Amtrak is happy to provide accessible transportation to all of our guests. Roaring Camp Railroad offers two different tours to suit your tastes. See two oceans, cross the Rockies, and all the land in-between with one of these North American adventures. The two largest train stations on the Surfliner route are Los Angeles Union Station and San Diego Union Station. Caltrain is a Northern California commuter rail line that services the San Francisco Peninsula and Santa Clara Valley. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is a surfer's dream train journey, taking passengers and their surfboards along the California coast. Metro rail lines connect with the rest of the city, Including Universal Studios Hollywood. Take in some incredible history by visiting the Old Mission, a National Historic Landmark founded by Padre Fermin Lasuen in December of 1786. Instead, hop aboard the private Napa Valley Wine train, a 36-mile winetasting loop with wine and artisanal food cooked to order on board. This Gorgeous Coastal California City Is a Perfect Road Trip Destination With Steam Train Rides, Hiking Trails, and Small Towns . It's something that captivates most kids and many adults, too. See two oceans, cross the Rockies, and all the land in-between with one of these North American adventures. The experience will include a three-hour journey aboard the 1915 Pullman Lounge car, complete with an observation platform exclusive to guests of this experience, as well as a seven-course meal and seven wine pairings from the valley. For guests traveling with a disability, the train has several Accessible Bedrooms located on the entry level with space for a wheelchair and two adults. Learn from our experts with insider tips, read helpful suggestions, be inspired for your next trip, and much more! Start from any of the 500+ Amtrak Stations across the United States. Exciting escapes to a breath-taking national park or spectacular city destination. Build the right vacation to fit your budget. Visitors at Roaring Camp in Santa Cruz County can ride magnificent steam trains reminiscent of those critical to the logging economy that thrived here. Many travelers choose to stop in idyllic Santa Barbara, also known as the American Riviera, for its white-sand beaches, unique shopping, and local wine and food delicacies. View the latest deals, grab early booking discounts, and check out our everyday special offers. Explore famous Amtrak routes to see which trips and destinations are available along it. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner route hugs the majestic California coastline to top destinations in San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. While it is possible to take the Surfliner train to Santa Barbara for a day trip, we suggest spending at least one night. Business Class tickets offer guaranteed seating and a few other perks like more legroom and complimentary snacks, but advance reservations are required. Whether its a full sit-down meal or more informal food service, many trains have one or more options for onboard dining. Gain instant access to our online brochures and download them for free. Up for a long haul on Amtrak? We are pleased to provide additional services to customers with disabilities. Then, stroll Shark Fin Cove, named for a massive rock formation that stands guard just off the sand. But if you are, Hollywood's reputation as an iconic place to rub, Located in the northern part of Los Angeles County, the Santa Clarita Valley is home to Six Flags Magic Mountain and the epicenter of Hollywoods film. Sign up today to save up to $350 on your next vacation! Tours available include the, Hollywood is a star-studded destination, even for those that aren't star-struck. All rights reserved. Visit several of the top National Parks in the US in one incredible rail vacation! The route takes passengers on a journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, stopping in Sacramento and Portland along the way. The states railroad offerings include historic journeys through redwood forests, luxurious wine trains, and Amtrak routes along the vibrant Pacific coastline and beyond. In Santa Cruz proper, check out vintage clothes at Tomboy and Forever Thrift. You are viewing the 2023 itinerary. This carefully curated list has the top suggestions of vacations for first-time rail travelers. Every month you can find a fair, festival, The Queen Mary has resumed tours for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic beginning April 1, 2023. That was the genesis of what is now commonly known as the Skunk Train (for the pungent fumes it once emitted). Our Rail Vacation Consultants or a local Travel Advisor will assist you in making any adjustments to fit your travel style. Gain instant access to our online brochures and download them for free. For a limited time only, save $150 per couple on any of our Grand Canyon National Park vacations inclusive of 4 nights or more. Oregon Coastal Excursion - Rockaway Beach or Garibaldi. 7 Pacific Coast Stops To Make While Riding Amtrak's Coast Starlight Learn about your dining choices, onboard dining reservations, and the different types of dining cars. Learn more from our most commonly asked questions from travelers. Keep in mind that this route has a lot of stops, and can get pretty crowded. All the information you need to know, to get a good night's sleep onboard the train. If the train goes there so do we! You really couldnt wish for a more scenic train ride than this one - the route, which traverses Mendocino County, could have been hand-designed for its picturesque touches. 5 Pacific Surfliner Train Trips to Enjoy the California Coast Would like to take the train south and back for the day mostly just to experience the ride. Chula Vista Live Steamers The whole route takes 5 hours and 45 minutes to complete and covers 351-miles. