties, pre-and post-land vacation opportunities, a selection of routes, an owner’s newsletter, special predetermined preferences such as activities, and complimentary drinks, including alcoholic beverages.

Choosing Your Own Routes

Individual Journey and Train’Share owner passengers that reserve all the rooms on a Car have the opportunity to choose the destinations and routes.

Train’Share owners also become a member of the Train’Share Association which gives owners more benefits such as train, rail, and travel-related items at discounted prices, an owner’s newsletter, preferred complimentary beverage brands of all kinds, and special predetermined preferences such as activities and menus.

Unlike traditional timeshares, Train’Share owners don’t have to pay fees if a scheduled journey by Rail is not used and America’s Trains will buy the Train’Share back without financial loss to the owner.

Visit their website for a more in-depth list of the benefits.

Train Car Options

America’s Trains’ first train sets will include up to three Cars with about 13 rooms, all with full bathrooms and private showers. There are usually two people in a room, some with a third bed. The Train sets are kept small to accommodate passengers’ activities such as lectures, cooking classes, dancing, table games, and other small group activities.

According to Jones, a significant advantage to the small number on board is “the rapport and camaraderie that occurs when a small group of like-minded travelers gets together.”

Or, if you desire a completely private experience, you can reserve all of the bedrooms in a Car. For example, the two-level Sunflower with Private Rail Cars includes two or three four-high category double rooms, a lounge, dining room, and kitchen.

All three bedrooms have private bathrooms with showers. Private cars have separate crew quarters and travel with two or three crew members, a porter or a steward or both. Up to eight passengers can occupy the car. Private cars do not cater to children.

Dining on the Rails

Guests will be spoiled rotten by the fine dining. With an impeccable staff, ready to meet every personalized need, you will be served the finest and healthiest North American cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.

Guests even have the option to request special menus and beverages before departure. The trains are usually open dining seating, or you can make a reservation. Lighter dining is available in the lounge and bar areas.

Sleeping on board America’s Trains

Fully equipped with comfy pillows, fine linens, and hair dryers, the rooms also come with personal 24-hour on-call steward service. The beds are either king or extra-large queens with plenty of room.

The rooms are not your typical sleeper car. Due to the small group advantages, more detail is provided by the crew to ensure you the best possible comfort.

Private Rail Car Cost

Typical journeys will be from six to eight-day trips across the U.S. from Texas to New Orleans featuring layovers in Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans, quickly followed by more trips in the future, according to Barry Jones of America’s Trains.

Post Covid-19 routes are described on the Americantrainvacations.com website. Trips will begin in June 2023 but reservations can be made now.

Featuring layovers in Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston, and New Orleans

Per person, double occupancy per bedroom (except singles):

Grande Suite $7,087 – Master Suite $6,641 – Deluxe Double – $6,195 Classic double (upper and lower beds) – $5,750 Single passenger: 175% of double occupancy per person fare 3rd passenger: If available – $700

Early confirmed booking/reservation discounts: 210 or more days in advance 16% – 175 days 11% – 140 days 8% – 105 days 5% rounded to the nearest $100

Journeys and Routes on America’s Trains

There will be nine active routes and 13 more are within a few years. A typical train vacation is a week long. Similar to a cruise vacation, Journeys by Rail offer “ports of call” layovers which allow guests to disembark and explore the museums of Washington D.C or enjoy the vastness of the Grand Canyon .

Ports of call vary from more than a full day down to about eight hours and are designed to ensure that passengers have enough time to fully enjoy each point of interest.

Most of the routes are one-way and guests are responsible for airfares to these ports. However, arrangements are made for connecting travel via Amtrak train where appropriate.

Some routes do return to the original port. The Canadian International Falls route will depart from Washington D.C and makes stops in Niagara Falls, Toronto, and Buffalo before returning to Washington D.C as its final destination.

Future Private Rail Car Train Trip Journeys in 2023

An example of a route is Journey  Southwestern Eastbound which departs from Los Angeles and ends in Chicago on Day 8.

At 6:40 pm the train leaves and by Day 2 at 12:40 pm, you are staring into the natural wonders and beautiful scenery of the Grand Canyon .

After an overnight in the Grand Canyon, the train departs for an overnight in Williams AZ at 4:30 pm.

