Even though many metropolitan areas do not have regular train service, a wide range of train trips are available across the United States. Steam train enthusiasts can join excursions on restored steam engines from the golden days of rail, while Amtrak’s network offers a choice of over 500 destinations. Train trips can last from a few hours to a week or more, in accommodations ranging from coach class seats to traditional sleeping cars with bedrooms.
Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
- The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad in Southwest Colorado was known as the "Scenic Line of the World" in days gone by. Today the line operates steam and diesel trains with a fleet that includes remodeled 1950s dome cars featuring panoramic views, as well as a 1930s open window car. Trains run daily from Alamosa to the historic Western towns of La Veta, Antonito or Monte Vista. The line also offers a connection to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Antonito. Meals are served in private dining cars.Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
877-726-7245
riograndescenicrailroad.com
Amtrak Crescent
- The Amtrak Crescent is an overnight trip that runs daily from New York via Atlanta to New Orleans. Scenic highlights include the Blue Ridge foothills and the Louisiana bayou country, and the itinerary includes stops in Philadelphia, Washington, DC and Atlanta. The trip is 30 hours long, with accommodations in coach or sleeper classes. A hot dinner is served in the dining car, and the Crescent has a comfortable lounge and cafe car. The Trails & Rails interpretive program, a partnership between the National Park Service and Amtrak, offers passengers opportunities to learn about America's natural and cultural heritage while on board.Amtrak Crescent
800-872-7245
amtrak.com
Alaska's National Parks by Rail
- Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s signature tour train, follows the rail from Anchorage to Fairbanks on this six-day tour to two of the country’s most scenic national parks: Kenai Fjords National Park and Denali National Park. The itinerary includes a 12-hour bus tour into the heart of Denali, and a raft trip at Spencer Glacier. Overnight in Anchorage, Denali and Girdwood. The line offers reclining seats, picture windows, a popular dining service and onboard tour guides. Passengers can upgrade to bi-level coaches featuring unique sky dome lounges. The tour is offered from May 15 through September 14.Alaska Railroad Corporation
800-544-0552
alaskarailroad.com
Amtrak California Zephyr
- The Amtrak California Zephyr is a popular two-night transcontinental train trip from Chicago to San Francisco (Emeryville), with stops in Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake and Reno. Ride the train through the heart of the Rocky Mountains and view the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, the Glenwood Canyon and the Truckee River along the way. Reserve a coach seat or a choice of sleeper accommodations for this 51-hour trip. The Zephyr offers a dining car and a lounge car as well as lounges for first-class passengers in Chicago and Washington. The California Zephyr has motor coach connections from Emeryville to San Francisco and Oakland stations.Amtrak California Zephyr
800-872-7245
amtrak.com
