The 8 Most Expensive Train Trips In The US

You may not be aware, but it is easy to travel in style by rail in the US. Your idea of a great vintage train journey generally involves a posh rail route outside the United States that stops at multiple elaborate and stunning train points along the way. It makes sense considering that many nations outside of the US have a considerably longer history with railroads.

You are not constrained by the continent in terms of grandeur, even if it may not be as effective or accessible as Europe. The US offers a variety of spectacular train excursions, from traveling through the wilderness of Alaska on the Denali Star to discovering the untamed West on the Colorado & Southern Railroad. The cost of train travel in the US may be high, but it is well worth it. 

Rocky Mountaineer

The train hostesses will go above and beyond from the time you get on board to make your experience as pleasant as it is unforgettable. You may enjoy panoramic views from the specially constructed carriages or go a little closer by stepping outside onto the observation area. 

Additionally, guests can choose to eat delectable, regionally-inspired food made with natural tastes. The team is committed to making your aboard experience as memorable as the view outside, from refreshing your wine glass to sharing anecdotes and assisting with special requests.

Visit the sites throughout the day and stay in a hotel at nighttime. You may enjoy the best of both worlds with Rocky Mountaineer: optimum luxury and amazing vistas. We don’t use sleeper cars; instead, we stay in luxurious hotels wherever we go.

The Winter Park Express

Colorado is stunning throughout the year, but its winter splendor makes it more stunning. The Winter Park Express from Amtrak takes you from Denver’s 1914 Beaux-Arts station through majestic, snow-covered Colorado, along the state’s renowned Flatiron Mountains, through the Rocky Mountains, and across the Continental Divide only through the 6-mile-long Moffat Tunnel, to the Winter Park Resort, one of the nation’s top ski resorts. 

Although it is known as the “ski train,” the views are worth the journey even if you don’t intend to ski. Maximum comfort is provided by the double-decker train coaches, and the upper-level Sightseeing Lounge offers the ideal viewpoint to take in the breathtaking vistas.

The Grand Canyon Railway

Take a Grand Canyon Railway Adventure trip to visit one of the country’s most magnificent national parks while traveling in one of the Grand Canyon Railway’s classic carriages. First, Coach, Pullman, Observation Dome, Luxury Dome, and Luxury Parlor are the six service classes available on the train. Featuring bench seats and large windows to let in the fresh air, the Pullman class is reminiscent of trail journeys from 1923.

Enjoy a Wild West gunfight performance at an outside theater in Williams before setting out on your tour. Enjoy the Grand Canyon’s stunning vistas while listening to Western music and seeing cowboys and railroad characters perform reenactments throughout the full-day round journey. To get to the famous park, go through forested mountains, vast meadows, and the San Francisco peaks.

Napa Valley Wine Train

From murder mystery dinners to delectable wine tastings, the Napa Valley Wine Train always has something to write home about. The classic Pullman train carriages of the Napa Valley Wine Train have been meticulously refurbished with Honduran mahogany woodwork, brass embellishments, stained glass dividers, and plush armchairs that recreate the opulence of early 20th-century rail travel. 

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a captivating and unforgettable experience that harkens back to the heyday of train travel, complete with fine dining service, gourmet food, top-notch wines, and of course the unrivaled scenic views of Napa Valley. It is one of the few operating legendary passenger railroads in the United States. 

Autumn in New England

One of the most traditional US rail rides you’ll find anywhere in this eight-day tour across New England. And it’s unquestionably superior to any leaf-peeping plan you may try to put up on your own. The journey, which begins in Boston, initially takes visitors to North Conway, where they’ll ride the Conway Scenic Railroad. 

Next up is the Cog Railway on Mount Washington, accompanied by the Burlington to Brattleboro Vermonter train on Amtrak. Visitors will encounter some of the most beautiful foliage hues they have ever seen at every stage of the journey. In case you grow tired of seeing leaves, the tour also includes stops at Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, Boston’s iconic Freedom Trail, and a peek inside a grand home in Newport, Rhode Island.

Alaska Railroad

The 470 miles of rail that connect Seward and Fairbanks make up the Alaska Railroad, which offers picturesque trips across the state. For a more opulent experience, reserve the GoldStar Service; it is available on the Denali Star train, which runs a 12-hour route between Anchorage and Fairbanks, as well as the Coastal Classic Train, which runs a route between Anchorage and Seward. Passengers may enjoy dinners in the dining car, entry to an outdoor observation deck, comfortable seating in a domed car, and a private bar as part of the service.

Strasburg Railroad

The Strasburg Railroad in Pennsylvania offers brief rides, with each trip lasting approximately 45 minutes. But the railroad itself has a lengthy background. Since its founding in 1832, it has been running continuously, making it the oldest railroad in the nation. 

Book one of the vintage first-class vehicles for a posh little joyride, such as the private rental President’s Car, the Parlor Car with tables and sofas, or one of the two Lounge Cars with silky captain’s seats. Snacks and drinks are offered on each ride, but on Friday and Saturday evenings, there is a decadent wine and cheese event for adults.

Amtrak Coast Starlight

On the storied Amtrak Coast Starlight, tour western cities while riding along the breathtaking Pacific coastline. You may travel 36 hours by way of the Starlight, which has Superliner accommodation, sightseer relaxing, and eating cars. The route makes connections in Portland, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Santa Barbara, traveling by Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, Puget Sound, and stunning coastline bluffs. 

Bi-level coach accommodations aboard the railway include spaciousness, foot, and leg rests, and drapes. For the greatest views, stay on the west side of the top level. For benefits like priority boarding, gourmet food, and turndown service, switch to a private room. Every private room includes onboard meals. Family rooms are available, each sleeping up to four people and with private restrooms and shower facilities.

What Makes a Train Ride Luxurious?

Think about a luxury hotel that is mobile. Attendants are on duty around-the-clock to help you with everything you need, and the cuisine is fresh on board using only the finest ingredients. Open bar automobiles where no cocktail is too much hassle. In the distance, a pianist is playing the piano. 

Elegant interior design in each carriage. The best materials are used for your bedding and for each chair. While this isn’t how every luxury train ride is, it’s what we expect when we step on board. 

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The photo featured at the top of this post is © Loco Steve / CC BY-SA 2.0 – License / Original