best train excursions in usa

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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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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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12 Top-Rated Train Trips in the USA

Written by Lavanya Sunkara and Lura Seavey Updated May 26, 2022

There's an intangible charm to traveling by train in the United States. Ride in comfort as you glide past the skyscrapers of the Northeast and through the prairies of the Midwest, alongside gushing rivers and across the western desertscapes and mountains.

Historic stations, with massive windows, marble pillars, chandeliers, and terrazzo floors, are time capsules, providing a glimpse into the glamorous locomotive past and acting as gateways to the many national parks and cultural attractions the country has to offer.

The day the ceremonial golden spike connected the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads in 1869 in Promontory, Utah, life in the country changed forever. The 1,912-mile Transcontinental Railroad made travel and transportation of goods out west easier, revolutionizing the young nation and fueling the economy. The gilded age of train travel may have been replaced by the speed of airplanes, but the romance of journeying by rail remains.

Although many of the original tracks have been abandoned, and Amtrak has built newer rail paths, traveling between states and across the country is easier and more comfortable than ever. Passengers can choose from organized tours, regional and vintage railroad companies, Amtrak Vacations , and curated experiences. Enjoy spectacular vistas as you leisurely make your way to your destination, taking advantage of luxuriously appointed rooms, dining cars, and modern amenities.

Get inspired for your next rail adventure with our list of the best train rides in the United States.

Grand Canyon Railway

Amtrak coast starlight, amtrak empire builder, rocky mountaineer, amtrak california zephyr, verde canyon railroad, white pass & yukon railway, amtrak adirondack, durango & silverton narrow gauge railroad, great smoky mountains railroad, alaska denali star, amtrak city of new orleans, map of train trips in the usa.

Ride the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway to one of the nation's grandest national parks on a Grand Canyon Railway Adventure tour . The rail line opened in 1901 and now operates on recycled waste vegetable oil from restaurants in Williams, Arizona and the South Rim.

The train offers six classes of service, including First, Coach, Pullman, Observation Dome, Luxury Dome, and Luxury Parlor. The Pullman class harkens to 1923 trail voyages, with bench seating and windows that open to fresh air.

Before embarking on your journey in Williams , catch a Wild West shootout show at an outdoor theater. On the full-day round trip, take in the dramatic views of the Grand Canyon while being entertained by Western music and reenactments by railway characters and cowboys. Traverse through pine forests, sprawling prairies, and the San Francisco peaks to reach the iconic park.

Once there, choose from a number of activities , including a motor coach rim tour of the Grand Canyon with stops at highlights such as Hermits Rest, Mohave Point, the Abyss, and Pima Point. Upgraded First Class passengers get a buffet lunch at the Maswik Lodge at the Grand Canyon.

Travel alongside the jaw-dropping Pacific coastline and visit western urban centers on the legendary Amtrak Coast Starlight . The Starlight, equipped with Superliner sleeping, sightseer lounging, and dining cars, takes you on a 36-hour trek from Seattle to Los Angeles. The route stops in Portland, Sacramento , the San Francisco Bay Area , and Santa Barbara , passing by dramatic coastal cliffs, Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, and Puget Sound.

The train has a bi-level coach class featuring long-distance amenities including extra legroom, foot and leg rests, and curtains. Sit on the west side on the upper level for the best views. Upgrade to a private room for perks, including priority boarding, premium dining, and turndown service. Family rooms are available, each accommodating up to four people and featuring private toilet and shower facilities; all private room rates include onboard meals.

If long train odysseys across the country are up your alley, then the Amtrak Empire Builder traces the steps of Lewis & Clark through the heartland, from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest. The one-way, 46-hour journey delivers majestic views of the Great Plains, Mississippi River, Glacier National Park , Gassman Coulee Trestle, and Montana's Big Sky Country.

The train has a sleeping car, lounging car, and a dining car to make your ride as comfortable as possible. Family rooms and accessible rooms are available, and there are a variety of onboard dining options; however, there is no Wi-Fi service. Each station stop can last anywhere from five minutes to over half an hour, so at times there may be opportunities to hop out and grab a bite to eat, but passengers should be aware that the train will leave at its scheduled time, with or without ticketed passengers.

During warmer months, a volunteer from the National Park Service through the Trails & Rails program boards the train between Shelby, Montana, and Seattle, providing information on the landscapes, habitats, and history.

Trains depart daily to Spokane ; upon arrival, you can choose to travel to Seattle or down the Columbia River Gorge to Portland .

The Rockies to Red Rocks experience is quite different than others, offering a unique approach to rail travel dedicated to sightseeing between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado. The first thing passengers will notice is the train cars, custom-designed to maximize views for everyone on board. Standard class cars are one story, featuring large windows that extend up onto the roof, allowing passengers to catch every detail of the landscape.

The other unique aspect of these train tours is the overnight accommodation and opportunity to explore sights along the way. Unlike passenger trains that run from one stop to the next on a tight schedule, the Rocky Mountaineer stops in a city each evening, where passengers disembark and spend the night at a hotel. In addition to being a far more comfortable option, it means that all rail travel is done by daylight, so that passengers don't miss a thing.

"Gold Leaf" passengers are treated to a two-level car with all seating on the top level, which features windows that extend up and over, with only a narrow band obscuring the center of the ceiling. The lower level is a separate dining area, which serves all meals to order from an a-la-carte menu. Standard fare passengers also enjoy all meals as part of the package, served at their seats.

The basic tour package includes all meals, hotel stays, and narration during the train ride by knowledgeable guides. It lasts two days, starting in Moab with an overnight in Glenwood Springs and then on to Denver. Longer packages are also available, including a round-trip sightseeing tour with four days on the train, two full days in Moab, and plenty of time to explore Denver . Other packages include sightseeing flights and time in Las Vegas before an extended stay along the train route, as well as an option to add motor coach portions and a guided tour of Bryce Canyon.

Using a combination of Transcontinental Railroad routes and new tracks, Amtrak's California Zephyr transports passengers across America on an extraordinary two-day expedition. The 2,300-mile, 51-hour-long trip, touted as the most scenic in the country, begins in Chicago and ends in Emeryville, California, located just outside San Francisco in California.

Going across the endless prairies of Nebraska, the scenic Rocky Mountains outside Denver, rugged red rock country in Utah, and the snowcapped Sierra Nevadas, the rail voyage retraces the steps of the early pioneers who settled the Wild West.

The train includes a dining, sightseer lounge, and Sleepliner cars that come with roomettes and bedroom suites (some that can easily accommodate up to six people). Major stops include Omaha , Denver , and Salt Lake City .

The train doesn't have Wi-Fi, and cellular service is spotty, so bring your own downloaded content, books, and board games for entertainment. Amtrak allows you to bring a small cat or dog with you for a separate fare.

Soar through the natural splendor of Verde Canyon in the American Southwest in a refurbished rail car aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad on a 3.5-hour, 20-mile round trip from Sedona, Arizona . Savor awe-inspiring scenery while comfortably seated in a climate-controlled and thoughtfully decorated car. The train has three classes: coach, first, and luxurious caboose rentals for groups, with both vintage train cars, as well as an open-air viewing car to make the most of your time onboard.

Whether you opt for an organized tour or board the train on your own, be sure to explore the cliff dwellings by the Native American Sinagua people and the old mining sites, and keep a lookout for native wildlife like bald eagles and antelope.

The Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure includes train fare, as well as admission to the John Bell Railroad Museum, located at the depot, which features artifacts and exhibits related to not only rail travel, but the area's Indigenous populations.

