6 Train Trips in the USA You Need to Take
Before airplanes could travel from New York City to Los Angeles in 6 hours, there was train travel and some of it was in luxury. Rail cars in the “golden age” of train travel featured luxurious sleeper cabins, opulent dining cars and plush interiors. However, with the advent of buses, cars, and planes, train travel has been on the decline since the 1950s. Recently, there has been a resurgence in bringing back some of the vintage trains to provide one of a kind experiences across the United States. If you want to step back in time, consider these train trips in the USA on one of these popular routes.
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Napa Valley Wine Train
The rail cars that travel the Napa Valley were originally built in 1915 by the Pullman Standard Company. In 1987, Napa Valley Wine Train bought the rail cars and completely restored them. The Wine Train is a three-hour, 36-mile round-trip journey from Downtown Napa to St. Helena and back. They offer multiple packages including “Best of Wine Country in a Day“, and also overnight trips including the “Deluxe Room and Wine Tasting” tour which includes a stay at the River Terrace Inn.
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
One of the most popular train trips in the USA is the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. Begin your journey in Bryson City, NC and travel thru the beautiful countryside of western North Carolina. They offer multiple experiences including a “Peanut’s Easter Beagle Express“, “Uncorked” – a wine experience which includes dinner and wine tasting, and “The Polar Express” train ride which is set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story.
Grand Canyon Railway
A one of a kind, 130 mile round-trip adventure featuring cowboy characters and western musicians who bring the Old West to life aboard fully restored vintage rail cars. Make it a package and stay two or three nights at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel modeled after the century-old train depot that housed the original Fray Marcos Hotel.
Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
The route begins in Alamosa, CO and travels on historic tracks over La Veta Pass. Multiple events are held throughout the year including concert series Mountain Rails Live in the summer months, the popular “Rails and Ales” in June, and scenic Excursion Trains.
View this post on InstagramOne of our favorite engines No. 1100 looks great in Rio Grande livery colors. #RideRioGrande
Chehalis-Centralia Railroad
The 1916 vintage steam locomotive operates in the scenic upper Chehalis River valley, the nine-mile track crosses over several wooden trestles and passes many historic farms. Regular season is May – September with dinner trains running every Saturday and their Murder Mystery Dinner Train running every last Saturday of the month. The railroad also offers Valentine Sweetheart Dinner trains, the Easter “Steam Train Eggspress“, and a Mother’s Day luncheon and dinner train.
Mt. Hood Railroad
The Mt. Hood Railroad is one of the most interesting train trips in the USA because it offers several special events throughout the year. The railroad is a 22 mile train line located 60 miles east of Portland in Hood River, OR in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge scenic area. Special events include the “Western Train Robbery” from May to October, “Murder Mystery Train” from June to August, and “Parkdale Excursions” from May to October.
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