western usa train tours

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Western USA train rides roll over the Rockies and onto the Pacific

Find a train ride in the Western USA…

Even before the transcontinental railroad was completed and the Golden Spike driven at Promontory Point, Utah, railroads had already begun to win the west. In particular, mother lodes of gold, silver, and copper had spurred the rapid development of narrow-gauge short lines to shuttle workers to the mines and to haul newly mined ore out. To the north, logging railroads played a similar role, with trains running lumberjacks to deep woods camps and returning laden with timber. As the mines were depleted and forests laid bare, workers and investors left, and so did the trains.

Of course, not all of the old lines failed and, for a time, newer standard gauge main lines were the west’s principal means of travel. It is along segments of those heritage railways that today’s scenic train rides unfold offering up rare glimpses of history and nature, often inaccessible by any other means of travel.

Nowhere in the Western US is the point made more clearly than on a train ride through Colorado. There, in San Juan National Forest mountain country, the award-winning Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train snakes along an isolated river route. To the north, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad follows a precarious route that crosses the unique hanging bridge — a still-stunning 19th century engineering feat. Likewise, the engineering precision that enables both the Georgetown Loop Railroad and Rio Grande Scenic Railroad to overcome steep Rocky Mountain grades.

The Pacific Coast is home to a diversity of heritage railways and scenic train rides.

Best loved are San Francisco’s Cable Cars. The world’s last manually operated cable car system is synonymous with the City by the Bay. Across the Bay, amid the rolling hills of Northern California’s internationally famous wine country, the Napa Valley Wine Train follows a vineyard route that generates an international buzz among wine lovers and rail fans alike.

Southern California is home to a quirky assortment of tourist trains. The Fillmore & Western Railway’s “Movie Trains” have featured in hundreds of films, series, and commercials. The Orange Empire Railway Museum is the largest railway museum in the West. And downtown LA’s Angel’s Flight funicular lays claim to the title “world’s shortest railway.”

Up the coast, tucked amid the Pacific Northwest’s Cascades Range, two of the region’s namesake mountain railways ply their scenic routes. Oregon’s Mount Hood Railroad and Washington’s Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum keep watch over the rolling foothills they call home.

[expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Alaska” tag=”h2″] Coastal Classic Train – Alaska Railroad Anchorage, Alaska First edging the Turnagain Arm coast, the train veers off through backcountry wilderness for an extended halt at Seward and Resurrection Bay. Optional activities include Kenai Fjords National Park cruise, Wildlife island cruise with wilderness lodge lunch, and Real Alaska Tour with glacier hike and dog sled ride. Train operates seasonally. Telephone: +1 (907) 265-2494 . Glacier Discovery Train – Alaska Railroad Anchorage, Alaska Into the wilds of the Chugach National Forest, the train crosses Alpine Meadows in range of awesome glacier views. Optional layovers include Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop trail walk. Rafting, hiking, and ice climbing add-ons available. Train operates seasonally. Telephone: +1 (907) 265-2494 . White Pass & Yukon Route Skagway, Alaska – Carcross, Yukon An engineering marvel, this Gold Rush era railroad climbs nearly 3000 ft (914 m) from glacial tidewater to White Pass Summit. Other excursions run to Fraser, Bennett and Whitehorse, Canada. Hiker services for Denver and Laughton Glaciers and Chilkoot Trail are available. Highlights include overnight camping add-ons. Trains operate seasonally. Passport required for some services. Telephone: +1 (800) 343-7373 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”California” tag=”h2″] Angel’s Flight Railway Los Angeles, California The world’s shortest railway, downtown LA’s 1901 narrow gauge funicular takes passengers on a short hop between Grand Avenue (across from Grand Central Market) and Hill Street (at California Plaza) on Bunker Hill. Trains operate year-round (Monday to Friday only). Telephone: +1 (213) 626-1901 . California State Railroad Museum Sacramento, California Old Sacramento State Historic Park is home to one of the nation’s foremost railroading museums. Excursions, along the banks of the Sacramento River, are among the most popular attractions. Highlights include library, restored freight depot and extensive collections of locomotives and rolling stock. Trains operate seasonally; museum open year-round. Telephone: +1 (916) 445-5995 . Fillmore & Western Railway Fillmore, California The “Home of the Movie Trains,” featured in Hollywood productions, hosts scenic excursions through the citrus groves of Heritage Valley. Highlights include Murder Mystery Dinner Trains and rail/tour packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (805) 524≠2546 . Irvine Park Railroad Orange, California Kids and grown-ups alike delight in riding aboard this charming 1/3 scale railroad through the Orange County foothills of Irvine Regional Park. Highlights include access to the Orange County Zoo, public stables, and paddle boat and bike rentals. Trains operate year-round. +1 (714) 997-3968 . Napa Valley Wine Train Napa, California Among the “Best Rail Experiences in the World,” the Wine Train treats guests to gourmet lunch and dinner services aboard Vista Domes, or antique Pullman dining and lounge cars. Highlights include Winery Tours and theme runs. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 427-4124 . Niles Canyon Railway Niles and Sunol, California Scenic train rides wind along Alameda Creek in Niles Canyon, site of numerous Charlie Chaplin films. Optional layovers allow riders time to explore the old rail town of Sunol or Fremont’s historic Niles district and return on a later train. Highlights include open-air car and caboose rentals. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (510) 996-8420 . Orange Empire Railway Museum Perris, California The largest railway museum in the West operates a changing roster of trains and trolleys from a world-class collection of locomotives and rolling stock dating from the 1870s. Highlights include Run One guest engineer opportunities and caboose rentals. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (951) 943-3020 . Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo, California Through San Diego’s back-country, the Golden State takes visitors on a 90-minute scenic train ride along an authentic mountain railroad. Highlights include locomotive cab rides, open-air car (in season), caboose rides, and “Engineer-for-an-Hour” opportunities. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (619) 478-9937 . Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Jamestown, California A feature of Hollywood movies for nearly a century, the train museum’s 6 mi (10 km) train ride through the rugged hillsides of California’s Gold Country runs past the water tower made famous on “Petticoat Junction.” Highlights include cab rides, Crew for a Day experience, and Sierra Railway shops and roundhouse. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (209) 984-3953 . Roaring Camp Railroads Felton, California Ancient redwood stands form the backdrop for a pair of memorable adventures: by narrow-gauge Redwood Forest Steam Train to the top of Bear Mountain; or aboard the Beach Train to the boardwalk at Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz to Felton also available). Highlights include Engineer for a Day experience. Steam Train runs year-round; Beach Train, seasonally. Telephone: +1 (831) 335-4484 . River Fox Train West Sacramento, California Along a unique wetlands route, the River Fox crosses open farmland and the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area — one of the nation’s largest restored habitats and home to nearly 200 species of birds. Highlights include open-air cars; rail bikes and beer and wine trains. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (800) 866-1690 . San Francisco Cable Cars MUNI – San Francisco Municipal Railway San Francisco, California Famous for their gravity defying engineering, photo ops, and signal bells (a single bell for stop; two for go); many a heart left in San Francisco lingers aboard one of the city’s beloved cable cars. Dating back to the late 19th century, SF’s cable car lines form the world’s last manually operated cable car system. Routes include Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde lines (Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf via Union Square and Chinatown) and California line (Van Ness to Financial District via Nob Hill). Highlights include Cable Car Barn and Powerhouse tours, Cable Car Turnarounds and Cable Car Museum. Trains operate year-round . Telephone: +1 (415) 701-2311 . Skunk Train Fort Bragg and Willits, California The North Coast’s varied nature is contrasted along two different routes. Blue heron, osprey, and egret range along the Pudding Creek Express’s wetlands route while Wolf Tree Turn excursions descend into the redwood-thick Noyo River Canyon. Dogs are welcome! Highlights include open-air car and rail bikes. Pudding Creek Express runs year-round; Wolf Tree Turn, seasonally. Telephone: +1 (707) 964-6371 . Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Fish Camp, California Ten minutes from Yosemite National Park, vintage trains drawn by steam-powered Shay locomotives and antique self-propelled “Jenny” railcars haul passengers along a onetime logging track through Sierra National Forest. Highlights include Moonlight Special/BBQ packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (559) 683-7273 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Colorado” tag=”h2″] Colorado Railroad Museum Golden, Colorado Colorado’s Age of the Locomotive comes to life aboard a narrow-gauge steam train train tour of the museum grounds which contain an operational roundhouse and railyard displaying over 100 narrow and standard gauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses. Highlights include “Gallopin’ Goose” Motorcar rides, Depot Museum, and garden railway. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 365-6263 . Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad Cripple Creek, Colorado A 15-ton iron horse recreates the excitement of the Gold Rush age along its 4 mi (6.5 km) narrow-gauge route. Historic mines and the deserted mining camp of Anaconda are sights along the way. Highlights include open-air car. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (719) 689-2640 . colorado-cripple-creek-and-victor-narrow-gauge-railroad Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Antonito, Colorado & Chama, New Mexico Through high desert and lush meadows, America’s longest narrow gauge railway zig zags along the Colorado – New Mexico border crossing tunnel and trestle, and climbing to Cumbres Pass — at 10015 ft (3050 m), the highest rail pass in the USA. Highlights include first-class Parlor Car, complementary lunch buffet, and museum. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (888) 286-2737 . Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Durango, Colorado Along the Animas River’s snaking course, steam engine trains cut through the mountain country of the San Juan National Forest. Durango to Silverton (May to October; one-way bus option available); Rockwood (summer only) and Durango (November to early May) round trips to Cascade Canyon are also popular. Highlights include open-air cars, locomotive cab and motor car rides; Rail/Raft Adventures, Brew Trains and rail/hotel/recreation packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (888) 872-4607 . Fort Collins Municipal Railway Fort Collins, Colorado Restored street cars proceed along the original West Mountain Avenue line between the downtown shopping district and City Park of this pretty college town. Trains operate seasonally. Georgetown Loop Railroad Georgetown and Silver Plume, Colorado A 19c engineering marvel, this historic steam engine train ride’s corkscrew route climbs a 600 ft (180 m) grade in just 2 mi (3 km), clearing horseshoe curves and massive Devil’s Gate High Bridge. Highlights include historic Parlor Cars. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (888) 456-6777 . Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad Leadville, Colorado From the Victorian mining town of Leadville – North America’s highest incorporated city – the LC&S travels through the world’s largest alpine valley, in sight of towering Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, to the Continental Divide. Highlights include engine train rides and caboose rides; raft-and-rail and zip-line-and-rail specials. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (866) 386-3936 . Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway Manitou Springs, Colorado Completely rebuilt in time for the 2021 season, the world’s highest cog railroad returns after a two year hiatus. Climbing Pikes Peak since 1891, the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway passes grazing bighorn sheep and 2000-year old bristlecone pines, overtakes the timberline, and crosses Alpine tundra to reach its summit station, 14,115 ft (4300 m) in the sky. Highlights include biking and hiking combos. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (719) 685-5401 . Rio Grande Scenic Railroad Alamosa and Fort Garland, Colorado The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is no longer operating. La Veta Mountaineer . All passengers enjoy first-class style seating within the Vista Dome car and complementary brunch onboard. Alamosa Wine and Cheese Train Tour also offered. Highlights include seasonal theme trains. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (877) 726-7245 .08-feb-19 --> Royal Gorge Route Railroad Cañon City, Colorado One thousand feet below the gorge’s cliffs, the railroad ventures through the granite-walled narrow its railbed shares with the Arkansas River. The 1879 hanging bridge is an engineering marvel. Service classes include Vista Dome; bistro-style and First Class dining is available. Highlights include open-air cars, Ride with the Engineer experience, Murder Mystery trains, and Wine Express. Trains operate year-round (holiday theme only mid-Nov through New Years Eve). Telephone: +1 (888) 724-5748 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Hawaii” tag=”h2″] Hawaiian Railway Ewa, Hawaii Oahu’s last remaining sugar train steams past an old sugar cane plantation and a ghost town on its way to the ocean at Kahe Point. Highlights include Ice Cream Rides and a Toy Train Museum. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (808) 681-5461 . “The Sugarcane Train” Lahaina Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad Lahaina – Puukolii, Hawaii The Sugar Cane Train is expected to resume operations in the future. Telephone: +1 (808) 667-6851 .--> [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Montana” tag=”h2″] Charlie Russell Chew-Choo Hanover, Montana Rolling through the heart of Big Sky Country, the Chew-Choo’s Monatana Dinner Train serves up a memorable 3½ hours of great scenery and western-style entertainment along with a full-course prime rib dinner. Highlights include Wild West Hold-Up reenactment. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (866) 912-3980 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Nevada” tag=”h2″] Nevada Northern Railway Ely, Nevada A National Historic Landmark, today steam and diesel runs retrace a stretch of former copper-hauling railway through two tunnels and rugged canyon lands. Highlights include open-air cars, Great Basin Star Train, Be the Engineer experience, caboose and locomotive cab rides, yard tours, and Overnight in the Yard opportunities (bunkhouse or caboose). Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (866) 407-8326 . Nevada State Railroad Museum Carson City, Nevada Steam trains and rare motor cars alternate runs out of historic Wabuska Station. Artifacts, educational displays, and rolling stock spotlight the Silver State rail’s role in the development of ore-hauling and transcontinental railroads. Highlights include changing exhibits. Trains operate year-round except January. Telephone: +1 (702) 486-5933 . Nevada Southern Railway Boulder City, Nevada Built in the 1930s to service the Boulder Dam project, the Mojave museum railway takes visitors on a scenic 45-minute desert run. Highlights include open-air car, locomotive cab rides, displays of historic steam locomotives and rolling stock. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (702) 486-5933 . Virginia & Truckee Railroad Virginia City, Nevada “The Queen of the Short Lines” rides again — reviving a stretch of the historic rail route built to link the outside world with the boomtowns of Nevada’s 19c silver bonanza: the Comstock Lode. Today’s guests enjoy 35-minute excursions aboard restored 1920s coaches. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (775) 847-0380 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Oregon” tag=”h2″] Mount Hood Railroad Hood River, Oregon Riders spot fruit orchards, woodland fauna and mountain vistas along this century-old railroad’s Hood River course. Return trip follows an hour’s layover at the foothill hamlet of Parkdale. Highlights include First Class WIne Tastings and optional Onboard Deli Lunch. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 872-4661 . Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad Garibaldi & Rockaway Beach, Oregon Steam trips between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach depots offer up stunning views of Tillamook Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include dinner trains. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 842-7972 . Oregon Electric Railway Museum Antique Powerland Brooks, Oregon The largest trolley museum in the Pacific Northwest features a 1 mi (1.5 km) demonstration run and a working car barn tour. Highlights include exhibits of vintage trams and street cars. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 393-2424 . Sumpter Valley Railroad Sumpter & Baker City (McEwen), Oregon A one-time timber train, the historic “Stump Dodger” treats passengers to an old-fashioned narrow gauge steam engine train ride through the heart of Gold Rush Country. Highlights include locomotive cab rides and rail artifacts display. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (866) 894-2268 . Willamette Shore Trolley Lake Oswego and SW Portland, Oregon Over tall trestles, through an S-curve tunnel and along the scenic Willamette Riverbank, this heritage trolley plies its preservation line between Lake “O” and Southwest Portland waterfront district. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 697-7436 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Utah” tag=”h2″] Heber Valley Railroad Heber City, Utah Runs to sparkling Deer Creek Reservoir feature views of Mt. Timpanogos. Longer excursions continue along the Provo River into glacier-carved Provo Canyon. Highlights include raft/rail combos and optional box lunches. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (435) 654-5601 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Washington” tag=”h2″] Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum Chehalis, Washington Service has been suspended as of March 2022. Telephone: +1 (360) 748-9593 . Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Yacolt, Washington Through the Evergreen State’s historic logging country, trains clear a tunnel, edge along a cliff and cross a trestle bridge en route to Moulton Falls County Park. Highlights include annual Christmas tree runs. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (360) 686-3559 . Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum Elbe, Washington Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum has ceased operations until further notice. Telephone: +1 (360) 492-6000 . 08-feb-19 --> Northwest Railway Museum Snoqualmie, Washington Amid the western Cascade Foothills, antique coaches depart the museum’s 19c depot bound for North Bend, the top of Snoqualmie Falls and the scenic overlook of the Valley. Optional departures and layovers at North Bend. Highlights include guided Snoqualmie Depot and Train Shed Exhibit Building tours. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (425) 888-3030 . Seattle Center Monorail Seattle, Washington The world rode into the future — or so they thought — when they rode the monorail at the 1962 World’s Fair. What was cutting edge then is kitschy now but it still makes a cool introduction to the Emerald City. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (206) 905-2620 . Yakima Valley Trolleys Yakima, Washington Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, America’s last intact, early 20c interurban railway runs through the heart of Apple Country as it has since 1907. An operating carbarn and substation contain heritage cars and equipment. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (509) 249-5962 . [/expand]  

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak trips out west: 7 amazing train vacations.

