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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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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

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• 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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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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10 Luxury Train Rides in the USA With Breathtaking Views

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Rocky Mountaineer

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

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

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

2. The Grand Canyon Railway

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

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

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

3. Alaska Railroad

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

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

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

4. Napa Valley Wine Train

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

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

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

5. Coast Starlight

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

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

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

6. California Zephyr

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

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

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

7. Strasburg Rail Road

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

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

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

8. Conway Scenic Railroad Mountaineer

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

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

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

9. Southern Comfort

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

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

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

10. The Empire Builder

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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North America’s Most Luxurious Trains

Oh, the allure and romance of train travel. The magic of sitting quietly, cup of bone-china tea (or coffee) in hand, cell phone cast aside, and simply taking time to breathe; watch as mountains, sea, deserts, small towns, and big cities, roll gently by — all in a seemingly slower yet grander motion. While North America’s railways have never quite matched Europe’s decadent and storied train culture — a menagerie of glamorous Art-Deco 1920s interiors with Michelin-star dining, swanky bar cars, and white-gloved livered wait staff, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico are no strangers to the genteel art of luxury train travel. In the late 1860s, the Chicago-based Pullman Company (led by George Pullman) produced the first range of truly ornate dining, sleeping, and parlor train cars.

The company also created private train carriages for the super wealthy that were attached to commercial passenger trains — creating a ‘train set’ of  mini mansions.   It was on such private train cars that New York City’s elite (Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans) escaped from their New York City apartments to the Adirondacks where they built ‘ Great Camps’ — elaborate, made-from-timber lakefront homes to escape the summertime heat. While trains are primarily used today in the U.S. as a means of commuting to and from work, luxury train travel experiences are still in motion on trains like America’s Trains Southern Comfort line, featuring lavish sleeping cars, and the Napa Valley Wine Train offering food-and-wine day experiences. From scenic Canada to the rugged terrains of Mexico to notable rail rides in between, here are North America’s most fabulously luxurious train rides. 

Overnight Sleeping Trains

Southern comfort (new orleans to fort worth).

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

The Canadian (Vancouver to Toronto)

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

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

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

Napa Valley Wine Train (Napa to St. Helena)

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

Jose Cuervo Express, Mexico (Guadalajara to Tequila)

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

Rocky Mountaineer (Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah)

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

Copper Canyon Railroad, Mexico (Los Mochis to Creel)

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

Adirondack Train (New York City to Montreal)

Considered one of America’s top scenic train rides, this 10-hour train journey is all about the view — which is especially stunning during fall foliage season. Operated by Amtrak, the Adirondack departs daily from New York City’s Penn Station passing through the Hudson Valley and Adirondacks/Lake Champlain Region before ending in Montreal, Quebec. Brush up on your French and visit awhile. While the train itself isn’t luxury, the view is absolutely worth the trip.

Pacific Surfliner (San Luis Obispo to San Diego)

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

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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.

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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North America Luxury Train Tours

Journey through North America’s most beautiful mountains, lakes, and cities on a luxury train trip with the Society of International Railway Travelers’ (IRT). Travel around Canada as you explore the natural beauty of the country. Both Rocky Mountaineer and The Canadian are on our World’s Top 25 Trains list so you know these trips are one-of-a-kind. With trips ranging from one week to 16 days, IRT has a North American luxury train vacation that fits your schedules and needs.

Vacation through iconic Canadian cities including Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver, as well as the Canadian Rockies and national parks. IRT’s North American itineraries allow you to experience the best of what the continent has to offer. Whether you’re exploring an amazing Canadian metropolis or taking pictures of one of the world’s most breathtaking lakes, this is an unforgettable vacation. IRT’s commitment to providing the best in luxury train adventures has earned us awards and recognition for years.

All three trains available on our North American luxury train journeys are guest favorites.

Our longest journey, the Trans-Canada Rail Adventure, traverses the country and combines several days on The Canadian with a journey on Rocky Mountaineer .

The Canadian

Rocky mountaineer, royal canadian pacific, the destinations.