Accommodation: Best Spa Resorts in Sedona

Whether you find yourself in Skagway on a cruise or by way of the Alaska and South Klondike Highways, don't miss the rare opportunity to ride the historic narrow-gauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railway through stunning landscapes. A marvel of engineering, the track was built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush and continues as a tourist attraction to bring passengers on an unforgettable, narrated ride.

The train chugs up to an elevation of 2,885 feet through tunnels, past soaring cliff sides, and cascading waterfalls. Breathe in the fresh Alaskan air as you photograph panoramic vistas of snowcapped mountains, lush gorges, and glaciers.

The summit excursion takes two-and-a-half hours, briefly passing through Canada's Yukon Territory, and makes stops at landmarks such as Bridal Veil Falls, Tormented Valley, and the Skagway scenic overlook.

Experience spectacular fall foliage in New York's Hudson River Valley on the Amtrak Adirondack . This high-speed train takes you through Upstate New York on a 10- to 12-hour journey along the Hudson River and Lake Champlain, past mansions, forests, and fields, to Gare Centrale Station in Montreal, Canada . Stops along the way include the towns of Poughkeepsie, Saratoga Springs, Whitehall, and Ticonderoga.

The Amtrak Adirondack departs from New York's Penn Station in the morning and arrives in Montreal in time for dinner. Immigration could take between one to two hours – have your passport and immigration form ready for the officer.

Amenities onboard include a Cafe Car and Wi-Fi (albeit not the best). Keep in mind that there is no reserved seating, so give yourself extra time to get a desirable spot. Seats recline and come with tray tables, extra legroom, and a footrest.

Travel back in time in a vintage coach car on the coal-fired and steam-powered Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad ride from Durango to Silverton, Colorado. This train journey is one of the top things to do in Colorado .

Built during the silver mining boom, the tracks have been in continuous use since 1882. When the boom subsided, the train became an opportunity for eager travelers to experience the route of the miners and frontiersmen. Today, it remains among the few narrow-gauge steam railroads in the country .

This three-and-a-half-hour excursion from Durango to Silverton makes its way along the beautiful Animas River on rail lines specifically designed to navigate curves along steep mountainsides. The rock walls seem just inches away from the windows at some point, and the deep gorges provide picture-perfect spectacles, with the steam whistle echoing through the region.

Passengers can also book a hybrid package that includes the train ride in one direction and a deluxe motor coach tour back, allowing tourists to see the landscape from different perspectives. The coach is only a 1.5-hour drive.

The railroad offers several seasonal packages, including a shorter journey through the winter wonderland of the San Juan National Forest in the comfort of heated cars on the Cascade Canyon excursion. Passengers can spot elk and bighorn sheep that call the region home.

If you are looking to explore more of Colorado, consider Colorado Rail Adventure by Vacations By Rail , which brings you across the Colorado Rockies on five standard and narrow gauge railroads, including the Durango & Silverton railroad.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Durango, Colorado

Families and train enthusiasts adore the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad , which offers excursions to experience the remote countryside of Western North Carolina and segments of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . The train ride, spanning 53 miles with 25 bridges and two tunnels, traverses valleys, through tunnels and carved out mountains overlooking scenic meadows and river gorges. The train departs from Bryson City, and trips last anywhere from three-and-a-half hours to a full day.

Book the 44-mile Nantahala Gorge Excursions for a round trip to the Nantahala Gorge, passing the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers. The 32-mile Tuckasegee River Excursion winds along the eponymous river, and passes through lush valleys and old towns.

Passengers can choose from First Class cars with private attendants or the Open Air Gondola, and they can opt to pre-purchase boxed lunches to be enjoyed on the ride. Premium ticket-holders are served from a separate menu of fresh dishes prepared onboard. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad also offers special event trains during spring (The Bunny Hopper Express) and winter (The Polar Express Train Ride).

As the name suggests, the Alaska Denali Star brings you to North America's Highest Peak in one of the most scenic national parks: the mighty Denali. Ride in a car with glass-dome ceilings to take in the sublime views. The train leaves from Downtown Anchorage, with stops in Wasilla and Talkeetna, before going through Denali National Park and ending in Fairbanks.

Passengers can pair the rail journey with a day trip in Talkeetna, an excursion in Denali National Park, or spend multiple days exploring the Southcentral and Interior regions of Alaska on overnight stays. It's best to stay overnight due to the distance and time involved.

Amenities onboard the 12-hour train include two classes (GoldStar Service with meals, drinks, and basic Adventure Class), a dining car, dome cars, non-smoking cars, and baggage service. Guests may also travel on the privately run Wilderness Express dome cars at the end of the train with guides, separate dining, and open-air platforms.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alaska

Travel from the Midwest to the South on an overnight train from the musical cities of Chicago to New Orleans , with a stop in Memphis , on the Amtrak City of New Orleans . Say goodbye to shining skyscrapers as you make your way from the Windy City's stunning Union Station towards the Mississippi Delta. Roll past historic towns and the bayous of the Deep South on your way to the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

During the 19 hours aboard, travelers in private rooms can enjoy spacious Superliner accommodations that come with meals and beverages, or purchase meals if you're in Coach class. Amenities include showers; sightseer lounges on the upper level; and a café car, which serves dinner and breakfast northbound and all three meals when traveling southbound.

More on Arizona

4 great scenic train rides across the US

Want to truly immerse yourself in the vastness of the USA? There's no better way than to take a scenic cross-country train trip.

During these long-distance train rides, the journey is just as exciting as the destination itself. Relaxing in your seat as you watch the U.S. landscape out your train car window slowly change from cities to farmlands or from wide-open plains to towering mountains is an experience that's worth the extra transit time.

Amtrak offers many overnight and multiday scenic train rides across the U.S. from the East Coast, the West Coast and everywhere in between. Route names like the Empire Builder, the Coast Starlight and the California Zephyr are enough to inspire wanderlust for any traveler.

Whether you're new to train travel or an avid rider of the rails, here are four bucket list-worthy U.S. train rides to take for stunning scenery, plus some tips on how best to book and enjoy them.

Tips for cross-country train travel

While taking a cross-country train trip can be a rewarding experience, as it offers days to leisurely sit back and enjoy scenic landscapes, many people have worries about how best to book such a long trip and what to expect when it comes to sleeping arrangements. TPG has a few tips to help you get on board with the concept and easily plan your journey.

Browse routes by region

A good first step to take when looking for a route that's right for you is to search Amtrak's "Browse by Region" menu. You can pick a large area of the country from which to start or finish your trip.

Once you click on an area, Amtrak will provide lists of highlighted long-distance routes, as well as shorter point-to-point trips. You can then select a route like the Capitol Corridor in California before being directed to ticket purchase menus.

Explore Amtrak Vacations

Amtrak offers curated vacation packages to rail travelers via its Amtrak Vacations website. These tours can include side trips (via bus) to national parks , sightseeing tours in cities and hotel lodging on stopovers along the route. You can search for packages around vacation themes like "Fall Foliage" and "Multiple National Parks."

Amtrak's set of "Most Scenic Journeys" vacation packages include trips lasting up to two weeks that combine rail travel and additional tours. Think of these trips like cruises with shore excursions . Some of the scenic journey-designated options focus on national parks, while others are big-city oriented.

You can click on each option's details to find itineraries, dates and prices. Then, all that's left to do is book your rail vacation.

Consider famous routes

A shortcut to finding scenic cross-country rail routes on Amtrak is to visit its Amtrak Vacations website and click on "Famous Rail Routes." This set of approximately 20 different overnight train routes gives you a great set of suggestions for your own potential cross-country journeys.

For more details on the fixed routes, click on any of the tabs. Once you've chosen a route, you can either book a package tour with Amtrak Vacations or go to the regular Amtrak website and book a point-to-point trip.

