1-877-929-7245
Tour Search



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.

Order brochure

Call to Book:  1-877-929-7245
Plane IconCall and ask for an exclusive flight quote to pair with your vacation.

Explore our Top Independent Vacations in the United States

Grand Canyon
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(293 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
2027JanFebMarAprMay...
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
View Details
Denali National Park wildlife
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(137 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
View Details
Denver
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOctNov
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
View Details
Glacier Parks Lakes and Wildflowers
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
2027JunJulAugSep
5 days from
$1,595 pp
View Details
Kenai Fjords National Park
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(55 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
$4,395 pp $3,995 pp
View Details
Golden Gate Bridge
Save up to $800
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
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.

43 results matching: Independent Train Tours

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Grand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand CanyonGrand Canyon
Save up to $800
4.2 stars(293 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
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...

View map

Save up to $800
6 days from
$1,195 pp $995 pp
per person
View Details
Denali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlifeDenali National Park wildlife
Save up to $800
4.6 stars(137 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
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...

View map

Save up to $800
7 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
per person
View Details
Niagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara FallsNiagara Falls
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
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...

View map

Save up to $800
4 days from
$795 pp $695 pp
per person
View Details
California ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia ZephyrCalifornia Zephyr
Save up to $800
3.9 stars(52 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
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...

View map

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

View map

5 days from
$1,595 pp
per person
View Details
Empire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and SeattleEmpire Builder Between Chicago and Seattle
Save up to $800
4.1 stars(34 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct...
Independent

If it is the experience of a lifetime you seek, look no further than a scenic tour through the country aboard the legendary tracks of the Empire Builder. Totaling over 2,200 miles in length, this journey shows us glimpses of seven of the northern-most states and the beautiful Pacific Coast. The expedition begins in the heart of the Midwest -...

View map

Save up to $800
5 days from
$895 pp $795 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(55 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
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...

View map

Save up to $800
8 days from
$4,395 pp $3,995 pp
per person
View Details
Arches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National ParkArches National Park
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOctNov
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...

View map

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

View map

5 days from
$2,954 pp
per person
View Details
Cruising Alaska's Inside PassageCruising Alaska's Inside PassageCruising Alaska's Inside PassageCruising Alaska's Inside PassageCruising Alaska's Inside Passage
4.3 stars(8 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSep
Independent

The Empire Builder travels the legendary 2,206-mile route from Chicago, across the northern United States west to Seattle, the Gateway to Alaska. But this picturesque rail journey is only the start of this unforgettable 11-day vacation. Upon arrival in Seattle, transfer on your own to your hotel and enjoy the highlights of Seattle. Then board your...

View map

11 days from
$3,395 pp
per person
View Details
Dining Hut under the StarsDining Hut under the StarsDining Hut under the StarsDining Hut under the StarsDining Hut under the Stars
Save up to $800
4.7 stars(22 reviews)
Independent
2026AugSepOctNovDec
2027JanFebMarApr
Independent

Forget everything you have heard about northern lights viewing and come along for this independent adventure into Alaska's backcountry to Borealis Basecamp. Set just 25 miles outside of Fairbanks, this unique hotel offers an aurora borealis experience like no other. Watch hues of red, green and purple undulate across the night sky from your cozy,...

View map

Save up to $800
8 days from
$2,795 pp $2,495 pp
per person
View Details
Yosemite Valley View SunsetYosemite Valley View SunsetYosemite Valley View SunsetYosemite Valley View SunsetYosemite Valley View Sunset
Save up to $800
4.4 stars(17 reviews)
Independent
2026JunJulAugSepOct
Independent

The only thing more appealing than a train vacation through the Rocky and Sierra Mountains is one that includes a visit to the waterfalls and Giant Sequoia groves of Yosemite National Park. Your great western rail adventure begins in Chicago with a two-night stay in this Midwest metropolis, providing ample time to explore the highlights such as...

View map

Save up to $800
8 days from
$2,295 pp $1,995 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Independent Train Tours tours
Grand Canyon Railway Rails to the Rim Adventure
26/May
GLORIA HALL
5 stars
“This was a bucket list trip and it was AMAZING! We traveled as independent travelers but EVERYTHING was perfectly planned for us. As Senior-agers, and my husband using a canes, we enjoyed every aspect of the trip! The train was an adventure, even sleeping in a comfortable reclining train seat!...
Collected by Trustpilot
New York to Niagara Falls
03 Nov 2025
Yu-Lein Kung
5 stars
“This is our very 1st vacation by rail and it was above our expectations.
Collected by Trustpilot
Empire Builder Experience - Chicago to Seattle
16 Oct 2025
Mae Corwin
5 stars
“Wow! Loved our trip on the Empire Builder and will definitely do another trip with vacations by rail.
Collected by Trustpilot
Alaska Wilderness Tour
26 Sep 2025
JERI L GILBERT
5 stars
“I have never had a better time on a trip. Most everything went perfectly. I did have one luggage problem and was unable to do the excursion in Fairbanks due to misinformation from the desk clerk. ?? but everyone and everything else was amazing.
Collected by Trustpilot
Empire Builder with Alaska Cruise
23 Jun 2025
DEBRA CRAWFORD
5 stars
“Our first experience on Amtrak and it was wonderful. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. The food was delicious. Loved our sleeping quarters. we also met so many fun couples on our three day trip.
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr Experience
15/May
AMELIA FRENCH
4 stars
“There is too much forced socialization on this train.
Collected by Trustpilot
Northern Lights at Borealis Basecamp
1/Feb
Rick
4 stars
“igloo experience was excellent. evening dining options were mixed bag, expensive and bar charges disconnected from ability to charge to room which required excessive tipping.
Collected by Trustpilot
Deluxe Alaska Highlights
27 Sep 2025
JONATHON CHARLES SEIBERT
4 stars
“Really enjoyed our vacation. Saw wonderful sights and locations. Was disappointed by accommodations in Denali Park. Girdwood was lovely. Disappointed by Anchorage Hiltons lack of shuttle buses, which was one of the selling points of staying at the Hilton. Even though it was close to the train station, it was...
Collected by Trustpilot
California Zephyr with Yosemite National Park - Chicago to San Francisco
18 Sep 2025
ETHEL ALFREDA WALKER
4 stars
“Overall, trip was great experience as first time. Problems with staffing caused delay in getting service first night for our bedroom. Staff were friendly in general and responsive to requests. Had a problem with rattling of bathroom door and faucet that caused sleep disturbances.
Collected by Trustpilot
Latest Expert Advice & Inspiration