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Discover the USA on an independent rail tour

USA Independent Rail Tours

Exploring the USA by rail is a journey through some of the world's most iconic and varied landscapes, from the sun-drenched coasts of California and the vast beauty of America's National Parks to the soulful rhythms of the deep south and the untamed beauty of Alaska. Home to legendary train routes like the Alaska Railroad, the California Zephyr and Amtrak's Empire Builder, these journeys offer unforgettable views and a deeper connection to the places you visit.

Our independent rail vacations let you experience the USA at your own pace, with all the key details taken care of. Whether you're looking to explore a single region or travel cross-country, our curated itineraries and wide range of routes showcase the very best of the United States - tailored to your interests and designed to give you the freedom to explore on your own terms. Browse our Independent tours and start planning your USA vacation today.

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Explore our Top Independent Vacations in the United States

Grand Canyon
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(297 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
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Denali National Park wildlife
Save up to $800
4.5 stars(142 reviews)
Independent
2026Jul
2027MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
$3,095 pp $2,695 pp
View Details
Denver
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
$2,954 pp
View Details
Glacier National Park
4.1 stars(51 reviews)
Independent
2027JunJulAugSep
7 days from
$2,295 pp
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Glacier Parks Lakes and Wildflowers
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
5 days from
$1,495 pp $1,295 pp
View Details
Kenai Fjords National Park
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(56 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
$4,395 pp $3,995 pp
View Details
Golden Gate Bridge
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
10 days from
$2,595 pp $2,295 pp
View Details

Why travel the USA on an independent rail vacation?

Travel at your own pace

With each itinerary thoughtfully designed to suit different travel styles, our tours let you experience the freedom of independent travel across America's most scenic rail routes.

Everything included

With travel, transfers and accommodation included - and no hidden extras - all the essentials are taken care of, so you can simply relax and focus on discovering the beauty of the USA by rail.

Flexible travel dates

Travel when it works for you. With flexible dates available on many of our independent tours, you can choose the timing that fits your plans and enjoy a more personalised way to explore the USA.

42 results matching: Independent Train Tours

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Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(297 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

The classic ambiance of an overnight rail journey meets the splendors of one of America's top natural attractions on this rail vacation to Arizona. Join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its cross-country route from Chicago to Flagstaff, and then board the 120-year-old Grand Canyon Railway on its route to the Grand Canyon. Uncover iconic views and top...

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Save up to $800
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
View Details
Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(53 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOct
Independent

Discover the wonders of Niagara Falls on this 4-day rail adventure. Beginning and ending in New York City, travel aboard Amtrak's Maple Leaf for a full-day journey through upstate New York and into Ontario. Make the most of your two full days in Niagara Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds of the thundering falls and exploring the area's local...

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Save up to $800
4 days from
$795 pp $695 pp
per person
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Denali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlife
Save up to $800
4.5 stars(142 reviews)
Independent
2026Jul
2027MayJunJulAugSep
Independent

Uncover scenic landscapes and quintessential sights of Alaska on this seven-day independent journey featuring the Denali Star. Travel from Anchorage to Talkeetna, where a jetboat takes you along the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, and then embark on a tundra wilderness tour in Denali National Park, with an expert guide revealing the best...

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Save up to $800
7 days from
$3,095 pp $2,695 pp
per person
View Details
California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(54 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
Independent

Before embarking on your 2,300 mile journey to San Francisco, take advantage of your time in Chicago by visiting the city's famed attractions such as the John Hancock Observation Deck, ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or window shop down The Magnificent Mile. The city also offers a rich cultural experience with its several museums and the...

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$895 pp $795 pp
per person
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Glacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and WildflowersGlacier Parks Lakes and Wildflowers
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Your two-night stay is in the heart of the unspoiled natural attractions and stunning beauty Glacier National Park. Wondrous displays of nature, historic lodges, and sightseeing through the forests and valleys of this complex ecosystem are highlights of your stay before returning by train to Chicago.

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,495 pp $1,295 pp
per person
View Details
Sunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National ParkSunny Day At Glacier National Park
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(15 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
Independent

Depart coastal Seattle for the 100+-year-old Glacier National Park aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder. Highlights of your two-day visit include an excursion along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and stunning views from Marias and Logan Passes.

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$1,395 pp $1,195 pp
per person
View Details
Kenai Fjords National ParkKenai Fjords National ParkKenai Fjords National ParkKenai Fjords National ParkKenai Fjords National Park
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(56 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
Independent

There is no place quite like the Alaskan wilderness. This corner of North America is a unique place where culture-filled destinations are carved into landscapes that remain virtually untouched otherwise. Gorgeous scenery marked by glaciers, snowy mountain ranges, fjords, pretty coastlines, and wide-open expanses is always within reach, and the...