Weigh your accommodation options

Taking an overnight or a multiday train trip means you'll need to sleep aboard the train. All of Amtrak's long-distance train trips provide a variety of seating and room arrangments.

The cheapest way to travel is to simply book a seat on the route. While Amtrak's seating is comfortable, with more legroom than you'll find in an airline's business class, it may not be the way you want to travel for many hours. You can get up, walk the train and stop in the cafe car, but this can still be a tough way to travel during a multiday journey.

Fortunately, Amtrak provides several classes of accommodations on cross-country trips, ranging from shared roomettes with fold-out bunks to bedrooms, larger family bedrooms and suites complete with private bathrooms and showers. Should you book one of these rooms on a cross-country itinerary, you'll enjoy access to a separate dining car.

Prices for the various ticket classes vary widely between routes and dates, so check potential itineraries to find the best option for you.

4 scenic train trips to take in the US

Now that you know the basics when it comes to picking a long-distance train route, you'll want to narrow down your options. Although there are many scenic routes in the U.S., here are our four favorites.

California Zephyr: San Francisco to Chicago

Amtrak's California Zephyr route travels between San Francisco and Chicago on a three-day journey. The 51-hour trip (on the west-to-east path) begins in nearby Emeryville, California, then travels through central California farmlands up into the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Along this part of the route, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramas from glassed-in viewing cars.

The train continues through Reno and the Nevada deserts into Salt Lake City before traveling up into the Rocky Mountains to reach Denver . You'll descend into the wide-open plains of Nebraska and eventually wind your way into the Windy City.

This trip is a great way to immerse yourself in the American West, as you'll get a true feeling of the vastness of the region and the variety of terrain that makes up the country.

One-way prices start at $141 per person for a seat in coach and $688 for a room.

Empire Builder: Seattle to Chicago

The Empire Builder train route connects Chicago and Seattle on a 46-hour journey connecting the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. The train loosely follows the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, the route the explorers took to map out the region acquired during the Louisiana Purchase.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark would have appreciated sitting back in the train's viewing cars to enjoy eyefuls of Montana 's Big Sky Country, Glacier National Park , the Cascade Range and the vast plains of North Dakota. Additionally, the explorers would have marveled at the metalwork of North Dakota's towering Gassman Coulee Trestle bridge.

Should you wish to depart or arrive in Portland, Oregon, instead of Seattle, know that there's an alternate route of the Empire Builder from this Pacific Northwest city, so you can plan your itinerary based on your preferences.

One-way train fares from Chicago to Seattle begin at $150 per person, while rooms cost at least $651.

Southwest Chief: Los Angeles to Chicago

Traverse the American Southwest on a southern route between Los Angeles and Chicago. The Southwest Chief route departs daily and takes roughly 40 hours to cross eight states.

For some of the journey, the train follows the classic American road trip thoroughfare of historic Route 66 . However, unlike its car-friendly neighbor, the train route offers views you won't find while driving the highway, as it winds on twisting tracks that travel through narrow red-rock canyon passages before offering wide-open vistas of mountains and deserts.

The train's main stops include Kansas City, Missouri; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Flagstaff, Arizona. You can also take advantage of excursions from the train when you purchase one of Amtrak's vacation packages. For example, you can visit the Grand Canyon (by train or bus) while the train is stopped in Williams, Arizona.

Even if you never leave the train, the views along the way are enough to create lasting memories.

Expect to pay at least $146 per person for a coach seat on this one-way route or a minimum of $899 for a room.

Crescent: New York City to New Orleans

See the American South on this 30-hour journey between New York City and New Orleans . Departing the urban landscape of the Big Apple, this route will take you through the Northeastern cityscapes of Philadelphia , Baltimore and Washington, D.C. , among other destinations.

Once it exits the urban corridor, the train winds through the countryside of Virginia and the Carolinas, offering stops in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. Then, it continues through the Deep South states of Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi before reaching its final stop in New Orleans.

Tickets for this one-way route start at $139 for a seat in coach and $580 for a room.

Bottom line

Traveling by train across the U.S. gives you a unique perspective of the scale and scope of the American landscape. While it may be slower than flying across the country, rail travel gives you the opportunity to sit back and savor the journey, appreciating the changing views as the hours roll by.

The four scenic cross-country train trips highlighted here are only some of Amtrak's many long-distance journeys available to book. By exploring Amtrak's website, you can find many different rail journeys in nearly every part of the U.S. Best of all, most offer an array of seating options, so you can choose the ticket that best suits your travel preferences and budget.

Take One of These 12 Best Train Rides in the US

For those who subscribe to the adage “the journey matters more than the destination” and want to decrease their carbon footprint, train trips are the perfect vacations. In today’s post, we’ll look at the 12 best train rides in the USA.

Traveling by train may seem like a quaint, old-fashioned way to get from one point to another, but millions of Americans ride the train every year.

Passengers choose to take the train over cars or planes probably because of the more casual atmosphere, overall comfort, less environmental impact, and of course, the scenery that may not be viewable from any other mode of transportation.

The best time to travel by train is during the spring or fall; trains are likely crowded and fares go up during the summer and national holidays, while the shorter daylight times during winter decrease the chances to appreciate the scenery outside.

In today’s article, we enumerate the 12 best train rides in the USA.

Best Interstate Train Rides In The USA

The train routes I’m going to enumerate in this section are all Amtrak routes, simply because with more than 30 train routes in the US and Canada, traveling to more than 500 destinations in 46 contiguous states (except South Dakota and Wyoming), Amtrak is the clear choice.

Although these are described as one-way routes, you can generally purchase round-trip tickets, going back the same way.

1. Amtrak Cascades Train through the Pacific Northwest

This ride through the Pacific Northwest connects 18 cities along the I-5 and lets you witness breathtaking views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Columbia River, and evergreen forests in between.

It travels from Vancouver, BC, Canada and ends in Eugene, Oregon. It passes Seattle and Tacoma in Washington, and Portland and Salem in Oregon.

If you plan to board in Canada, arrive one hour before departure to allow for security checks. Also, consider the travel requirements for crossing the border.

Distance: 467 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): 10 hours 25 minutes Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Starts at $94 More Information: Amtrak Cascades Train

2. Pacific Surfliner through Southern California

The Pacific Surfliner route goes along the coastline, serving up fantastic views of the ocean and endless beaches.

Starting from San Luis Obispo, California and ending in San Diego, California, it passes through Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.

It follows almost the same route as the Pacific Coast Highway , but from a different vantage point.

Their trains have special racks for surfboards and bikes to accommodate those who want to get off at any of the coastal stops.

Distance: 350 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): 8 hours 30 minutes Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Starts at $62 More Information: Pacific Surfliner

3. Coast Starlight through the West Coast

The Coast Starlight route features all the great cities on the West Coast, providing spectacular views of the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific shoreline, Mount Shasta and Klamath Falls, with luxurious forests and emerald valleys in between.

The route starts in Seattle, Washington and ends in Los Angeles, California. Notable stops include Portland, Oregon, Sacramento, California, and Santa Barbara, California.

As this is a longer journey than most, sleeping cars are available in this particular train route.

Distance: 1,377 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): 35 hours Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Starts at $126 More Information: Coast Starlight

4. Maple Leaf along the Hudson River

From the west coast, we head over to the east coast.

Amtrak’s Maple Leaf train travels from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to New York City, New York. Notable stops include Niagara Falls (though sadly, the majestic falls aren’t visible from the train), Syracuse, and Albany.

The gorgeous scenery includes the Hudson River, Lake Erie, New York’s wine country, and the incredible gorges of the Finger Lakes region, with lush orchards and vineyards in between.

