Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 10 best amtrak trips on the east coast.

Portland Maine Head Lighthouse

Full of historic places, coastal towns and rolling mountains, the East Coast of the United States is great to explore by train. You can easily travel between major cities or enjoy a scenic train ride to quieter areas with beaches, parks and even ski resorts. Here are the best Amtrak trips on the East Coast to start planning your rail vacation.

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Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

One of the most majestic sights in the United States, Niagara Falls can be reached via the Empire Service and Maple Leaf Amtrak routes (book tickets to Niagara Falls, NY). Trains depart New York City and other cities in New York state, including Poughkeepsie, Albany and Utica. On the way to the falls, you’ll travel through the beautiful Hudson River Valley and have views of the Hudson River (a fall trip is a great way to see the stunning foliage).

Due to the train schedule, it’s best to stay two nights in Niagara Falls area in order to have a full day to see the sights.

New River Gorge

New River Gorge Bridge

The Cardinal Amtrak route is one of the most scenic on the East Coast, with travel through the New River Gorge in West Virginia. Consider booking your tickets to Charleston, WV from cities including New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. You can rent a car in Charleston and drive about two hours to reach the New River Gorge National Park (hiking, rock climbing, campgrounds, whitewater rafting). Or simply stay in Charleston until it’s time to board an eastbound train for the return trip back through the gorge.

From Chicago and other Midwest cities, travel to White Sulphur Springs Station to see the gorge and stay overnight at the Greenbrier Resort . One of the many resort activities is whitewater rafting on the New River — fees apply, but transportation is included. Alexandria and Washington D.C. are also good places to end the trip due to the nearby airports in case you want to fly home.

Keep in mind that the Cardinal only runs three times per week, so you may see unavailable dates when searching for tickets.

Montpelier Vermont

A ski getaway, fall foliage destination and charming summer vacation spot, Vermont is a year-round destination. Vermonter trains travel through the scenic Hudson River Valley and views are also beautiful once you are in Vermont, especially in the fall and when snow is on the ground. You can connect with trains on this route in cities including Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City and New Haven.

The state capital is Montpelier (pictured above). Book your tickets here for fresh maple syrup, hiking trails at Camel’s Hump State Park and ski resorts, including Smugglers’ Notch (water park open in the summer), Bolton Valley, Stowe Mountain, Mad River Glen and Sugar Brush. The Ben and Jerry’s factory tour in nearby Waterbury is also a must-do if you like ice cream.

In addition to Montpelier, Burlington is another recommended city for an overnight stay. It’s a college town on Lake Champlain with a waterfront bike path , many summer events and nearby ski resorts.

Old Orchard Beach Pier

Maine is a charming summer or fall Amtrak trip from Boston on the Downeaster route . In addition to views of scenic villages, marshes, streams and the coastline, you can get off the train to explore beaches, festivals and nature areas. Book tickets to Wells , Saco or Old Orchard Beach (pictured above) to spend time near the ocean. The  Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge  and Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve are also unique places to visit in Wells, and kids will love  Funtown Splashtown USA  in Saco and the  Palace Playland  in Old Orchard Beach.

Foodies should consider a Maine train trip in the fall to check out the Harvest on the Harbor festival in Portland . September is also a great time for a trip; you can visit Maine’s lighthouses for free during Maine Open Lighthouse Day .

Old Montreal, Canada

Two East Coast Amtrak routes travel to Canada, so if you have a valid passport, you can take an international trip via train. Book tickets on the Maple Leaf to visit Toronto or on the Adirondack to reach Montreal (pictured above). Both trains depart from New York City, and you’ll have wonderful views of the Hudson River Valley before crossing the border.

Which city should you visit? Montreal has a European atmosphere and lots of history and parks to explore. Travel time from New York City is about 11.5 hours. Toronto is larger than Montreal and very cosmopolitan — lots of shopping, entertainment, multicultural neighborhoods — similar to Chicago and New York City. Travel time on Amtrak is about 13 hours from Manhattan. Plan to stay in Canada at least two nights if you want time to sightsee.

West Palm Beach Amtrak Station

Escape the cold weather (or head to the beach any time of year) with an overnight train trip to Florida from major cities on the East Coast. The Silver Meteor , Silver Star and Auto Train travel to many Amtrak stations in Florida . You must transport a vehicle and pay the related fees to travel on the Auto Train, which departs near Washington D.C. and travels non-stop to Sanford, Florida.

There are beautiful water views in Maryland and Virginia, and you’ll go to sleep in the Carolinas and wake up in Florida, making the trip go by quickly, especially if your destination is in North or Central Florida. Popular stops include Orlando (for Universal Studios and Walt Disney World ), Tampa, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Blue Ridge Mountains

Roanoke, Virginia skyline

Most people use the Northeast Regional to travel between big cities on the East Coast, but trains also travel into Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Select Roanoke as your destination, which is in a mountain valley near many hiking trails and places to mountain bike and paddle . As a bonus, the Virginia Museum of Transportation is in town, which has many railroad exhibits.

Due to the train schedule, you’ll need to stay in Roanoke at least one night. Plan to stay two or more if you want to take a drive on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway , visit local attractions or enjoy the many outdoor activities. You’ll also need to start this trip north of the mountain range, such as in Charlottesville, Alexandria, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia or New York City.

Allegheny Mountains

Alleghany Mountains in Pennsylvania

The Capitol Limited route also provides mountain and river scenery on the East Coast. Trains travel through the Allegheny Mountains in Maryland and Pennsylvania, plus stop in two historic mountain towns: Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and Cumberland, Maryland . Both destinations are near hiking trails and historic attractions, plus you can ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland.

To quickly get to the most scenic part of the trip, start in Washington D.C. From there, you can travel 3.5 hours to Cumberland or stay on the train for a few more hours until Pittsburgh . You can also start the trip in Chicago and from cities in Indiana and Ohio and travel overnight to reach the mountains. Plan your trip in late spring or summer to view the most scenery.