With trip options ranging from the 16-day Trans-Canada Rail Adventure to a shorter week-long excursion, IRT train journeys cover a large array of destinations.

Rocky Mountaineer: First Passage to the West Highlights

The trans-canada rail adventure, interested in taking a luxury vacation through north america.

The Society of International Railway Travelers helps you get the most out of their North American luxury train vacation with excellent service and the best attractions the continent has to offer.  Check out our journey finder to find the perfect trip. Want more information? Contact The Society of International Railway Travelers today!

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

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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

Short Scenic Train Tours

Overnight scenic train rides, luxury train travel in the usa, best train rides through the mountains, best coastal train rides.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best scenic train rides in america.

Is there luxury train travel in the USA?

Yes, there certainly are luxury train travel options available in the USA. If you’re looking for scenic yet incredibly comfortable train travel options, check out the following train excursions:

• Coast Starlight train by Amtrak which travels between Los Angeles and Seattle.
• Southwest Chief by Amtrak travels between Chicago and Los Angeles with views of the American West along the way.

Which Amtrak route has the best scenery?

There are so many fantastic scenic train excursions in the US that are provided by Amtrak. The following two Amtrak routes may have the best scenery:

• The Amtrak Adirondack  is a ten-hour journey beginning in New York City that darts through upstate; it’s easily one of the best fall color train rides in the US!
• The Amtrak Empire Builder , which starts in Chicago and ends in Seattle is a long and scenic route that shows off some of the west that you wouldn't ordinarily get to see.

What train ride takes you across the United States?

Traveling from coast to coast is an exciting experience and you can certainly do it by train! Take the Highlights of America - Coast to Coast train excursion through Amtrak which starts in Washington DC and then travels to Chicago, Williams in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park, and Los Angeles. The trip takes 11 days and makes 5 stops.

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• Pullman Rail Journeys

Pullman Rail Journeys: Luxury Travel Reborn

Published: August 8, 2024

By:  Adam Burns

Pullman Rail Journeys (PRJ), a sophisticated throwback to the golden age of rail travel, was launched in 2012 under the vision and direction of Iowa Pacific Holdings (IPH).

Set against the backdrop of an increasingly fast-paced and digital world, PRJ sought to bring back the elegance and refined service of classic train travel, reminiscent of the early 20th century.

Although its operations were ultimately short-lived, the operation left an indelible mark on luxury rail travel and the broader transportation industry.

Founding and Vision

Pullman Rail Journeys was spearheaded by Ed Ellis, the founder of Iowa Pacific Holdings (IPH) in 2001. Ellis, a seasoned rail industry executive with a deep passion for rail travel, envisioned a service that would cater to those who longed for a more leisurely and opulent travel experience.

Following growth throughout the 2000s, IPH peaked in the 2010s when it acquired additional short lines and attempted to expand into the passenger rail arena. Ellis believed there was a strong market for luxury rail service, in part due to Amtrak's subpar onboard services.

By resurrecting and meticulously restoring historic Pullman cars, he aimed to offer passengers a journey encased in elegance, replete with fine dining, plush accommodations, and exceptional service.

Ellis and his team acquired a fleet of historic cars, many of which dated back to the 1940s and 1950s, and designed an experience that celebrated the heritage of American rail travel. The company's very name - Pullman Rail Journeys - was a nod to the Pullman Company, which was synonymous with luxury and comfort during the heyday of train travel.

Restoration and Inaugural Service

The restoration of the cars was painstaking and meticulous. Each car was brought back to its original splendor, with close attention paid to every detail.

Pullman Rail Journeys officially began service in late 2012. Its inaugural route operated between Chicago, Illinois, and New Orleans, Louisiana, in partnership with Amtrak.

This route was chosen not only for its strong historical significance but also for its appeal to tourists and business travelers alike. The journey along Amtrak's City of New Orleans route presented scenic views of the American countryside, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming towns.