Border control is at Niagara Falls and takes two hours, so make sure to have your travel requirements ready and declare any prepackaged food you may have from either country.

Distance: 544 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): 12 hours 30 minutes (includes time at border control) Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Starts at $130 More Information: Maple Leaf Train

5. California Zephyr as You Trace The Path of the Pioneers

The longest continuous Amtrak route, the California Zephyr is also one of the best train rides in the US.

The route starts from Chicago, Illinois and ends at Emeryville, California and is said to be the same path that the trail pioneers took when they settled in the west.

The California Zephyr courses through the plains through Nebraska to Denver, then follows the Colorado River for more than 200 miles, through the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s Gore, Byers and Glenwood Canyons, into the red rock desert of Utah, sagebrush country of Nevada, California’s Sierra Nevada, Donner Pass, and into Emeryville, California.

Distance: 2,438 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): 51 hours 40 minutes Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Starts at $176 More Information: California Zephyr Train

6. Lake Shore Limited along Tranquil Shorelines

Shorelines aren’t only located near the ocean; they’re also present in-state.

The Lake Shore Limited starts at Chicago, Illinois and diverges in Albany, New York to go to either Boston, Massachusetts or New York City.

On the way, it travels along the south shore of Lake Michigan, the Mohawk River, the Erie Canal, and the Finger Lakes region to Albany, with views of big cities and college towns in between.

Distance: Chicago–New York: 959 miles; Chicago–Boston: 1,017 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): Chicago–New York: 20 hours; Chicago–Boston: 22 hours 40 minutes Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Chicago–New York: Starts at $112; Chicago–Boston: Starts at $120 More Information: Lake Shore Limited

7. Coast-To-Coast Through the California Zephyr and the Lake Shore Limited

Definitely an ambitious, massive undertaking, file this one in your bucket list.

Not many people can say they’ve traveled North America from coast to coast via train, so this should definitely be one of those trips you should do at least once in your life.

To perform this feat, you’ll need to take the California Zephyr and the Lake Shore Limited trains, changing at the Chicago, Illinois Union Station.

It’s up to you whether you want to do the journey from west to east or from east to west. Just know that at by the end of this journey, you’ll have passed through 12 states and traveled almost 3,500 miles in almost 75 hours; and that’s one-way (assuming your terminal stop is Boston, Massachusetts).

It sounds grueling, and it is, but rest assure this is one of the best train rides in the USA you’ll ever take.

Distance: Emeryville–New York: 3,397 miles; Emeryville–Boston: 3,455 miles Duration (one-way, non-stop): Emeryville–New York: 71 hours 40 minutes; Emeryville–Boston: 74 hours 20 minutes Cost (Standard fare, no discounts): Emeryville–New York: starts at $288; Emeryville–Boston: starts at $296 More Information: California Zephyr Train and Lake Shore Limited

Tips When Traveling Via Amtrak

• Download the Amtrak app. The Amtrak app allows you to buy, change, and store your eTickets. It also updates schedules real-time so you can check for any delays or changes in itineraries.
• Book well in advance. You can save some money if you book in advance at least 2 weeks ahead.
• Buy a USA rail pass . This is well worth it if you plan to travel a lot within a short period of time.
• Use Amtrak’s checked baggage service. If you have large baggage, it’s advisable to check in your baggage so that you don’t have to stress about the limited space in the train and you can get off at rest stops without lugging a big bag.
• Plan your trip meticulously. If your trip has you transferring trains, make sure you have enough time to make your connections. Many Amtrak trains that share tracks with freight trains experience delays, so consider this when booking your tickets.
• Check out Amtrak Vacations . Amtrak Vacations offer pre-planned routes catering to different needs and destinations, which are packaged with tours and accommodations.

Best Non-Intercity Scenic Train Rides

There are scenic train rides limited to one city or state that can give you the adventure of your life. Here are the best train rides in the USA where you don’t have to venture too far.

8. Grand Canyon: Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon is one of the great American landmarks and must-visit national parks .

But because it is such a popular destination, especially the tourist-friendly South Rim, you can get stuck in traffic going there and in lines for going through the entrance, parking, and shuttles.

This is where the Grand Canyon Railway comes in.

The Grand Canyon Railway takes passengers from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park all year round.

On the way, a variety of landscapes from the Ponderosa and Pinion pine forests of Northern Arizona to expansive prairies and deserts, through the San Francisco Peaks and various Native American reservations, and of course, canyons.

Once at the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park, there’s a four-hour stopover for you to explore and take in the sights.

You can also opt to stay one night or a few nights in the park and then ride the train back on a different day.

Trains leave Williams, Arizona every day at 9:30 AM (8:30 AM DST) and leave Grand Canyon Railway Station every day at 3:30 PM (2:30 PM DST). During peak seasons, a second train departure time is added both ways.

You can choose from 6 different train classes and enjoy the entertainment in the railway station as well as on the train.

Distance (round trip): 130 miles Duration (round trip): 4 hours 30 minutes Best time of year to go: Avoid busy times: spring break, summer, national holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas Cost: Ranges from $67 to $226 depending on class of service More Information: Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel

9. White Pass & Yukon Route through Alaska and Beyond

The Klondike Gold Rush of 1897 brought about the construction of the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in 1899.

This railway is a feat in civil engineering recognized internationally; it is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, a designation shared with the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.

You can choose from three different excursions. All of the trains start from Skagway, Alaska and are either round-trip or one-way depending on the excursion you select.

The White Pass Summit Excursion retraces the original route from Skagway, Alaska to the White Pass Summit, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, and Dead Horse Gulch, with views of mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and so much more. It climbs to a 3,000-feet elevation in just 20 miles.

The Bennett Scenic Journey is a 120-mile round trip from Skagway, Alaska to Carcross, Yukon Territories, Canada, with a 45-minute layover at Bennett Station to visit the White Pass museum and tour the town.

You’ll be traveling by train one way and by motorcoach the other way via the Klondike Highway; you can choose whether to take the train to the Yukon and motorcoach back to Alaska or motorcoach to the Yukon and train back to Alaska. As this excursion crosses the border, have your passport and other documents ready.

Lastly, the Fraser Meadows Steam Excursion is a 54-mile round trip from Skagway, Alaska to the Fraser Meadows Loop aboard a restored steam locomotive through rugged terrain and cliff-hanging turns.

Note: If you have a fear of heights, skip this route.

Distance: White Pass Summit Excursion: 40 miles round-trip; Bennett Scenic Journey: 120 miles round-trip; Fraser Meadows Steam Excursion: 54 miles round-trip Duration: White Pass Summit Excursion: 2 hours 45 minutes; Bennett Scenic Journey: 8 hours; Fraser Meadows Steam Excursion: 4 hours Best time of year to go: Limited operations within the year; July to September is when all three excursions are available. Cost: White Pass Summit Excursion: $129; Bennett Scenic Journey: $235; Fraser Meadows Steam Excursion: $170 More Information: White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

10. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you on a journey through the Carolina Mountains that make up half of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The trains travel through tunnels, across rivers and lakes, through mountain valleys, and into a deep river gorge.

You can choose between a diesel or a steam train, and two scenic journeys.

The Tuckasegee River Excursion leaves Bryson City, North Carolina and travels to Dillsboro, stops for 1.5 hours, and travels back to Bryson City. Get mesmerized by the panoramic valleys and the trainwreck set from the film The Fugitive .

The Nantahala Gorge Excursion also leaves Bryson City and travels to Nantahala Gorge, crossing the historic Fontana Lake trestle. It stops for 1 hour at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and then goes back to Bryson City. This excursion is available from March to October.