Dutch Country

Amish farm in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

The Keystone Amtrak route travels through Dutch Country farmland from New York City, Philadelphia, Newark (including the airport station) and other cities on the East Coast multiple times each day. It’s a relaxing day or overnight trip that’s great for families, couples or solo travelers. Exit in Lancaster to learn about the Amish community, purchase local food at Central Market or have a fun-filled day at Dutch Wonderland .

Harrisburg , Pennsylvania’s capital, is another destination to plan a trip around, especially in the summer. The charming city is on the Susquehanna River, and top attractions include the National Civil War Museum and State Museum of Pennsylvania . Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World are also about a 25-minute drive away. Uber and Lyft are transportation options if you don’t want to rent a car.

New Orleans

New Orleans French Quarter

For a long-distance train adventure, New Orleans is at the end of the Crescent route, which departs from many cities on the East Coast. You’ll travel through small towns and cities in the Southeast before crossing over Lake Pontchartrain via the longest railroad bridge in the United States.

Be sure to check out the amazing food, music and festivals in New Orleans while you’re there. You can walk or ride streetcars around the city to explore the Garden District , French Quarter , Jackson Square and old cemeteries . Other top sights include the National World World II Museum , Audubon Zoo and the New Orleans Museum of Art .

Plan to stay in New Orleans at least two nights if you want to have a full day in the city. You can then take a train or flight back to the East Coast or continue your rail vacation by booking tickets on the Sunset Limited or City of New Orleans routes. Trains on these routes depart from New Orleans and travel through Texas, Arizona, California, Mississippi, Tennessee and Illinois. Top destinations include Chicago, Memphis, Houston, San Antonio, Palm Springs and Los Angeles.

More Information

  • East Coast Amtrak Routes
  • 10 most scenic Amtrak routes
  • Best Amtrak trips from Boston
  • 15 best Amtrak day trips from NYC
  • 8 best Amtrak cross-country trips
  • 20 best Amtrak trips from Baltimore
  • 5 most scenic Amtrak routes on the East Coast
  • Amtrak’s 15 long-distance routes and the places they go

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Railroads & Locomotives Tourist Railroad Profiles Tourist railroads in the Northeastern United States

Tourist railroads in the Northeastern United States

| Last updated on February 13, 2024

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Here are our must-visit tourist railroads, museums, and displays when traveling across the region

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Two small locomotives under steam with trains

Northeast tourist railroads you must visit include premium museums, scenic lines in different gauges, and everything in between. From Trains Magazine’s Tourist Trains Guidebook , here’s our list of tourist railroads, museums, and displays to experience across the region.

Northeast Tourist Railroads and Museums

Connecticut.

Essex Steam Train and Riverboat – 1 Railroad Avenue, Essex Where else can you enjoy a train ride and riverboat cruise all in one package? Departing from the historic seaport village in Essex, steam-powered excursions take passengers on a round trip by rail to Deep River and Haddam. For the full package itself, connections are then made to a replica three-deck, Mississippi-style riverboat for scenic views along the Connecticut River.

Railroad Museum of New England – 242 East Main Street, Thomaston The history of New England railroading is represented at this museum in Thomaston with an extensive collection. Adjacent to the displays is the 1881 brick station, also home to the Naugatuck Railroad that operates excursions along the former New Haven Railroad to Waterville. Scenic highlights include two trestles over the Naugatuck River and the Thomaston Dam.

Wilmington & Western Railroad – 2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington The Wilmington & Western is not only one of the oldest tourist railroads in the country but out of all the Northeast tourist railroads, it’s the only one in Delaware. The railroad offers unique excursions to different destinations as trains traverse the scenic Red Clay Valley. Just as unique is the motive power, which usually ranges from a 0-6-0 steam locomotive to an original 1929 Pennsylvania Railroad “doodlebug” railcar.

District of Columbia

Smithsonian National Museum of American History – 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. U.S. railroading from before 1876 to 2000 is showcased on a premier stage at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History’s “America on the Move” exhibition. The collection includes Southern Railway 4-6-2 No. 1401, the narrow gauge 4-4-0 Jupiter , and a 19th-century streetcar. However, the centerpiece of the museum is the John Bull , one of the oldest surviving steam locomotives in North America.

Seashore Trolley Museum – 195 Log Cabin Road, Kennebunkport Founded in 1939, the Seashore Trolley Museum holds the title of being the first electric railway museum in the world. It’s also considered the largest with more than 250 pieces of equipment, mainly streetcars, with origins reaching an international scale. The 2-mile streetcar rides are included in the admission. Better yet, take the opportunity to operate a trolley as part of the museum’s “Be a Motorman” program.

Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum – 97 Cross Road, Alna Like the narrow-gauged railroads in the Colorado Rockies, the 2-foot gauge can be synonymous with the railroad lore of Maine. Its preservation in the Pine Tree State is as authentic as gets at the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum. Rebuilt on the original right-of-way, 3 miles of track are used for steam-powered excursions from Alna’s Sheepscot Station to Trout Brook.

B&O Railroad Museum – 901 West Pratt Street, Baltimore Baltimore is often celebrated as the birthplace of railroading in the U.S. That story, along with the history of the country’s oldest railroad – the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad – is told at the downtown B&O Railroad Museum. The campus’ dome-covered roundhouse and turntable headlines the overall visit as it exhibits the largest North American collection of steam locomotives from the 19th Century.

See more Maryland tourist railroads you must visit.

Massachusetts

Cape Cod Central Railroad – 252 Main Street, Hyannis Departing from either Hyannis, Buzzards Bay or North Falmouth, diesel-powered excursions operate over the former New Haven Railroad. Scenic highlights include cranberry bogs, sand dunes, forests, and marshes before reaching the famous Cape Cod Canal. A mixture of luncheon, Sunday brunch, and dinner trains are also offered, and can include premium seating in a full-length dome.

New Hampshire

Conway Scenic Railroad – 38 Norcross Cir, North Conway Departing from a restored, 1874 Victorian-style station, tourist excursions range from the 55-minute Conway Valley Train to the 4-hour Mountaineer that traverses the Mount Washington Valley to Crawford Notch. A mixture of streamlined passenger cars and open-window coaches are usually pulled by either vintage diesels or the 0-6-0 steam locomotive No. 7470. Be sure to check the railroad’s website for the updated schedule and accommodations.

