Independent Train Travel: Everything You Need to Know
Preferred ways of traveling by train are just as varied as the people who book the trips. While there are many different styles, one of the most popular is independent travel. With Amtrak Vacations, independent train travel throughout North America comes with wonderful benefits. Enjoy experiences that give you a fresh perspective on the destinations you visit, explore on your own, and take advantage of an itinerary that lets you stray off the beaten path. Here's everything you need to know before booking your next memorable rail journey.
We Do All the Planning for You
Amtrak Vacations locks in your hotel reservations, sightseeing attractions, activities, dining (and more), but you set your own schedule on these unescorted vacations. You decide where you want to go, which train routes you want to take, how long you plan to stay, and what you want to see and experience, and have the option of making changes to your travels as you go. A perfect example would be the hop-on, hop-off tours that are included in many of our packages. You'll get to see all the memorable sights and iconic landmarks at your own pace for the ultimate sightseeing flexibility. You're not at the mercy of someone else's schedule.
Year-Round Booking
Spanning the US and Canada, our independent rail journeys can be booked almost any day of the year. We suggest specific dates in the brochure, but as long as space is available on the trains, we can take you where you want to go. If you're retired and have the ability to travel during the off-season, this is great news! Whether you're interested in crossing off some of your bucket-list travels, need a quick weekend getaway, visiting family across the country, celebrating a birthday or anniversary, or you're returning to a favorite destination such as a treasured national park, Amtrak Vacations makes booking your train vacation hassle-free.
A More Immersive Experience
Guided tours are great for seeing quintessential sights if you're traveling and don't have much time to explore, however, with independent train travel, there are so many more opportunities to make lasting memories and have authentic experiences in the destinations you visit. From dining like a local to riding public transport to discovering a particular city at your own leisure to truly taking in the onboard experience and scenery, nothing beats customized, independent train travel.
Flexibility and Spontaneity
When it comes to independent train travel, flexibility and spontaneity are the best advantages. If you feel like adding on an extra day or two to your trip, staying another night in your Bedroom or Roomette aboard the train, or skipping places that don't interest you, you have the freedom to pursue and enjoy these options. If you like to explore on your own, our Independent Rail Journeys are right for you! Travel at your own pace with the option of customized itineraries, pre-arranged rail, hotels, and more.
Explore our top Independent Rail Journeys: Glacier National Park Express, Rails to the Grand Canyon, Northern Rail Experience, Grand National Parks with Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, or Canadian Rockies Discovery Eastbound.