The Pullman Experience

The quintessential PRJ experience was designed to transport passengers back in time to the last great era of rail travel, the 1950s. From the moment travelers boarded the elegantly restored railcars, they were immersed in a world of luxury and nostalgia. Each journey was more than just transportation; it was an opportunity to relax and relish in the bygone era of train travel.

Key features of the Pullman experience included:

- **Exquisite Onboard Dining**: Meals were prepared by skilled chefs and served in beautifully appointed dining cars. The menu featured a blend of fine dining cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Passengers enjoyed white-tablecloth service, with meals accompanied by fine wine and beverages.

- **Elegant Accommodations**: The sleeping arrangements offered a variety of configurations, including private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and shared sections with comfortable berths. The beds were dressed in high-quality linens, ensuring a restful night's sleep.

- **Impeccable Service**: The onboard staff, including conductors, porters, and waiters, were trained to provide exemplary service, reminiscent of the original Pullman standard. Attentive and personable, the staff made every effort to cater to the passengers' needs.

- **Leisure and Entertainment**: Passengers had access to a range of onboard amenities, including observation lounges, where they could take in the scenic views, socialize with fellow travelers, or enjoy a drink from the bar. Live music and other entertainment were occasionally provided, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Potential Expansion and Operations

Building on the success of its initial Chicago to New Orleans route, PRJ sought to expand its service offerings to other routes. The company explored the potential of operating on historic and scenic routes across the United States, with the aim of attracting both domestic travelers and international tourists.

Some of the additional routes considered included:

- **Chicago to New York**: This route would tap into the vibrant markets of the Midwest and the Northeast, providing a luxurious alternative to the busy air travel corridor.

- **New Orleans to Florida**: Offering access to the Southeastern United States’ popular tourist destinations, this route was envisioned as a conduit to the sun-soaked beaches and attractions of Florida.

- **West Coast Excursions**: Potential routes along the picturesque West Coast, including journeys from Los Angeles to San Francisco and beyond, aimed to capture the beauty of the Pacific Coastline.

Challenges and Decline

Despite the grand vision and enthusiastic reception by passengers, Pullman Rail Journeys faced significant operational challenges. The intricate logistics of running a luxury rail service on tracks primarily owned and operated by freight railroads and Amtrak created operational complexities. Timeliness and scheduling were constant hurdles, as the luxury trains had to navigate a network primarily designed for freight and commuter traffic.

Financial sustainability was another significant challenge. The high costs associated with maintaining and operating vintage railcars, coupled with the niche market for luxury train travel, strained the company’s resources. Moreover, the inherent risks and fluctuating demands for such a specialized service complicated long-term viability.

In addition, the broader financial struggles of Iowa Pacific Holdings affected Pullman Rail Journeys. The parent company faced considerable debt and other financial difficulties, which ultimately began to impact its subsidiaries.

These financial burdens hindered further expansion and investment into the Pullman brand. Ultimately, with debts mounting by the late 2010s, Iowa Pacific filed for bankruptcy in 2021.

Despite its relatively short stint, Pullman Rail Journeys carved out a unique niche in the rail travel industry and left a lasting impression on those who experienced it. The service was a reminder of the grandeur and charm of early American rail travel, capturing the essence of an era when journeys were as important as destinations, and luxury was a key feature of transportation.

The PRJ experience was more than just a train ride—it was an immersion into history, an adventure into nostalgia, and a celebration of a slower, more elegant way to travel.

While financial struggles eventually led to the cessation of its operations, the vision set forth by Ed Ellis continues to inspire a market for luxury rail experience, such as the Rocky Mountaineer , private rail cars, the Grand Canyon Railway, Napa Valley Wine Train, and others.

In hindsight, PRJ reflects the challenges faced by niche markets in the modern transportation landscape - especially passenger rail - where speed and efficiency often overshadow the allure of luxury and leisure. Nonetheless, the operation demonstrated that there remains a longing for the elegance of rail’s golden age among travelers.