Mount Washington Cog Railway – 3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington The first successful cog — a standard railroad with flanged wheels, but with the addition of a gear engaging a toothed “rack” rail in the center of the tracks — was right in Mount Washington, beginning operations in 1869. What is now known as the Mount Washington Cog Railway continues to climb the highest peak in the Northeast for tourists to take in the famous vistas – weather pending of course. Historic steam and modern, biodiesel locomotives are used for the steep ascent.

Black River & Western Railroad – 80 Stangl Road, Flemington; 101 John Ringo Road, Ringoes Under the nonprofit Black River Railroad Historical Trust, the Black River & Western Railroad operates a section of the former Pennsylvania Railroad’s Flemington Branch between Flemington and Ringoes. Standard summer excursions, along with themed events, make up the overall schedule. Of course, it’s always a special treat when ex-Great Western Railway 2-8-0 No. 60 is leading the train.

Adirondack Railroad – 321 Main Street, Utica The Adirondack Railroad operates 69 miles of the former New York Central through the scenic, namesake mountains to Thendara, Otter Lake, and Big Moose. Extended excursion packages are offered to enhance the experience of the Adirondacks, including transportation by the tourist railroad to canoe, kayak, and railbike. For the full rail adventure, catch the Adirondack Railroad by way of Amtrak as both services share Utica’s 1914 Union Station.

See more New York tourist railroads you must visit.

Pennsylvania

Strasburg Rail Road – 301 Gap Road, Ronks When it comes to Northeast tourist railroads, especially in Pennsylvania, the Strasburg Rail Road is one of the most sought-after on a worldwide level. For good reason, too: It’s the oldest continuously operating rail line in the United States with an authentic steam-era setting. Historic locomotives haul an impressive fleet of wooden passenger cars along the 9-mile, 45-minute round trip through the Amish farmland. Special events also take place year-round with extra offerings.

See more Pennsylvania tourist railroads you must visit.

Rhode Island

Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience – 1 Alexander Road, Portsmouth Elegant dinner trains and murder mystery experiences aboard restored 1940s Budd dining cars headline the Grand Bellevue Rail Dining Experience. Operating on the Newport & Narragansett Bay Railroad, the excursions traverse the scenic shoreline of the Narragansett Bay with spectacular views of the Mount Hope Bridge, and Aquidneck Island. If mother nature is on your side, sunsets enhance the backdrop and help cap off the day while out on the rails.

Vermont Rail System Passenger Services – 1 Railway Lane, Burlington Dinner trains operate out of Burlington from June through October by the Vermont Rail System, a privately held company that operates multiple short lines. The premier excursion is the Vermont Railway’s Champlain Valley Dinner Train to Middlebury, with a three-course meal prepared on board. Vermont Rail System operates additional chartered trains throughout the state for the benefit of organizations and charities. Occasionally, these trips are offered to the public.

Other Northeast railroad sites to consider

During your visit to the Northeast region, consider also visiting these railroad sites:

  • Connecticut Antique Machinery Association – Kent
  • Connecticut Eastern Railroad Museum – Willimantic
  • Connecticut Trolley Museum – East Windsor
  • Danbury Railway Museum – Danbury
  • Shore Line Trolley Museum – East Haven
  • SoNo Switch Tower Museum – Norwalk
  • Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad – Unity
  • Cole Land Transportation Museum – Bangor
  • Downeast Scenic Railroad – Hancock
  • Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad & Museum – Portland
  • Railway Village Museum – Boothbay
  • Baltimore Streetcar Museum – Baltimore
  • National Capital Trolley Museum – Coleville
  • Walkersville Southern Railroad – Walkersville
  • Western Maryland Scenic Railroad – Cumberland
  • Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum – Lenox and Adams
  • Chatham Railroad Museum – Chatham
  • Edaville Family Theme Park – Carver
  • Lowell National Historical Society – Lowell
  • Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum – Shelburne Falls
  • Ashland Railroad Station Museum – Ashland
  • Café Lafayette Dinner Train – North Woodstock
  • Gorham Historical Society Museum – Gorham
  • Hobo & Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroads – Lincoln and Meredith
  • Potter Place Railroad Station – Andover
  • Sandown Depot Museum – Sandown
  • White Mountain Central Railroad – Mount Washington
  • Cape May Seashore Lines – Tuckahoe
  • Delaware River Railroad Excursions – Phillipsburg
  • Maywood Station Museum – Maywood
  • United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey – Boonton
  • Whippany Railway Museum – Whippany
  • Arcade & Attica Railroad – Arcade
  • Catskill Mountain Railroad – Kingston
  • Medina Railroad Museum – Medina
  • Colebrookdale Railroad — Boyertown
  • East Broad Top Railroad — Rockhill Furnace
  • Electric City Trolley Museum — Scranton
  • Everett Railroad — Hollidaysburg
  • Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark — Altoona
  • Lake Shore Railway Historical Society — North East
  • Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway — Jim Thorpe
  • Middletown & Hummelstown Railroad — Middletown
  • New Hope Railroad — New Hope
  • Northern Central Railway — New Freedom
  • Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad — Titusville
  • Pennsylvania Trolley Museum — Washington
  • Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania — Strasburg
  • Railroaders Memorial Museum — Altoona
  • Reading & Northern Passenger Department — Reading
  • Rockhill Trolley Museum — Rockhill
  • Steamtown National Historic Site — Scranton
  • The Stourbridge Line — Honesdale
  • Wanamaker Kempton & Southern Railroad — Kempton
  • West Chester Railroad — West Chester

Learn more about tourist railroads in North America.

train trips in northeast us

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A Comprehensive Guide to Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Train Stops

Nathaniel Adams

By far the busiest — and the most profitable — of Amtrak’s national trains are the ones that ply the Northeast Corridor: the New England to Mid-Atlantic stretch that goes from Boston to Washington, D.C. and sometimes slightly beyond. With reasonable prices and upgrade options, plus relative speed and reliability and the unmatched convenience of traveling directly from one city center to another, hundreds of thousands of people use the corridor every day for work or personal travel — three times as many as fly throughout the region.