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Save up to $800
8 days from
$4,395 pp $3,995 pp
per person
View Details
Yosemite National ParkYosemite National ParkYosemite National ParkYosemite National ParkYosemite National Park
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSepOct
Independent

Follow the lead of the explorers of years past and head west for a grand adventure to the "City by the Bay," San Francisco. This six-day rail vacation shows the contrasts between two American cities and the nature that surrounds them. Spend a day wrapped in the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies while based in Denver, and then board Amtrak's...

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Save up to $800
6 days from
$1,895 pp $1,695 pp
per person
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New Orleans Downtown SkylineNew Orleans Downtown SkylineNew Orleans Downtown SkylineNew Orleans Downtown SkylineNew Orleans Downtown Skyline
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNovDec
Independent

Embrace the Windy City and learn a bit of what makes it unique with an architecture tour on the Chicago River. The following day, travel 1800 miles aboard Amtrak's City of New Orleans to the Big Easy where you can discover the amazing architecture, culture, and cuisine in this vibrant city. Enjoy some folkore and sample the Cajun and Creole...

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Save up to $800
5 days from
$895 pp $795 pp
per person
View Details
Arches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National Park
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 Find inspiration in the in-between aboard Canyon Spirit, America's premier luxury train. Step aboard for a three-day trip that focuses on the journey, putting sightseeing at the forefront of the adventure. Depart from Salt Lake City, and enjoy delicious meals and expert commentary while traveling into the deserts and canyons of Moab. The scenery...

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3 days from
$2,439 pp
per person
View Details
Denver Denver Denver Denver Denver
Independent
2026JulAugSepOctNov
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
Independent

 America's only luxury train, Canyon Spirit, is your chariot for this unforgettable rail adventure. Follow its new route from Salt Lake City, through the deserts of Moab, into the peaks surrounding Glenwood Springs, and finally, to Colorado's dynamic capital city, Denver. Enjoy time to explore Salt Lake City ahead of the journey and daylight-only...

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5 days from
$2,954 pp
per person
View Details
Trestle Bridge, Denali National ParkTrestle Bridge, Denali National ParkTrestle Bridge, Denali National ParkTrestle Bridge, Denali National ParkTrestle Bridge, Denali National Park
4.9 stars(27 reviews)
Independent
2026JulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAug
Independent

By land and by sea, discover a land of untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery. Begin by boarding the elegant Holland America Ship in Vancouver, and sail north, past forests and glaciers. Cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage, and make stops in Alaskan towns like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. Take a thrilling trip along the scenic...

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13 days from
$3,449 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Independent Train Tours tours
Alaska by Land and Sea Featuring 3 nights in Denali
18/Jun
PATRICIA BELLINGER
5 stars
“Everything went smoothly. Ship staff, hotel staff and luggage handling was impressive. All our excursion tour guides were very knowledgeable.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
28/May
LARRY SCHICK
5 stars
“Wonderful experience
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
15/Jun
Anthony B Simmons
4 stars
“All was good and we were the train ride was comfortable the hotel was great but there was a unexpected charge on my card for $48 which I won’t complain about since I forgot to leave a tip the cleaning crew but overall I was satisfied and enjoyed my trip.
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Wilderness Tour
10/Jun
KarenH
4 stars
“There hotel that we were supposed to stay in Denali wasn’t available and we we moved out of the park. Still waiting to see if we’re getting a refund since Princess lodges had a sale going. The Pike hotel in Fairbanks should never have been chosen. Old, dirty, a/c not...
Collected by Trustpilot
Deluxe Alaska Highlights
7/Jun
Pamela Cipriano
4 stars
“The trip was excellent with a few minor issues. Train travel itself was comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable! Some instructions for pick up times and handling of baggage were not clear or absent on the detailed itinerary which led to uncertainty experienced by me as well as fellow travelers on the...
Collected by Trustpilot
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
2/Jun
Paul Crawford
4 stars
“Trip from Williams to the Grand Canyon was very nice.
Collected by Trustpilot
Glacier National Park Escape - Seattle Roundtrip
19 Sep 2025
JILL BAILEY
4 stars
“Way over priced. The service was great on the way. But r he train 2as delayed and it wasn't your fault but the women who served the meals was not nice
Collected by Trustpilot
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