For an adventure with Wild West towns, Spanish missions, national parks and historic landmarks, book a trip on Amtrak for an epic experience. Multiple long-distance trains travel across the Western United States, so you can choose the route based on your sightseeing interests.

To start planning your Amtrak vacation, here are seven must-do train trips out West.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page .

1. Glacier National Park

Take a trip on the Empire Builder from cities such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Portland and Seattle to experience Glacier National Park and Great Northern Railway history.

Founded in 1889, the Great Northern Railway connected Saint Paul, Minnesota with Seattle, Washington. To increase ridership, the railroad company petitioned the US government to create Glacier National Park, which was near their railroad tracks.

The effort paid off. Glacier National Park was established in 1910, and the railroad company built lodges and chalets that you can still stay in today:

• 1910 Belton Chalet (next to the West Glacier Station)
• 1913 Glacier Park Lodge (next to East Glacier Park Station)
• 1939 Izaak Walton Inn (former railroad employee lodging next to the Essex Station)

The Great Northern Railway also built several lodges inside Glacier National Park (Granite Park Chalet, Lake McDonald Lodge, Many Glacier Hotel and Sperry Chalet), but you’ll need a car to get there. Exit at the Whitefish Amtrak Station for rental cars or to reach an airport .

2. Route 66

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief travels near Route 66, the first all-weather road that connected Chicago with Los Angeles. Board the train in Chicago to officially kick of the journey from the start of the highway, but once you are outside of Chicago, the train doesn’t connect with Route 66 again until Las Vegas, New Mexico.

For a trip that’s all along the historic road, start in Albuquerque and travel to Los Angeles. You can also get off the train for one night or more at one of the below Amtrak stations to see Route 66 up close:

• Las Vegas, New Mexico
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Gallup, New Mexico
• Winslow, Arizona
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Kingman, Arizona ( Historic Route 66 Museum )
• Needles, California*
• Barstow, California*
• Victorville, California*
• San Bernardino, California
• Los Angeles, California

*Westbound trains arrive in these cities after midnight

3. Colorado Rocky Mountains

The majestic Colorado Rocky Mountains straddle the Continental Divide and separate the Western US from the Great Plains. The California Zephyr will take you there from cities including Emeryville (near San Francisco), Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Omaha and Denver. It’s one of the most scenic Amtrak routes with beautiful views all year long.

If you start the trip in Chicago, you’ll spend a night on the train before reaching the Rockies, but you’ll get to see the massive mountains rise in the distance on the approach.

To experience just the mountain journey, we recommend starting in Denver. From there, you can take a day trip to Salt Lake City, or travel to one of the Amtrak stations in the mountains so you can hike, ski and visit local attractions. See Colorado train trip ideas to learn more.

4. Donner Pass and Lake Tahoe

If you recall from history class, the Donner Party was a group of pioneers that traveled out west in a wagon train in 1846. They got caught in a blizzard and almost half of them died after spending months next to what is now Donner Lake (pictured above).

Amtrak’s California Zephyr train travels through this area today from cities including Chicago, Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, Sacramento and Emeryville. You can view Donner Lake out the windows along with the Sierra Nevada mountains, which made the last leg of the journey west difficult for many settlers.

To visit Donner Memorial State Park and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby North Lake Tahoe , you’ll need to rent a car. Exit the train in Truckee, California, which is a historic town that was originally built along a wagon road. You can arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the nearby Enterprise Rent-A-Car office .

With the car, you can choose from many different lodging options in the mountains or near the water. Plan to say at least one night in the area.

5. Old West Towns

Dodge City, Kansas and Las Vegas, New Mexico (pictured above) are two great places to experience the Wild West on the Southwest Chief route.

In Dodge City, Boot Hill Museum is one of the top attractions to visit, with interactive displays, artifacts and activities that recreate the town’s past. You can also check out the Gunfighers Wax Museum and walk the Dodge City Trail of Fame .

Las Vegas, New Mexico is eight hours away from Dodge City via train and has over 900 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It hasn’t changed much since Billy the Kid, Doc Holliday, Jesse James and other outlaws walked the streets. Be sure to check out the Plaza Hotel that opened in 1882. Former President Theodore Roosevelt visited here in 1899 as part of a Rough Riders reunion.

Both cities have hotels and downtown districts in walking distance of Amtrak stations. Holiday Inn Express & Suites is closest to the Dodge City Amtrak Station and the Castaneda Hotel , which was formerly a Harvey House for railroad passengers, is closest to the Las Vegas, New Mexico Amtrak Station.

If you’re looking for a flight for the return trip, Albuquerque and Kansas City are the closest Amtrak stops with major airports. To start the trip, you can begin in and near Los Angeles or cities including Chicago and Kansas City.

6. Spanish Missions

San Antonio, Texas is just one of many places where you can view historic Spanish missions in the United States. The Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited Amtrak routes stop here, with departures from cities in Texas, as well as Chicago, St. Louis, Little Rock, New Orleans, Tucson and Los Angeles.

The must-visit destinations include The Alamo (also known as Mission San Antonio de Valero ), Mission Concepción , Mission San José  (pictured above), Mission San Juan  and Mission Espada . View the missions trip guide to learn more or plan to go on a guided tour .

After you’ve seen all the sights, you can return home on Amtrak or book a flight out of San Antonio or another major city on the Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited routes. Note that The Alamo is in walking distance of the San Antonio Amtrak Station along with the San Antonio River Walk and several hotels ( Staybridge Suites is closest to the station).

7. Grand Canyon and Flagstaff

For views of an amazing natural wonder, plan a trip to the Grand Canyon via Amtrak’s Southwest Chief . The closest station is Flagstaff, and you’ll need to rent a car (pick up service available during office hours), book a shuttle or go on a tour to reach the Grand Canyon from there.

Perks of renting a car include being able to visit other top area attractions including Walnut Canyon National Monument , Lowell Observatory , Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort .

Even if you don’t rent a car, you can explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff and Route 66 , check out the many art galleries , visit the Clara M. Lovett Art Museum and go on an electric bike tour . Lyft and Uber services are also options for getting around, although all the above activities are walkable if you stay at a hotel or vacation rental downtown.

Tip : Train arrival time in Flagstaff is better if you are traveling west vs east. To travel west, you can start the trip in Chicago, Kansas City or Albuquerque, which all have major airports.

More Information

• 10 most scenic Amtrak routes
• 5 best Amtrak sleeper car routes
• Amtrak roomettes vs bedrooms
• 7 things to pack for an Amtrak trip
• 10 attractions on the Sunset Limited route to plan a trip around
• 10 attractions on the Southwest Chief route to plan a trip around

Top photo courtesy Pxhere

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

Tourist railroads in the Western United States

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

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Tourist railroads you must visit out west include scenic excursions heading into the Alaskan wilderness, a top-tier museum, and everything in between. From Trains Magazine’s Tourist Trains Guidebook , here’s our list of tourist railroads, museums, and displays to experience in the region.

