The 20 Most Gorgeous Scenic Train Rides You Can Take in America

Cars are king these days, but there's something to be said about scenic train rides in America. Riding through beautiful landscapes in an old-fashioned train car, you'll see some of the most amazing sights without lifting a finger—except, perhaps, to lift your drink. Skip the traffic and cruise through valleys, mountains, and fields of this nation one a dreamy railroad adventure.

Whether you're hoping for a romantic ride with your significant other, an adventurous mountainside track to your next hiking mission, or a relaxing ride through scenic nature, these epic train rides in the U.S. are sure to please. The best way to see the natural wonders in our great country is by train—and the following 20 rides will prove just that. Avid travelers, book your trips now: train rides are the ultimate mode of transportation.

Short Scenic Train Tours Across America

If you don't have time for a days-long journey, these short, scenic train tours across America are perfect for a quick trip. Pack up a few essentials, bring your family and friends along, and enjoy the winding rides through some of the country's most stunning sights.

1. Arcade and Attica Railroad, New York

• Location: Arcade and North Java, New York
• Known For: This short-line scenic ride aboard a WWII-era diesel train travels between Arcade and North Java.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Lakefront Home on Java Lake in Arcade, NY
• Best Time to Ride: Summer and Fall

The scenic Arcade & Attica Railroad will take you across 15 miles of breathtaking terrain in western New York. It passes through historic and beautiful areas near Buffalo and is positively amazing during the fall. It runs from Memorial Day through October, usually, and also offers festive holiday rides during the winter. The railroad station is just an hour away from Buffalo, and runs through the peaceful countryside of New York.

Rides last around two hours and 20 minutes and typically take place on the weekends. It begins at the Arcade Station and runs to Currier Station and back. The midway stop is the perfect place for a photo op and to explore the rural scenery. They even run themed rides like Princess Rides, Family Magic Express, and Wine on the Rails. Book your ride here.

2. Tuckasegee River Excursion, North Carolina

• Location: Bryson City, North Carolina
• Known For: This 32-mile round-trip scenic train ride through North Carolina's countryside travels between Bryson City and Dillsboro.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Great Smoky Mountain Tiny House Cabin "Cedar Heights"
• Best Time of Year to Ride: Spring and Summer

The Tuckasegee River Excursion is only one of the numerous routes offered by this railroad, but we think it's the best. Hop on at Bryson City and roll for 4.5 hours, soaking up the gorgeous countryside of North Carolina. You'll pass through the Cowee Tunnel and alongside "The Fugitive" movie set. An hour's excursion in Dillsboro will let you refuel and stretch your legs before you head back. You can shop from the local stores, enjoy a meal at the restaurants, or grabbing a drink at the brewery.

This ride is part of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Western North Carolina. You can book First Class and receive a First Class Menu of excellent dining options. Or you can order lunch with a crown, coach, and gondola tickets. Prices start around $68 per adult and range depending on the tier of service you prefer. Book your tickets here.

3. White Pass Summit Excursion, Alaska

• Location: Skagway, Alaska
• Known For: Take a vintage passenger train through gorges, past glaciers, and even Dead Horse Gulch. You'll also see the original Klondike Trail of '98.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Forget Me Not Cabin @ The Swaying Spruce
• The Best Time to Ride: Summer

The White Pass & Yukon Route Excursion through Skagway, Alaska, will leave you awestruck. This train ride cruises up to 3,000 feet in elevation while passing glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and iconic natural landmarks like Bridal Veil Falls and Dead Horse Gulch. You'll want to bring your camera for this 40-mile round-trip ride—there are plenty of photo opportunities as you immerse yourself in picturesque views.

This entire Alaska train ride takes almost three hours to complete, round-trip. Rides run from April to October, take place in the afternoons, and come with experienced guides on each run to help you learn more about the local wildlife, scenery, and history of the route. Book your seats early to secure a spot—this ride is super popular and fills up fast!

4. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train, Kentucky

• Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
• Known For: Take a lunch or dinner train excursion aboard a vintage train. Enjoy a gourmet dinner as the train treks through Kentucky's countryside.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Historic Adam Anthony House, circa 1800!
• The Best Time to Ride: Summer or Fall

My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is an old-fashioned way to see the splendor of the Bluegrass state. The Bardstown-based railroad began in 1988 with its 1940s renovated railcars and serves as a way for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the natural beauty of Kentucky. This 35-mile round-trip adventure takes you through some of the most stunning fall foliage in central Kentucky. Each ride is about two hours long, boasting a delicious lunch and dinner menu fit for royalty.

