Though the United States isn’t known for its expansive train travel networks, it’s home to dozens of stunning routes.
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When it comes to exploring the US by train, most travelers cobble together routes via an Amtrak Rail Pass or target smaller, in-state routes. And those options are constantly expanding.
Over the last decade, Amtrak has gone above and beyond to curate popular routes and make it easy for travelers to take advantage of them. California, for example, has a fantastic northern corridor option.
But what about pre-booked train trips—ones that savvy companies put together for you?
Welcome to the magic of Railbookers, one of the world’s premier train-booking platforms.
With just a few clicks, you can shop around for routes and programs that suit your interest, from Iceland to New Zealand to India.
Best of all, Railbookers has a list of stellar Black Friday deals.
If you’ve been hesitant about exploring the world via train, shop around for a US-based option. Not only can you dip a toe into the waters of train travel, but you can scoop up some major discounts by purchasing on Black Friday.
I’d start with these US train routes listed below—they’re highly unique. [If you’re on the hunt for European winter wonderlands, start here instead.]
Will you be shopping on Black Friday?
Railbookers is offering hefty deals from November 25 – December 8. Make sure to bookmark the page so you can take advantage. Offers are eligible up to two years in advance.
Coolest US train routes from Railbookers
Best for nature lovers: Grand National Parks with Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park
15 Days & 7 Destinations (Chicago, Salt Lake City, Yellowstone, San Francisco, Yosemite, Seattle, and Glacier National Park)
Want a tour of some of the US’s most popular national parks? Look no further.
What I love about this program is that it starts in Chicago, which means you also get to soak up some of the Great Plains. The Great Plains, though often disparaged as flat and boring, is deceptively stunning, from the badlands to fields of wavering tallgrass.
That being said, the real magic starts when you reach Utah and head north toward Yellowstone.
If you’ve been dreaming of hitting Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park but can’t be bothered with the headache of planning a three-part outdoor trip, book this adventure now.
Best national park range: Americas National Parks
9 Days & 7 Destinations (Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, Moab, Arches & Canyonlands National Park, Salt Lake City, Yellowstone, Salt Lake City)
I’m a big fan of the itinerary listed above—but you only get to experience three national parks. On top of that, they’re pretty similar.
If you want a broader range of parks to explore, then go with this program instead.
You’ll be able to soak up some of the US’s coolest natural wonders as you move from the Rockies to Moab and head up north to Yellowstone.
Most unique option: Alaska Rail and Sail with Denali National Park
16 Days & 5 Destinations (Vancouver, Seward, Anchorage, Denali, Fairbanks)
Maybe a train trip just isn’t enough to woo you. In that case, I suggest this incredible offer that includes a cruise up the Canadian coast from Vancouver to Seward, Alaska.
That broadens the horizons of the trip, letting you experience water travel while soaking up some stunning coastal views. Even so, you also have plenty of time to soak up the greatest wonders of Alaska. That even includes a few legacy and heritage railways, including the famous Denali National Park.
Best cross-country pick: Grand Rail Experience
14 Days & 5 Destinations (Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Washington DC)
Want a grand tour of the United States that takes you from coast to coast? I suggest starting with this roundabout selection.
It’ll take you onto some of Amtrak’s most popular routes, including those on the Pacific Coast and through the southern United States on its Sunset Limited tour. If you’ve spent any time with Amtrak, you know what a stellar bundle that is.
Best northern route pick: Great American – Majestic Landscapes
12 Days & 6 Destinations (New York City, Chicago, Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, San Francisco, Napa Valley)
If you want to blend the cross-country trip with some outdoors adventures, you’ve got options here.
This cross-country route includes stopovers in popular cities, from New York City to San Francisco. But I love the non-urban selections, which include Rocky Mountain National Park and Napa Valley.
To me, that’s a near-perfect blend of city and country.