Tourist Railroads and Museums out West

Alaska Railroad – 411 West 1st Avenue, Anchorage The Alaska Railroad has connected the state’s seaports and inland communities since 1923. The rugged terrain the railroad traverses today serves as the backdrop to the railroad’s popular passenger excursions. Different services are offered between Fairbanks and Seward with favorites including the Anchorage-Fairbanks Denali Star and the Anchorage-Seward Coastal Classic . The railroad partners with the major cruise lines, resulting in extended packages in addition to the trips.

White Pass & Yukon Route – 201 2nd Avenue, Skagway A little town with a big draw in cruise ship tourism, Skagway is home to North America’s longest-operating narrow-gauge railroad. The White Pass and Yukon Route’s 67.5 miles is a scenic plethora of mountains, rivers, and lakes. The first 20 miles alone is where the drama of mountain railroading shines as the train climbs 2,865 feet in elevation at a 3.9% grade. When one of the railroad’s historic steam locomotives is on the point, it’s a show-stopping performance!

California State Railroad Museum – 125 I Street, Sacramento The high-quality facility alone makes the California State Railroad Museum a premier museum in the United States. The displays and exhibits are set up for visitors to explore the amazing history and legacy of railroading in the Golden State. For an operational experience, step outside to the museum’s reconstructed Central Pacific freight depot for a short train ride along the Sacramento River.

See more California tourist railroads you must visit.

Kauai Plantation Railway – 3-2087 Kaumualii Highway, Lihue Constructed nearly 100 years ago, this 3-foot-gauge railway was the very first on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The line today takes passengers through 100 acres of the island’s rich plantation. The aroma of pineapple, banana, papaya, coffee, tropical flowers, and hardwood trees fill the air during the 40-minute excursion. If you plan to visit on either a Tuesday or Friday, take advantage of the evening train and luau package with an added Hawaiian feast and entertainment.

Mount Hood Railroad – 110 Railroad Street, Hood River Choose from either 60- or 90-minute excursions as you depart downtown Hood River and head into the orchards and vineyards. The scenic beauty stretches from the Columbia River Gorge to Mount Hood, but views of the tallest peak in Oregon are a highlight during the trip. Railbike excursions are also offered on select days for those yearning for an adventure at their own speed.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad – 306 American Avenue, Garibaldi With views of the Pacific Ocean along the Tillamook Bay shores, they don’t call this operation the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad for nothing! Historic steam and vintage diesel locomotives pull a consist of coach and open-air cars from Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach. Diesel-powered dinner trains head further up the coast to Wheeler on select evenings. Word of advice when planning to ride either train: Make sure you reserve seating on the left side.

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad – 207 Railroad Avenue, Yacolt A high trestle over the Lewis River and a 330-foot tunnel both headline the 9-mile Chelatchie Prairie Railroad. Caboose, open-air cars, and heavyweight coaches are normally pulled by a 1940-built Alco diesel locomotive over the scenic line. For those hoping to add some steam into the mix, be on the lookout for the return of 2-8-2T No. 10 to service in the future. The Christmas Train and Tree experience is a unique holiday excursion on the railroad. Ride the train to Moulton, where you’ll meet Santa Claus and pick out a tree for the return trip to Yacolt.

Northwest Railway Museum – 38625 Southeast King Street (Snoqualmie Depot); 9312 Stone Quarry Rd (Railway History Campus) The museum’s Railway History Campus and Train Shed Exhibit Hall are home to the largest collection in the Pacific Northwest. Over 70 pieces of equipment reside at the facility south of Snoqualmie, including a rare chapel car and a 1926-built, 2-6-6-2 steam locomotive. In the heart of downtown Snoqualmie is the museum’s 1890 depot. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Queen Anne-style structure is the boarding site for steam- and diesel-powered excursions to North Bend and Snoqualmie Falls.

Other railroad sites in the West to consider across

During your visit to the Western United States, consider also visiting these railroad sites:

• Museum of Alaska Transportation & Industry – Wasilla
• Tanana Valley Railroad Museum – Fairbanks
• Knott’s Berry Farm Calico Railroad — Buena Park
• Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site — Bishop
• Napa Valley Wine Train — Napa
• Niles Canyon Railway — Sunol
• Pacific Southwest Railway Museum — Campo
• RailGiants Train Museum — Pomona
• Railtown 1897 State Historic Park — Jamestown
• Roaring Camp Railroads — Felton
• Sacramento River Fox Train — West Sacramento
• San Francisco Municipal Railway — San Francisco
• Skunk Train — Fort Bragg
• Southern California Railway Museum — Perris
• Travel Town Museum — Los Angeles
• Western Pacific Railroad Museum — Portola
• Western Railway Museum — Suisun City
• Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad — Fish Camp
• Laupahoehoe Train Museum – 6-2377 Mamalahoa Highway, Laupahoehoe
• Hawaiian Railway Society – 91-1001 Renton Road, Ewa Beach
• Canby Depot Museum – Canby
• Eagle Cap Excursion Train – Elgin
• Oregon Electric Railway Museum – Brooks
• Oregon Rail Heritage Center – Portland
• Sumpter Valley Railroad – Sumpter and Baker City
• Willamette Shore Trolley – Oswego
• Cashmere Museum & Pioneer Village – Cashmere
• Chehalis-Centralia Railroad – Chehalis
• Dayton Historic Depot – Dayton
• Issaquah Depot Museum and Trolley – Issaquah
• Lake Whatcom Railway – Sedro-Woodley
• Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad – Elbe
• Northern Pacific Railway Museum – Toppenish
• Ritzville Railroad Depot Museum – Ritzville
• Yakima Valley Trolleys – Yakima

Learn more about tourist railroads in North America.

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5 Top Train Trips for Exploring the West

Article By: Ralph Spielman

Simplify your family vacation planning with these five top train trips for exploring America’s Western states. Each of these rail travel adventures are sure to make for interesting family travels.

What could be simpler than train travel? No driving worries, strange motels, bad food, security checks, airport hassles or cramped seating afflict those who experience about long distance travel by train. Flights are much faster, true. Train trips, howevr, are much more immersive. Picture travel at eight feet or 12 feet above the ground versus 35,000 feet and, it’s not as bumpy.

Were your kids cooped up at home during the pandemic? Hopefully, they practiced online learning skills and hung around the virtual Amtrak Activity Center ? It’s time to introduce them to train travel and the fun of moving around train cars.

Heading Out on Amtrak’s Western Train Trips

As an avid train traveler and vacation-lover, I want to share a few of my favorite longer train trips. They are out West and suitable family travel fun, filled with history, geography and the natural sciences.

They’re all operated by Amtrak. America’s national rail operator runs 21,000 route miles in 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces. Did you know that Amtrak operates more than 300 trains each day to more than 500 destinations? ?

If that sounds daunting, there are travel agents who specialize in rail travel. Alternatively, consult with Amtrak Vacations , the railroad’s official tour operator. Let’s look at my top five train trips for exploring the Western U.S. plan ahead for future journeys.

What Makes These Western Train Trips Memorable

Any train travel offers great sightseeing out the windows. As a bonus, these trains also make servicing stops. Stops range from five minutes to an hour and allow passengers a chance to get off the train and walk around a new station a little.

There’s no special responsibility weighing on the driver – that’s someone else’s job so your family can relax together. All of the Amtrak trains noted offer reasonably comfortable seats and meal services, with a selection of food, snacks and drinks for the duration of the trip. Vegan and vegetarian alternatives are also available.

One item to remember is train timekeeping is not always exemplary; on all these runs, Amtrak owns or shares track with host freight-carrying railroads. These “landlords” may be bent on putting their freight train in front of yours. Expect possible delays.

Keeping Everyone Busy When They’re All Aboard!

Another item worth remembering is that WiFi is not generally available on these trains, but some of the larger stations should have it. Given the lengths of these suggested trips, you might want to bring favored snacks and games (both board and electronic games).

