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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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.
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.
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.
(307 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...
(61 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...
(58 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...
(169 reviews)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...
(33 reviews)By land and by sea, discover a land of untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery in Alaska. Begin by boarding the elegant Holland America Ship in Vancouver, sailing north to reveal forested shores, glaciers and the quintessential towns of Alaska's Inside Passage. Uncover the charms of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, and then disembark in...
(20 reviews)By day and night, immerse yourself in the wonders of an Alaskan winter. With its far-north location, this state is one of the best places in North America to see the Aurora Borealis, and this journey features plenty of opportunities to do just that. Venture into the state's remote interior aboard the Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter Train,...
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...
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...
(22 reviews)Experience the Northern Lights like never before on this independent trip into Alaska's backcountry to Borealis Basecamp. Set just outside of Fairbanks, this unique hotel immerses you in the spirit of Alaska with fantastic excursions, including dog sledding, and presents the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of private fiberglass igloos. ...
(61 reviews)Embark on an 11-day tour featuring some of Alaska's most revered railroads. Discover the natural beauty of Prince William Sound during a cruise, and travel aboard the Glacier Discovery train from Whittier to Anchorage before marveling at scenic Turnagain Arm as the Coastal Classic takes you to Seward, gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. ...
(18 reviews)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...
(28 reviews)Beginning in Los Angeles, board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for the overnight journey to Flagstaff, Arizona, where you will catch the historic Grand Canyon Railway for the ride to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 4-day rail vacation includes travel aboard two iconic trains, hotel accommodations in Flagstaff and Grand Canyon National Park,...
May 22, 2026 · By Ian Holt
Aboard Canyon Spirit’s new three-day route from Salt Lake City to Denver, Great Rail Journeys writer Ian discovers the Southwest’s beauty in relaxed luxury.
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Aug 13, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
If your idea of a memorable trip includes nature’s beauty and majestic wildlife, look no further than Alaska, where wild adventures are easily accessible.
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May 15, 2025 · By Great Rail Journeys
From the remote expanses of wild Alaska to the stunning islands and fjords of Scandinavia, here are our top destinations for Northern Lights tours in 2026.
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Dec 27, 2023 · By Great Rail Journeys
Ah, Alaska! A land where summer unfolds like a fairy tale, where the sun stretches across the sky, refusing to set, painting landscapes so diverse they seem otherworldly. Here, history whispers tales of resilient cultures against a backdrop of nature's most dramatic scenes. In Alaska, summer is more than a season; it's a grand adventure under endless daylight.
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