us tours by train

8 great rail journeys to take across the USA

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 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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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.

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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.

Photograph: Courtesty Amtrak

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 Amrak'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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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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Wealth of Geeks

24 Most Scenic Train Rides Across the U.S.

Posted: June 19, 2024 | Last updated: June 19, 2024

Imagine sitting back and gliding through the heart of America, witnessing its stunning landscapes pass by outside your window.

You’ve been dreaming of taking a trip across this great country, but the thought of driving doesn’t excite you. The endless queues at airports, the hassle of arriving hours before your flight, and the inconvenience of security checks have all worn you down.

That’s where the magic of train travel comes in. There’s something uniquely enchanting about riding the rails, especially when it takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery the United States has to offer.

1. Adirondack Railroad

The Amtrak Adirondack offers a ten-hour journey from New York City to Montreal. You will meander through charming towns and check out the stunning vineyards in the Hudson Valley. 

You’ll also spot some interesting mansions and stunning riverbanks between New York City and Albany. There’s also a cafe car, so you won’t be starving along the way. The train leaves New York in the morning and arrives in Montreal in the evening. 

2. Alaska Coastal Classic

There’s something otherworldly about Alaska, and this train journey allows you to experience a taste of this breathtaking landscape. The Alaska Coastal Classic leaves in the morning and will take you along Turnagain Arm to view the Chugach Range. Just before lunchtime, you’ll reach the town of Seward.

This coastal town looks out over aqua-colored waters with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. You’ll also find quaint shops, restaurants, and the Alaska SeaLife Center.

3. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

This journey starts in Blue Ridge, Georgia, and takes about four hours. During that time, you’ll enjoy the pleasant rocking of the train as you enjoy the beautiful vista of the Tocca River.

You’ll have time to explore the neighboring towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. You’ll enjoy beautiful forests on your ride back to Blue Ridge, where you can enjoy a meal. You can also stay in the town in one of the many accommodation options.

4. California Zephyr

If you’ve ever considered road trips across the country, consider taking the California Zephyr instead. This 51-hour journey takes you from Chicago to San Francisco without the stress of driving across the country. 

Relax and take in the Nebraska plains, the Rockies, Reno, and Sacramento. Once in San Fransisco, enjoy all it has to offer, including cable cars and Pier 39. 

5. Cape Cod Central Railroad

The beauty of some rail journeys is that you explore places you’d never see if you were in a car or plane. The Cape Cod Central Railroad travels through a diverse landscape of cranberry bogs, dunes, and marshes. 

This railroad offers several different journeys. You can take a daytime trip and learn about the canal’s history and cranberry harvesting. For those who enjoy the pleasure of rail travel and gastronomy, you can opt for a sunset dinner or a Sunday brunch.

6. Cass Scenic Railroad

Sure, Amtrak has some great train trips, but they can’t make you feel like you’ve stepped into a bygone era. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is home to steam-driven locomotives and an original lumbering town. 

While the railroad is only 11 miles long, it’s enough to experience the sounds and smells that only steam trains can provide while taking in some stunning scenery of West Virginia. There’s a soda fountain, restaurant, and historical museum for those history buffs who’d love to know more.  

7. Cascades

This ten-and-a-half-hour journey takes you through the Pacific Northwest from Vancouver, British Colombia, to Eugene, Oregon. Of course, you can jump off at any of the stations along the way and explore Seattle, Portland, and Eugene, indulging in all they have to offer. 

Along the way, you’ll pass Mount St. Helens and cross the Columbia River Gorge. This train trip takes in some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S., including mountain vistas, waterfalls, and lava fields.  

8. Coast Starlight

Imagine relaxing to the gentle vibration of the train car, looking out over the Pacific Ocean. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route travels daily from Los Angeles to Seattle. You will stop and explore Portland and Sacramento along the way.

However, the real show-stoppers are the sublime peaks of the Cascade Ranges and Mount Shasta. You’ll also experience rolling valleys, green forests, and, of course, the stunning blues of the Pacific. This journey takes a total of 35 hours.

9. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

This historic steam train takes you on a 64-mile journey through the stunning Rocky Mountain West. It winds from Colorado to New Mexico, passing plains of wildflowers, ancient forests, and a rocky gorge. 

You’ll hear the steam engine whistle echoing along canyon walls, and perhaps you’ll hold your breath as your train car chugs over the 137-foot Cascade Trestle bridge. Keep an eye out for some woodland creatures along the way. 

10. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Grab something to eat and drink from the cafe car, and then sit back and relax in this vintage rail car. You’ll have two hours to learn about the local history and enjoy views of Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley.

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located between Cleveland and Akron. Expect to see city views, vibrant green forests, waterfalls, and rivers. 

11. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Cross riverbeds and trestle bridges, wind through canyons and watch the puff of steam billowing out overhead. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a restored historic train and track. 

You’ll experience the natural wonders of the San Juan National Forest. The Durango and Silverton operate through the summer and offer various trips, including a 5-hour Cascade Canyon Express or Scenic Round Trip. There’s also an overnight option. 

12. Empire Builder

You may ask yourself why it’s called the Empire Builder. Well, taking this train journey means you’ll follow in the footsteps of some early pioneers. This American West service travels between Chicago, St. Paul, Spokane, and Portland/Seattle.

Take in the mighty Mississippi and the North Dakota plains, but be careful not to look down if you’re afraid of heights as you cross the Gassman Coulee Trestle. You’ll also pass through Glacier National Park and Columbia River Gorge and take in views of Mt. Hood and Beacon Rock. This trip departs daily and takes 46 hours to complete.

13. Grand Canyon Railway

This historic steam train experience offers the whole package. As you travel from Williams, Arizona, to the wonders of the Grand Canyon, you’ll be entertained by cowboys and musicians.

The Grand Canyon Railway offers various packages, including lodging at its associated hotel. Visitors can enjoy desert, prairie, and forest landscapes and the canyon’s geological wonders.

14. Grand Rail Experience

Train enthusiasts and those who’ve always wanted to travel across this great land but the thought of driving put you off will love the Grand Rail Experience. This train vacation starts in Chicago and moves to Seattle before heading down the Pacific Coast.

You’ll take the Sunset Limited route across multiple landscapes and states to get to New Orleans in time for some jazz and cocktails in the Big Easy. Then, head back to where you started. This epic journey starts at $3,099 per person. 

15. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson City, North Carolina, is home to this historic train depot . It offers several different locomotives, including vintage steam or diesel engines. 

A round-trip ticket allows you to enjoy the vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tuckasegee Rivers, and the Nantahala National Forest. They also have special events throughout the year. 

16. Hawaiian Railway Society

This vintage locomotive is the only operating train on Hawaii’s island of Oahu. Your ticket will help the historical society raise funds to keep the train running, and the proceeds will also go to a new museum. 

You’ll listen to stories about the history of the railroad in the region. In addition, you get to ride the train and experience the stunning views of Oahu. 

17. Mount Hood Railroad

Experience an unforgettable ride through the scenic Columbia River Gorge on the Mt. Hood Railroad. Each season has its own special experience. In spring, the orchard valley is in full bloom on the Spring Train. Enjoy music and valley views on the Easter Train, and traverse the lower main fork of the Hood River with stunning views of Mt. Hood on the Summer Train.

In autumn, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent reds and yellows on the Fall Train. In October, solve a haunting mystery on the Halloween Train and capture the spirit of the season in December on the magical Christmas Train. 

18. Mount Washington Cog Railway

Connecticut state representative P. T. Barnum isn’t remembered for his politics. Most people know him for his circus. However, in 1859, he also enjoyed the Mount Washington Cog Railway, where he witnessed the view from Mount Washington in New Hampshire.

The historic steam and diesel locomotives climb steep tracks, traveling through Marshfield Base Station and the White Mountains. While you’re going up that 38% grade incline, saying, “I think I can, I think I can,” you might also spot some interesting wildlife. 

19. Napa Valley Wine Train

A relaxing train journey traversing the rolling countryside of vineyards while eating some fine cuisine and drinking wine sounds like the ultimate locomotive adventure. This Napa Valley Wine Train is powered by a restored steam engine. 

You can choose from daytime options or romantic twilight trips. The 36-mile track travels to St. Helena and back, stopping at cellar doors along the way. 

20. Pacific Surfliner

The aptly named Pacific Surfline r starts in Ventura, California. You’ll experience sandy surf beaches and the oceanfront promenade before getting on your train to Los Angeles. 

The train features an onboard cafe and WiFi. Amtrak recommends sitting on the west side of the train from Ventura and the east side for stunning Pacific Ocean views when departing Los Angeles.