We highly recommend taking the Bourbon Excursion for $149 per person, where you'll be treated to a four-course gourmet meal and Bourbon tasting hosted by an expert. For something more affordable, book the lunch or dinner excursion and hit up the depot bar for a post-meal drink. Arrive one hour before your departure time and wear your Sunday best.

5. Cass Scenic Railroad, West Virginia

• Location: Cass, West Virginia
• Known For: The 11-mile journey aboard the Cass Scenic Railroad is one of the best scenic train trips you can take. And it's all aboard a steam locomotive that will take you back in time!
• Where to Stay Nearby: Snowshoe Log Cabin - Dancing Star
• The Best Time to Ride: Any time

The Cass Scenic Railroad in Cass, West Virginia, is one of the most picturesque train routes in the country. The 11-mile heritage railroad is located within its own national park of the name name, and features a faux 1800s-style town complete with a running general store for visitors to purchase food and souvenirs.

Passengers of this unique historic railroad will be ferried across the wilderness of West Virginia in an old-fashioned steam engine train, taking in the sights between Whittaker Station and Bald Knob during this 4.5-hour trip. While the majority of the trip is rather lush, it begins to give way to rocky peaks as it reaches 4,700 feet in elevation. Book your tickets through the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad website.

Overnight Scenic Train Rides

If a few-hour train ride is simply not enough, book an overnight ride through some of the country's most unique terrain. From the Coast Starlight in California along the sparkling Pacific Ocean to the Empire Builder that zips from Chicago to Seattle, here are some of our favorite overnight train rides to book for your next vacation. They'll soon become your favorite scenic seasonal train rides.

6. Coast Starlight, California

• Location: Los Angeles, California and Seattle, Washington
• Known For: Take a 35-hour train ride between LA and Seattle in your very own first-class train car. The Coast Starlight is one overnight train adventure you won't soon forget!
• Where to Stay Nearby: The Gold Suite in Bellevue, Washington
• The Best Time to Ride: Anytime

Amtrak's Coast Starlight is definitely a lengthy ride, but it's surprisingly affordable. This train ride starts in Los Angeles, California, and breezes by amazing landmarks like Mount Shasta, San Francisco Bay, and Washington landmarks like the Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, the Puget Sound, and of course, stunning cliffs along the Pacific Coast Highway the whole trip north.

Choose from comfortable first-class or coach rooms, complete with plush seats and spacious storage. We recommend booking a Superliner Roomette for the one-night ride. It's just enough for a quick solo adventure. Rates vary depending on travel dates and the accommodations you book, but typically range from $64 to $900 (for luxury private rooms). You'll also get tasty meals on board!

7. Empire Builder, Chicago

• Location: Chicago, Illinois and Seattle, Washington
• Known For: The Empire Builder will take you on a magnificent 46-hour journey between Chicago and Seattle. Of course, you can choose a shorter trek along the route, but why do that when you can do the whole thing?
• Where to Stay Nearby: Charming 3-BR House in Logan Square
• The Best Time to Ride: Anytime

With a name like Empire Builder, expectations are high for this train to deliver a monumentally great experience. The good news: it doesn't disappoint. You'll be taken across the Great Plains on pretty much the same route that Lewis and Clark took across the West. You'll get to see Glacier National Park, the Cascade Mountains, Whitefish, and countless other scenic spots until you reach Seattle. It's fantastic during summer when sunny skies abound, or during fall, so you can see the foliage across each state.

At 2,206 miles and 46 hours total ride time, this trip clocks in as the longest on the list. The best part of this luxury overnight train has to be the glass-domed observation lounge, which provides a view like no other. Insider tip: Download your music and audiobooks ahead of time, and bring physical reading material, as cell service can be spotty.

This is one of your best options for scenic Amtrak routes and luxury train travel in the U.S. Rates vary depending on the accommodations and time of year you book.

8. Southwest Chief, Chicago

• Location: Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California
• Known For: Sleeping aboard an Amtrak train that travels through eight states. See the country as you've never seen it before on this memorable trip on the Southwest Chief.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Luxury Top Floor DTLA Condo w/Pool in Los Angeles
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring and fall

Amtrak's Southwest Chief train ride will take you through the desert landscapes of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Flagstaff, Arizona, as well as the sweeping plains of Kansas City. The overnight journey begins at Amtrak's station in Chicago, Illinois, takes about 40+ hours, and covers eight states and 2,265 miles total—meaning you're guaranteed to see a diverse scenery outside your window.