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner serves stations on the southern side of the state. Far north from the crowded beaches of LA, Grover Beach along the Central Coast makes for an excellent day trip. Disembarking from Seattle, Washington and running all the way to Los Angeles, California, Amtrak's Coast Starlight line shows travelers the most beautiful views of the Pacific coast. Your included wine tour visits between 4-6 different award-winning wineries! Seats for both Caltrain and Metrolink commuter trains arent assigned, and are much smaller than the long-distance train, similar to city-wide public transportation or subways. It has a huge variety of sights to see, from seashores to mountain valleys and from big cities to the open countryside. Your California Coast journey begins in San Francisco with a day full of sightseeing on board a double-decker bus. Any suggestions? Many stations are within walking distance of key attractions; various transit providers also offer free bus connections to Pacific Surfliner passengers. The Fort Bragg Redwood Company originally built the fort Bragg Skunk Train as the Fort Bragg Railroad in 1885. What the Experts Think, Have a Trip to Paris Planned? Passenger trains depart hourly South to San Diego and North to Santa Barbara and points beyond. The ride is a lot more scenic, and downtown SLO is within walking distance. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. The $101 super saver option is for a one-way, single ticket. Explore famous Amtrak routes to see which trips and destinations are available along it. After turning inland, the Surfliner travels through oak-covered valleys filled with miles of grapevines until it reaches the rich farmland of Santa Maria Valley. If you choose to travel the Coast Starlight, youll get to enjoy an onboard theater and arcade room to help pass the time (or if you need a break from the scenic views) and sleeper car passengers even have access to local wine and cheese tastings in the Parlour Car. The route takes passengers on a journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, stopping in Sacramento and Portland along the way. Take a scenic train ride to Niagara Falls, NY, and witness the natural wonder of the world. 25 Wonderful Train Rides in Southern California All Aboard - Daytrippen.com Pulled by a diesel locomotive, the Sacramento River Train features two dining cars, a club car, a concession car, and two open-air cars. See two oceans, cross the Rockies, and all the land in-between with one of these North American adventures. 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La Purisima Mission in Lompoc, California, is one of the state's most complete missions, with popular activities for school field trips and visitors. It would be best to contact Amtrak for exact cost and departure dates. Here are five of the most scenic train rides to take in California. Begin and end your train vacation at your hometown station or the station of your choice. Sunny Santa Barbara awaits you on this roundtrip getaway. 6. San Diegos historic Santa Fee train Station is the end of the Pacific Surfliner route. Train Rides and Railroad Adventures for Kids in the Bay Area and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Train train tickets buy online at Amtrak Californias website, train stations, or onboard trains. Oceanside is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway by train. Most scenic Amtrak routes on the West Coast Passengers still get comfy reclining seats with power outlets, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, bike and luggage racks, and massive windows to enjoy the views of the sea as it whips by. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Offering a choice of rides - from Hampton to El Dorado, or perhaps to Latrobe if youd prefer, the Placerville Sacramento Valley Railroad takes you through the heart of Gold country at a leisurely pace. Excursions take you through the Sacramento Valley to see the historic railroad that still works, while on your return to the depot, you can check out the exhibits, such as an event commemorating 150 years of the Transcontinental Railroad. All rights reserved. At one time, the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Slogan promoted this beach town with a huge billboard along Highway 101, Tan Your Hide in Oceanside. These days the Chamber of Commerce has a slightly different vision Oceanside Classic California Beach Community.. The two steam locomotives operate daily during the summer months. The Skunk Train offers two journeys year-round: the Wolf Tree Turn and and Pudding Creek Express. The delights of Sacramento can be forgotten when you list the things to see and do in California, but this scenic train ride is an excellent way to remember them. Explore the stunning natural landscapes of the United States' national parks in a unique and Now that the tax deadline is finally here, chances are you're thinking about how to spend your Spring is a great time to travel and right now is the perfect time to start planning that spring See our customers' most favorite rail vacations. The line returns briefly to the coast at Pismo Beach and then turns inland along Price Canyon for the final leg of its journey to San Luis Obispo. Photo by Cory Woodruff/Shutterstock The wine train can carry nearly 400 passengers through Napa Valley and usually makes two daily trips. Discover our three easy ways to book your perfect train vacation. 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit on the West Coast From Charming Small Towns to National Parks, 25 Best Mother-daughter Trips Around the World, These Steam Trains Bring You From the Towering California Redwoods to the Pacific Ocean, How to Have a Luxurious Day Trip in Santa Barbara for Under $100 Beautiful Beaches, Charming Towns, and Wine Tasting Included, These 10 Hidden Gems Are California's Best-kept Secrets, The 10 Destinations That Make a Road Trip Romantic in the US, This Small California Town Is One of the Most Beautiful Coastal Destinations in the State, 23 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California. The Pacific Surfliner takes travelers 351 miles along the California coast, but other trains explore different parts of the state. Learn from our experts with insider tips, read helpful suggestions, be inspired for your next trip, and much more! Discover our three easy ways to book your perfect train vacation. Discover our three easy ways to book your perfect train vacation. Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Coastal Day Trips by Train - Daytrippen.com We have you covered - if the train goes there, so do we. 