Day 4 consists of an overnight exploring the southwest city of Albuquerque before departing for Kansas City on Day 5. During this day, the train will pass through the jagged, snow topped hills of the Rockies and eventually make its way to the smooth, vast prairie lands of Kansas.

Guests will have the opportunity to view the wonders of the west from the comforts of the gentle moving train in their private rail cars. This is why train travel is the best way to see America. After an overnight in Kansas City, the train will depart for its final destination: Chicago .

2023 Journey Fares

Fort Worth to New Orleans  – 8 Days and 7 Nights,

Per person, double occupancy per bedroom (except singles): Grande Suite $7,087 – Master Suite $6,641 – Deluxe Double – $6,195 Classic double (upper and lower beds) – $5,750

Single passenger:  175% of double occupancy per person fare 3rd passenger:  If available – $700

Discounts apply to the prices above when booked significantly ahead of departure. Although the costs may appear a bit pricey, the journey fares are much lower than comparable luxury with comparable foreign luxury train vacations.

There are no equivalent rail vacations in the USA. By selecting America’s Trains Train’Share basis, the price of a Journey is about 1/3 of the normal commercial Journey fares.

See America’s Trains website for a comparison of prices. The company prefers to have customers call and arrange the trips, as it’s very personalized.

Some things remain during a weak economy: dining, movies and especially now, travel. The small number of and low passenger density on each Journey by Rail vacation allows polite preclusion of passengers that may have a contagious illness and are the only way to fully experience America’s grandeur, history, diversity, and natural attractions, says Jones.

Train vacations interest in foreign luxury train vacations exceeds demand as more affluent consumers reaffirm significant interest in the unique experiences that they offer.” Many Layovers

Although en-route destination layovers provide endless enjoyable off-car things to do, it is not the destination but the journey itself that makes a train vacation in a private rail car more than special.

Within several years America’s Trains fleet of cars will grow to include about 29 standard passenger cars that travel as part of different train sets.

They offer from 1 up to 5 cars, plus several self-sufficient private cars with 2 or 3 bedrooms that can travel alone or with a train set, and a few activity cars that travel with trains sets to provide special entertainment and events.

Cars have common interior characteristics, but each has unique luxurious features. They are all named after flowers.

Some things remain during a weak economy: dining, movies, and especially now, travel. Train vacations have always stood firm as the best way to see America, says Jones. Train vacations have “strengthened among more affluent consumers and reaffirms significant interest in the type of vacations being offered.”

It is definitely not the destination but the journey itself that makes it worthwhile.

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7 thoughts on “ Private Rail Cars: America’s Luxury Train Travel ”

My adult son and I want to take a sleeping room from Fl to Sister, Utah. How much would that cost?

I am interested in. Your adventures.

Please provide more info with email or brochure or what you offer for travel

Thank you Bob n Polly

Please add me to your list ref railroad travel

Can you provide contact information for booking?

go to the link in the story for America’s Trains.

I want a job on one of these!

1st, i would want a full car for myself and possible companion, 2nd is handicap accessible possible, i use a power chair, paraplegic. 3rd any restrictions due to covid? any info you can forward would be helpful. this is an end of life trip for me, like a make a wish situation. thank you.

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Discover America’s top luxury train journeys

Luxury train travel is more than just a way to reach your destination; it's an immersive journey through some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes, all while indulging in unparalleled comfort and sophistication. For those seeking the allure of old-world charm blended with modern-day opulence, these top luxury train journeys in the United States offer an unforgettable experience that caters to adventurers and connoisseurs of fine living.

1. The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon Railway offers an iconic route that transports passengers back in time to the golden age of rail travel. Departing from Williams, Arizona, this historic train winds through the picturesque high desert, pine forests, and prairie lands, culminating in the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon . Onboard, guests are treated to plush seating in vintage Pullman-style cars, complete with elegant wood panelling and large windows that frame the scenic vistas. The service is impeccable, with staff dressed in period uniforms attending to your every need. As you traverse this legendary path, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another era, where the journey is just as important as the destination.

