Whether in America's national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
Some of the world's most intriguing scenery beckons when you choose a North American adventure for your next vacation. From coast to coast, each region brings something new to the table, allowing you to have the trip you have always hoped for without leaving the continent.
Admire the quaint beauty of the East Coast or the rugged scenery of the West Coast, or venture through the vast and long-spanning beauty in between, filled with golden prairies, towering mountain ranges and stunning lakes. Spend time in world-class cities, where cultural immersion and sightseeing go hand-in-hand, or in the wilderness, seeing the continent at its most untamed. Beauty lies at every turn, whether you are connecting stops by rail or embarking on scenic cruises surrounded by epic views. Our top destinations to visit in North America in 2026 include tastes of it all, so come along - your adventure is calling.
Discover the Wonders of the United States
From coast to coast and in every season, the United States shines as a land of opportunities - opportunities to explore, that is. Each of the 50 states brings something new to the table, from the quaint towns of New England to the wild landscapes of Alaska and the spectacular peaks and railways of Colorado. As you create your travel list, take inspiration from:
America's National Parks
Sixty-three distinct parklands, each showcasing a slice of natural grandeur, punctuate the ever-changing landscape of the United States. The vast majority of national parks are found throughout the West, with dramatic scenery paving the way to unbelievable journeys. It is no wonder that national park vacations rank among our top-sellers.
Next year, join us in a memorable exploration of these protected lands. Colorado, with its dramatic Rocky Mountain scenery and central location, makes a fantastic starting point for these adventures, putting multiple national parks at your fingertips. You could explore the Great Parks of the Southwest, including the Grand Canyon, after riding into Grand Junction, CO, on Amtrak's California Zephyr or set out on the Empire Builder for a look at America's Great National Parks from Montana. Each journey is expertly composed to showcase the nation's beauty in memorable ways - the recipe for a fantastic vacation.
Alaska
Often called "America's Last Frontier," Alaska is as cultural as it is wild and stunning in every season. This year-round destination is a juxtaposition of the small towns built on the shoulders of the gold rush and deep wilderness, home to some of North America's most impressive wildlife. These elements are connected by the iconic Alaska Railroad, whose lines are your gateway to Alaska's most awe-inspiring sights.
Uncover Alaska the Greatland in the spring or summer, experiencing traditions like dogsledding and cruising stunning waterways, including Prince William Sound. In the winter months, when the Northern Lights dance overhead during the long hours of night, the snow transforms Alaska into a wonderland of sorts. Pristine white landscapes span as far as the eye can see and seasonal traditions, including ice-sculpting, weave a journey filled with magic. Whenever you choose to travel, Alaska awaits with some of America's most unique offerings.
Fall Foliage
Just as special as the United States' regions are its seasons, specifically, autumn. Each year, as nature's finale approaches, the leaves begin their annual showcase, transforming from blankets of green to a mosaic of gold, rust, scarlet and deep crimson, so dark that it is nearly purple. Our fall foliage tours are highly anticipated every year and sell out fast. To see some of the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026 for fall foliage, book early. The best dates for peak leaf-peeping always sell out fast.
Next year, your autumn explorations could take you to New England on a round-trip journey from Boston, traveling into the colorful White Mountains and along the ever-popular Kancamagus Highway. Alternatively, you could experience New England in a Nutshell from an unmatched perspective, admiring the changing leaves from scenic railways and quiet cruises, or on a week-long Rails & Sails adventure. For an even more in-depth fall foliage exploration, you could explore the Fall Colors of New England, Quebec & Montreal, with unbelievable leaf peeping opportunities on both sides of the border.
Find Your 2026 Adventure in Canada
Just as intriguing as the landscapes of the United States are those of Canada. Hopping across the border gives you even more to explore, with bustling cities meeting wide-open landscapes and towering mountain ranges contrasting rugged coastlines. Choose one destination or get a taste of it all as you consider your options. Next year, discover Canadian wonders in:
The Canadian Rockies
An oasis of glacier-fed lakes, neck-craning peaks and lush forests beckons in Canada's Rocky Mountains. This expansive region is awash with nature's beauty and is so impressive that it is home to numerous national parks and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. From Banff and Jasper National Parks to Athabasca Glacier and Lake Louise, there are fantastic destinations at every turn. It is no wonder that this region ranks among Canada's top destinations for 2026 - and luckily, it couldn't be easier to get there.
Two iconic railways venture between Vancouver and the Rockies, the overnight Canadian, and North America's most luxurious rail option, the daylight-only Rocky Mountaineer. Next year, you could experience the Canadian Rockies & Rocky Mountaineer on an eight-day escorted journey featuring time in both Jasper and Banff - a top summer destination for sightseers, nature lovers and culture seekers alike. Or, you could embark on an independent vacation, joining the Rocky Mountaineer on its scenic route into the Rockies to Lake Louise & Banff. Dramatic scenery leads the way wherever you choose to explore.
Eastern Canada
Let visions of lighthouse-dotted coasts, quaint towns, and history-laden cities set the tone for your 2026 vacation as you explore Eastern Canada. Comprised of French Canada and the Maritimes, this part of the nation is brimming with charm, and our well-planned Canadian vacations put you amidst it all, regardless of the season.
Eastern Canada experiences the beauty of all four seasons, with spring and summer providing plenty of daylight hours and ideal temperatures for soaking up the Highlights of French Canada, discovering cities like Quebec City, a top-trending destination for 2026. Traveling in in the autumn instead puts the vibrant Fall Colors of Eastern Canada on display - a spectacular conclusion to the travel season. Each part of the year has its own features, and our carefully orchestrated tours are designed to highlight them all and allow you to experience the best of Eastern Canada one enticing destination at a time.
Stunning Locales Across Canada
Why focus your trip on one province or part of Canada when you can have a taster's menu of them all on a cross-Canada expedition? These vacations offer a little bit of everything: city excitement, bountiful nature, and, in true Vacations By Rail style, exceptional rail journeys. Find vacation inspiration from West Coast to the East and in all the nooks and crannies along the way, with both independent and escorted tour options that open the door to an unforgettable adventure.
You could embark on a long-haul overland journey, traveling Across Canada by Train from Vancouver in British Columbia to the capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax, to see the distinctions of each province. Or maybe you crave a trans-Canada journey with a smaller footprint? We have those, too, including a Canadian Rail Adventure that takes to the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer before traveling to vibrant Toronto. There is truly no better way to get a comprehensive look at Canada.
While these top destinations shine for their various contributions to the travel scene, fascinating locales beg your discovery throughout both the United States and Canada. Call today to discuss your next journey, and let our expertise lead the way to North America's best corners, where your new favorite vacation memories await.
