There is no better time for a new adventure than summertime. As June rolls into July and August, the travel scene begins its annual swell. Bask in the glory of wide-open skies in one of America's national parks, which offer sights unlike any others in the country, from the geysers of Yellowstone to the mountain panoramas of Glacier. Admire the towering sandstone sculptures in Arches National Park, wind-carved hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, towering giant Sequoia trees in Yosemite, and one of the world's great wonders at Grand Canyon. Many itineraries include time in multiple parks, so there is no need to choose just one.
Summer vacations in the U.S. also hold the opportunity to head off the beaten path and into the wilds of Alaska. Aboard the beloved Alaska Railroad, by cruises and by deluxe motorcoach, enjoy a look at the diverse cities and untouched wilderness of America's Last Frontier. From glacier and mountain viewing to bear and whale spotting, these trips are truly memorable.
Look to America's rail system, Amtrak, connecting famous metropolises for a seasonal coast to coast or a regional getaway for even more summer vacation ideas. Or, consider indulging in an adventure aboard America's new luxury rail service, Rocky Mountaineer, on a journey from the Colorado Rockies to Utah's red rocks.
Whether your summer vacation takes you to inspiring national parks or cosmopolitan cities, there are countless summer vacation options when traveling by train.
(264 reviews)
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...
(159 reviews)
The Old West's rugged frontier towns and renowned national historic sites are hallmarks of this 11-day escorted tour. We begin our journey across America's Western frontier by joining modern technology with nostalgic travel methods, riding Amtrak's California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. The route takes us across the Rocky Mountains and...
(416 reviews)Journey through the untamed beauty of Colorado on this 8-day Rocky Mountain expedition. We discover expanses of landscape hidden from modern traffic aboard six scenic railways: Georgetown Loop Railroad Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Royal Gorge Route Railroad...
(289 reviews)Discover five of America's beloved national parks on this rail tour to America's West. Start your tour with a classic overnight rail adventure aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Here, we visit the first national park of the itinerary, Glacier National Park, surrounded by glorious natural spectacles. Moving...
(183 reviews)Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour through Canyon Country. This tour has it all: amazing national parks, classic train journeys, and spectacular sightseeing and excursions. Your adventure begins in Chicago with a classic rail journey aboard the legendary California Zephyr to Grand Junction...
(34 reviews)Travel from Chicago or Seattle aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder and relax in comfort as the glorious scenery passes by. Your Glacier National Park 7-day adventure includes two nights onboard Amtrak's Empire Builder as well as two nights each in Glacier Park Lodge and St. Mary Lodge. This well-planned itinerary lets you enjoy the best of Glacier...
(83 reviews)From mountains to sandstone arches and all the varied terrain between, this week-long journey is a showcase of nature. Admire the craggy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains surrounding Salt Lake City before boarding Canyon Spirit, a train that combines luxury and adventure. Following its brand-new route, travel from Salt Lake City into the...
(52 reviews)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...
Prepare for a 10-day cross-country rail vacation that showcases the best of the USA, from natural beauty to big cities. Start your journey by exploring iconic landmarks on a guided tour of New York. Next, relax aboard the Lake Shore Limited as it whisks you through scenic vistas to Chicago, where you'll delve into the Windy City's architectural...
(51 reviews)This well-planned round-trip itinerary from Chicago includes travel aboard Amtrak's famed Empire Builder, accommodations in historic lodges and visits to breathtaking natural attractions within Glacier National Park, often referred to as the "Switzerland of North America."...
(6 reviews)Set sail on one of Holland America's luxurious cruise ships for a seaside trip from Vancouver, Canada to Skagway, Alaska. Sailing through the Inside Passage takes us to Juneau and Skagway, and from here, the journey continues on land to Whitehorse, Dawson City, Fairbanks and finally, to the crowning jewel of this journey, Denali National Park.
(46 reviews)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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