6 Last-Minute Rail Holidays You Can Take This Year

By Amtrak Vacations Thursday, June 15, 2023 Read time: 3 minutes

Amtrak Vacations offers six last-minute rail getaways in the United States for 2023, allowing you to maximise your budget and explore your travel bucket list.

If you're seeking a last-minute getaway in 2023, Amtrak Vacations has you covered with an array of rail holidays that will help you make the most of your budget and cross off some destinations from your travel bucket list. With Amtrak Vacations, you can unwind and relish the stunning scenery while journeying to some of the most gorgeous destinations in the United States.

Best of all, Amtrak Vacations can start and end in any city that is served by the U.S. national rail system. So hop on board in your hometown or add on to an existing trip – it's all customisable.

Check out these six last-minute rail holidays you can embark on this year.

1. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, and a rail holiday is an excellent way to experience it. The Grand Canyon Extended Getaway package includes four nights hotel stay both in and out of the park. You'll enjoy a scenic train ride to the Grand Canyon, a guided rim tour, and free time to explore the park on your own. You'll also have an extra day to relax and take in the breathtaking views.

2. New Orleans

Experience the unique culture and cuisine of New Orleans with the Amtrak Vacations New Orleans Ultimate Getaway package. This package includes a four-night stay at a hotel in the French Quarter. You'll have plenty of time to explore the city's historic sites, museums, and restaurants, and you can even take a swamp tour or a jazz cruise on the Mississippi River.

3. Washington, DC

Take a patriotic trip to the nation's capital with the Amtrak Vacations Washington, DC Ultimate Getaway package. With this package, you'll receive round-trip train travel from New York City to Washington, DC, and a four-night hotel stay in the city centre. This will give you ample opportunity to explore the monuments, museums, and landmarks of Washington, DC, such as the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and the White House.

4. National Parks of the Southwest

Experience the natural beauty of the American Southwest with the Amtrak Vacations National Parks of the Southwest package. When you book this package, you'll get round-trip train travel from Chicago to Williams, Arizona, and a nine-night stay at hotels located near some of the most renowned national parks in the area, such as the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. Additionally, you'll have the chance to take guided tours of each park and discover the surrounding areas.

5. Denver

Discover the beauty of the Rocky Mountains with the Amtrak Vacations Denver Rocky Mountain Getaway package. Included in this package is a two-night hotel stay in the city centre and a full-day sightseeing tour of Rocky Mountain National Park. During your stay, you can choose to explore Denver's various museums, art galleries, and restaurants, or add additional sightseeing activities or hotel nights to maximise your trip to Colorado’s capital.

6. Niagara Falls

Experience the majesty of Niagara Falls with the Amtrak Vacations Niagara Falls Getaway package. This package includes round-trip train travel from Chicago to Niagara Falls, NY including two nights onboard Amtrak and a two-night stay at a hotel near the falls. Take in the sights of the Horseshoe Falls up close from your included Maid of the Mist boat ride - even feel the mist from the mighty falls! You will also have plenty of time to explore the exciting attractions around the Niagara region.

In conclusion, these six last-minute rail holidays with Amtrak Vacations offer something for everyone, from the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and the National Parks of the Southwest to the cultural richness of New Orleans and Washington, DC. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure by rail.