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad also offers a Moonshine Experience, where you get to taste many different types of moonshine with a barbecue meal, as well as a Narration Car, where you can have an unforgettable learning experience with a guide narrating the history of different landmarks along the journey.

Distance: Tuckasegee River Excursion: 32 miles round-trip; Nantahala Gorge Excursion: 44 miles round-trip; Duration (one-way, non-stop): Tuckasegee River Excursion: 4 hours; Nantahala Gorge Excursion: 4.5 hours Best time of year to go: Limited availability; Fall offers pumpkin patch trips and winter offers Polar Express-themed rides Cost: Tuckasegee River Excursion: starts at $51; Nantahala Gorge Excursion: starts at $51 More Information:

11. Mount Washington Cog Railway through New England

Starting from the Marshfield Base Station in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, the Mount Washington Cog Railway (affectionately called “The Cog”) climbs around 3,500 feet up to the highest summit in New England.

As you can probably surmise, this is the steepest rack railway in the USA, and second in the world. So again, if you have a fear of heights, this might not be for you.

A one-hour stopover at the summit gives you breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and Canada, as well as the Atlantic Ocean from the Mount Washington Observatory.

You can also browse the museum and gift shops, as well as send yourself and your loved ones a postcard from their post office.

Though there’s only one way up (and down), you can choose between riding a biodiesel or a steam locomotive.

Distance (round trip): 6 miles Duration (round trip): 3 hours Best time of year to go: Limited operations; mid-April through November Cost: Starts at $72 More Information: Mount Washington Cog Railway

12. Arkansas & Missouri Railroad through The Ozarks

The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad runs 139 miles from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Monett, Missouri.

The A&M runs mostly freight cars, but offers round-trip scenic tours through the Ozark Boston Mountains. Travel high trestles over 125 feet from the ground.

The Springdale to Van Buren route is a whole-day affair, taking you through the Boston Mountain range of the Ozarks with spectacular forest views all around and stopping at the historic town of Van Buren for three hours.

The Van Buren to Winslow route takes you over streams, wildlife, and trestles overlooking lush forests. Go through the 1700-foot long Winslow tunnel for more breathtaking scenery.

If you’re purely going for the fall foliage and the Winslow tunnel, skip van Buren entirely and ride the Springdale to Winslow route.

Distance: Springdale to Van Buren: 134 miles round-trip; Van Buren to Winslow: 70 miles round-trip; Springdale to Winslow: 70 miles round-trip Duration (one-way, non-stop): Springdale to Van Buren: 8 hours; Van Buren to Winslow: 3 hours; Springdale to Winslow: 3 hours Best time of year to go: Fall Cost: Springdale to Van Buren: starts at $70; Van Buren to Winslow: starts at $50; Springdale to Winslow: starts at $50 More Information: Arkansas & Missouri Railroad

What’s the Best Train Ride in the US?

Are you now inspired to book one of these train routes?

Do you agree with the routes in this list?

Or do you have a train ride to suggest? Weigh in on the comments below!

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America’s best train journeys, ranked

Sit back and watch the world go by on one of America’s best train journeys. You’ll cross lofty trestles, swoop through long tunnels, snake alongside rivers, and flank canyons — seeing parts of the country accessible only by rail. We compared data from Amtrak , Vacations By Rail  and America By Rail , then ranked routes based on popularity and the overall experience of the journey itself. Here are the top 10:

1. Amtrak's Coast Starlight

Route: Seattle - Portland - Los Angeles Travel time: 36 hours (one way) Amenities: Dining car, sleeping car, lounge/cafe car, Pacific Parlour car

Travelers come from around the world to experience this gorgeous West Coast train journey. Amtrak’s most popular long-distance route and widely regarded as the most stunning, Coast Starlight welcomed more than 455,000 passengers last year.

The Coast Starlight whisks you past waterfalls, lush forests, snowy Cascade Mountains and the Puget Sound. To see long stretches of Pacific shoreline — views you won’t get from the highway — book a seat on the west side of the train. If you upgrade from coach to a small private room with beds you’ll have upgraded dining and access to the Pacific Parlour Car with its dome windows and evening wine and cheese parties. Want to extend your trip to San Diego? Connect to the popular Pacific Surfliner train at L.A.’s Union Station.

 2. Amtrak’s Empire Builder

Route: Chicago - St. Paul/Minneapolis - Spokane - Portland/Seattle Travel time: 46 hours (one way) Amenities: Dining car, sleeping car, lounge/cafe car

Tracing portions of the Lewis & Clark Trail from America’s heartland to the Pacific Northwest, the Empire Builder is a great way to see the United States. You’ll cross the Mississippi River, venture into Montana’s Big Sky country and pass Glacier National Park.

From Spokane, you can either head south along the Columbia River Gorge to Portland or cut through the Cascade Mountains north to Seattle’s Puget Sound. Along the way, mountain passes are marked with lofty trestles and long tunnels, while rivers feature hydroelectric dams and salmon fish ladders. During spring and summer, an onboard volunteer National Park Service ranger shares facts about the landscape. There are plenty of 20-minute stops where you can get out and stretch your legs — or pick up a pizza delivery.

3. Amtrak’s California Zephyr

Route: Chicago - Denver - Reno – Sacramento – Emeryville (San Francisco) Travel time: 51 hours, 20 minutes (one way) Amenities: Dining car, sleeping car, lounge/cafe car

Looking out the windows of the California Zephyr , you’ll see the same sights that enchanted 19th-century fortune seekers as they rode the first transcontinental railroad line west to San Francisco and dreamed of striking it rich. This historic line takes you through the heart of Gold Rush country’s mining and ghost towns to old stagecoach stations that became stops on the original railroad.

Rocky Mountain tunnels carry you across the Continental Divide, while aspens and evergreens dot the steep cliffs of Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River. “I especially enjoyed the scenery,” says James S., a Vacations By Rail passenger. “The highlight was an American eagle flying over the Colorado River right next to the train.” The journey ends with one last bucket list sight: the Golden Gate Bridge.

4. Amtrak's Southwest Chief

Route: Chicago - Albuquerque - Los Angeles Travel time: 40+ hours (one way) Amenities: Dining car, sleeping car, lounge/cafe car

On these rails once ran the nation’s first all-Pullman sleeping car train, dubbed the “Train of the Stars” for the celebrity passengers that frequented it in the late 1930s.

Today, the Southwest Chief follows that same route between Los Angeles and Chicago. Book a sleeping car and enjoy the thrilling curves and switchbacks that lead to some of America’s most iconic sights: the Santa Fe Trail, Sedona’s red cliffs, pueblos and missions, the Grand Canyon, and the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains. Tucked among the grandeur of the American West you’ll find beauty in modest, everyday living, too. Watch farmers harvesting expansive wheat fields and dogs playing in back yards. From the window of a train it’s fascinating to see how different people live in different parts of the country.

5. Grand Canyon Railway

Route: Williams, Ariz. – South Rim, Grand Canyon National Park – Williams, Ariz. Travel time: 8.25 hours including four-hour stopover (round-trip) Amenities: Cafe car, sleeping car

Arriving at Grand Canyon National Park on this rail line, as visitors did in 1901 when the railway opened, helps you imagine what a remote, inaccessible wonder the canyon once was. You can still ride in the Grand Canyon Railway ’s historical cars pulled along by the “French Fry Express,” a converted 1923 locomotive that now runs on recycled waste vegetable oil from South Rim restaurants.

En route to the canyon are pine forests and sprawling prairies with plenty of chances to spot antelope, the California condor and wild horses. Onboard, colorful railway characters keep history alive with mock train robberies and cowboy musicians who lead passengers in old-time sing-alongs. Once at the log-cabin style Grand Canyon Depot in the South Rim, you’re within walking distance of popular viewpoints and most of the village’s historical buildings.

6. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Route: Durango, Colo. – Silverton, Colo. Travel time: 3.5 hours (one way) Amenities: Open-air gondolas, vintage coach cars

Set nearly two feet closer together than standard rail lines, this historic narrow-gauge railroad was built during the silver mining boom specifically so it could hang onto sharper curves and clear tighter spaces on mountainsides. No doubt, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a thrill to ride along the Animas River. The canyon’s rock walls are only inches away in some sections, so tight you’re inclined to draw in a breath and make yourself smaller. Along other stretches you can’t even see the canyon’s edge, only the immense chasm below. Elk occasionally meander near the tracks and bighorn sheep inhabit the cliffsides. From May through October you’ll hear stories about the coal-fired, steam-powered engine and the mining legacy of Silverton onboard this rolling National Historic Landmark.

7. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

Route: Chama, N.M. – Osier, Colo. – Antonito, Colo. Travel time: 6.5 hours including stopover (one way) Amenities: Concession car

The longest (64 miles) and highest (10,015 feet) steam railroad in America, Cumbres & Toltec originally served southwest Colorado’s silver mining district. Today this scenic railway totes only passengers as it chugs up a 4% grade in the San Juan Mountains and edges narrow gorge ledges with views 800 feet straight down. “It’s a ‘Williamsburg on wheels,’ an authentic National Historic Landmark that moves,” says Lee Bates, Cumbres & Toltec’s marketing and communications manager.

Passengers can experience history from a parlor car, coach car or the open-air gondolas, which are especially popular in the fall when the aspens shimmer their golden glow. The train runs Memorial Day through October. Fun trivia: The train has appeared in more than 20 Hollywood movies including Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid .

8. Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic

Route: Anchorage – Girdwood – Seward Travel time: 1.25 hours (one way) Amenities: Dining car

From mid-May to mid-September, Alaska’s days are long, plants are blooming, wildlife is on the move, and the Coastal Classic offers daily departures so you can experience it all.

The route, from Anchorage to Seward, follows the shoreline of the Turnagain Arm, where 3,000-foot mountains plunge straight into the ocean. Watch for beluga whales in the inlet and, farther along on the journey, Dall sheep on cliffsides and bear and moose in the backcountry wilderness. The conductor slows the train for wildlife and glacier photo ops. Once you reach Seward, there’s a seven-hour stopover with plenty of touring options — including boat cruises, national park tours, glacier treks and sled dog rides — before you return by rail to Anchorage in the evening.

9. Amtrak’s Adirondack

Route: New York – Saratoga Springs – Montreal Travel time: 10 hours (one way) Amenities: Cafe car

Leave New York City in the morning and Amtrak’s Adirondack will take you through charming towns and along the beautiful Hudson River Valley, delivering you to Montreal by dinnertime. If you travel in autumn, you’ll look out over deep woods and vineyards bathed in color.

Between New York City and Albany, meticulously kept mansions line the banks of the wide blue Hudson River. It’s easy to see how the natural splendor of this valley inspired an entire artistic genre. Other don’t-miss sights along the route include the Adirondack Mountains, the Palisades, West Point Academy’s riverfront stone battlements, and the Bannerman’s Castle ruins.

10. Cass Scenic Railroad

Route: Cass, W.Va. – Whittaker Station – Bald Knob – Cass Travel time: 4.5 hours (round-trip) Amenities: Ticket includes museum admission and logging camp tour

In the mountains of West Virginia, steam-driven Shay locomotives still run on the same line once used to haul lumber to the mill in Cass in 1901. The old logging flat cars have since been refurbished to carry passengers from May through October.

Pistons pulse, black smoke puffs and the whistle sounds as the train chuffs out of the station. First stop: the recreated 1940s logging camp at Whittaker Station, where there’s time to wander and grab a snack. On the full four-and-a-half-hour round-trip to Bald Knob, you’ll continue on for the climb up to the state’s third-highest point, stopping off at a spring so the train can take on more water to produce its steam power. This extra stretch includes lunch and spectacular views at 4,700 feet.

Trains, glorious trains: Best rail photos and galleries

READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE: America’s best train journeys, ranked

Matador Original Series

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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Train & Rail Tours & Trips in North America

• Choose from 28 North America tours
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10 best Train & Rail North America tour packages

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Canadian Rockies by Train (Vancouver, BC to Calgary, AB) (2024)

Ontario & french canada with ocean train to halifax, canadian train odyssey, wonders of the maritimes & scenic cape breton with ocean train to montreal, eastern city lights: toronto to quebec city by rail, great canadian rail journey, french flair and coastal charm: halifax to montreal by rail, via railway experience｜5-day vancouver to rockies railway full experience tour departure, western canada by rail, historic trains of the old west.

“All we had hoped for.” BETTY MCDONALD, traveled in July 2019

• Train & Rail
• Cruise on Maligne Lake and visit Spirit Island
• Travel by train through the Canadian Rockies
• See Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks

“Interesting tour, hitting all the high points on the east coast if Canada. The train to Halifax was great, excellent service and well worth doing.” Pamela Illingworth, traveled in July 2024

• Sightseeing
• Visit Peggy's Cove lighthouse
• See Montreal's top sights
• Cruise close to Niagara Falls

“A very enjoyable holiday our travel rep was very good informative and made myself and husband feel safe.”

• Ride the Ice Explorer on Columbia Icefield
• Stroll through Victoria's Butchart Gardens

“Annette was not only knowledgeable but her presentation style was extremely interesting and pleasing.” Paul W, traveled in August 2023

• Enjoy a lobster supper in Charlottetown
• Visit Sugar Moon Farm for a sugar camp treat
• Explore Peggy's Cove fishing village

• Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal
• Dine on a patio in historic Quebec City
• Explore dynamic Toronto neighborhoods

“Excellent itinerary and well thought out. A wonderful experience.” Steven, traveled in August 2023

• Cruise under Niagara Falls on a thrilling boat ride
• Ride the Ice Explorer across Athabasca Glacier
• Explore Jasper's natural beauty and wildlife

• Ride the 'Ocean' train to Montreal
• Bike around Montreal's key sites
• Try a Lobster Roll at Murphy's Wharf

“A fantastic way to explore the Canadian Rockies. Accommodation very good, trip of a lifetime!” Adam Donaldson, traveled in July 2024

• Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Discover Banff National Park
• Cruise on Maligne Lake

“Everything was perfectly organized for our convenience. The hotels were very comfortable.” Stefania Langle, traveled in April 2024

• Visit Butchart Gardens and Victoria's totems
• Relax in Banff's hot springs or hike trails
• Travel on the Rocky Mountaineer to Vancouver

“Great hotels, and learned and received more than I expected.” William, traveled in September 2023

• Ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad
• Visit Bandelier's ancient Pueblo dwellings
• Meet and greet with a welcome drink in Denver

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The 5 Best Luxury Trains in the U.S.

See the country in style from the Grand Canyon Railway to the Rocky Mountaineer.

For nearly 200 years, railroads have ferried passengers and freight all across the United States, transforming them from just a practical form of transportation to the pinnacle of luxury for wealthy Americans by the turn of the 20th century. But when jetliners hit the scene , rail travel languished.

These days, slow travel is making a comeback, with travelers delighting in the romantic nostalgia of elegantly furnished train cars complemented by fine dining. And while the U.S. has been, admittedly, rather slow to reclaim luxury train travel — particularly compared to the rest of the world — there are a growing number of elegant rail experiences to be found across the country. Here are five of the best experiences for luxury train travel in the U.S.