Unlike flying, there are a lot of toilets to choose from and strollers are free to carry on. Many stations on Western train trips offer advanced boarding for families with young children. If you are traveling in a sleeping car, the showers on-board can be a big help, with big towels supplied by Amtrak.

And even if your kids don’t belong to Greta Thunberg’s Kids Rights movement, they surely know that rail travel is much more environmentally friendly than CO2-burning road and air transport.

What’s Special about Overnight Amtrak train trips in the U.S.?

This author has had occasion to travel overnight in long-distance coaches, where every seat is comparable to an international business class airline seat. It is, surprisingly, better than you might think, relatively quiet at night and very affordable for families. The long-distance rail cars are built for the job and big windows on each side afford some fantastic views of scenic areas.

Why go West? Sleek double-decker trains carry everyone in quiet luxury with longer horizons and large windows for better viewing. When you alight at a service stop and look down the length of the train, both the length and height of your rolling home combine to make it seem like a linear apartment building. These rolling behemoths stretch more than three city blocks in length.

If your budget can afford it, the way to travel is in a sleeping car on the runs west of Chicago.

Special Facilities & Amenities on Western Train Trips

The sleeping car first appeared in the 1850s and, for my money, is the most unique way to travel anywhere in the world, especially in that part of our nation. These Western trains travel from Chicago and New Orleans to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Oregon and Seattle.

Each two-level Western train offers an upper-level dining car with tableside meals, and an upper-level sightseer cafe/lounge car, with floor to ceiling windows to ensure memories and incredible photos. Chances are, either sleeping car or coach, your accommodation will be on the upper level with its own amazing views.

Western Long Haul Train Trips with Sleeper Cars

The gamut of overnight Western rail trip offerings starts at a lower-level, full-width family room, suitable for as many as four family members! Other accommodations offered are a cozy roomette, suitable for two in upper and lower berths and deluxe double bedrooms, suitable for up to three people, equipped with an ensuite shower, sink and toilet.

Accessible rooms are suitable for physically challenged travelers plus a companion. Showers are available for all sleeping car passengers.

While there are roomettes on both levels, the family and accessible rooms are on the lower level. Double bedrooms, the premium accommodation, are strictly on the upper level, and offer amazing views.

Favorite Amtrak Stations in the West: Albuquerque, Denver, Fort Worth

Servicing stops in places like Albuquerque, New Mexico; Denver, Colorado; and Fort Worth, Texas afford breaks in the ride. The whole family has a chance to take leg-stretching platform walks and witness the activity at the station.

Albuquerque even offers opportunities to purchase Native American handicrafts during the stop the Southwest Chief makes there.

I’ve tried to describe westward journeys in most cases to give everyone a longer day as you chase the sun on its westward journey. Let’s hop aboard each one for a look at their respective routes.

Have a memorable trip, no matter which train you decide on!

Chicago and New Orleans>Los Angeles; Texas Bayous, Farms and Deserts on the Sunset Limited

With a set of through cars from Chicago joining the New Orleans-originating Sunset Limited in San Antonio, Texas, the southernmost transcontinental Amtrak train travels three times a week in both directions.

Should you depart from New Orleans, the Sunset will whisk you west by way of a 900-mile transit of Texas. Bayous, farms, ranches and desert are all visible on this trip.

Should you book from Chicago or St. Louis to connect with the Sunset Limited , a sleeping car and a coach start on the Texas Eagle , which runs through Little Rock on its way to the San Antonio rendezvous, where both trains join. By the time the sun rises heading west, you are gazing on the farmlands of eastern Texas.

Traveling southwesterly through the state, it takes 16 hours (about the time to drive from New York to Chicago) to go from the Arkansas border to your connecting point.

West from Texas>Los Angeles; Crossing New Mexico on the Sunset Limited

When both parts of the Sunset Limited unite and head west, a New Mexico morning greets passengers. Daylight in New Mexico and Arizona takes the train through what was the Gadsden Purchase, land the U.S. purchased from Mexico to build the very route the train travels on.

The Arizona desert gives way to nocturnal transit of California’s Imperial Valley with an early breakfast arrival at Los Angeles.

Chicago>Los Angeles; From Lake Michigan to the Pacific on the Southwest Chief

While the Texas Chief/Sunset Limited will take you from Chicago to Los Angeles through the desert, the shorter way between those two points is on the daily Southwest Chief , which travels through scenic, largely unpopulated Northern New Mexico during daylight hours in both directions.

You view the High Desert, a riot of reds and browns against a sunny blue sky, through large windows. From an elevation of 600 feet in Chicago, the train climbs to an amazing 7,588 feet above sea level at the Raton Tunnel in Northern New Mexico. This marvel of engineering is the highest point in the Amtrak system.

Fun stops for the family to disembark and tour would be Lamy, New Mexico — a short taxi ride from Santa Fe – and Albuquerque. Flagstaff, Arizona is the gateway to the Grand Canyon. Fullerton, California is close to Disneyland in Anaheim.

Along the way, the friendly crews will be happy to point out attractions of interest; you may just see wild stallions on the range in Southern Colorado! It’s a wonderful way to see the Southwest go by, instead of zooming above it at 500 mph. The thrill of having a leisurely meal while floating through scenic vistas from the flat Illinois plains to the Rocky Mountains? Priceless.

On a Western adventure, a train trip is a lot more real than flying over and more restful than a long drive.

Chicago>San Francisco; Through the Mountains on the San Francisco Zephyr

If Denver, Salt Lake City, or the San Francisco Bay Area are points on your destination horizon, a mid-afternoon departure on the daily California Zephyr makes for perfect family travel to your special destination. It is a spectacular transit between Denver and Salt Lake City in daylight in each direction. There are 44 tunnels through the Rocky Mountains, a 50-mile climb out of Denver and a six-mile long Moffat Tunnel to keep everyone interested in the journey. The views on a clear day from the sightseer lounge car climbing out of Denver on a clear day are breathtaking.

The full trip, at over 2,400 miles, is one of the longest routes Amtrak currently offers. The western end of the line in Emeryville, California is but a short connecting bus ride to San Francisco over San Francisco Bay.

Western Rail Favorite: Northern Crossing; Empire Builder and the Pacific Northwest

The daily Empire Builder offers up the plains of the Midwest, the Rockies and Pacific Northwest forests en route from Chicago to its twin destinations, Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon. The window of your coach or sleeping car room will afford a better than wide screen television 3D view of constantly changing vistas.

Heading West, the trains leave in the afternoon, with second day arrival at the last stop in the late morning. The Eastbound train leaves in the late afternoon, with an arrival in the late afternoon in Chicago on the second day of travel.

Kids will love daylight views of the Northern Rocky Mountains through miles of Montana wilderness, dotted by the occasional small town. If you look closely on the way through Glacier Park, you might just see some mountain goats! On the way to and from Seattle, you will travel through almost eight miles of the Cascade Tunnel, currently the country’s longest railroad tunnel.

These Western Stations Encourage You to Stay Awhile

You might want to make a family friendly detour, perhaps at Glacier National Park, served by stations at East Glacier Park, Essex, West Glacier and Whitefish, all in western Montana. Or, spend an overnight in the Twin Cities, filled with family-friendly museums, restaurant, and cultural events.

If you want a shorter flavor of local culture, a 30-minute stop in Minot, North Dakota; a 25-minute stop in Havre, Montana; or a 20-minute stop in Shelby, Montana; will allow for some daytime platform strolling as your two-level train is serviced. Train time is always busy at these  places, integrating the locals with the travelers arriving at each station. For your budding engineers, there is a large Great Northern Railroad steam engine to glance at as part of the Havre Station.

Please note: the Sunset Limited only runs three days a week in each direction; the other trains run daily.

Ralph’s Train Western Trip Tips

It pays to book your Amtrak tickets in advance online or in person. Young trainfans will probably enjoy a visit to their local station to plan and purchase tickets for their next journey.

Full dining car service is available to both coach and sleeping car passengers on long distance trains. On many trains, the original china and silverware are back in use too.