21. Rocky Mountaineer

Become a mountaineer without buying climbing gear or breaking a sweat. This luxury train experience involves comfy seating and glass-enclosed carriages so you can enjoy the view as you travel the mountain ranges. 

You’ll travel through the American Southwest and Western Canada. Enhance your experience with their gourmet meal selection and learn about the history and wildlife in the area from your hosts. 

22. Southwest Chief

The Southwest Chief travels through tracks in eight states, from Chicago to Los Angeles. The journey may take 40 hours, but you will hardly notice the time as you pass through canyon passages and fly past wheat fields and mountainscapes. 

23. Sunset Limited

Travel between New Orleans and Los Angeles on the Sunset Limited, a scenic 48-hour trip through diverse landscapes. From your seat, experience the beauty of Bayou Country, the Mexican border, southwestern deserts, and California mountains.

This Amtrak train departs three days a week in each direction, with the option to connect to other trains like the Texas Eagle, Coast Starlight, Pacific Surfliner, and San Joaquin.

24. White Pass & Yukon Route Railway

Starting in the port town of Skagway, Alaska, and climbing up to the White Pass summit at 2,888 feet, train passengers are treated to stunning views of towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, and dense forests.

The route includes cliff-hanging turns, tunnels, and trestle bridges, including the 215-foot-tall steel cantilever bridge. You’ll follow the Klondike Gold Rush route, where you can witness some historic landmarks.

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Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips - USA

Denver and moab aboard the rocky mountaineer, explore southwest usa tours on the rocky mountaineer.

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Available with SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus Train Service From $1599 per person in 2024

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Denver to Moab Rocky Mountaineer Train Tour with two nights Denver, one night in Glenwood Springs, and two nights in Moab (6 Days)

Available with SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus Train Service From $2409 per person in 2024

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Available with SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus Train Service From $2909 per person in 2024

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Doobie Brothers celebrate 50 years with a tour, documentary and 'a new album in the can'

When Pat Simmons asked Michael McDonald if he’d ever feel like getting back together with the Doobie Brothers for a few gigs, he was thinking maybe four or five shows, just for old times’ sake.

McDonald hadn’t done much with the Doobies since a brief reunion tour in the mid-‘90s, but he and Simmons stayed in touch through all the breakups and reunions and would often get together just to hang.

So when management started discussing a possible 50th-anniversary tour, Simmons said, “Hey, you should ask Mike if he might want to do some gigs with us.”

That was 2019.

Five years later, McDonald is still out there doing some gigs, with time off for a global pandemic that forced them off the road in 2020.

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“Actually, this is the second 50 years of the band we're celebrating now,” Simmons said with a laugh.

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New Doobie Brothers album is 1st with Michael McDonald since 1980

McDonald also recently recorded his first album of new music with the band since 1980’s “One Step Closer," although to be fair, he does appear on several tracks on “Southbound,” an album released in 2014 that found the Doobies re-recording their old hits with country guest stars.

“We have a new album in the can,” Simmons said.

“We kind of worked on it over the winter. Same producer that produced our last album, John Shanks, only this time, Mike's involved in writing with us and recording. So that's another great moment for us, having Mike involved in this album.”

Having McDonald involved in a project is always a bonus.

"He's a fabulous singer, a great person and just always fun to be around, an inspiring guy and a good friend of mine forever," Simmons said. "So it's really nice having him back after all these years."

Simmons estimates that the album should be released by spring 2025.

“I'm kind of leaving it to management to figure it out,” he said. “We have some other things we're working on, so I think they're maybe trying to coordinate the release of the album so it'll be something to talk about during a tour, that kind of thing.”

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Pat Simmons hopes the new Doobie Brothers documentary will be best yet

Those other things they’re working on include another Doobie Brothers documentary.

“We have a ways to go on that,” Simmons said.

“So we'll see. It would be nice if we could have that out not at the same time, but have some kind of flow to it, so that we have a couple new things happening to give us something to talk about. You know, old guys, we need something to talk about.”

The documentary follows “Long Train Runnin’: Our Story of the Doobie Brothers,” a 2022 memoir written by Simmons and fellow founding member Tom Johnston with the help of music journalist Chris Epting.

“I think maybe that was somewhat of an inspiration for the documentary,” Simmons said. “That was certainly something that I think helped to give some form to it, helped to conceptualize it a bit."

