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Step off the tarmac and leave the highway traffic behind. The golden age of rail travel is experiencing a massive modern renaissance right under our noses.
Dealing with airport security and crowded highways has turned vacations into a chore. This leaves travelers desperate for a trip that is actually part of the holiday.
We are bypassing the usual suspects to show you better options. You will uncover the newest routes, hidden heritage lines, and breathtaking canyons you can only see by rail in 2026.
Taking scenic train rides US style offers a stress free way to see the country. Train journeys across America are the perfect cure for travel fatigue.
1. The Amtrak Borealis (Chicago, IL to St. Paul, MN)
Drink a cup of coffee while the gorgeous Mississippi River rolls past your window. The Borealis is the newest success story in the Midwest.
It offers a beautiful contrast between big city energy and small town charm. Paraphrasing recent data from the Minnesota Department of Transportation shows people love this city to city connection.
The Route
The train travels for seven and a half hours through lush landscapes. It achieved massive success in FY25 with over 212,909 riders.
Expert Tip
This route sells out frequently in the summer months. You must book early to secure your spot. These Midwest train journeys are quickly becoming top tier Amtrak vacation routes.
2. Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (Chama, NM to Antonito, CO)
Smell the coal smoke and hear the whistle of an authentic 1920s steam locomotive. This route offers a quiet and remote alternative to crowded tourist traps. You will traverse a 600 foot deep canyon with zero road access.
The Route
This is the longest and highest narrow gauge steam railroad in the country. A narrow gauge railroad simply means the tracks are built closer together to fit through tight mountain passes. It climbs all the way up to 10,015 feet.
Expert Tip
The 2026 season officially kicks off on May 23. Book a parlor car ticket to experience one of the best historic American railroads. These remote tracks offer some of the most unique scenic train rides US travelers can find.
3. The Floridian (Chicago, IL to Miami, FL)
Trade the chilly Midwest winds for the warm tropical breezes of the South. You can do this without ever leaving your seat. The Floridian is a newly combined route for the current era. It joins the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star lines.
The Route
This temporary but highly requested route spans over a thousand miles. It offers sweeping views from the Midwest all the way down to the tropical South.
Expert Tip
Take advantage of the dining car on this long trip. Finding Amtrak vacation routes that cover this much diverse terrain is rare. It ranks high among the most convenient Train journeys across America.
4. Verde Canyon Railroad (Clarkdale, AZ)
Look up at massive 800 foot canyon walls from the comfort of an open air train car. The Verde Canyon Railroad takes you through the stunning red rocks of central Arizona. This area is completely inaccessible by car.
The Route
The train covers a gorgeous 20 mile route. You will see premium wildlife and untouched nature. While the East Coast offers lush valleys, heading to the Southwest provides a completely different color palette.
Expert Tip
Plan your Arizona train journey between January and March. This gives you the best chance to see nesting bald eagles. It is one of the premier scenic train rides US nature lovers can take.
5. The Ethan Allen Express (New York City to Burlington, VT)
Skip the rental car counter and step straight into a walkable downtown area. The Ethan Allen Express glides beautifully through the Hudson River Valley. It drops you right in the center of the action.
The Route
This is a 310 mile trip that takes seven hours and 35 minutes. You travel straight from the bustling city to downtown Burlington.
Expert Tip
Upgrade to Business class for extra legroom and complimentary drinks. You can enjoy one of the most relaxing Amtrak vacation routes available. It proves that Train journeys across America can save you money on rental cars.
6. Mount Washington Cog Railway (Bretton Woods, NH)
If you want to reach the highest peak in the Northeast without breaking a sweat, you need to head to New Hampshire. This railway is a true engineering marvel. It offers panoramic views spanning multiple states on a clear day.
The Route
The train ascends 3.7 miles to a 6,288 foot summit. It features a staggering 37.4% grade. This makes it the steepest climb in the Western Hemisphere. A cog railway uses a toothed wheel to climb very steep hills safely.
Expert Tip
The train is walk up friendly on 2026 weekdays outside of July and August. It remains a crown jewel of historic American railroads. Thrill seekers will love adding this to their list of scenic train rides US attractions.
7. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (Bryson City, NC)
Bring the whole family on a relaxing ride through ancient forests and across sparkling lakes. This mountain ride crosses over Fontana Lake. It takes you through old growth forests located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Route
The train covers 32 miles as it travels deep into the Nantahala Gorge.
Expert Tip
We suggest booking for October 2026 to capture peak fall foliage photography. Pack a jacket because the mountain air gets chilly. North Carolina train trips like this one are top rated scenic train rides US families love.
8. The Adirondack (New York City to Montreal, QC)
Crossing international borders is incredibly simple when you let someone else do the driving. The Adirondack winds through the lush Hudson Valley wine country. It also provides spectacular views of Lake Champlain.
The Route
This full day scenic ride connects two vibrant international cities.
Expert Tip
You must bring a valid passport for the border crossing. Be sure to grab a snack from the cafe car while you watch the water views. It is one of the most unique Amtrak vacation routes. Few Train journeys across America take you out of the country.
9. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango, CO)
Cling to the edge of steep cliff faces on the gold standard of American heritage lines. This train has deep historical roots. Preservation experts praise it for keeping real history alive.
The Route
The train runs 45 miles through the San Juan Mountains. You will experience over 3,000 feet of elevation gain.
Expert Tip
Summer 2026 weekends sell out 8 to 12 weeks in advance. Book an open air gondola ticket so you can take photos without window glare. It is a legendary piece of historic American railroads and one of the finest scenic train rides US visitors can experience.
10. The Downeaster (Boston, MA to Brunswick, ME)
Why fight highway traffic when you could be looking at the ocean? The Downeaster provides the ultimate connection to New England without a car. It stops in charming coastal towns where you can shop and eat fresh lobster.
The Route
The train makes multiple daily round trips. This schedule makes it highly flexible for day trip planners or weekenders.
Expert Tip
Keep your eyes on the east side of the train for the best coastal views. These East Coast train journeys are perfect for quick escapes. It is one of the most popular short distance Amtrak vacation routes.
11. Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Manitou Springs, CO)
Ride straight up into the clouds and see the exact views that inspired “America the Beautiful.” You get an incredible high altitude experience without having to hike all day.
The Route
This is the highest railway in America. It takes passengers up to a breathtaking 14,115 feet.
Expert Tip
Drink plenty of water before you board to help with the altitude changes. It is a massive achievement among historic American railroads. You will not find many scenic train rides US routes that take you this high.
12. Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic (Anchorage to Seward, AK)
Watch massive hanging glaciers pass by your window as you look for wild bears in the forest. This route offers unmatched backcountry wilderness. You also have a great chance to spot beluga whales near the water.
The Route
This is a four hour trip covering 114 miles. The train tracks diverge completely from the highway system right into the Chugach Mountains.
Expert Tip
Book a GoldStar service ticket for access to the glass domed ceilings. These views make it one of the most incredible Train journeys across America. It easily ranks as one of the wildest scenic train rides US tourists can book.
Hi, I’m Bruno. I’ve worked in the aviation industry for over 6 years as a B1.1 Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. This blog is where I share insights on aviation and travel globally.