2. The Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is the ultimate gourmet adventure for food and wine enthusiasts. This luxurious train journey takes you through the heart of California’s renowned wine country, where rolling vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. The train itself is a marvel, with its restored 1915-1917 Pullman cars offering an ambience of vintage luxury. Onboard, you’ll be treated to a multi-course gourmet meal prepared by world-class chefs using the finest local ingredients. Each course is paired with exquisite wines from the region, making this a true feast for the senses. As you savour each bite and sip, the beauty of Napa Valley unfolds outside your window, creating an indulgent and unforgettable experience.

3. The Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer is a journey that transcends the ordinary, offering passengers a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the American West. Operating between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah, this train journey is famed for its stunning scenery, including dramatic canyons, towering mountains and crystal-clear rivers. The train’s glass-domed coaches provide unobstructed views of these breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Onboard, the service is exemplary, with gourmet meals and attentive staff ensuring your comfort at all times. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an experience that will leave you in awe of America’s natural splendour.

4. The X Train

On the horizon is a train journey that promises to redefine the meaning of luxury travel: The X Train. Set to embark on its inaugural journey between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The X Train is a casino on rails, where there will be all the best casino games akin to what you’d find at any major casino site. These are available to be enjoyed in an extremely lavish setting, which arguably could be just as fun as being in Vegas itself. This state-of-the-art train will feature upscale amenities, including opulent lounges, private suites and gourmet dining options. Designed with the modern traveller in mind, The X Train will offer a seamless blend of entertainment and relaxation, making the journey as exhilarating as the destination. Whether you’re a high roller or just looking to indulge in a unique travel experience, The X Train is set to become the next must-try luxury adventure.

These luxurious train journeys offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and opulence, making them ideal for those seeking a unique travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re exploring the majestic landscapes of the American West, savouring the flavours of Napa Valley, or looking forward to the thrill of The X Train, these journeys promise memories that will last a lifetime.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page/site is intended for entertainment purposes only. Please be aware that gambling entails inherent risks, and it's crucial to acknowledge this when utilizing online gambling platforms.

This sponsored content has been paid for by our sponsor and does not reflect the reviews and recommendations made by Vancouver Is Awesome staff.

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7 Incredible Luxury Train Trips to Take

Slow travel gets a stylish makeover with these luxury train trips..

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The Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express features vintage carriages from the 1920s and 1930s

Photos by David Noton, Helen Cathcart

Lest you think that grim subways and government-run trains are the only form of rail travel, here’s some compelling evidence of the dreamiest transportation that your vacation money can buy—a roundup of essential luxury train travel across the world.

Warning, though: Merely mentioning overnight train trips may elicit blissed-out silence from some travelers as they lose themselves in thoughts of dreamy destinations, romantic sleeping quarters, and great meals served in white-linen dining cars.

1. Train Suite Shiki-Shima, Japan

Book now: From $3,320 for one-night package

Although Japan is best known for bullet trains , the country’s national railway, JR Group, operates a series of specialized trains for tourism collectively called the Joyful Trains. Among the offerings are Pokemon-themed cars and train lines with cars for footbathing, ones dedicated to fine dining , or featuring an astronomy library . The crowning glory of the Joyful Trains is the ultra-modern, ultra-luxe Train Suite Shiki-Shima. The Shiki-Shima (which means “island of the four seasons”) travels through eastern Japan out of Tokyo, visiting sites of Japanese cultural significance (villages, museums, temples, markets, restaurants, and iconic natural sites) along its one- to three-night excursions.

The walls of the observation cars (called terraces) at the front and back of the train are cut away in abstract patterns leaving windows that extend views almost from the hand-loomed carpet to the curved molding of ceiling. The 15 sleeping quarters onboard vary from elegantly simple accommodations with en suite bathrooms all the way up to lacquered wood-paneled and washi-papered two-level suites with cypress-lined soaking tubs, traditional tatami mat floor covering, and a working fireplace.

As expected on such a lavish train, the dining car offers extraordinary seasonal meals prepared by a team of chefs, who travel the whole trip; in addition, guest chefs board the train to prepare special regional dishes visited along the itinerary. This top-of-the-line, sophisticated hospitality features a crew wearing smart uniforms designed by Issey Miyake’s former creative director.

2. Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Book now: From $4,761 for one-night Venice to London

The legendary Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express hardly needs an introduction to travel lovers: Its gleaming wood-paneled interiors, dining tables set with crisp linens and silver and crystal, and extravagant comforts of sleeping quarters have come to symbolize a time when travel was sophisticated and passengers came first.