Even though Pullman Rail Journeys is no longer in operation, the restored Pullman cars and the experiences they offered serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic rail travel. As rail enthusiasts and historians look back, PRJ is celebrated for its ambitious attempt to revive an iconic piece of American transportation history, giving rail travelers a fleeting, yet unforgettable, glimpse into the past.

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South America Luxury Train Tours 2024

Although less renowned than in Asia and Europe, South America luxury train tours provide a glorious escape from the hectic modern world as you explore Latin America. Our 2024 train tours in South America were meticulously curated to offer total opulent rail journeys and are perfectly positioned to be incorporated into a more comprehensive tour of the region.

Luxury Rail Tours in Peru & South America

Just click on any of the tours listed below to open up or download a PDF file with the tour’s full details including dates and pricing. Note that we offer the Andean Explorer in conjunction with a wider luxury tour in Peru with our sister company – The Latin America Travel Company .

● Please remember that booking as far ahead as you can in advance is essential for these trains ●

12 Nights From UK £ 9,450/ US $ 12,280

Contact us for quotes in other currencies

Lima ● Arequipa ● Belmond Andean Explorer ● Lake Titicaca ● Cusco ● Machu Picchu ● Sacred Valley

18 Nights From UK £ 11,370 / US $ 14,780

Lima ● The Amazon ● Sacred Valley ● Machu Picchu ● Cusco ● Belmond Andean Explorer ● Lake Titicaca ● Arequipa

South American Regional Highlights

The following highlights of this region can be visited on our luxury rail tours and offer world class experiences. Contact us about rail tours we cna tailor in South America.

At an altitude of 2,380 meters this Peruvian city is surrounded by three volcanoes and has a rich mix of Spanish & indigenous culture.

Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and the gateway to the famous sites of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Puno is a picturesque port city at an altitude of over 3,800 metres, on the shores of Lake Titicaca on the Altiplano of Peru.

Experience The Finest Luxury Train Journeys South America Offers

Train trips in South America are nothing new, but now you can travel by train in South America at the height of luxury. Opulence abounds on these train journeys through Latin America, from onboard accommodations, dining experiences, and world-class service provided by the crew onboard the trains. Many people choose to nourish themselves in a South America luxury rail holiday while exploring the region on a wider exploratory tour.

Passengers onboard these luxury trains in South America can saturate their souls while breathing in the fresh, crisp Andean air from one of the train’s open decks. You’ll also be able to revel in menus with the finest seasonal dishes prepared by top-class chefs while taking a train across South America. After enjoying your fine meal, maybe relax by having a treatment at the onboard spa or retire to your luxury cabin for a comfortable night’s rest and prepare for the following day’s activities on your South America luxury train tour.

South America Luxury Train Tour Itineraries That Offer A Unique Perspective

Our South America luxury train holidays offer travellers a truly unique way of experiencing this incredibly beautiful region. While many people opt to fly throughout South America, rail travel in South America allows you to get on the ground and actually experience the incredible landscapes, cultures, and people that other forms of transport just can’t give you. We offer the best train rides in South America that have been designed with total luxury in mind.

These South America train travel itineraries have been curated to provide an unsurpassable Latin American experience. South America train tours with The Luxury Train Travel Company allow you to experience a myriad of magical destinations, from the picturesque port city of Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca to departing from Quinto in Ecuador. If you desire to travel by train in South America, and want to do it in style and luxury, we’d gladly assist in making it happen.

Luxury South America Train Tours Curated By Leading Industry Experts

If you’re considering train travel in South America, there’s no better place to go than The Luxury Train Travel Company. We are industry-leading experts at organising train tours in South America and have a wealth of experience to call upon to offer the greatest itineraries for Latin America rail travel. In South America, travellers have such a monumental choice of destinations and activities, and we curate South America train tours that ensure you don’t miss out.

Regardless of the length of each tour or its destination, these train trips in South America are designed to provide travellers with the ultimate onboard experience. Whether you take a three-hour trip via train across South America or a four-night Andes to the Pacific South America luxury rail holiday that takes in some incredible volcanic views and spectacular rail engineering, you can be confident that you are getting the finest possible tour created by the best in the business.