Gaze upon jagged mountaintops, rolling green valleys, wildflower fields, and deserts during spring and summer. Or travel in winter to see a light dusting of snow at each city. You'll even zip through canyon passages and over the Mississippi River! It's an epic journey for families or solo travelers hoping to witness a variety of landscapes across the U.S. Rates vary depending on your accommodations.

The Best Luxury Train Travel Across the U.S.

Looking for an upscale experience? Travel in style on these luxury train rides across the U.S., which offer only the best meals, lodging, and accommodations for guests. Sure, these routes might be a little more pricey, but they're worth it, especially if you're traveling with your special someone on a romantic getaway. Here are our favorite fancy train rides.

9. Alaska Railroad, Alaska

• Location: Fairbanks and Seward, Alaska
• Known For: Travel between Fairbanks and Seward while seeing some of the best scenery Alaska has to offer.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Chenna Cabin in Fairbanks
• The Best Time to Ride: Winter or spring

See the Last Frontier in style with a ride on the Alaska Railroad. This historic railroad has been ferrying passengers across the wild and dazzling Alaskan terrain since 1914. While you can book a ride any time of year, we highly recommend braving the cold to ride during winter. The Aurora Winter Train and Hurricane Turn Train take you through Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Hurricane Gulch.

If you select GoldStar Service, you can access luxurious amenities like an outdoor upper-level viewing platform, full-service dining, complimentary cocktails at the private bar, comfortable forward-facing seats, and an Alaskan tour guide. Ride in style as you spot sparkling ice, snow-covered mountains, and amazing sunsets. Request a brochure online to learn more about fares and on-board services.

10. Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, Arizona

• Location: Williams, Arizona
• Known For: Ride a classic restored train with the Grand Canyon Railway. Choose one of six classes of service and travel through the ever-changing landscape that Arizona is known for.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Charming Golf Course Cabin in the Pines
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring or fall

Get an up-close view of the majestic Grand Canyon on the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona. Skip traffic and ride in a comfortable air-conditioned train car through the unique red rock formations and terrain of the desert. This ride covers about 130 miles round-trip and takes passengers directly to the Grand Canyon's South Rim, an ideal viewing point, and stops at the Historic Village, where you can purchase souvenirs. Total ride time is about 2.5 hours each way.

If you don't want to book an Airbnb, stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel—a AAA three-diamond hotel right along the historic Route 66. You'll have direct access to the railway, plus upscale dining options, a pool, and a hot tub to relax after a long day of exploring. It's the perfect mix of 19th-century and modern-day luxury.

11. Napa Valley Wine Train, California

• Location: Napa, California
• Known For: See California's best-known wine region aboard the luxurious Napa Valley Wine Train. Enjoy wine and delicious cuisine as the train travels through the gorgeous scenery Napa Valley is known for.
• Where to Stay Nearby: La Casita - A Napa Valley Bungalow with Hot Tub
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring

Whether you've been to Napa before or not, seeing it by train is a whole other experience. Climb aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train during spring, when the grapevines are lush and the scenery is vibrant, and have an unforgettable adventure. This stylish modern train breezes through the serene beauty of Northern California's wine country, where tastings abound.

Book the Legacy Experience, a six-hour excursion that comes with a welcome glass of sparkling wine, a four-course meal prepared on board, a wine tasting in an open-air car where you can take photos against the beautiful vineyard background, and seated tastings offboard at the legendary Charles Krug and V. Sattui wineries. Short of time? Book an express lunch, instead—it's equally fancy!

Best Train Rides Through the Mountains

Forget driving: taking a train through the mountains is the way to go. Instead of braving steep, narrow roads and switchbacks, take an adventurous train through mountainside landscapes, tunnels, and near rivers in the most gorgeous places in the U.S. From New Hampshire to Oregon and Colorado, here are the best mountainside train rides.

12. The Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

• Location: Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, New Hampshire
• Known For: Giving scenic train trips for more than 150 years, The Cog is the first of its kind in the world and leads to spectacular views from the summit of Mt. Washington.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Heart of the White Mountains Cottage
• The Best Time to Ride: Summer or Fall

The Mount Washington Cog Railway, also known as the Cog Railway, is definitely one of the most gorgeous train journeys in the country. The cog railroad is the first in the world, invented by Sylvester March, a New Hampshire businessman and inventor, in 1869. This little colorful train car helps people of all ages and abilities reach the summit of Mount Washington, which stands at 6,288 feet tall!