New York City

Philadelphia, washington d.c., the acela express.

Aside from the convenience for business and commuting ( and the views ), the Northeast Regional system (and its high-speed sister, Acela ) is perfect for taking easy, car-free vacations for a weekend, overnight, or even just a day. The Northeast Regional’s destinations include some of the best-appointed and most conveniently-located train stations in the United States.

At the top of the line is Boston’s South Station , which consists of a large single-room triangular waiting hall with one wall opening onto the tracks and platforms. The main building has a couple of bars, newsstands, and some fast-food stalls for passengers, but nothing fancier than a Pret-a-Manger. The station has bus and local rail connections and connects to the Red Line of the MBTA, offering easy transport around the city to the colleges, the museums, and Fenway Park. What’s more, the station is a relatively short walk (and even shorter taxi ride) to Boston Common, where you can sign up for a historical walking or bus tour.

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The Providence station is a small two-track concrete brutalist affair designed in a circular form with a skylight in the center like the Pantheon in Rome. While the station might not be much to boast about, it is conveniently located near the historic center of town, and just a short trip from Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

The demolition of New York’s majestic old Penn Station and the erection of the grubby structure that stands in its place is widely acknowledged as one of the great architectural crimes of the modernist era. One glance at the difference between Grand Central and Penn should be enough to show you what’s been lost. However, Penn is efficiently-run and reasonably well-stocked with bars, fast-food restaurants, and places to buy beer or wine for cheaper than Amtrak’s onboard Cafe Car sells it.

Madison Square Garden is directly upstairs if you’re in town for a game or a show, but the neighborhood — essentially the Southeast corner of the garment district — isn’t New York’s most exciting. For shopping, Macy’s is nearby, but for food, your best bet is to head east a few blocks to Koreatown. The Empire State building is nearby (along with J.J., the famous hat shop) and the Morgan Library and Museum isn’t a far walk.

Like many things in Newark, the train station (also named Penn, like several others, because they used to be owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad) is a testament to the city’s tonier days. The big beaux-arts building has gone slightly to seed but like so much else in Newark, it’s beginning to see signs of revitalization. Newark’s best feature is, perhaps, the ease with which you can connect to the PATH train to visit the increasingly-popular Hoboken and Jersey City, as well as the New Jersey Transit , which you can take all over the beautiful Garden State, including to famous Jersey Shore hotspots like Asbury Park.

Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is a majestic building with a Neoclassical exterior featuring a corinthian-colonnaded portico which hides the secret of its grand art-deco interior waiting hall. Even better, one approach to the city via Amtrak affords a traveler (on the correct side of the train) with a beautiful view of the Art Museum of Philadelphia sitting like the Acropolis on its hill. Apart from the museums, most of the delights of downtown Philadelphia are a short trip across the Schuylkill River from the station.

I don’t have much to say about Wilmington, Delaware’s Amtrak station other than that it’s named after native son, former vice president, and rail-travel enthusiast Joseph “Amtrak Joe” Robinette Biden, Jr.

Baltimore boasts the third Penn Station on the route. While it is a pretty station, with a bar/cafe, a shoe shine stand, and connections to Maryland’s regional MARC commuter rail , it isn’t in the middle of the city’s tourist-y hotspot by the inner harbor (and its forecourt is marred by a hideous glowing monstrosity of “public art.”)

However, the surrounding neighborhood, which takes its name, Station North, from the station, is one of the most vibrant and exciting parts of Baltimore, close as it is to the MICA art school. There are three art-house cinemas within walking distance of the station, as well as several fantastic restaurants, a slew of live music venues (including Metro Gallery, The Wind-Up Space, Joe Squared, and The Crown,) and John Waters’ favorite kitschy dive bar, the iconic Club Charles.

D.C.’s colossal Union Station is the grand dame of Eastern train stations, comparing favorably — along with fellow stations named after the Union railroad in Chicago and Los Angeles — with some of the grand old rail stations of Europe and New York’s Grand Central. Union Station boasts not only a gorgeous exterior, but a reasonably well-organized split-level interior that makes excellent use of its space for shopping, bars, restaurants,and a large subterranean food court,along with access to the D.C. Metro, hop-on-hop-off tour buses departing from the station’s entrance, and amenities like passenger lounges and left luggage services that one expects from a civilized travel station. The lamentably-underrated postal museum across the street is the nearest tourist attraction, but the Library of Congress, Capitol Hill, the White House, and many national monuments are a short hike away.

The great secret of the Northeast Regional train is Roanoke, Virginia. Thanks to subsidies from the State of Virginia, last year, certain runs of the train were extended to terminate at Roanoke for the first time in more than 15 years. A weekend trip to Roanoke from any one of the Northeast Regional’s destinations is a perfect, easy, careless getaway. Roanoke, nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains, is a jewel of a small city, historically built around the railroad, which brought coal from West Virginia to the Eastern Seaboard. Proof of this grandeur is seen at the majestic Hotel Roanoke, which is a short walk from the station itself, as is the city’s easily walkable downtown, replete with fine dining and drinking options. The town also boasts a world-class art museum and some of the best hiking trails in the Northeast, including the highest point of the Appalachian Trail. Roanoke is the hidden pot of gold at the end of the Amtrak rainbow.

One question a traveler on the Northeast Regional will inevitably face is whether to take the regular train or the Acela Express . The Acela is America’s only high-speed rail, although when compared to other high-speed trains the world over it isn’t all that fast and will usually only shave an hour at most off your total trip. So if you’re looking for a big speed upgrade, the Acela might not be worth the sometimes significant price hike compared to the typical Northeast Regional train.

The Acela is undoubtedly fancier, with cleaner, newer cars , and a feeling of the kind of civilized rail travel people in Europe are accustomed to. However, if there is an emphasis on luxury it is of the all-too-American productivity-worshipping variety — not only will you get to your destination (presumed to be an office) faster, but all the advertising is telling you how much work you can get done before you get there: room for your laptops, Wi-Fi, outlets, even little private cubicles for phone calls and video chats. Sadly, the leisurely luxury of unhurried rail travel is lost on the Acela. In fact, the train itself is unnervingly designed to look and feel more and more like an airplane, which can defeat the very reason some people prefer to take a train. The luggage is stored in locking overhead bins like on an airplane, the cabin (rather than car or carriage) is lit like an airplane, and the Cafe Car (where you’ll notice they serve basically the same food and drink for an additional dollar markup than the regular Northeast Regional,) has eschewed chairs and tables for uncomfy high stools and bar counters as if to say, “Don’t get too comfortable! You have work to do!”