Rocky Mountaineer

In August 2021, Canadian railway company Rocky Mountaineer debuted its first-ever U.S. route, Rockies to Red Rocks . It's a long-in-the-making two-day journey between Denver and Moab, Utah, which includes an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado . The glass-domed cars offer passengers exceptional views of the mountains, canyons, rivers, and hoodoos along the journey. Passengers enjoy multi-course meals, either in their seats or in a designated dining room, depending on ticket class. For those who book the higher class of service, SilverLeaf Plus , there's a lounge car with a bar and an exclusive outdoor observation deck.

The Grand Canyon Railway

The Grand Canyon is a must-visit destination, so why not arrive in style? Instead of sitting in traffic to enter the national park, take the Grand Canyon Railway for a leisurely adventure. The train departs from the depot in Williams, Arizona, some 60 miles south of the canyon itself, then travels for two-and-a-half hours through the desert to reach Grand Canyon Village, right next to the South Rim. For the most luxurious experience, be sure to book the Luxury Parlor or Luxury Dome class of service — the adults-only cars have private bars and open-air platforms.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Since 1864, the Napa Valley Wine Train has been carrying oenophiles through the eponymous California wine region . Though it originally traveled between Vallejo and Calistoga, the train now makes a three-hour, round-trip journey between downtown Napa and St. Helena. There are a few different itineraries ; most include a multi-course gourmet meal served in sophisticated historic railway cars, and some rides include stops and tastings at various wineries. The most popular car on the train is the Vista Dome , a Pullman from 1952, where you'll dine in a glass-domed car with nearly uninterrupted vineyard views.

Alaska Railroad

Connecting Seward and Fairbanks via 470 miles of track, the Alaska Railroad provides scenic excursions through the state . Book the GoldStar Service for a more upscale experience — it's offered onboard the Denali Star train, a 12-hour itinerary connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks, and the Coastal Classic Train, which connects Anchorage and Seward. The service provides guests with spacious seats in a domed car, access to an outdoor viewing platform, meals in the dining car, and access to a private bar.

Strasburg Railroad

A ride on Pennsylvania's Strasburg Railroad might not be long — each journey lasts only 45 minutes. The railroad itself, however, has a long history. In fact, it's the oldest continuously operating railroad in the country, founded in 1832. For a luxurious little joy ride, book one of the historic first-class cars , which includes Marian (the private-hire President's Car); the Parlor Car, which has tables and sofas; or one of the two Lounge Cars, which are outfitted with velvet-upholstered captain's chairs. Snacks and beverages are available during each ride, but there's also a special wine-and-cheese experience for adults on select Friday and Saturday evenings.

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12 Unforgettable Train Trips You Can Take in America

There’s something truly magical about planning an entire trip hundreds and even thousands of miles solely by train. You don’t need to worry about filling up your tank, renting a car, or going through security to catch a flight. From the serene farmlands of Wisconsin on the Borealis Train to the stunning red rock vistas on the Rocky Mountaineer, American travel is easier than ever with so many railroad options that are scenic and offer a look into historical sites.

Here are some of my favorite and unforgettable train trips that you can take right now in America.

The Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer's Moab to Denver route offers a spectacular journey through the heart of the American West, covering approximately 400 miles. This two-day trip begins in the red rock country of Moab, Utah, and ends in the mile-high city of Denver, Colorado. Moab is home to Arches National Park which has over 200 natural arches to explore and is one of the coolest National Parks in a state full of them.

What’s important to note is that the route maximizes daylight travel for optimal sightseeing. This means that the train doesn’t move overnight, and drops travelers off in the small town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado allowing travelers to rest and explore before continuing their adventure.

The Cardinal

The Cardinal runs between New York City and Chicago, Illinois, with a notable stop in Washington, DC. This route takes passengers through the Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains, offering endless scenery for travelers to enjoy along the way.

Washington, DC cannot be skipped! Walking the National Mall and seeing the Lincoln Memorial should be on everyone’s bucket list. From (free) museums to local restaurants and bars, anyone can find something to enjoy in D.C.. World Pride next year will be held in Washington, DC from May 23 to June 8, attracting thousands from all over the world.

The Brightline

Florida’s iconic Brightline is a modern high-speed train that offers an efficient travel experience along the state’s eastern coast that once was only easily navigable by car. Currently, the route connects Miami to Orlando, with key stops in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, covering a distance of approximately 230 miles.

This service is a game-changer for both leisure and business travel. Brightline also emphasizes sustainability , using eco-friendly practices in construction and using biodiesel fuel, while also promoting a shift away from excessive car travel to reduce traffic congestion and environmental impact.

The Borealis Train

In May 2024, Amtrak unveiled the new Borealis Train route, connecting Chicago to the Twin Cities. It’s a great option to round out some city outings with endless views of nature from the train window. This scenic journey takes passengers through Central Wisconsin's rolling hills and farmland, with stops in Milwaukee to explore its art scene, music, and lively cultural festivals throughout the Summer. The route also passes through the Wisconsin Dells , renowned as the “Water Park Capital of the World."

The Hamilton County Harvest Train

Embark on a picturesque journey through Indiana’s Fall foliage aboard the Hamilton County Harvest Train . Departing from Forest Park in Noblesville, this nostalgic ride offers excellent vistas to admire that would be hard to see otherwise. Perfect for families, this trip also highlights the rich railroad history of the region.

The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train

The Bourbon Excursion (for those 21 and over) begins in Bardstown, one of America’s most charming small towns, renowned for its more than 11 bourbon distilleries. This ultimate bourbon experience continues aboard the luxurious My Old Kentucky Dinner Train . Passengers ride in two beautifully restored 1940s vintage dining cars, pulled by 1950s F-unit locomotives, through 32 miles of the stunning Central Kentucky countryside.

Taking in the views, guests enjoy a gourmet, seasonally-rotated four-course meal, paired with tastings of exclusive local bourbons hosted by a local master distiller, who also provides unique souvenirs. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train also offers a Murder Mystery Excursion and a North Pole Express during the holidays.

The California Zephyr

Experience one of Amtrak’s most beautiful routes with the California Zephyr , featuring dramatic changes in scenery from farmlands to mountain ranges and more. Marvel at landmarks like Denver's Rocky Mountains, the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, and the red rock oasis of Utah. Comfort isn’t ignored on this long journey, with Amtrak’s spacious cars and extensive windows so you won’t miss a thing.

Onboard, passengers can enjoy full-service dining with meals that reflect the regions the train passes through. The journey covers 2,438 miles and lasts approximately 51 hours — which is why the bedroom suites really are the MVP!

The Empire Builder

The Empire Builder is a legendary route that stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to the Pacific Northwest, ending in either Seattle or Portland. It’s great for travelers who want to do a cross-country road trip without driving. Covering over 2,200 miles and traversing a diverse array of landscapes, this trip of a lifetime will show off the sprawling plains of North Dakota, the rugged beauty of Montana's Glacier National Park , and the rugged forests of the Pacific Northwest.

For history buffs, the route follows a path similar to that of the explorers Lewis and Clark, offering passengers a sense of adventure and history.

The Southwest Chief

The Southwest Chief train route spans from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, covering approximately 2,265 miles. Passengers venture through the heart of the American Southwest, including the rolling prairies of the Midwest, the lonely deserts of New Mexico, and the stunning red rock canyons of Arizona.

Key stops along the way include Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff, each offering unique cultural and historical experiences that enrich the journey. These destinations invoke a strong sense of adventure that deems it a truly bucket list-worthy adventure!