The train, made up of vintage carriages from the 1920s and ’30s refitted with modern amenities, runs regular itineraries that visit European destinations. And once a year, a trip makes a deliberately slow five-night transit between Paris and Istanbul. Berths for these classic runs sell out fast, and Belmond has sweetened the ride further by adding six Grand Suites, each named for a legendary city and styled in an art deco tribute to that city.

The Grand Suites feature private bathrooms, double beds, and underfloor heating in the living area. When you factor in a private steward (in a snappy uniform with shiny buttons) and complimentary champagne on demand, honestly, this train wouldn’t even have to leave the platform to qualify as a trip of a lifetime. The other accommodation classes, while less over-the-top, still offer details of design and comfort that elevate a sleeper car to something more like a dream state. This icon of the golden age of travel shows no sign of tarnish.

3. Alaska Railroad, USA

Book now: From $6,409 for the 12-day/11-night Glaciers, Rails and Trails package Not available until 2024 Alaska Railroad offers a way to see the natural beauty of the state—from the orcas breaching in icy bays to the majestic Denali—that doesn’t require roughing it or traveling by cruise ship. One of the railroad line’s summertime offerings, the 11-night Glaciers, Rails and Trails package, passes through spectacular corners of that vast state making several stops a day, and lingering for more than a day in both Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park. Off the train, passengers visit museums and sled dog training facilities, join a float trip down a glacial river, and take guided hikes. Onboard the train, passengers see the sights from a double-decker observation car: a glass-domed level on top (with beverage service) and a full-service dining car on the bottom. At night, the train stops at wilderness and backcountry lodges and hotels so you’ll sleep soundly before the next day’s activities and get a better sense of each place.

4. Maharajas’ Express, India

Book now: From $3,850 for four-day/three-night Treasures of India package

The 23 carriages of these luxury trains travel mostly by night, allowing passengers plenty of time during waking hours to disembark for visits to UNESCO World Heritage landmarks , take game drives, and dine in fine hotels and palaces. The price tag fits the fit-for-a-royal experience, of course, but a shorter journey, like the three-night Treasures of India package, is less expensive and no less glamorous.

The itinerary includes excursions to iconic sites of the Golden Triangle—the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan (tigers!), the Amber Fort in Jaipur—as well as spa treatments and lavish meals. The train includes two restaurants and a bar car, and the modern en suite accommodations range from a deluxe double cabin up to a Presidential Suite.

The Rocky Mountaineer pulls into its stop near Whistler.

Photo by Albert Pego/Shutterstock

5. Rocky Mountaineer, USA

Book now: From $1,599 for two-day, one-night Rockies to Red Rocks package

One of the very few downsides of traveling by train through spectacular scenery is that when the sun sets, you lose all the views. Instead the windows reveal only the reflection of the bright interior of the train. A popular luxury train brand, the Rocky Mountaineer solves this problem by plotting its scenic routes to include overnight stops at fine hotels along the way. Historically, the Rocky Mountaineer only rode the Canadian rails, following mountainous routes that terminated in Vancouver and either Jasper or Banff.

Beginning in August 2021, though, the company launched a journey between Denver and Moab, Utah , stopping overnight at Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The luxury train, purpose-built for landscape viewing, offers unparalleled views of the Rockies (watch for bighorn sheep in the high passes) and the sandblasted canyons and surreal rock formations of the Utah desert. While you look out the panoramic windows, the staff’s focus is on serving you fine wines and freshly prepared food (sorry in advance to fans of Amtrak’s prewrapped tuna sandwiches).

In Glenwood Springs, passengers disembark to spend the night at a choice of three different hotels before reboarding in the morning to finish the trip in Moab. Extend your vacation by adding a couple of days to either end of the journey to spend time exploring Moab and/or Denver.

6. Rovos Rail, Southern Africa

Book now: From $1,621/person for three-day/two-night Durban Safari package

Bush planes are fine but traveling by air-conditioned luxury train on routes that zigzag the southern third of the vast African continent has a strong slow-travel appeal. The unhurried schedule means time is factored in to stop at sidings for wildlife viewing and at vineyards for winetastings, or in reserves for game drives. Various Rovos itineraries follow the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley or traverse the red deserts of Namibia.