On the other hand, the Acela is quite possibly where Amtrak is at its most luxurious: in the First Class car. This mood-lit, lounge-like area can cost you a couple of hundred bucks each way for a capacious seat and a delicious hot meal (better than airplane food, guaranteed) served to you along with complimentary booze. It may be the closest Amtrak can bring you to the golden age of rail travel. Its only a pity the experience didn’t last a bit longer.

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Sure, there are trending establishments that draw huge lines—look at you, Double Chicken Please. But there are also excellent dives, tremendous wine bars, and watering holes that make you reexamine the definition of a great cocktail.

When speaking of national parks, two often dominate the conversation: Yellowstone and Yosemite. While both are crown jewels of the National Park System, each offers a distinctly unique experience. These parks attract millions of visitors annually, but which one reigns supreme for the summer traveler? Let's compare these iconic destinations. Yellowstone National Park

Established in 1872 as the first national park in the world, Yellowstone National Park sprawls across three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Covering over 2.2 million acres, it’s a vast land of natural wonders. Here's what it's famous for: Geothermal geysers Yellowstone is home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including more than 500 geysers. The star of the show is Old Faithful, a geyser famous for its predictable eruptions. Besides geysers, the park boasts multicolored hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. An abundance of wildlife Yellowstone’s ecosystem is a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors marvel at herds of bison roaming the valleys, spot elusive wolves in the Lamar Valley, and observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Just make sure that you're following the rules when it comes to interacting with animals. The park is a living showcase of wildlife management and natural balance. Unparalleled views The park's landscape varies from rolling grasslands to dense forests and high-altitude lakes. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-altitude lake in North America, offering stunning views and fishing opportunities. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Yosemite National Park

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The Ultimate 10 Day Northeast USA Itinerary (+ 1 and 2 week options)

Thinking of visiting the Northeastern Region of the USA? Look no further than this 10 day Northeastern USA travel itinerary.

The Northeast region of the United States is a beautiful and historically rich area that offers a ton of unique travel experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring bustling cities, enjoying the great outdoors, or soaking up some American history, there’s something for everyone in the Northeast.

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning the perfect itinerary can be overwhelming. But don’t stress, in this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of planning your Northeast USA travel itinerary. We’ll cover all the must-see destinations, the best times to visit, and plenty of tips to help you make the most of your trip.

From the stunning fall foliage in New England to the towering skyscrapers of New York City, the Northeast has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoors enthusiast, the Northeast is sure to exceed your expectations. So block out your calendar and get ready to explore the very best that the Northeastern USA has to offer!

First a note: these itineraries all start in New York because for international travellers that’s typically the cheapest place to fly in and out of with the most airports and flight options. However, if you’re already in the USA or not concerned about flight costs, it would make sense to start at Boston (the northernmost point on the itinerary) and work your way south or vice versa.

How to get around the Northeastern USA

This itinerary is designed so that you can do it either as a 10 day Northeast USA road trip or travel by bus or train if you prefer not to drive. I’ve personally done it both ways and can tell you the trains are the easiest and most affordable way to get around in the Northeast.

All of the destinations on these itineraries (including the 1 and 2 week options) are along Amtrak’s Northeast Regional train route so you don’t even need to worry about train connections. Most trains stations in the Northeast are right in the center of each city, so you can walk straight off the train and start exploring.

The 10 Day Northeast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

It can be overwhelming to know where to start so to make it easy I recommend dedicating one day to each of Midtown and Downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Day 1 – Midtown Manhattan: Start your day in Times Square, the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan. There’s no better place to take in the bright lights and energy of the city. Here, you can shop at the many stores and boutiques (don’t miss the 3 storey M&Ms store) and grab breakfast or coffee at one of the many cafes.

From there, head to the  Empire State Building , where you can take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Next, visit the iconic Grand Central Terminal, one of the busiest train stations in the world and a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture.

End your day with a visit to Central Park, the iconic park that spans 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. Here, you can have a picnic, go for a jog, rent a boat, or simply relax and people watch. It’s not advised to do a carriage ride as some horses may be mistreated.

Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan: Start your day in Battery Park, where you can catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You have the option of either the free Staten Island Ferry that goes past Liberty Island or the  paid Statue Cruises that lets you get off on Liberty Island, I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money.

Afterward, take a stroll through the historic Financial District, where you can see the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull statue, and the extremely moving 9/11 Memorial.

If you’re keen for more views you can head up the One World Trade Center Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

End your day with a stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of SoHo and Greenwich Village, where you can shop, dine, and people-watch to your heart’s content.

Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown: On the last day in NYC, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, walk around the waterfront with its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market.

If you have extra time, explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or visit the Brooklyn Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

From there, take a subway ride up to Harlem, where you can explore the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage, visit the famous Apollo Theater, and grab dinner at one of the many soul food restaurants.

To help save money on attractions, try a  Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary –  click here to see how you can save .

Finally, don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

  • Luxury:  Kixby
  • Mid-range:  Hotel Indigo Downtown
  • Budget:  HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Met Museum New York City East Coast USA

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north to the relative calm of Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is a city steeped in history and culture but despite its historic nature the crazy number of universities in Boston means the city has a very young, fun vibe. With world-class museums, delicious food, and beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Start your trip with a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you through some of Boston’s most important historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum. Along the way, you’ll learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the role Boston played in shaping the country’s history.

There are plenty of  walking tours available  but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Next, head over to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can explore over 450,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collections range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and there’s something for every taste and interest.

If you’re a sports fan, make sure to catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. And if baseball isn’t your thing, try an ice hockey game, I can promise it will make for a memorable experience.

