Five Exciting Train Vacations for First-Time Riders
Many travelers are eager to relive the thrill of rail travel, as well as first-timers who want to discover the thrill of the train. Amtrak has over 500 destinations in 46 US states and more than 30 train routes throughout the country. There are many opportunities for first-time travelers to experience life on the train from coast to coast. Five train vacations have been selected to give first-time passengers a taste of the special train experience. These include stunning scenery, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation onboard. Not to mention the amazing places that the train can take. It’s easy to get onboard Amtrak and experience why so many people travel this way.
Rails to Grand Canyon
Enjoy a scenic rail journey from the “City of Angels”, to the Grand Canyon. The Rails to the Grand Canyon adventure starts in Los Angeles. You will board Amtrak’s classic Southwest Chief train at Union Station and make a scenic overnight trip to Williams, Arizona. The train’s route through the canyons is only a few feet wide. This allows you to enjoy stunning scenery and views that are not possible from highways or interstates. You can enjoy stunning views from your window by taking a seat in the observation car. You may wish to upgrade to a private accommodation to have privacy and a comfortable sleeping space. This is a popular option for train travelers as it includes meals in the dining car. A sleeping car attendant will be there to turn down your bed at night, and ensure you get a restful night. After arriving in Williams, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast at Grand Depot Cafe. Then you board the Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic but short ride to the South Rim. Today’s journey includes a sightseeing tour of the rim. You’ll be able to enjoy amazing views and go places no cars can. The next two nights will be spent in a hotel located within the park. You can wake up right next to some of nature’s most beautiful views. You can take the train back on the fourth or fifth day to see the sights and relax. Find out more about this rail vacation.
Roundtrip to Glacier National Park from Chicago
Take the train to Glacier National Park in Montana, departing from Chicago or your nearest departure station. The unforgettable journey to Glacier National Park starts aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder route. Enjoy stunning views of the Northern US along the way. As you travel into Montana, take in the views from Chicago. The train will take you one night to get there and one back. A private sleeping room in a car may be the best option for a comfortable and relaxing journey through breathtaking beauty. It is truly one of the most stunning places on Earth and a must-see. The breathtaking views, ancient glaciers and sparkling lakes will amaze you upon your arrival. The famous red buses will take you through the park, taking you over the Going-to-the-Sun Road. You’ll also enjoy a thrilling boat ride out onto Two Medicine Valley Lake. There will be plenty of time for you to explore the park on your own. This train trip promises stunning scenery and relaxation. This rail vacation is available.
Niagara Falls Ultimate Getaway Roundtrip From New York
Niagara Falls is synonymous with romance and relaxation. This roundtrip rail vacation departs from New York or your nearest departure station. You’ll discover why this natural wonder attracts more than 12,000,000 people each year after a scenic train ride. Enjoy 360-degree views from the Skylon Tower, a landmark of Niagara’s skyline since 1965. Take a scenic boat ride to see the Falls in hypnotic mist. Enjoy a stroll across Rainbow Bridge, a hike in Niagara Falls State Park, a picnic, or hop on the Whirlpool Aerocar. This is just the beginning. Enjoy a morning at an award-winning course, visit the botanical garden, and then relax at the spa. You can also enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting or a candlelit dinner at an iconic restaurant to truly experience Niagara Falls. Enjoy an amazing firework display over the Falls in the summer months. This stunning, year-round destination is unmatched, and the train ride to it is simply amazing! Find out more about this rail vacation.
Grand Tetons and Yellowstone Rail Trip
Two of America’s most beautiful national parks can be explored on one amazing rail vacation. You can travel by rail from Chicago through the open landscape of the Heartland of America before arriving in Salt Lake City. For a glimpse at Grand Teton National Park’s amazing wildlife, continue on to Jackson Hole. The journey continues north to Yellowstone National Park. Here you will enjoy the stunning scenery that has made Yellowstone National Park a popular destination for many decades. The train journey is only one night long, making it a great introduction to train travel for first-timers. This rail vacation is available.
Canadian Rockies Adventure
Canada’s scenery is best seen by train. This rail adventure takes passengers through the Canadian Rockies, where they will be surrounded with some of the most stunning views on the planet. The journey starts in Vancouver and can be accessed via Amtrak from any part of the US. You’ll travel by VIA Rail overnight to Jasper in the Canadian Rockies. Jasper is one the most photographed places in Canada. The small-town feel makes it feel like you’re a friend. Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the only dark-sky preserve that has a village at its heart. It is easy to see why Jasper is one Canada’s hidden treasures. This mountain paradise will be your home for three nights before you return to Vancouver. Find out more about this rail vacation.
Additional Resource:
https://www.bbc.com/news/topics/ce2gz914l5mt
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/
https://www.gwr.com/