The Coast Starlight

Often cited as one of the most scenic train trips in North America, the Coast Starlight includes breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and mountain ranges. Key stops include Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland, offering a welcome mix of urban and natural attractions.

Known for its Sightseer Lounge Car with floor-to-ceiling windows, Amtrak’s service is hard to match. It’s sort of like hiking the PNW without needing to catch your breath! From start to stop, the trip typically takes about 35 hours, offering a thorough exploration of the beautiful West Coast.

The Vermonter

If you guessed that The Vermonter’s journey includes Vermont, you are correct! It travels from Washington, DC to St. Albans, Vermont, covering nearly 700 miles and amazing sights even excluding the gorgeous Green Mountain State. This scenic journey takes passengers through some of the most picturesque regions of the Northeast, including the rolling hills of Maryland, the historical streets of Philadelphia, New York City, and rural New England.

This adventure has an ideal balance of nature and city landscapes. The route meanders through the Green Mountains of Vermont where each season offers such a different yet equally beautiful sight to see. Pro tip — go while Fall foliage is at its most colorful.

The Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner stretches along the California coast, running from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. You don’t need to keep “California Dreamin'” when this trip can be a reality. Covering nearly 350 miles, this journey offers passengers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and quaint coastal towns.

The route includes key stops in major cities such as Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Anaheim, providing access to a variety of attractions from beautiful beaches and world-class wineries to the amazing theme park Disneyland .

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10 Once-in-a-Lifetime Train Trips

For many, the charm of slow travel is more appealing than the convenience of flights. The experience of interacting with fellow travelers and soaking in the surreal sights of snow-dusted mountaintops, glacial lakes , paddy fields, and imposing viaducts remains unmatched. From catching the northern lights from the comfort of your carriage to watching zebras trotting through green pastures, these train journeys are for those who wish to savor the world while crossing items off their bucket lists.

Aurora Winter Train, Alaska, USA

From mid-September to early May, aurora chasers have the chance to spot the northern lights from the comforts of this 12-hour rail expedition , while also taking in the snow-covered landscape of Alaska , dotted with moose and other wildlife. This 351-mile track runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks , also stopping at Denali National Park & Preserve . Travelers can also disembark at a few stops for activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding. Alaska Railroad offers several winter packages varying in days and experiences.

The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

This one’s for every Harry Potter fan awaiting that coveted letter. A highlight of West Coast Railways ' 84-mile round-trip journey is the stretch that crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct and its 21 striking arches and towering columns—the same bridge the Hogwarts Express runs over. Starting from Fort William near Britain’s highest mountain (Ben Nevis) and running till Mallaig on the West Coast, the track cuts through stunning valleys, past lochs, quaint villages, and the picturesque scenery that the Scottish Highlands are known for. The train is operated between April and October.

The Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru

Cross off the Peruvian Andes (and Machu Picchu) off your bucket list, without undertaking a trek. At 14,000 feet, the Belmond Andean Explorer traverses through some of the world’s highest tracks between Puno, on the shores of the historic Lake Titicaca, to Cusco on a one- or two-night journey. The train—the first luxury sleeper in South America—features an open-deck Observation Car that’s perfect for passengers to enjoy mesmerizing views as they savor a Pisco sour. Pro tip: Book a spot on the Hiram Bingham , A Belmond Train that takes you from Cusco through the Sacred Valley up to the entrance of Machu Picchu .

Glacier Express, Switzerland

For a front-row seat to a view of the Swiss Alps , opt for the Glacier Express . Along this journey—which starts near the Matterhorn in Zermatt and concludes in the resort town of St Moritz—travelers can soak in breathtaking views through the panoramic windows. The Glacier Express offers one of the most dramatic views of the Rhine Gorge, crossing rocky mountains past the Upper Rhone Valley and the Oberalp Pass (the highest point of the trip at 7,000 feet), and elegant villages and scenic streams along the way. On this train, there’s an Excellence Class that comes with a multi-course meal, local wines, and a special seating area. If you plan to travel from Switzerland to Italy , give one of Europe’s highest tracks a try—the Bernina Express. This alpine route takes passengers from Tirana in Italy to St Moritz in Switzerland, making its way through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges, past pristine lakes, and stunning mountaintops that appear within reach from its panoramic carriages.

TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand

One of the most beautiful ways to explore New Zealand , KiwiRail’s TranzAlpine rightfully deems this 11-hour, round-trip, coast-to-coast route between Christchurch and Greymouth as one of their Great Journeys . Expansive stretches of farmland dotted with sheep and cattle, deep gorges and steel bridges, views of waterfalls and one of New Zealand’s longest tunnels await travelers on this spectacular ride, which cuts through the mountains that partition New Zealand’s South Island. Panoramic windows, skylight, and reclining seats make it a trip to remember.

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada and USA

Rocky Mountaineer takes you through cascading waterfalls, dramatic canyons, glacial lakes, plunging gorges, and roaring rivers—good thing the sizable windows in the carriages extend from the passenger seat to the roof. There are also the luxurious GoldLeaf service cars equipped with dome windows and a large platform to enjoy unobstructed views of the outdoors, between April and October. Starting either in the Rockies in Jasper National Park or Vancouver, the train connects the west to the east in Canada. In the US, it travels between Moab in Utah and Denver in Colorado, with options to start/end in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City , as well. All packages include luxury hotel stays as there’s no sleeping accommodation aboard the train.

The Ghan, Australia

The longest passenger train in the world, The Ghan runs through Australia's Red Centre on a three-day, all-inclusive package. Travel 1,737 miles from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south (or vice versa), soaking in sights from the otherworldly Outback. Passengers can enjoy several off-train experiences en route, such as guided camel tours, helicopter rides, and trips to the Cutta Cutta Caves and Katherine Gorge. They can also mold the itinerary to their liking, by opting for a smaller section of The Ghan from Darwin or Adelaide and disembarking in Alice Springs, or even extending the trip by adding excursions and hotel stays to the travel menu. Travelers can also opt for the Indian Pacific , another cross-country trip that takes you from Perth to Sydney and is run by the same company.

The Eastern & Oriental Express, Southeast Asia

Operating between Bangkok and Singapore , the E&O is Asia’s answer to the Orient Express . The train is finally resuming operations in February 2024 following a pandemic-induced hiatus. The open observation car and vintage décor of the cabins make the journey a unique experience. The train meanders through the rice paddies and jungles of Malaysia, over the legendary River Kwai in Thailand, passing by hilltop pagodas. Off-train experiences include snorkeling in Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. The Eastern & Oriental runs all year round, taking four nights and three days one way, and two nights and three full days in the opposite direction. Guests can also opt for a short Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur trip aboard the E&O.

Dar es Salaam by Rovos Rail, Africa

This journey combines the romance of slow travel with the marvels of an African safari . The Rovos Rail journey takes explorers on a 15-day trans-Zambezi trip from South Africa to Tanzania , traversing through Botswana , Zimbabwe , and Zambia . The itinerary includes tours of the diamond towns of Kimberley and Pretoria, drives around Madikwe Game Reserve, an overnight stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel , and a bush walk at Chisimba Falls.

Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Seven Stars takes you beyond the bustling tourist hotspots of Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka to Kyushu, the most southerly of the country’s four largest islands. Pick from multiple itineraries (either three nights, four days, or one night, two days) to imbibe everything that “seven” represents—the seven prefectures of Kyushu, the seven-carriage train, and the seven major attractions of the island (nature; food; hot springs; history and culture; ‘power spots’ or places with healing properties to refresh the mind body and soul; humanity; and trains). The panoramic windows of the first and seventh cars are a signature feature of this luxurious train, perfect for admiring the mountains and fields passing by.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India .

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