For foodies, Boston is a paradise with both fresh New England seafood and quality Italian cuisine on offer. Make sure to try the city’s signature clam chowder and lobster rolls as well as Boston cream pie (go to Omni Parker House for the original version), and cannoli from Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry in the North End.

Finally, take a stroll through the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country. With over 50 acres of green space, the park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run  walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from North Station or you can take a  day tour from Boston . 

  • Luxury:  The Liberty Hotel
  • Mid-range:  Revolution Hotel
  • Budget:  Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Boston Public Library

Day 6: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston and local bus to Newport – approx. 2 hours total

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every Northeast itinerary but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. There are a couple of decent things to do in Providence itself, including visiting the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

However, the number one reason for coming to Providence is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate most of the day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of America’s wealthiest families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

These grand estates are designed to feel very like European palaces with grand ballrooms, ornate gardens, and stunning ocean views. You can tour these mansions and learn about the families who lived there, including the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans. I recommend picking 2-3 and using the audio tours which are included with your tickets and are super informative.

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

  • Luxury:  The Beatrice
  • Mid-range:  Graduate Providence
  • Budget:  Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

The Breakers Mansion Newport

Days 7-8: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

When in Philadelphia, the must-visit attraction is Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. To visit, you’ll need to book tickets through the National Parks website several weeks (ideally months) in advance of your trip as numbers are strictly limited and security is tight.

Even if you miss out on tickets to Independence Hall you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house.

Next head across town to another of Philadelphia awesome free attractions, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This beautiful neoclassical building boasts works from van Gogh and Monet, among many many others.

Finish the day with a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary, one of the most famous and haunted prisons in the world. The prison’s notable inmates, include Al Capone and the bank robber “Slick Willie”. If you’re brave enough, sign up for the night tour to discover the spookiest stories from the prison’s history.

Start your second day in Philadelphia with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution , where you can learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the impact it had on the country and the world. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a replica of a colonial-era privateer ship and Goerge Washington’s tent. We enjoyed the short talks from the educators explaining the artefacts in each room.

If you’re a really dedicated fan of America history you can also head over to the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was allegedly sewn and take a guided tour of the house to learn about the life of Betsy Ross and the history of the flag.

For lunch head to the Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country. This is a food’es paradise and the place to go to try local dishes including Philly cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels, and Amish donuts.

If you haven’t succumbed to a food coma then spend the rest of the day strolling through the historic district and waterfront, where you can see many other historic sites, including Franklin Court, site of Benjamin Franklin’s home.

  • Luxury:  The Franklin on Rittenhouse
  • Mid-range:  The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
  • Budget:  Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Days 9-10: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

There’s no better place to wrap up your vacation in the Northeast United States than in the nation’s capital: Washington, D.C.

One of the best things about visiting D.C. is how much you can do for free. The city is home to countless museums, galleries, monuments, and historic buildings that are open to the public.

However, one important piece of advice: it’s essential to plan ahead and book your visits. Many places will book out months in advance, and even those that allow some walk-ins will often require you to spend a long time queuing outside which is no fun in the heat/wind/rain.

If you’re hoping to tour the White House, don’t expect it to be easy. The booking process requires US residents to apply through their local congressman process. The White House website suggests that foreigners can apply through their embassy, but we found that our embassies weren’t even taking bookings.

The Capitol, on the other hand, is much easier to get into, you do need to book but they can get large numbers of visitors through in a day so it’s not hard to get tickets. The Capitol is a must-do. You can’t see in the actual Senate or House chambers but the beautiful rotunda and National Statuary Hall are well worth it in themselves, we loved seeing the statues each state had chosen to donate.

Continuing on the must-see attractions in D.C., walking along the National Mall is a must. This beautiful parkland features the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and a variety of other monuments and memorials.

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the National Gallery. This beautiful museum houses tons of amazing artworks including one by Leonardo Da Vinci. Whatever your interests, D.C. is sure to delight and inspire you with its wealth of cultural and historic offerings.

  • Luxury:  Eaton DC
  • Mid-range:  Lyle DC
  • Budget:  Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Jefferson Memorial, Washington DC

Alternative: 1 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

  • Philadelphia
  • Washington DC

Alternative: 2 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

  • Providence/Newport

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Northeastern USA

True to the name, the Northeast covers the area from the Canadian border in the North down to (depending on who you ask) Washington DC on the Virginia border and inland as far as the Ohio border including 11 states.

To avoid the summer crowds and the freezing Northeastern winters, the best time to visit is in late spring (May-June) and early fall (October-November), these are also good times to catch the cherry blossoms or the fall foliage respectively.

For a first-time visitor, 10 days is enough time to see the highlights of the American Northeast but if you can stay a full 2 weeks you’ll get to see even more.

In Short: 10 Days in the Northeastern USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the Northeast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see this part of the USA. Hopefully, these Northeast USA itineraries give you some inspiration to get started!

For more USA travel inspiration, check out these articles:

  • East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
  • One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary
  • Best Midwest Holiday Destinations

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

  • Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
  • Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
  • Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
  • Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
  • Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

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Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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 Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Scenic Train, located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a freight and heritage railroad

The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

It’s all about the journey on the best train rides in the USA, featuring mind-blowingly scenic routes

Scott Snowden

Of course, a road trip through America is one of the best ways to see the magnificent views on offer across the country, but from time to time it's just nice to take a break from being behind the wheel. Instead, how about taking one of the best train rides in the USA? Gently saunter across the country, leaving you free to contemplate life, ponder the meaning of existence or just spend a few hours thinking about nothing and staring out of the window.

Riding on a train can be a romantic, nostalgic, and best of all leisurely way to see the country. Even a commuter train between major cities can be a step up from a drive, but these scenic train rides are more than that. Geared towards long-haul trips from coast to coast, or specifically designed for enjoying the scenery, these train routes will let you take in all the glorious views.

Looking for a west coast adventure? Take the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to Seattle . Heading to Alaska ? Catch all the highlights on the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage. The Grand Canyon Railway and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you from quaint towns to national parks . There are even some shorter jaunts, like the Mt. Washington Cog Railway or the Hawaiian Railway that will give you a small taste of scenic train travel.