Luxury Train Travel in South America via Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Chile & Patagonia

We often find that travellers head for Latin America due to the diversity it offers in landscapes, incredible city destinations, history, and intriguing cultures. South America train travel provides a wonderful way of seeing many of the region’s unique gems. A journey on a luxury train in South America will undoubtedly be the journey of a lifetime for many people, and choosing train journeys in South America with the most suitable itineraries is crucial for the overall experience.

You may opt for Bolivia as a destination you want to visit when you travel by train in South America. Bolivia truly is a land of extremes, with spectacular views, high altitudes, and astounding landscapes. Argentina and Brazil are also astonishingly popular for South America train tours. Peru, Chile, and Patagoniaare also very favoured for South America luxury train holidays , and The Luxury Train Travel Company is here to ensure you get the best tour itinerary.

Find the Best Train Journeys in South America with The Luxury Train Travel Company

The Luxury Train Travel Company have been the go-to agency for train travel in South America for many years. Our entire team is passionate about luxury train journeys and the opportunities on offer from such an incredible mode of transport. Because we focus on train travel, we are in the position of being able to offer the best train journeys in South America.

You can choose from a wide variety of luxury trains in South America that will take you to many of the most popular destinations and attractions in Latin America. South America train travel makes a great addition to a tour itinerary or as a full holiday tour in its own right. You can search our luxury South America train tours to find the journey you want or speak to an expert, and we’ll help curate a bespoke itinerary that includes some incredible train trips in South America. Remember to check out the Belmond Andean Explorer offering premium luxury train travel across Peru.

Interested In A South America Luxury Train Holiday in 2024? Speak to Our Experts Today!

The Luxury Train Travel Company has specialised in first-class rail travel for many years and has provided world-class travel itineraries for travellers worldwide. We are passionate about rail travel and train tours in South America. South America luxury train tours are often overshadowed by more famous Asian and European routes. Still, our beautifully curated journeys offer the best train rides in South America, and there’s no better time than now to book your South America train travel for 2024 than now!

If you’re in the early stages of planning a trip on a luxury train in South America, know exactly what you want, or you’re confused by all the choices you have and want to learn more and get some professional guidance, The Luxury Train Travel Company is here to help. The Luxury Train Travel Company can help with any queries concerning luxury train travel in South America and curate your dream trip. Please contact a member of our team who will be happy to chat and arrange a South America luxury train tour for 2024.

THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

South america luxury train tours faqs, can you travel through south america by train.

If you’ve experienced any part of Latin America before, you’ll know just how stunning the countries are that make up this part of the world. With countries such as Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Ecuador, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to immersing yourself in new cultures and exploring some incredible destinations. Train travel in South America is a prevalent choice of transport for seeing Latin America at a slower pace that allows you to enjoy the journey rather than simply moving from point A to point B. You can travel by train in South America on a number of different routes and trains. Luxury train travel in South America is less talked about when compared to well-known routes through Europe and Asia. Still, the best train rides in South America provide travellers with something truly unique, from the opportunity of visiting glaciers and mountains to interacting with the indigenous people and experiencing new cultures and culinary delights that you simply can’t find elsewhere. One of the great things about train travel in South America is the number of route options. You could take a journey on a luxury train in South America with a duration of a couple of hours that is incorporated into a Latin America tour itinerary, or you could sit back and relax onboard one of the train tours in South America that wind its way through the region over the course of several days. Whatever the duration you decide to travel by train in South America, you’ll be creating an unforgettable experience that will instil a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Are there international trains in South America?

There is no longer a coherent international rail network in South America, but you can still choose individual railway networks as a fabulous way to see Latin America. Train travel in South America gives rise to boundless wonderful opportunities for travellers. In particular, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador are spectacular countries to explore on South America luxury train holidays. Brazil is also one of Latin America’s gems and well worth exploring. The country has some captivating rail journeys. Argentina and Chile would also be high on the list of countries to visit using South America train travel as your preferred mode of transport. Patagonia is a magical place to visit during a South America luxury train tour. If you’d like to explore all your options for train travel in South America, we’ve got experts that can help. The Luxury Train Travel Company has many years of experience creating itineraries and travel plans for clients looking for the best train travel experiences. Whether you want to experience a couple of short South America train tours during your trip or go cross-continent utilising luxury train travel in South America, we’ll help you design your ultimate train tour package that ticks all the boxes for you and ensures you get the finest South America train travel vacation.