Coach passengers can purchase food in the cafe car. Full dining car service (plates and linen on the tables) is available to all passengers on the Sunset Limited , the Southwest Chief , San Francisco Zephyr , and the Empire Builder section to Seattle. The Empire Builder section to Portland, Oregonand the Texas Chief offer a lessened meal service for sleeping car passengers.

Get New Amtrak Deals And Learn About New Amtrak Fare Rules

Amtrak introduced a new, simplified fare structure. It’s great news for a few reasons. New Amtrak fares are more flexible and affordable since October 2023. Amtrak has also committed to refunding credit card purchases to the original form of payment, rather than giving you an eVoucher. There are now only two fare types but each has its own rules, so read on.

Amtrak Flex Fares :

These tickets allow maximum flexibility in travel planning.

Flex Fare Rules : Flex Fares are fully refundable if canceled and can be changed without fees before departure . However, buying new tickets will reflect the latest fares. Note that when even deeper discounts are available, these fares will be non-changeable and only 50% will be refunded if canceled.

Amtrak Value Fares :

These tickets are the best value if your dates/travel times are locked.

Value Fare Rules : Take advantage of a these lower-priced tickets. However, travel times and dates are non-changeable. Plus, you only get a 75% refund if canceled.

Take advantage of recent Amtrak Fare improvements you may have missed.

• Ultra-low  “Night Owl” fares , which are as low as $5 – $20 on select Northeast Corridor (NEC) routes.
• Amtrak Guest Rewards  members can now redeem tickets with points on more fare types.
• Revised children’s discount  means all children (2-12 years old) can travel for 50% off with an accompanying adult (previously limited to 1 child discount per adult fare).
• Expanded passenger discounts – such as senior and military –apply to all fares, including sales.
• Book Share Fares , which allow groups of 3-8 people traveling together to receive discounts ranging from 17% to 60%.

Our Next Station?

Please share your feedback in the Comments section below! If you’re interested in more rail travel ideas for tweens, teens and lifelong railfans, let us know.

The last time, I covered my favorite train trips in the East . For our next installment, we will travel up the Pacific Coast from Los Angeles to Seattle, visit Canada for some great across-the-border train trips, and visit a few tourist railroads for some short, family-friendly and truly memorable rides.

Ralph Spielman is a retired Fortune 500 Corporate Travel Administrator, a lifelong train enthusiast, a volunteer docent at Grand Central Terminal and a volunteer at The High Line, both in New York City. He has ridden many trains, large and small in Asia, Europe, North America and Australia.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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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

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

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

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  

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

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 

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 

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 

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

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

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

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

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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Western United States

Welcome to the region of evergreen giants, painted deserts, and pink-hued stone citadels. Our Western USA tours immerse you in lands woven with legend and lore, cowboy culture, and steaming National Parks.

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Welcome to the West

Here legends larger-than-life loom over landscapes sculpted in sand. Rivers tunnel through time leaving cavernous canyons in their wake. Geysers steam like clockwork precision and rocks balance, arch and bridge in whimsical formations. Go west with Tauck and you'll find evergreen giants, painted deserts, pink-hued stone citadels as you ride with cowboys, hike with naturalists and raft with guides passionate about the places they roam. 

Yellowstone national park, seriously... there's no other place on earth like it – yellowstone national park.

There's everything else, and then there's Yellowstone; it's truly like no other place on Earth. Why? Because it sits atop the largest "supervolcano" on the North American continent – one of the hottest spots on the planet. It's called the Yellowstone Caldera, and it lurks beneath the surface, giving rise to Yellowstone National Park's host of gushing geysers, steaming fumaroles, hot springs, mud pot and more – nothing less than the largest concentration of geothermal features on Earth, spectacular in winter or summer. In an amazing setting such as this, pretty much anything you do – from a wildlife safari in the summer, to a snowcoach ride in the winter… or hike, climb, horseback ride, ski, snowshoe, watch a sunrise or a sunset – is something you'll never forget.

Yosemite National Park

Through a lens, brightly and darkly – yosemite national park.

What a young Ansel Adams saw through his lens as he trekked into the California wilderness more than 100 years ago – as John Muir did a half-century before him – has inspired countless visitors to explore its chiseled landscapes. Celestial bodies trump electricity. Running water falls from rocks. Residents are furred, finned or feathered. And skyscrapers with names like Half Dome and El Capitan are nature-made. Adams iconic photographs need no words or explanation. Even in black and white, they capture what he felt about places now immortalized for future generations.

Grand Teton National Park

Big sky, big mountains, big picture... grand teton national park.

Out here in the Great American West, everything is "big." For starters, Wyoming comprises part of "Big Sky Country"... where the heavens ranging above the region's vast grasslands, winding rivers and jagged mountain peaks do indeed appear to stretch on forever and ever. Then there are the mountains themselves – in this case the Tetons, crowned by Grand Teton (that's the "big" one that gives the national park its name; other peaks in the range include Middle Teton, South Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot) – seemingly bursting right up out of the floor of the glacial valley we call Jackson Hole, to loom majestically over everything below.

Grand Canyon National Park

Coming to grips with the impossible... at grand canyon national park.

Surely you have stumbled upon some other planet... or at least it feels that way at Grand Canyon National Park. Your first glimpse of the enormous Grand Canyon strains credulity. What giants have been playing with the rock here? Or what cataclysmic force of the universe? Then the drama starts. Clouds, shadows, and the shifting sun keep transforming the landscape. As the sun flames in the west, canyon walls turn red while the giants paint the sky, creating masterpieces so beautiful they freeze you in your tracks. The Grand Canyon sprawls wide open, carved out by the Colorado River, revealing two billion years of Earth's history; here is where air meets land, where you meet what feels like destiny, with just the white-tailed Kaibab squirrel, only found here, as witness.

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Treasures of the American West

Our passion for and experience in the national parks of the West goes back generations; we pioneered air-land tours to the Western parks in the 1960s and haven't looked back since. In Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton and more, we stay at coveted inside-the-park lodges, know the best places to visit and explore, and the best ways to share our passion with you.

America's canyonlands, california's gold coast, yellowstone & grand teton national parks, majestic california: san francisco, yosemite & the pacific, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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Western USA Tours & Trips

From the illuminated sunset strip of Las Vegas and the cactus-filled plains of Joshua Tree to the bright red bridge that dominates San Francisco and California's Disneyland where dreams come true. The West Coast of the USA is a paradise offering a range of adventures for the whole family no matter what time of year . Embark on a cruise to Alaska or opt for some time out in Yosemite , the possibilities are endless on a vacation America's West Coast.

250+ Western USA tour packages with 12,800 reviews

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• Hiking & Trekking

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

This was our family’s first guided trip, and we chose the camping option (ages 52, 50, 13, 12). It exceeded our expectations! Despite a complex itinerary we never once had to think about how to get there, how much time to spend at each place, where to park, what to see, where to stay, where or what to eat - that was all planned for us. There was no marital or family tension and could just truly sit back and enjoy the ride! I truly believe we did more and saw more than we ever would have on our own. And special experiences like moonrises and sunrises were a big bonus. Our guide John was an enthusiastic and capable outdoorsman. He made sure the trip met the needs of the various guests - campers and hotellers alike, with a wide range of ages and physical abilities. There were thoughtful touches like road-trip playlists, moonrise and sunrise viewings, pit stops at roadside stops to support Native American craftsmen, and more. This is a beautiful part of the US - each park more beautiful than the last, but each one unique and wonderful. Highly recommend!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

was very good, MS. RACHEL DE GENNAO BEST OF THE BEST WOMAN. SHE EXELLENT ORGANIZER, SHE HAVE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ALASKA, SHE IS VERY FRIENDLY AND BEAUTIFUL GIRL. I BE GLAD HAVE DAUGHTER LIKE SHE. STEVE VEPRIK. ,

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Outstanding tour and tour guide. The trip was well organized, with half of the guests camping and half of the guests lodging. John, our tour guide, kept us informed and entertained us during the entire trip. Only criticism is that we had the same lunch just about every day. Highly recommend.