So hop aboard, enjoy the views, and take as many pics as you want without having to keep your hands on the wheel.

RECOMMENDED: The best camping in the USA

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Best train rides in the USA

Rockies to the Red Rocks

1.  Rockies to the Red Rocks

Denver, co to moab, ut.

The first US offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the new 'Rockies to the Red Rocks' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA. The 2023 season will kick off in August and will run through October.

Discover the  best things to do in Denver

Coast Starlight

2.  Coast Starlight

Los angeles, ca to seattle, wa.

Put a spin on the classic left-coast road trip by traveling by train instead. The advantages? Zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo-ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Discover the best things to do in Seattle  

The Grand Canyon Railway

3.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, az to the grand canyon, az.

Sure you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives, and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

Discover the best things to do in Arizona

The Empire Builder

4.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, il to portland, or.

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds, so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

Discover the best things to do in Portland 

The Alaska Denali Star

5.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, ak to fairbanks, ak.

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

Discover the best things to do in Alaska 

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

6.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson city, nc.

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. Various routes originate here, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

Discover the best things to do in North Carolina 

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

7.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton woods, nh.

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288ft peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views—of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

Discover the best thing to do in New Hampshire

The Napa Valley Wine Train

8.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa valley, ca.

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant is made up of a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

Discover the best  things to do in Napa

The Hawaiian Railway Society

9.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

Discover the best things to do in Oahu

Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

10.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, co to silverton, co.

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

Discover the best things to do in Colorado

The Ethan Allen Express

11.  The Ethan Allen Express

New york city, ny to burlington, vt.

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. You’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

Discover the best things to do in Vermont

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Northeast USA Tours & Trips

If you're heading to the USA on a multi-day tour, make sure to visit Northeastern USA to explore New York City, Philadelphia, Maine for an adventure that is sure to impress any traveller! Read here about the best USA vacations .

110 Northeast USA tour packages with 983 reviews

American Triangle – 5 Days Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

American Triangle – 5 Days

The tour was great and very informative. Our tour guide was awesome and friendly and making sure everyone is ok.

Niagara Falls Toronto & 1000 Islands – 3 Days Tour

Niagara Falls Toronto & 1000 Islands – 3 Days

The tour was very well organized and the tour guides always knew perfectly. I would definitely book again

East Coast Explorer: 8-Day Group Tour of New York, Boston & Washington DC Adventure Tour

East Coast Explorer: 8-Day Group Tour of New York, Boston & Washington DC Adventure

A lot of travelling but you get to see a lot in a short amount of time. Excellent guides!

USA - American Getaway Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

USA - American Getaway

USA & Canada - Niagara Falls, Toronto and a Thousand Islands Tour

USA & Canada - Niagara Falls, Toronto and a Thousand Islands

Niagara Falls, Washington DC, Philadelphia & Amish Country 4D/3N (from New York) Tour

  • Coach / Bus
  • Sightseeing

Niagara Falls, Washington DC, Philadelphia & Amish Country 4D/3N (from New York)

Good and well informed guides, even with heavy non-English accents, and much consideration for tourists' needs.
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

New York Uncovered (4 Days) Tour

New York Uncovered (4 Days)

I loved this tour and our guide Jon was great. However it should be advertised as a 3 day tour as the 4th day is just check out of the hotel, no activities.
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Chicago, Niagara and New York end Washington Tour

Chicago, Niagara and New York end Washington

Toronto, Niagara and New York Tour

Toronto, Niagara and New York

East Coast Camping Adventure Tour

East Coast Camping Adventure

5-Day Tour of America from New York City Tour

5-Day Tour of America from New York City

The tour itself was fantastic the tour guides were great hotels were fabulous If you only have a short time then this is perfect lots to see and we’ll organised My only issue was when we arrived at the said location to start the check in was chaos You need to have a list with peoples names making sure they are at the correct place and know which bus they are on and the buses were full do we did not even think we were getting on so it was very stressful Anyway once on all good Fabulous trip highly recommend From Josephine Sydney Australia

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC with Extended Stay in New York City Tour

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC with Extended Stay in New York City

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC Tour

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC

Great Eastern Cities Tour

Great Eastern Cities

Tour guide was amazing and our hotel locations were perfect. Everything went to plan.
  • €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

USA – 5 Days Shenandoah – West Virginia Adventure with Rock Climbing via Ferrata Tour

USA – 5 Days Shenandoah – West Virginia Adventure with Rock Climbing via Ferrata

What people love about northeast usa tours.

Great Tour, compared with last year tour, which way excellent The tour this year was good

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Ride The Rails

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Rail Transportation and Vacations

All aboard! Whether you ride the rails in your state, across the U.S., through the Canadian Rockies, or throughout Europe, great vacations begin with AAA.

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Join us for this exciting webinar as we discuss the beauty of traveling by train and what life is really like onboard Amtrak and Railbookers. We'll tell you about some of our most popular packages, which include stops in iconic cities as well as the National Parks and beyond. Plus when you attend and book, you’ll get an exclusive offer as a thank you for trusting your next vacation with us. Register Now

Explore National Parks by Rail

AAA Travel and Amtrak Vacations® invite you to explore National Parks by rail at our exclusive virtual event. Learn more about their amazing adventures online via your favorite device.

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Amtrak Vacations

Amtrak Vacations

Amtrak Vacations combines the thrill of riding the rails with inclusive travel packages for one-of-a-kind vacations throughout North America. We specialize in Independent Rail Journeys, Rail and Sail Vacations, Rail Getaways and more.

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Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer offers over 45 Canadian vacation packages. This world-renowned, luxurious train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada's West and is the best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies.

train trips in northeast us

Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel

AAA Members have access to Grand Canyon Railway's most deeply discounted travel packages - the "Rails to the Rim" packages. It's easy to plan an entertaining and memorable trip to the canyon aboard the train.

