Enchanting train travel: Explore the country by rail this spring
Discover three spectacular train journeys with ample opportunity to stay and explore along the way.
By Tanvi Chheda | January 16, 2026
Train journeys are seeing a resurgence in popularity thanks, in part, to the allure of slower, more mindful travel. The scenic routes and nostalgic charm certainly don’t hurt either. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or solo, consider these U.S. train journeys and the dramatic prairie, desert, and coastal landscapes you’ll take in along the way for a unique, hassle-free spring break.
In this article: Top ways to explore the U.S. by train
California Zephyr: Chicago to the Bay Area
California Zephyr: Chicago to the Bay Area
The California Zephyr follows some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes on a three-day, two-night journey from Chicago to Northern California’s Bay Area. Before you board, start your adventure in Chicago with a stay at LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton. Sitting in the heart of downtown, attractions like Millenium Park are a short stroll away, while the hotel’s lively LH Rooftop Bar is a top spot for cocktails and views. Once aboard your train, there’s ample opportunity for exploration, too. Along the way, enjoy the numerous shops and cafés at Denver’s Union Station or the comprehensive Natural History Museum of Utah in Salt Lake City. Your final destination, Emeryville, is a short drive from both Oakland and San Francisco. Check into Hilton Garden Inn San Francisco/Oakland Bay Bridge to easily explore the area from San Fran’s Ferry Building to the Oakland Zoo and beyond.
Coast Starlight: Seattle to Los Angeles
Traveling through the mountainous Pacific Northwest, past lush conifer forests and along oceanfront stretches of the Golden State, the Coast Starlight train makes two stops in Portland and Sacramento. Ahead of your train departure, it's well worth spending a few days in Seattle to enjoy the iconic Pike Place Market, the colorful glass sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass, and so much more. Stay at Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts, an elegant oasis amid the bustling downtown where you’ll find locally inspired restaurants and a spa butler service offering decadent in-room baths complete with Champagne. Once on your train journey, highlights include Portland’s 12.5-acre (5-hectare) Japanese Garden as well as Sacramento’s California State Railroad Museum. For the grand finale, stay at the artsy Wayfarer Downtown LA, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, and explore nearby attractions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Broad Museum.
Traversing the American West on the Southwest Chief
Traveling on a multi-state odyssey from Chicago to Los Angeles, the Southwest Chief covers a lot of ground, from prairies and deserts to epic coastlines, with multiple stops along the way. Crafting a personalized itinerary is easy with direct connections to natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park, as well as major cities like Santa Fe, New Mexico. Arrive in Chicago a day or two ahead of your scheduled train departure and check into the refined Claridge House Chicago, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, where you’ll be close to cozy cafés, quaint boutiques, and quiet lakefront trails. Other Chicago highlights include baseball games at Wrigley Field or improv sets at the beloved Second City comedy club. End the trip in style at the stunning Conrad Los Angeles. Between the massive pool deck, full-service Conrad Spa, and the Michelin-rated San Laurel restaurant, you’ll hardly need — or want — to leave the hotel.
Tanvi Chheda
Formerly an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure, Los Angeles-based Tanvi Chheda has been freelancing for 15 years now. She writes mostly about lifestyle and travel, which often spills into arts & culture, food, design, and more. With two young children, family travel is also a passion of hers. Given her South Asian heritage, she writes about India quite frequently as well (she was born in India and speaks three Indian languages). When not traveling or writing, she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, AFAR, Virtuoso Life, Four Seasons magazine, Qantas, Inspirato, Invited, Pasadena magazine, OLTRE, and Ciao Bambino, among others.
Explore more getaways around the U.S.
The best vacations for teens in the U.S.
Discover the best teenage vacation spots, from theme parks to water activities and more.
From coast to coast, explore the best beaches in the U.S.
Scenic coastlines await throughout the U.S., offering a picture-perfect vacation with water activities, stunning sunsets, and so much more.
Best American road trips: Explore the history of Black music in America
Get ready to hit the road and turn up the volume on this musical journey through the American south.
Must love dogs: Pet-friendly getaway to Key West
Discover dog-friendly beaches, scenic boardwalks, and pet-welcoming patios for a Key West vacation with your favorite companion.
Read more:
Find travel inspiration