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Loved this trip, got to meet some awesome people and even got to do some hikes that weren't on the itinerary but were on my bucket list. All in all I couldn't of asked for a better trip

• Christmas & New Year

California Express - 3 Days

It was our first time using Tour Radar and we were extremely satisfied with the overall trip. Tour Guide was great and informational. Really got in everything plus more than we expected. Accommodations were good. Will definitely do again! Mona Largent/Robert Kemp

Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon – 3 days

Tour was very good as we covered many beautiful places in short time we had. Liked that we started tour in LV and ended there. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and breakfasts were also very good. Our tour guides were excellent, caring. informed, helpful and friendly. Thank you very much to Janet and Nao who did their jobs over snd above expevtsyions

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Our tour guide,Vicky took care of us & exceeded my expectations for this tour!She was very punctual & showed us all that was described in the tour agenda plus a few other side trips!She shared interesting information on all the areas we visited & had some pretty humorous stories too!I would highly recommend this tour!

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

The tour is very good. We saw a lot of animals and went to a lot of places in the park that people don’t go to and should. But we had a lot of problems communicating with the tour operators to get information about our tour. I would suggest that you check out the other tour companies to see what they offer.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

This was a wonderful experience brought to life by a passionate and caring tour guide.

Western USA National Parks Loop

We had a wonderful tour. Our tour guide was John Harris, he did an outstanding job making sure everyone had a great experience, had enough water and went out of his way too accommodate everyone’s dietary needs. We would highly recommend taking this tour, leave all the worries to your tour guide just sit back be driven to all the parks with lunch and snacks provided each day. Great way to experience the parks.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

In general things went very well. However, At the Denali location there was a shortage of staff which prevented full service at the Park, Ie. not all dinning venues were normal and our room service such as daily service was missing. We were told, staff shortage due to Canadian employees may have left due to concern of border being closed into Canada. Hotel dysfunction on a limited basis due to that concern. On our last day at the Anchorage Hilton room service was missing also. Not sure why. Most other activities were well supplied/performed. We were pleased.with our Tour Director Tyler, Bus Driver Les and Health coordinator Carol., Some other venues were a bit restricted due to COVID-19 concerns which appear to be out of control of Tourradar. We loved Valdez,, Fairbanks, Anchorage and Kanai Fjords National Park, as well as the Athabascan Village and flat boat ride and other amenities such as the Husky Dog Farm. Overall pleased, except as noted above. The weather cooperated 100%.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Overland Truck

Alaska Adventure - 20 Days

Great itinerary Natalie and Dave Great

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

Alaska Denali Expedition - 12 Days

Once again...WOW!! We returned for the 12-day Denali Expedition after thoroughly enjoying the 9-day Kenai Adventure last year. Traveling with Infinite Adventures is such a unique way to experience the vast wilderness and epic beauty of Alaska. "Atka" , the converted bus is fully equipped and comfortable for our group of 16 travelers. Dave and Carolina were excellent guides who made sure the trip was memorable. The food was great with delicious meals. The itinerary is well thought out with plenty of opportunities to hike and explore. Many optional excursions including flightseeing and rafting are offered also. Highlights included: Hiking in Denali NP with the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Denali in the distance was amazing. We were fortunate to see Mt. Denali as it is often not visible. The very Remote Glacier Camp with stunning views and the canoe trip down the Maclaren River. Hiking and ice climbing the Root Glacier in Wrangell/St. Elias NP. The abandoned Kennecott Copper Mine and the quirky little town of McCarthy. Grizzly and brown bear sightings in Valdez in addition to sea lions and otters at the salmon fish hatchery. Sea kayaking at the Columbia Glacier amongst icebergs. Such an unforgrettable adventure!! LOVED IT!! DO IT!!

What people love about Western USA Tours

It was one of the best tours that I even had. We visited many beautiful places and the tour has the best camping side at the View. I cannot thanks enough for our guide, Hogan. He is very professional, knowledgeable, patient, responsible and kind. I highly recommend this tour!

Everything was great organized, our CEO Megan was so kind and well prepared.

What a lifetime experience everyone needs Jun 2023 • Solo Within 7 days, we drove in 3 states, visited 5 national parks / 2 state parks, hiked 60 miles, made friends from 7 different states/nations, and eventually traveled through the iconic Route 66 back to Las Vegas. What a lifetime experience everyone needs Day 1 - Zion National Park Day 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3 - Canyonlands National Park Day 4 - Arches National Park Day 5 - Monument Valley Navajo Nation Day 6 - Grand Canyon National Park / Antelope State Day 7- Grand Canyon back to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66 AMAZING!

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14 Western-inspired Travel Clothes That Actually Go With Everything in Your Suitcase — From $15

Keep reading for our favorite cowboy boots, hats, denim, and more.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Western wear, cowboy aesthetic, country couture — whatever you'd like to call it — has taken the fashion world by storm, but it's not just a mere passing trend. As a New York City-based travel writer , it's hard to go a block without seeing studded belts and vintage washed jeans , and the trend has spread far beyond Manhattan; I've even spotted it on recent trips up and down the East Coast. Though its resurgence in pop culture features new spins on the traditional fashion genre, Western wear obviously has roots dating back centuries, but there's something about the classic look that will forever exude cool. With celebrities like Beyoncé and Bella Hadid showcasing the best of the Americana lifestyle, this latest resurgence is beckoning everyone (including myself) to give their travel clothes a refresh. 

Beyond looking sharp, the Western wear trend embraces easy-wearing, high-quality basics inspired by country living, making it a must-have for your travel wardrobe. It prioritizes timeless pieces like maxi denim skirts and cowboy boots that can be worn and reworn in a plethora of ways to maximize your travel outfit possibilities. These pieces are typically denim-, cotton-, leather, and suede-heavy, making them the ideal transitional garments that can be worn throughout spring (and some of our favorite finds can even be rocked in the summer). 

Don’t know where to start transforming your wardrobe to embrace a Western aesthetic? I’ve curated a selection of pieces that I’m absolutely loving this season that will look great anywhere, be it a serene getaway in Wyoming , an exciting rodeo, or even to a "Cowboy Carter" listening party.  

Tecovas The Annie Cowgirl Boots

Cowgirl and cowboy boots are undoubtedly one of the most prominent items emerging from the Americana fashion movement, and if you’re looking to embrace this shoe trend, then you should do so with the best: a pair of Tecovas . The Austin-based brand prioritizes authentic craftsmanship to make its top-quality, already-worn-in-comfy boots that are made to last. I’m utterly obsessed with this Annie style, the brand’s best-selling cowgirl boot, and am eager to add them to my collection because I know that they’ll be my comfortable go-to pair of boots that’ll last me years to come. Plus, they'll look equally wonderful with a pair of jeans as they would with a flowy dress. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable option to achieve the same look, consider shopping the Soda Reno Women's Cowboy Boots that boast a $50 price tag at Amazon.  

Madewell The Santiago Western Ankle Boots

Not quite ready for full-on cowboy boots? Or, maybe you're headed somewhere warm. Either way, if you want to dip your toes into the style, these Madewell ankle booties are the perfect way to start. Beyond their alluring 82 percent discount (thanks to an on-site double deal — just use the code SPRING30 to unlock an extra 30 percent off at checkout), they’re absolutely adorable. Country styles embrace shiny hardware and durable materials like suede, as seen on these boots, which’ll elevate any look that you have planned. And, because they’re crafted with elastic and a low block heel, they go on-and-off seamlessly and will be easy to walk in. Hurry, they're selling out. 

J.Crew Maxi Denim Skirt

Maxi denim skirts, and denim in general, are totally country-approved thanks to their utility style that is a bit more polished and put together than a mini skirt. I’m all in for embracing more maxi denim skirts into my wardrobe. They can be styled with T-shirts, blouses, vests, and more, making them a welcomed, versatile staple in your suitcase. In fact, denim skirts are among the first garments that I look for when preparing for a trip, because of the way that they can seamlessly elevate any look. If you want to test the waters on this trend, do so with this stunning, on-sale skirt from J.Crew while it’s 46 percent off. 