A three-hour ride on this biodiesel locomotive chugs passengers through the stunning Thompson and Meserve's Purchase. Find a comfortable seat to view all the vibrant trees, lush landscapes, and rocky terrain until you reach the top, where you'll have a one-hour layover to explore the summit. Visit the gift shop, observation deck, or cafeteria at the top, or sign a postcard commemorating your trip.

13. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

• Location: Silverton, Colorado
• Known For: The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a National Historic Landmark and provides stunning views of the mountains and the San Juan National Forest.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Stu Dog's House, Silverton
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring, Summer, or Fall

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad locomotive ride will make you feel like a true explorer. Since 1882, the railroad has been operating between Durango and Silverton and is a designated National Historic Landmark. Take the Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train through Animas Canyon, a 3.5-hour ride each way with a two-hour layover in a historic mining town. Cruise along sheer cliffs, past old mines, and take in stunning panoramic views of the dramatic countryside.

You can choose a steam or diesel train ride, but either way, there's no wifi on board. Meaning you'll be completely off the grid and connected to nature in the San Juan Mountains. Rides and concessions are available daily; tickets start at $108 per person. It's a desert mountain ride unlike any other.

14. Mt. Hood Railroad, Oregon

• Location: Hood River, Oregon
• Known For: Take an exciting scenic train ride through the Columbia River Gorge with views of Mount Hood. This train ride through the mountains is one to remember!
• Where to Stay Nearby: Neighborhood Nest - Westside Hood River
• The Best Time to Ride: Anytime

The Mount Hood Railroad is a gorgeous vintage train that twists through the lush forests and orchards of Mount Hood, Oregon. Scenic train rides are offered by the season, each offering a different destination, wine tasting, and food experience. Each ride is about two hours and stops halfway at The Fruit Company in Pine Grove and Mount Hood Winery for delicious drinks and bites. Witness the Hood River, Columbia Valley, and Whiskey Creek in all four seasons.

Visiting Oregon for the holidays? The Polar Express Train Ride runs from November to early January and is one of the best holiday-themed train rides in the world. Enjoy on-board hot chocolate, entertainment, and a festive recounting of the holiday story. Arrive about 90 minutes early, and make sure you have your ticket. Ticket prices vary based on time of day and seat selection (VIP, premium, standard, etc.). Kids are encouraged to wear festive pajamas!

15. Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Colorado

• Location: Manitou Springs, Colorado
• Known For: This train travels to Pikes Peak, one of the most beautiful mountains in the country.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Love Shack: Walk to Incline, Cog, Downtown
• The Best Time to Ride: Summer or Fall

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway will take you straight to the summit of Pikes Peak. You'll scale the 14,115-foot mountain and have about 30 to 40 minutes to check out the view at the top. This train actually goes so high up that staying any longer than the allotted time can result in altitude sickness (drink lots of water!). But even the short time is well worth the breathtaking views. Obviously, you'll want to bring your camera and sense of adventure.

As the highest and longest cog railway in the world, passengers are sure to get a scenic mountainside ride. Pass rocky terrain, dustings of snow (even in summer!), and clear, wide-open skies. Tickets range from $60 to $75, depending on the time of year you book. Each ride lasts three hours, and you'll want to arrive 30 minutes before departure time. Make sure to stop by the gift shop for a souvenir.

16. Conway Scenic Railroad, New Hampshire

• Location: North Conway, New Hampshire
• Known For: Hop aboard the Mountaineer for one os the best scenic train rides in America! Traveling through Crawford's Notch and Mount Washington Valley, this 4-to-5.5-hour train ride should go straight to the top of your bucket list.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Chalet in N. Conway
• The Best Time to Ride: Anytime

The Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway, New Hampshire, will take you through 50 to 60 miles of gorgeous forest and mountainous terrain, delivering amazing views of the White Mountains and fall foliage. The Mountaineer excursion is a scenic 4.5-hour train ride with comfortable seating and a boxed lunch that comes with your ticket. Book the dome observation class to see stunning views of Crawford Notch, Washington Valley, and the Saco River. You'll even ride over bridges that soar high above the New Hampshire foliage.

The Mountaineer train departs at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily during summer and fall. And if you didn't preorder your box lunch, save an appetite for the delicious on-board snack bar. Between the amenities, stunning mountain views, and fairly affordable base ticket prices, it's no wonder the Conway Scenic Railroad has been voted one of the best train rides in New England.