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Your Guide to Southern California Events Explore famous Amtrak routes to see which trips and destinations are available along it. Looking for a Pacific Surfliner trip? Complete Guide to Train Travel in California - TripSavvy Goleta beaches are typically less crowded than Santa Barbaras, and Goleta Beach Park is the ideal destination for a quiet family day trip or a romantic weekend getaway. Departing from Garibaldi or Rockaway Beach, this excursion is 30 minutes each direction. Amtrak's Coast Starlight. Make a trip of it with a stay at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, with curated political art throughout and architecture from George Selland, the first state architect of California. Private rooms get priority boarding, a dedicated Sleeping Car attendant, access to the train lounge, and complimentary meals included. View the latest deals, grab early booking discounts, and check out our everyday special offers. Filed Under: CALIFORNIA Tagged With: Top Ten California. When you visit this site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Youll be glad you did. Create the perfect train vacation designed exclusively for you, by you! Riding the Surfliner allows you to see scenic areas of the coast not viewable by car. Bring some saltwater taffy to the beach, too some of the best can be bought at Marinis Candies, found right on the boardwalk. Grover Beach is one of the Five Cities of the Central Coast. If youve ever taken the train along Californias picture-perfect coastline, you know what a feast for the eyes the journey can be. We took the train." From north to south, here are some of the ways to get around Southern California by rail. It may sound like a short ride, but the train wont go above 15mph (24kph) at any point, so you have all the time in the world to enjoy a fine dinner, accompanied by quality beer and wine, before disembarking; themed trips include Wild West and Zombie shows. Map Modified Service and Other Adjustments Enjoy scenic vistas from the train en route to Americas greatest national treasures. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and safely moving people between large cities and rural towns are key to sustaining our business for decades to come. The Coast Starlight departs both Los Angeles and Seattle once daily, stopping in 28 cities in between. This train is a little off the beaten path, but worth the effort it takes to get there. There are six daily trains from Los Angeles Union Station north to Santa Barbara. Learn about your dining choices, onboard dining reservations, and the different types of dining cars. And the best part is, tickets start at only $101 for a one-way trip. The train station is located at 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA. Trains are much better for the environment than flying or driving. May 20, 2023 - September 24, 2023. For a limited time only, save $350 per couple on our 'West Coast to East Coast Rail Experience from Los Angeles' vacation inclusive of 10 nights or more. Her favourite domestic destinations include Snowdonia and the Brecon (Do a quick search on the following sites). 20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the U.S. Explore San Diego - Downtown. This 20 minute train ride stops at Lakeview, a miniature town and petting zoo play area where kids can hop out and explore. California Train Vacation Packages - Vacations By Rail Whether you plan a north- or southbound trip, you'll be on the train about 35 hours total. Don't leave your car behind when you travel - bring your car with you while on the Amtrak Auto Train. We will add a few more trains to the list. Classic and well known routes across America. I would also be interested in traveling from Guadalupe to Durango, Colorado by train. Coast Starlight: 24 hours on one of America's most scenic train - CNN Its a great time for train enthusiasts of all ages. Travel in comfort and style as you explore top attractions like Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, and Niagara Falls State Park, surrounded by stunning views of the falls and the Niagara River. Travelers can buy premium tickets, at premium prices, for a Superliner Roomette that comes with two fold-down beds, plus meals and a lovely private window so you don't miss a view. Tour Southern California aboard Amtrak trains, including the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner, to visit cities like San Diego and Los Angeles and taste the Paso Robles wine region's varietals. Originally built in 1911 by Northern Electric Co., the River Fox Train now offers an opportunity for visitors to explore the Sacramento River along a 10-mile stretch of track through Yolo Countys countryside. If youre looking to take the scenic route then this selection offers some of the very best views in North America. With a coastline over 1,000 miles long north to south, California is an enormous and geographically diverse state, well known for scenic road trips. Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad 56001 Hwy 41, Fish Camp, CA 93623. Upper Klamath Lake has a canoe trail, or head to Moore Park and the Link River Trail for waterfront hiking and bird-watching. THE TOP 10 California Rail Tours (w/Prices) - Viator Luckily, we no longer fell these giant beauties, and some of the machinery used to move them once upon a time remains, giving visitors a peek into the past. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Duration: 35 hours. Train trips in California venture through the ever-changing terrain, presenting the very best from the Sierra Nevadas to seaside harbors. There is a broad selection of themed rides, with some including picnics and others offering an onboard beer tasting - there is no better way to see California! This Pacific Coast Train Ride Needs to Be on Your Bucket List - Best The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels along the California coast from San Luis Obispo and ends in San Diego. Many riders continue to the border via San Diego red trolley. The Golden State, California, is one of the most prominent regions of the USA, home to cities such as San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles and more. Explore the stunning natural landscapes of the United States' national parks in a unique and Now that the tax deadline is finally here, chances are you're thinking about how to spend your Spring is a great time to travel and right now is the perfect time to start planning that spring See our customers' most favorite rail vacations. San Juan Capistrano is one of the most popular day trips by train along the route of the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. Extend the trip with a longer stay in downtown Los Angeles, which has abundant hotel options, including the historic Hotel Figueroa, one of the citys oldest; it opened nearly a century ago as lodging for professional women travelers, a rarity for the era.