Depending on which you choose (or which you create; the company will also plan custom trips), your trip can include golf courses, stays in luxury lodges or safari camps, or excursions around Victoria Falls. The packages run from 2-night trips to 14-night adventures (including a Copper Trail voyage, that traverses Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola).

Not only are the trips exciting, the train itself is pretty dreamy—its vintage passenger carriages were collected, restored, and upgraded with modern plumbing and air-conditioning (but also working windows). In addition to the private suites, the train’s public spaces include an observation car with sofas and an open balcony platform, lounge and club cars, and a dining car. Polished wood paneling, tufted leather chairs, and picture windows create a visual style that evokes a travel era when people packed formal wear and hats for different occasions. While you won’t really get a sense of the African lives and cultures you’re passing by in this luxury locomotive, you will never forget the ride.

7. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Book now: From $786 for one-day Excellence Class itinerary

Switzerland’s rail system is widely considered one of the best in Europe, so it’s no stretch to call the Glacier Express—dubbed the “window the Swiss Alps”—the best of the best. With cars that are almost entirely glass, the train makes sightseeing easy—and there’s a lot to see. The full eight-hour journey covers 180 miles, 291 bridges, 91 tunnels, remote valleys, idyllic villages, and two UNESCO World Heritage sites . Although there’s no bad seat in the house, spring for one of the 20 seats in Excellence Class, which is bookable from St. Moritz to Zermatt (or vice versa) and has private access to a bar, dedicated concierges, and a five-course menu with wine pairings that’s included with a seat reservation.

This article originally appeared online in 2021; it was most recently updated on August 15, 2023, to include current information.

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6 Amazing Train Journeys Across the USA

• Travel , USA
• Last Updated 3 September 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

If you’re looking for the very best train trips in the US, I’ve got a few great suggestions to start you off.

I adore train travel , and have undertaken some massive train journeys in the last few years. From delving into the American south on an epic East Coast journey, to travelling through northern India on a luxury train , to travelling overland from Singapore to Vietnam almost entirely by train … I’ve been lucky enough to do some amazing trips. 

These are some of my top picks for the best American train journeys. Whether you travel from coast to coast across America, or simply traverse one state, there’s so much to see from the window of a train. Which one of these would you love to try first?

6 of the Best Train Trips in the US

Don’t forget; you might need a visa to visit the USA. If you’re coming from abroad, check the visa requirements before you travel. Luckily, British citizens visiting the USA for a holiday don’t need to apply for a visa. Instead, you can apply for an ESTA, which is basically a visa waiver available for certain countries. It can really make life a lot easier if you’re travelling to the USA. 

Coast to Coast Across America

How Long? 73 hours (approx)

The epic 3,000-mile coast to coast train across the USA takes three nights (without stopovers) and involves two trains. 

On the East Coast, your starting point can either be New York City or Washington DC. From whichever city you choose, you can take an overnight train to Chicago – the Lake Shore Limited from NYC or the Capitol Limited from DC. In Chicago you can change to one of three trans-continental trains to either Seattle, San Francisco, or LA. Whichever way you do it, this coast to coast train trip across America is sure to be an epic adventure! 

READ MORE: 15 Really Cool Things to do in NYC

California Zephyr, Chicago to San Francisco

How Long? 51 hours

Amtrak’s famous California Zephyr often ranks among the best train journeys in the world, and it’s certainly one of the best train trips in the US. It’s often said that after taking this train, you’ve seen more of America than most Americans!

At a whopping 2,438-miles through seven states, it’s easy to see where the sentiment comes from! From Chicago’s stately Union Station, the California Zephyr carries passengers through the flatlands of Nebraska, the Rocky Mountains, the canyons of the Colorado River, the Utah Desert, and the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range. 

Once you arrive in San Francisco, you can spend a few days exploring one of the most iconic cities in the US – then extend your trip with one of the many awesome weekend getaways in Northern California – like the brilliant Tuolumne County . Or, if you stop in Utah along the way, check out these great things to do in Salt Lake City .

