Top 4 Train Vacation Packages to Explore
The country’s landscape is breathtaking, with 10 million square km of mountain ranges, states covered in snow and arid deserts, and beautiful lakes. It’s challenging to explore its diversity, which is why taking a train is the best option. While flying or driving may be more convenient, choosing an all-inclusive or sleeper train package can be more relaxing. They offer a leisurely sightseeing experience as one passes through the pristine landscapes, often inaccessible by other modes of transportation.
The Vermonter
Duration : 13 hours
Route: Washington D.C. to St. Albans, Vermont
This train vacation package offers a layover in Wallingford, Vermont. During this stop, one can visit Stowe. This train travels through nine states and passes through some of the country’s largest cities. Along the way, one can see rugged mountains and lush farming valleys.
This is one of the best train vacation packages that connects Washington, D.C., with a Vermont village up to the Canadian border. The stops include New York City and Philadelphia, where one can begin exploring the cities amidst towering skyscrapers. However, as one passes New York City, one will witness the estuary of Long Island Sound and encounter an occasional lighthouse, tall seagrass, and the islands. Next, the train travels through the Hudson River Valley, where one can see the vineyards and the hills. As one enters New England, one can explore the landscape, a potpourri of dense hardwood forests, quaint villages, and lush Green Mountains in Vermont. The final destination is St. Albans, near the Canadian border and Lake Champlain. However, one can end the journey as per one’s preference.
During this journey, one can halt at the Waterbury-Stowe station, which is close to Waterbury, a great place to spend the night. Stowe, home to a ski resort, is only 10 miles away and easily accessible by bike or bus. So, if one travels during winter, carry ski equipment. However, summer travelers can carry a bike. Additionally, a five-mile-long Stowe Recreation Path connects different trail systems. It’s over 50 miles on a single track from the town.
Unfortunately, those looking for sleeper train vacation packages may not find any options as the train does not travel overnight. One can select a coach starting from $81 or book a business class ticket that costs $253. The latter offers free beverages and spacious legroom. At the Amtrak Café, one can relish breakfast comprising snacks, salads, burgers, and sandwiches.
The Sunset Limited
Duration: 2 days
Route: New Orleans – San Antonio – Tucson – Phoenix – Los Angeles
This is a popular train vacation package that takes one from coast to coast, starting from New Orleans and ending at the Pacific Ocean. For those who prefer not spending two weeks on the road , but enjoy the idea of a train ride, this train vacation package is the perfect option.
As part of this journey, one can witness America’s landscape, from Louisiana’s bayous to the skyscrapers in Houston, the deserts of Arizona and Texas, and the hills of California before ending the journey at the golden beaches in LA. In all, the tour is exciting, and the fares range between $19 and $137.
Northern Rail Experience
Duration: 9 days
Route: Chicago – Seattle – San Francisco – Muir Woods – Chicago
This is a nine-day all-inclusive train package that takes one through four different cities – Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco, and Muir Woods. During the trip, one experiences a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour and witnesses the magnificent views of the Pacific Coast and the Great Plains. Further, this train journey allows one to enjoy three nights of hotel accommodations while the remaining five nights are spent in private rooms on the Amtrak train. Additionally, one meal is also included. The price for this package starts at around $2349 per person. For more details, one can check the official website.
Rocky Mountaineer
Duration : 2 days with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs
Route: Denver to Moab
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious train service that was originally used to traverse scenic routes through the Canadian Rockies. In recent years, the service has expanded to include trips across the country .
Upon booking this luxury train tour package, one will embark on a two-day journey from Denver to Moab along the Colorado River. Along the way, one will pass through roadless, remote canyons and enjoy breathtaking views of the 25-mile-long Ruby Canyon nestles on the Utah-Colorado border. As the train cuts through the Continental Divide, passengers can experience the lights flickering in the Moffat Tunnel, creating an unforgettable sight for many. While one won’t have a sleeper car on the train, one will stay in a two-to-three-star hotel that lies within walking distance from the Glenwood Springs station. While on board, one can relish a three-course lunch and breakfast daily.
Besides these train vacation packages, there are many more all-inclusive and sleeper train options that meet specific needs. It is important to book the train travel in advance during peak holidays and festive days to avoid disappointment. Also, don’t forget to check offers and deals on these packages to save some money.