Book a Rails to the Rim package with AAA and get a 20% discount and a $20 coupon per adult (valid at all Railway gift shops in Williams) and a hot buffet lunch at the Maswik Lodge.

train trips in northeast us

Railbookers

With Railbookers, there’s an adventure for every type of traveler. Hop from city center to city center, making memories you’ll remember for the rest of your life along the way.

train trips in northeast us

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IMAGES

  1. Amtrak Northeast Corridor Route Map

    train trips in northeast us

  2. 10 of the Most Scenic Train Rides In North America

    train trips in northeast us

  3. 12 Top-Rated Train Trips in the USA

    train trips in northeast us

  4. Best Scenic Train Rides in the US

    train trips in northeast us

  5. These Are The 9 Best Scenic Train Trips in USA

    train trips in northeast us

  6. Amtrak Map and Route Guide

    train trips in northeast us

VIDEO

  1. All Train Trips From 2023 🚆

  2. Travelling by train in the USA

  3. DAY

  4. Amtrak and NJ Transit at Princeton Junction

  5. Train Flies Over Narrow Bridge & Gets Radar Speed Check! Railroad Crossing With CSX & NS Tracks!

  6. High Speed Rail In The Northeast: Connecting D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston!

COMMENTS

  1. Northeastern United States

    No matter the season, the Northeast offers travelers endless opportunities to explore. From sought-after destinations to quaint towns, tranquil National Parks, world-class museums and bustling cityscapes, these Northeastern destinations will make you want to stay awhile.

  2. Eastern USA Train Vacations

    Offering varying introductions to the East, our U.S.A east coast tours depart from DC, Chicago, and Boston, amongst other cities. During the autumn season, our tour packages showcase New England's fall foliage with scenic rail excursions and lake cruises into the heart of the colorful scenery. These vacations also include visits to ...

  3. 10 best Amtrak trips on the East Coast

    Full of historic places, coastal towns and rolling mountains, the East Coast of the United States is great to explore by train. You can easily travel between major cities or enjoy a scenic train ride to quieter areas with beaches, parks and even ski resorts. Here are the best Amtrak trips on the East Coast to start planning your rail vacation.

  4. Tourist railroads in the Northeastern United States

    Dan Cupper Northeast tourist railroads you must visit include premium museums, scenic lines in different gauges, and everything in between. From Trains Magazine's Tourist Trains Guidebook, here's our list of tourist railroads, museums, and displays to experience across the region. Northeast Tourist Railroads and Museums Connecticut

  5. Amtrak Vacations®

    Simply select the resources you'd like to view and then start viewing your free resources instantly! With Amtrak Vacations®, you can discover stunning destinations across the U.S. & Canada by rail! Browse train travel, Amtrak routes, and rail vacation packages.

  6. Amtrak Vacations

    Fall Foliage tours are very popular in New England and operate a short season during September and October. Excellent 3,263 reviews on. Order brochure. Sign up to newsletter. Call to Book: 1-877-929-7245. 48 results matching: Vacations on Amtrak. Layout.

  7. Train Vacations in USA

    Choose from train trips in Alaska, popular USA Coast to Coast vacations, fall foliage tours, or visits to America's national parks by train. You may select vacations with luxury train accommodations in sleeper cars or from an array of one-way journeys. With more than 100 vacations in the United States alone, you are sure to find the perfect ...

  8. A Comprehensive Guide to Amtrak's Northeast Regional Train Stops

    By far the busiest — and the most profitable — of Amtrak's national trains are the ones that ply the Northeast Corridor: the New England to Mid-Atlantic stretch that goes from Boston to ...

  9. The Ultimate 10 Day Northeast USA Itinerary (+ 1 and 2 week options)

    How to get around the Northeastern USA. The 10 Day Northeast USA road/train trip itinerary. Days 1-3: New York. Day 4-5: Boston. Day 6: Providence/Newport. Days 7-8: Philadelphia. Days 9-10: Washington DC. Alternative: 1 week Northeast USA itinerary.

  10. Northern Rail Experience

    Stretch out and relax with your very own bedroom during your Amtrak train trip! First Class Private Rooms All the information you need to know, to get a good night's sleep onboard the train. ... United States; United Kingdom; Australia; Canada; 1-800-268-7252 or contact your travel advisor Call.

  11. Best Scenic Train Rides in the US: Trips & Vacations to Take By Train

    Glacier Discovery Train. Anchorage to Grandview, Alaska. Distance: 356 Miles. Another of Alaska Railroads' stunning routes is the Glacial Discovery, which brings you through a countryside only ...

  12. 11 Best Train Rides in the USA for Amazing Views

    Bretton Woods, NH. Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington, depositing its passengers at the 6,288ft peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working ...

  13. 10 Best Northeast USA Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Niagara Falls, Washington DC, Philadelphia & Amish Country 4D/3N (from New York) 3.3 (3 reviews) A hectic and fast paced trip, starting with early mornings. Loved Niagara Falls and being able to go to the Canadian side for one night (remember to apply for a Canadian Esta and bring your passport). Pennsylvania and Amish country side was a treat.

  14. Scenic Train Vacations and Packages

    For more than 20 years, we have been the trusted experts on rail travel, from the United States and Canada to all round the world. Why choose Vacations by Rail: Discover thoughtfully planned independent and escorted itineraries. Count on our dedicated rail specialists to guide you through questions and bookings.

  15. Train Vacations & Rail Tours

    Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel. AAA Members have access to Grand Canyon Railway's most deeply discounted travel packages - the "Rails to the Rim" packages. It's easy to plan an entertaining and memorable trip to the canyon aboard the train. Book a Rails to the Rim package with AAA and get a 20% discount and a $20 coupon per adult (valid at all ...

  16. Fall Foliage Train Rides in the Northeast

    Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, Conn. The Essex Steam Train in Connecticut has many different types of narrated fall foliage train rides, including their Train and Riverboat tour. It begins in their 1920s-era locomotive and finishes with a leisurely autumn cruise on its riverboat named the Becky Thatcher. The lush and vibrant woods surrounding ...

  17. 5 Extraordinary Train Vacations to the Pacific Northwest and the

    Vast forests. Abundant wildlife. The list goes on and on. This 11-day Canadian Rockies Discovery Eastbound train vacation is the awe-inspiring adventure you've been daydreaming about. Aside from taking in all the amazing sights the cities of Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria, and Calgary offer, the major draw of this trip is the incredible Candian ...