RELATED POST: 11 Stops for a Road Trip in Tuolumne County California

Crescent, New York to New Orleans

How Long? 30 hours

I took the Amtrak Crescent just over a year ago, and it was where I fell in love with American train travel! The 30-hour train ride from New York City’s Penn Station, down the East Coast all the way to New Orleans, was the perfect way to see this side of the country.

On this slow chug from North to South you can literally see the country, and the weather, changing. I left behind snow in New York and watched the landscapes change and warm up as we made our way through thirteen states including Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama. Although it’s less well-known than some of the more popular Amtrak routes, I really fell for this epic American rail journey!

To see more of those southern US states, there’s also the City of New Orleans train, which runs between Chicago and New Orleans – passing through Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi along the way. If you decide to stop off and explore Tennessee, here are some of the best places to stay in Nashville .

Coast Starlight, LA to Seattle

How Long? 36 hours

On the other side of the country, the Coast Starlight is the West Coast counterpart to the Crescent. Amtrak’s most popular route, the Coast Starlight offers up incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains.

Waterfalls, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains all pass by, as well as long stretches of the Pacific shoreline. So you may struggle to tear your eyes from the window! Book a seat on the western side of the train for coastal views. 

Texas Eagle, Chicago to San Antonio

How Long? 32 hours

Another of the epic train trips in the US, the Texas Eagle cuts diagonally across the country through four states. Travelling the 1,306 miles through the western United States is the perfect way to enjoy this part of the country. And you can really get a sense of just how big Texas truly is!

Wind down through Wild West country; across the Mississippi River, and through the Ozark Mountains towards the pine forests of East Texas.

Once you arrive in Texas, I strongly recommend spending some time in San Antonio – here’s why ! Check out my guide to spending a day in the city – or spend longer if you can!

The Alaska Railroad, Anchorage to Fairbanks

How Long? 12 hours

The last of my top picks for the best train trips in the US is the Denali Star route on The Alaska Railroad.

Running from Anchorage, the train heads north through the Denali National Park to Fairbanks – the largest city in interior Alaska. Fairbanks is also one of the coldest cities in the US, perfect for some wintertime adventures!

These are some of the most spectacular mountain views in Alaska, and the perfect way to explore the so-called “Last Frontier” of America.

Highlights of the Denali Star route include crossing the Hurricane Gulch Bridge some 296 feet above the creek, as well as spectacular views of Mount Denali, the tallest peak in the USA.  

Have you taken any of these incredible train trips in the US? Or do you have another amazing American rail journey to add to the list? Scroll down to leave a comment! 

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6 thoughts on “6 Amazing Train Journeys Across the USA”

Great post. I did the Lake Shoreline from NY to Chicago, then the California Zephyr to San Francisco and then the Coast Starlight up to Portland and then Seattle via Yosemite! It was an amazing experience I have yet to write about. Some years ago I also went across the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver to Edmonton. I’d like to do them all now!

Woooooowwwwww that sounds like one heck of a trip. How long did the whole thing take you? I think I need to make a similar trip myself this year. I love train travel!

they all look amazing! I ADORE rail travel

Same here!! Love it so much and the USA seems like the perfect country for epic rail journeys because it’s so massive, so varied, and so beautiful!

Myself and my partner travelled across the USA on the California Zephyr and the Maple Leaf in 2017. It was amazing; the best trip we’ve ever taken.

We took detours along the way. We jumped off the Zephyr at Grand Junction, Colorado and drove a loop from there to Bryce Canyon MP, Zion NP, Grand Canyon and Vegas. Once we arrived in Chicago, we took a couple of days to explore and then did a side trip up to Toronto by plane, bus to Niagara Falls and then walked over the border back into the US before catching the train down to New York.

Unfortunately, it definitely wasn’t slow travel. We did it all in 3 weeks due to limit on our leave allowance, but the entire journey we just kept saying how much we wished we had more time and that we would do it again when we had more time.

Amtrak is my absolute favourite (but like you, i found the dining with strangers thing awkward!!)

Oh wow, that sounds like one hell of a trip. Must have been amazing to cover so much ground! Travelling that quick can be exhausting, and you always feel like you’re leaving too soon don’t you?! But still an amazing adventure and it sounds like you saw a ton in a short space of time.

With you on the dining thing. Although it did add help mix up the trip a bit for me!

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