Top Amtrak Summer Spots

The winter chill has abated and spring has sprung. While America the Beautiful looks gorgeous draped in snow, it’s just more fun when you can run around in the sunshine. Below we list top spots along some of our cross country routes that guarantee a good time with family and friends.

Empire Builder
Stop off at Whitefish to explore the gorgeous scenery with biking, walking paths, rafting or rock climbing.  When you’ve gotten your fill of fresh air, check out the Whitefish Stump Market which features all local artists and businesses. Looking for something different? Walk in the Treetops is something the kids will love.

Here’s something you won’t want to miss — Glacier National Park!  Noted as one of the most popular destinations in the Amtrak system route, Glacier Park is a perfect getaway. East Glacier Park is a short walk to Summit Mountain Lodge for great food and family cabins near stunning mountain views. Looking for an affordable family trip? You’re in luck. With Every Kid in a Park, every 4^th grader is free to all national parks, including federal lands and waterways. Our Trails and Rails program is designed to be fun and informative, which provides the perfect educational prep for a visit to these national treasures with your little ones.

Oh! Avid cyclists, take note: purchase a bike box from a staffed station and your bike will travel safely in the baggage car until your destination. ?

California Zephyr
The Reno River Festival guarantees a good time with a costumed bike ride, custom craft beers and river rafting. Or, check out “Coachella in the Mountains” at the Divide Music Festival in Winter Park, CO with camping, music and much more. Don’t forget Grand Junction! With art installations throughout downtown, great places to eat and expansive wineries, this little town is the perfect stop for some R&R. Or get adventurous with Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park with gondola rides and amazing views, or take a dip in Glenwood Hot Springs.

There’s good news for international visitors! Starting April 22, a direct metro line will take you from Denver International Airport to Denver Union Station where you can catch the California Zephyr to fun and adventure. With an overnight stay or same day connections, traveling internationally and connecting to numerous destinations throughout the Amtrak system route just got easy.

Coast Starlight
Head to Seattle and check out Bumbershoot, filled with performances from Top 40 artists, outdoor fun, and plenty of brews. Then head to Elliott Bay Marina and book your next aquatic adventure.  Whether you’re sailing through the San Juan islands, whale watching or sticking closer to the city, it’s a beautiful way to experience the Sound. Looking for bike action this summer?  Don’t miss the annual biking event Seattle to Portland.  Bike to Portland and then train back to Seattle by the Coast Starlight or Amtrak Cascades. Don’t forget to visit national parks like Olympic National Park and the San Juan Islands National Monument.

Head south to San Francisco, home to the famous Outside Lands Festival. It’s one of the largest outdoor live music festivals in the city. Featuring gourmet goodies and local wine, you’ll love strolling through arts and crafts vendors while enjoying the Golden State.

Excited? So are we. Be sure to book two weeks in advance and get 20% off your very own #AmtrakAdventure on one of these great cross country routes. All Aboard!