(110 reviews)
(477 reviews)
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(113 reviews)
(67 reviews)
The United States, with its diverse landscapes and distinctive cities, poses a unique challenge that we relish: creating a journey that encapsulates the adventurous American spirit. From the charming seaside towns of New England to Big Sky country in Montana, the colorful deserts of Arizona and the untamed expanses of Alaska, each part of the nation sets a picturesque backdrop, making it easy to see why the United States is the perfect destination for train vacations. Our comprehensive tours offer multiple ways to experience this vast country, including aboard Amtrak trains.
Enjoy train routes into the West or the South, traveling cross-country to discover the best the U.S.A. has to offer. As you arrive in your chosen region, delve into its nuances while exploring bustling metropolises, expansive national parks and acclaimed historic attractions. Set out on tours with expert guides and enhance your journey with scenic trains, such as the Grand Canyon Railway or Colorado's Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. With nearly 100 U.S. vacations, you are sure to find the ideal itinerary to bring America to life.
Independent tours:
Enjoy seamless travel without a Tour Manager, following a flexible itinerary and enjoying hand-picked excursions and guided tours. With travel, transfers and accommodations included, you can explore at your own pace, and you have the option to personalize your journey with various add-ons and flexible dates.
Escorted tours:
Explore the world with a group of like-minded travelers and an expert Tour Manager. Immerse yourself in the culture, history and natural beauty of your chosen destination with our hand-picked excursions and guided tours. We take care of the travel, accommodations and group meals, so you can relax and enjoy your perfect vacation.
Vacations By Rail is now Great Rail Journeys. We continue to
offer the same trusted vacations, and expert customer support
you've come to expect.
Join thousands of travelers who have trusted us to plan
unforgettable vacations by rail around the world.
(113 reviews)Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...
(305 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...
On this new itinerary for 2026, experience scenic railways on an unforgettable tour of New England in the Fall. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this autumn tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Boston with time to explore its history and culture, then journey by boat to fascinating Salem. ...
(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...
(131 reviews)Bask in hues of gold, russet and crimson on this escorted tour of New England, visiting leaf-peeping hotspots across three of its beautiful states. Visit significant landmarks of American history on a guided tour of Boston, before traveling through the famous foliage of Kancamagus Highway. Admire the atmospheric White Mountains in North Conway...
The sites of yesteryear, iconic towns and delightful fall scenery set the backdrop for this New England adventure. Following an itinerary through Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, this journey presents some of the nation's best autumnal foliage in unforgettable settings. Explore by rail on the Conway Scenic...
(477 reviews)From soaring peaks to deep gorges and iconic sites, including the Garden of the Gods, relish untamed Colorado on this remarkable rail vacation featuring six heritage trains. Delve into the Colorado Rockies' mining history on the Georgetown Loop Railroad and the Leadville Railroad, and skirt the San Juan Mountains on the Durango & Silverton...
(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...
(181 reviews)Spend ten days marveling at the distinctions of autumn in New England and Eastern Canada, discovering how the changing leaves are as unique as the destinations themselves. Soak up Boston's history before traveling to New Hampshire to ride the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad and viewing the colors from Vermont's Stowe Gondola Skyride. We continue to...
(153 reviews)Nine unforgettable days showcase the Last Frontier's wild beauty on this expertly guided vacation. Uncover Fairbanks on a riverboat trip and meet sledding dogs, then ride Alaska Railroad's legendary Denali Star. Marvel at North America's tallest mountain and its incredible wildlife in Denali National Park and Talkeetna, before continuing...
(166 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...
(217 reviews)Discover five beloved national parks on this 13-day escorted tour through the West. Start with a classic overnight rail journey aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Experience a float trip down a winding river, drive through Glacier National Park on an open-top Red Jammer bus and cruise across a sparkling...
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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Oct 20, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
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Oct 14, 2025 · By Rob Payne
Experience New England’s colorful fall foliage with our great range of escorted tours, exploring the White Mountains, Cape Cod and Maine.
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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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