6 Rail Holidays That Take You Beyond the Match

View Beyond the Match holidays

View the Beyond the Match brochure

Match day might be the reason you book the trip, but it doesn’t have to be the whole story. Amtrak Vacations’ Beyond the Match collection is designed for travellers who want to turn a single event into a full-fledged adventure, pairing exciting cities with unforgettable landscapes and easy rail travel. Whether you’re following your favourite team, travelling with friends, or planning a trip where everyone gets something they love, these rail holidays prove that the journey can be just as memorable as the match itself.

Here are six standout rail holidays that truly go beyond the game.

Southwest Escape

This journey is perfect for fans who want to pair a big event with some of the most iconic scenery in the American Southwest. Travel by train from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon, with time in Flagstaff and a day trip to Sedona’s red rock landscapes. Between games, you’ll experience wide-open views, desert beauty, and classic Route 66 vibes, all without the hassle of long drives or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Mountains, Arches, and Canyons by Rail

If your idea of going beyond the match means trading stadium crowds for jaw-dropping landscapes, this rail holiday delivers in a big way. Journey from San Francisco through the dramatic scenery of the American West, with time in Moab to explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, before continuing on to Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s an ideal choice for travellers who want to balance an event-filled itinerary with unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Northwest Rail Journey

This rail adventure combines vibrant Pacific Northwest cities with some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the country. Travel from Seattle to Portland before continuing east to Glacier National Park and ending in Chicago, experiencing diverse landscapes and cultures along the way. It’s a great option for fans who want their trip to feel like a true cross-country journey, where every leg brings something new beyond the game.

Rails to the Bayou and Texas

This trip blends Southern hospitality, rich culture, and bold flavours into one seamless rail holiday. Starting in Atlanta, you’ll travel to New Orleans for live music, historic neighbourhoods, and unforgettable food, then continue on to San Antonio to explore the River Walk and Texas Hill Country. It’s perfect for pairing a game or event with cities that know how to celebrate long after the final whistle.

California Icons and Yosemite

For travellers who want to mix city energy with natural beauty, this California rail holiday hits all the right notes. Explore Los Angeles and San Francisco, then escape into nature with day trips to Yosemite National Park and Muir Woods. Whether you’re catching a game, walking among giant sequoias, or soaking up coastal views, this journey makes it easy to experience multiple sides of California in one trip.

Southern Coastal Explorer

Visiting the Sunshine State for a match? Enjoy a slower, charm-filled journey, as this Southern rail holiday is the perfect addition. Travel from Miami to St. Augustine, Savannah, and Charleston, discovering historic districts, coastal scenery, and classic Southern cuisine along the way. It’s an ideal way to turn a sporting event into a relaxed, culture-rich getaway where the pace feels just right.

Why Go Beyond the Match by Train

Rail holidays make it easy to turn a single event into a multi-day experience. With comfortable trains, centrally located hotels, and thoughtfully planned routes, Amtrak Vacations removes the stress of travel logistics so you can focus on enjoying the destination. The Beyond the Match collection is built for travellers who want more than just watching a beautiful game. It’s about making every minute of their trip count.

Because when the match ends, the best part of the trip is just getting started.