There have been other Doobie Brothers documentaries, but they're hoping this one will be better.

“We have a lot of great vintage footage we wanted to use for the project that wasn’t included in the last one we did 15 years ago or something,” Simmons said.

“So we kind of want to update things and have some of the cool archival stuff that we've been holding onto for a long time that really hasn't been taken advantage of. I think it would be fun for people to see a lot more of that stuff.”

Pat Simmons reflects on the Doobies' 'weird glitter-rock moments'

That includes a lot of footage from the early '70s.

“It's probably about 10 hours worth of footage from a couple tours we did,” Simmons said.

“There's sound for part of it, some live stuff and some on-the-road just silly stuff. Hotel rooms and we used to fly around in a couple of old twin-engine prop planes. You know, crazy stuff — platform shoes, bell-bottom pants, weird glitter-rock moments. We thought we were... I don't know what we were thinking.”

It's pointed out that most people don't think of “weird glitter-rock moments” and the Doobie Brothers in the same breath, but Simmons said they went through a phase.

“We used to wear all that stuff,” he said. “We toured with Mark Bolan and Rod Stewart and the Faces, all those guys. And we thought we wanted to be more like that. We should've been slapped.”

They did learn some valuable lessons from watching those guys work a room, though.

“Being on the road with them and seeing the energy they were able to generate with their audience, you admire that and want to do it,” Simmons said.

“And we did. We were able to conjure up some of that just by paying attention to what they were doing. We learned 'Hey, you don't just stand there and play.’ You play to the audience and try to involve them in what you're doing. They really were good teachers in that regard.”

How the Doobie Brothers mixed it up from 'Listen to the Music' on

Formed in 1970, the Doobie Brothers hit the airwaves two years later with two singles from their second album — Johnston’s “Listen to the Music” and the gospel song “Jesus is Just Alright.”

The hits kept coming in short order: “Long Train Runnin’,” “China Grove,” “Another Park, Another Sunday” and their first chart-topping entry on the Billboard Hot 100 with one of Simmons' contribution, 1975’s “Black Water.”

McDonald made his first appearance on a Doobie Brothers record in 1976, when his “Takin’ It To the Streets” and “It Keeps You Runnin’” introduced a more soulful approach that provided the template for “Minute By Minute,” a chart-topping album that spawned their second No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, “What a Fool Believes.”

Pat Simmons on what keeps the Doobie Brothers' long train runnin'

Asked if he recalls a point at which he felt they really hit their stride as artists, Simmons says that's not the way he looks at making music.

“Speaking for myself, and I probably speak for the other guys too, I don't think you ever feel like you found the sound, you know?” he said. “You're always searching for the sound. I think that's kind of part of what keeps you going for it. You write a song and you don't necessarily go, 'Well, that's it. That's what I was going for.’ You write a song and you go, 'Well, that's close.'”

And by the time you’re done with that song, you're already on to something else.

“Or you hear a song that inspires you, and you think, God, I want to be able to write something like that,'" he said. "And you keep trying. You never really go 'Well, that's it. I finally hit it. That's good enough.' You're always trying to do better.”

And not only better, but different.

“It doesn't always sound different, because it's you, and you're only gonna be able to be who you are,” Simmons explained. “But you want to try to go beyond yourself, come up with something new and interesting, hopefully, for your audience, so people go, 'Wow, that's really different for the Doobie Brothers.' And I think a lot of our albums have been that way, in terms of people listening and going, 'Wow, I didn't even know that was you guys.'”

Simmons feels that’s been the key to much of the success the Doobies have enjoyed along the way. “A song like 'China Grove' doesn't sound like 'Black Water,' which doesn't sound like 'What a Fool Believes.’”

It helps that they have different writers in the group, with Simmons, Johnston and McDonald all contributing hit singles to the mix.

“It’s enabled us to have more than one sound,” Simmons said. “A lot of bands are stuck with 'only that guy's songs are gonna be the songs,' and 'only this kind of song is gonna make it in our musical vocabulary.' We don't have that problem going on. It’s been a lifesaver, really.”

The Doobie Brothers

When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 26.

Where: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix.

Admission: $19.50 and up.

Details: 602-379-7800,  ticketmaster.com .

Reach the reporter at  [email protected] . Follow him on X (formerly Twitter)  @EdMasley .

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