Five Perfect Autumn Escapes by Train
There’s no season quite like autumn to experience the beauty of the United States by rail. Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cosy small towns make autumn the perfect backdrop for a train journey. With Amtrak Vacations, you can sit back in comfort, watch the colours unfold outside your window, and arrive right in the heart of each destination, without the stress of driving or planning.
Here are five unforgettable autumn escapes by train.
1. New England Autumn Foliage
Few places do autumn like New England. Journey through Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine as fiery reds, oranges, and yellows blanket the hillsides. Stop in charming towns, explore covered bridges, and enjoy seasonal favourites like apple cider and pumpkin pie. With Amtrak Vacations, everything from rail travel to hotels and tours is arranged, so you can focus on the scenery.
2. Washington, D.C. and Williamsburg
Experience the perfect mix of history and autumn colour with this journey. Start in Washington, D.C., where the National Mall is lined with golden trees, then continue to Williamsburg for a walk back in time through colonial streets. Rail travel between cities is quick and convenient, giving you more time to soak up the season.
3. Great Smoky Mountains and Asheville
Autumn transforms the Great Smoky Mountains into a palette of colour. This rail holiday includes time in Nashville, a vibrant city known for its art, music, and food. Add in scenic drives and guided tours of some of country music’s legendary sites, and you’ll see why this region is one of America’s top autumn destinations.
4. California’s Wine Country and San Francisco
Autumn is harvest season in Napa and Sonoma, making it the ideal time to sip world-class wines among golden vineyards. Combine it with a stay in San Francisco, where crisp days and clear skies offer perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Travelling by train keeps your journey stress-free, so you can indulge in the season’s best flavours.
5. The Grand Canyon by Rail
No matter the season, the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder, but autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to visit. Board Amtrak’s Southwest Chief to Williams, Arizona, then ride the historic Grand Canyon Railway right to the rim. With Amtrak Vacations, your hotels, transfers, and tours are included, so you can focus on soaking in the views.
Your Autumn Escape Awaits
From the fiery foliage of New England to the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon, autumn is the season to see America at its best. Travelling with Amtrak Vacations means every detail is handled for you, so all you need to do is sit back, relax, and watch the beauty of autumn unfold.