Wrangler Women’s Cowboy Cut Jeans 

Wrangler is among the original cowboy couture brands, selling high-quality denim that parallels the rise of country since the 1940s. Needless to say, you can’t go wrong with anything from the cowboy fashion pioneer to adapt your wardrobe to Western style, but I recommend starting with these Cowboy Cut jeans. They effortlessly blend classic aesthetics with contemporary details for unmatched comfort. Crafted with 98 percent denim and 2 percent spandex, these jeans exude vintage charm with the modern ingenuity of a comfortable pair of travel pants. And at just $50, they’re the perfect garment to wear on your spring adventures. 

Amour Vert Violette Organic Cotton Eyelet Dress

Amour Vert 

Flowy, flirty dresses add a feminine touch to an otherwise rather masculine trend. And this prairie-style dress not only embodies the essence of country living, but it also serves as the ideal white sundress for the vibrant seasons of spring and summer. Crafted with 100 percent cotton, adorned with delicate details, and featuring a fashion-forward corseted bust, this dress is a timeless and breathtaking addition to your wardrobe. And to complete the look, I recommend pairing with a pair of cowboy boots — duh! 

Sézane Women’s Amerie Shirt

This Western-style embroidered chambray snap shirt is an incredibly versatile choice that radiates versatility. With its long-sleeve design, this shirt offers year-round comfort while shielding you from the elements (without causing overheating). It’s also a stunning option to add to your collection of Americana-inspired garments, inviting endless styling options, whether paired with a denim skirt, jeans, or classic boots. 

Unfortunately, this stunning top is about to sell out. If you have your heart set on the look, check out the newly dropped Grosy Women's Embroidered Plain Tunic Shirt for $40 at Amazon.  

Free People Wilder Embellished Sling Bag

Free People 

Conchos are the focal points of any Western look. Instead of wearing the classic disc around your waist, you can sport it on your travel bag. Here, the historically rich accessory decorates the belt bag's strap to add that cowboy flair to any outfit. It also offers the spacious, hands-free functionality of a great belt bag; wear it as a crossbody, off the shoulder, or as a belt bag, and will confidently safeguard all of your items as you explore new destinations this year.  

Wrangler Western Shoulder Bag

For a larger option, this adjustable shoulder bag is winning over shoppers for boasting the " perfect size " and a " sturdy feel that feels well-made ." That also happens to be the ethos of Western fashion, prioritizing items that both look and feel good — just check out that stunning embroidery! And starting at just $52 and available in an impressive 50 different colors and prints, the Montana-styled bag is just waiting to be added to your cart. 

Mavi Venus Denim Vest

Denim is widely recognized as a premium and long-lasting fabric, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities and country living. Western wear is known for its practicality, and as such, many denim styles are adorned with functional pockets and comfortable cuts that are perfect for all-day wear. Take this stunning denim vest from Mavi, which features front pockets and a straight fit that can be styled in various ways (and will look great in each of them). Whether you choose to store your lip balm in one of the frockets (front pockets) or utilize them for your ID and cards, you will never regret adding this versatile top to your collection.

Quince Women’s Suede Trucker Jacket

It would be wrong to share a list of high-quality Western wear to add to your travel wardrobe without including a buttery soft suede jacket, and this one from Quince is just what your transitional wardrobe needs right now. It’s warm enough to wear as the temperatures continue to dip and rise, but remains lightweight and soft for hot days ahead. And since the trademark of this style is practicality, you can bet that this jacket is equipped with a few functional pockets to hold onto some of your small belongings. 

Livingston Straw Cowboy Hat

Saddle up travelers! To bring your entire Western ensemble together, you need a cowboy hat. This iconic accessory not only exudes a relaxed and cool vibe, but it also serves a practical purpose. Originally designed to protect cowboys from the scorching sun while working outdoors, these hats have now become a versatile (and useful) fashion statement. This utility also lends them as the perfect accessory to shield your face from the sun at the beach, festivals, and beyond. 

This lightweight hat can also travel like a dream with the help of a convenient hat clip . Plus, it gives your outfit more style points than any old baseball cap or sun visor would. 

Steve Madden Women’s Recent Gladiator Sandals

Modern takes on Western wear draw inspiration from classic country accessories like the studded (and classic) concho belt — which are on full display in these Steve Madden sandals. I personally love a strappy gladiator for travel, as I find that they have more support and grip compared to other styles on the market. This pair caught my eye for its stunning look that I know would be a standout at any festival or vacation that I have planned this season.  

Superdown Robyn Strappy Back Top

Plenty of these styles possess a classic and timeless appeal due to their simple yet classy look. However, the recent revival of this style has inspired retailers to think outside of the box and explore incorporating Americana prints, like cowhide, to give a fresh twist to this country craze. For instance, try out this stylish cow print top from Superdown, which will surely make a statement at any music festival or evening event that you have on the schedule. 

Werforu Leather Belt

A true Western-inspired outfit is never truly complete without a concho belt. This $15 one from Amazon is embellished with beautifully etched hardware that’ll effortlessly pull together any look, while remaining understated enough to not cause too much attention. Style it with a pair of vintage wash jeans or wear it with a dress to give yourself some extra waist-cinching magic. 

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Get in [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ].

During summer there are boats from Kazan , Samara and other destinations on the Volga River.

By train [ edit ]

The train takes you here from Moscow (from Kazanskaya train station) in approximately 16 hours or from Volgograd in about 20 hours. Ulyanovsk Main Station is located 6 km from the city center.

Get around [ edit ]

Ulyanovsk has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trolleys, and trams. It is very affordable, but congested and may be quite confusing. You won't find any route maps or schedules, neither at bus stops nor in buses. Fee collectors usually don't speak English. Express buses and semi-private van routes are more comfortable and more expensive. Taxis are not expensive, and that's your best bet if you want to get somewhere (relatively) quickly, in (relative) comfort (almost all cars are old Russian ladas or over 10 year old non-Russian cars), and without much hassle. They are also most likely to have English speaking drivers (one in 1000) and superloud Russian pop music.

Getting between the banks of the Volga is a problem. There is a two lane bridge connecting the banks and it's nearly always congested, so if you're unlucky, it can take a couple of hours. Most locals avoid going over the bridge if they can. A four-lane bridge was planned to relieve these problems.

See [ edit ]

As the home town of Lenin, it's worth visiting the Lenin Memorial Centre and Gardens and museums based in his former houses. There is also a museum dedicated to the poet 'Goncharov' and the war memorial at the end of the main street 'Ulitsa Goncharova' offers breathtaking views over the Volga.

Do [ edit ]

In winter, try cross-country skiing along the Sviaga river, in summer take a boat ride over the reservoir.

Buy [ edit ]

The city's main shopping centre 'Tsum' is basic to say the least but does offer some basic shopping.

Eat [ edit ]

• Shpinat , Ulitsa Kirova, 79 ( in Rakurs Hotel ), ☏ +7 842 258-53-41 . An upscale restaurant with small portions but big on presentation if that appeals to you. ( updated Feb 2021 )
• Gonzo , Ulitsa Goncharova, 48+7 842 244-44-22 ( across from Hilton Garden Inn ), ☏ +7 842 244-44-22 . Lots of tasty Russian dishes, particularly heavy on meat. ( updated Feb 2021 )
• Veprevo Koleno , Ulitsa Federatsii, 11 , ☏ +7 951 094-51-15 . featuring Czech food and beer. ( updated Feb 2021 )
• Gallery Restaurant , Ulitsa Goncharova, 25 ( inside Radisson Hotel ), ☏ +7 8422 41-74-71 . 09:30-02:00 . Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring Russian and international items.  
• Lobby Bar , ul. Goncharova 25, ground floor ( inside Radisson Hotel ). 09:30-02:00 . Quick bites.  

Go next [ edit ]

The capital of Tatarstan , Kazan , is a stunning city just 7 hours train ride from Ulyanovsk.

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Train route 021Y "Ul'yanovsk (dvukhetazhnyy)" (Ul'yanovsk - Moskva (Kazanskiy vokzal)) on the map of Ulyanovsk