17. Amtrak's Adirondack, New York

• Location: Manhattan, New York to Montreal, Canada
• Known For: This journey aboard Amtrak's Adirondack will start in Manhattan, wind its way through the Hudson Valley, and cross the Canadian border, where it will stop in Montreal.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Luxury Condo in the Heart of Manhattan
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring or Summer

Pack your passports and enjoy the ride through the gorgeous Hudson Valley aboard the Amtrak Adirondack. This scenic train ride starts at the Moynihan Train Hall in New York City (we suggest arriving a day or two early to explore the city) and then travels for about 10 to 11.5 hours north to the Lake Champlain region, ending in Montreal, Canada. It's a fantastic way to see upstate New York's wine country, rolling fields, and lush greenery during spring and summer.

Both cafe service and wifi are available on board the train, but if you're looking to step away from life online, gaze out the windows of the observation dome on the upper deck of the train car. Only Coach Class seats are available on this train, but you can enjoy a full menu from the Corridor Cafe. Small dogs and cats are allowed on board, too!

18. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico

• Location: Chama, New Mexico
• Known For: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad winds its way through the mountains from Chama, New Mexico and through the highest mountain pass reachable by a train in the United States.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Home in the Heart of Chama, NM
• The Best Time to Ride: Fall or Winter

For a train ride through the San Juan and Brazos Mountains, being aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is hard to beat. Starting in Chama, New Mexico, this rail journey will take you to an elevation of over 10,000 feet as it travels through the stunning Cumbres Pass. As the highest mountain pass reachable by train in the country, it's a journey worth taking. We recommend booking the seven-hour All Aboard Chama Ride.

Your train ride will start at the Chama Station, where you'll pass the historic Lobato sheep ranch, meadows, and Wolfs Creek. As you chug up the steady incline, you'll pass a variety of aspen trees as well as wildlife like elk and deer. Eventually, you'll reach the peak — the highest peak reached by rail at 10,015 feet — where you'll notice a stark change of scenery (there's even occasional snow in summer!). You'll ride to Antonito, Colorado, for a midway lunch break. Rates begin around $143 per ticket.

Best Coastal Train Rides in the U.S.

If the mountains aren't your thing, why not book a train ride that skirts the coast? There's nothing better than views of the vast, sparkling ocean ride outside your window, transporting you to relaxation, sunshine, and beach vacations. No matter the time of year, these rides along Oregon and California are some of the most beautiful coastal train rides we've ever encountered.

19. Amtrak Cascades, Oregon

• Location: Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia
• Known For: As one of the most scenic Amtrak train rides, you'll travel between Eugene, Oregon, and Vancouver, B.C., Canada, with several other stops in between on the Amtrak Cascades.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Charming Cottage w/Hot Tub and Art Studio
• The Best Time to Ride: Spring, Summer, or Fall

What could be more amazing than winding your way through fields of colorful irises on your way past the Olympic Mountains? Pretty much nothing. Amtrak Cascades goes all the way from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia, so it's a great way to experience a bit of international adventure without lifting a finger. Total ride time is anywhere from 11 to 13 hours one-way, and runs parallel to the I-5 corridor, passing through Portland and Seattle before reaching Canada.

The best time to ride is Spring, Summer, and Fall, so you can see the variety of wildflowers, evergreen trees, and fall foliage. Rates will vary depending on the time of year you ride and the accommodations you select. Eat delicious meals, book a private roomette, and enjoy coastal scenes on this amazing train.

20. The Pacific Surfliner, California

• Location: San Luis Obispo, California to San Diego, California
• Known For: The Pacific Surfliner is one of the most incredible Amtrak scenic rides to see the Pacific coast. It travels between San Luis Obispo and San Diego.
• Where to Stay Nearby: Historic Bungalow - Downtown SLO
• The Best Time to Ride: Anytime

If you're a beach lover, The Pacific Surfliner, which travels between San Luis Obispo and San Diego, California, should top your train ride bucket list. This ride cruises by the world-famous Del Mar beach along with several other breathtaking shorelines. Hopping aboard this train is almost like spending a day at the beach. Be sure to sit on the correct side of the train to get the best view of the waves!

As the second-busiest innercity passenger train, this 351-mile ride takes a little over three hours one way, and passes through towns like Orange, Ventura, and Santa Barbara. Book standard or business class tickets for decadent food, cocktails, and accommodations. Trains depart several times daily, so you'll never miss out.

There you have it: 20 rides through America's prettiest train landscapes. Which of these year-round scenic train routes are you hoping to take first? Skip the flights and road trips, and book your exciting trip today.