The 6 Best Amtrak Summer Routes
Discover North America's most breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of your seat. These six routes offer the ultimate summer rail experience, blending comfort with unparalleled natural beauty.
Depart
Morning Departure
Start your morning at the historic Williams Depot, boarding the vintage rail cars of the Grand Canyon Railway for a nostalgic departure.
Ride
2 Hours 15 Minutes
Enjoy western music and stories as you traverse 65 miles of varied desert and pine forest scenery on your way north.
Explore
Midday Free Time
Arrive at the Grand Canyon Depot and enjoy nearly 4 hours of free time to walk the rim, dine, and behold the wonder of the National Park.
Return
Late Afternoon
Board the train for the return ride to Williams, relaxing as the sun begins to set over the Arizona landscape.
From coast to coast, these train journeys showcase some of the season's best scenery.
The long days of summer feel designed for leisurely train travel. Unlike the classic summer road trip, traveling by rail eliminates the need for a designated driver, encouraging travelers to settle in and enjoy the passing scenery. Amtrak, the nation's passenger railroad, transports people back to a less hurried era, with routes that run through beautiful landscapes while connecting summer hot spots.
01 of 06 Pacific Surfliner
The Pacific Surfliner runs between San Diego and San Luis Obispo, offering stunning views of the Southern California coastline and the Pacific Ocean directly from your seat.
02 of 06 The Palmetto
The Palmetto connects Savannah, Georgia, to NYC, stopping at historic cities along the East Coast, making it perfect for travelers seeking Southern charm and summer sun.
03 of 06 Downeaster
Traveling from Boston to Brunswick, Maine, the Downeaster showcases industrial coastal cities and iconic New England beaches just moments after arrival.
04 of 06 Mardi Gras Service
The Mardi Gras Service runs along the Gulf Coast, connecting Mobile, Alabama, to New Orleans, passing through beautiful coastal towns with sandy white beaches.
05 of 06 Cascades
The Cascades train provides a perfect introduction to the Pacific Northwest, running between Eugene and Vancouver through lush forests and river gorges.
06 of 06 California Zephyr
Considered one of the most scenic journeys in the world, the California Zephyr connects Chicago to the Bay Area over a legendary 51-hour trip.
Start your journey
Request details or start planning your Train escape today.