What is South America’s most luxurious train?

The definition of luxury differs for different people. Still, as highly experienced luxury train experts, the Andean Explorer must be at the top of our list of luxury trains in South America. The train is operated by Belmond and strays away from more traditional interiors with a more contemporary aesthetic. The carriage interiors were completed using light earthy tones, and each carriage was given the name of flora or fauna that can be found along the train route. Passengers on these South America luxury train tours can choose between any of the beautifully appointed cabins. There are 35 cabins onboard, and you can enjoy either bunk beds, or twin, or suite cabins. Guests can enjoy an en suite bathroom with a shower on this luxury train in South America, a wardrobe, a 24/7 call button, a robe and slippers, and air conditioning. While onboard, passengers can relax in the lounge car and then indulge themselves in a genuinely wonderful fine dining experience in one of the train’s two luxury dining cars. Train travel in South America just doesn’t get better than this, which is why it is so popular among new and seasoned travellers. They’ve even taken luxury one step further with their train trips in South America by having the Picaflor Spa car. There surely can’t be a better way to relax during a journey than a spa treatment. They even provide an altitude acclimatisation treatment that helps to alleviate the effects of climate sickness when travelling at altitude. The choice of routes available is incredible, and you’ll be able to travel along one of the highest rail routes in the world, making it one of the best train rides in America, all done onboard the most luxurious and opulent train.

What’s the transcontinental rail route in South America?

An agreement was signed in 2017 for an Atlantic-Pacific railway, and work began in 2019. Due to be completed in 2024, the transcontinental railway will stretch some 3750 kilometres and make for wonderful train journeys in South America. There are two proposed routes that will be available for taking a train across South America. Both routes are expected to end in Santos, Brazil, with the Pacific coast ending in Ilo and Matarani, Peru. Passengers fortunate enough to be able to enjoy rail travel in South America along this route are in for a real treat. If you’re interested in taking a South America luxury rail holiday along the transcontinental railway, contact us here at The Luxury Train Travel Company, and our experts will gladly assist you in booking your dream train travel in South America.

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How one Philadelphia woman turned travel vouchers from American Airlines into an Italian staycation

PHILADELPHIA -- One Philadelphia woman made the most of a lucrative airline hack when she collected thousands of dollars in travel vouchers, all while living a life of luxury in Italy, by agreeing to get bumped from her flights home.

And she chronicled the entire experience on TikTok.

Susan Berry's flight home from Italy was oversold and she says the American Airlines gate agents were offering $1,200 travel vouchers to fly out the next day.

Except the next day's flight was also oversold - and the day after that too.

"When I found out that there was potentially a two week opportunity to do this, that's when I started being, like, cha-ching, cha-ching, cha-ching!" she told Good Morning America.

And she wasn't just stacking travel vouchers. She says American also set her up with a free hotel and her meals were paid for. They even arranged a car service from the airport.

So, again and again, Susan returned to the airport, fully intending not to get on her flight.

"I'm at $3,600 and counting. I'm trying to get up to $10,000 and then travel the world," she says in a TikTok video.

And while you don't have to be as ambitious or outgoing as Susan, experts say flights are oversold a lot and if you have the flexibility, you can make thousands of dollars, plus extras - especially if you negotiate.

"Airlines have a secret menu as well. This can be things like lounge passes or even a business class seat on your replacement flight," said Scott Keyes, founder and chief flight expert at Going.com.

Susan did eventually make it back home to Philadelphia, as her fourth flight finally had enough room for her on board.

"I was just getting started, so I was mentally prepared to stay for two weeks," she said.

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