Demand for intercity and international train travel is on the rise, with many people giving preference to the slower form of travel. Many people, including Americans, now use trains for vacations. Trains have become a popular mode of travel.
Nothing beats gentle relaxation, beautiful scenic views, and ample legroom. Sleeper trains, those with comfy beds for sleeping, are the best for long-distance travel. Looking for weekend train trips near you? Here are the best train vacations for seniors.
The Amazing Grand Canyon Tour
The Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world. In 2021, it accommodated 4.5 million visitors, and the number increased to almost 5 million in 2022. Every year, more people go to see its beautiful scenes.
You can book a trip with one of the travel agencies that specialize in train travel from Williams, Arizona. There are multiple stops along the way, and you’ll get to see wildlife such as mountain lions, elks, and bald eagles.
You’ll enjoy participating in the following activities:
- Outdoor activities: Experience incredible and breathtaking views, slow-paced hiking, rafting, and camping during your stops.
- Ranger programs: The Grand Canyon Park Rangers offer multiple programs daily on geology, wildlife, and history of the wildlife and Hualapai people of Arizona.
- Picnics: The South and North Rims have no shortage of awesome picnic zones. You can use Mather Point, which has several tables near the most popular viewpoints on the South Rim. Picnic tables and canopies make outdoor eating a breeze. The South Rim is open all year round, while the North Rim is open from May to October.
You can also book a luxury day train tour if your budget allows.
The Canadian Rockies & American Southwest
The Canadian Rockies, located in Canada, are a breathtaking mountain range. They are popular because of their lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, wildlife, and glacial lakes. Depending on the travel agency you’re using, you can book a short or a long trip. A 12-day trip takes you through Seattle, Kamloops, Banff, Jasper National Park, and Lake Louise.
Your trip may take you through Whistler and other stunning locations like the beautiful Vancouver coast. The Canadian Rockies trip has a lot to offer, including:
New friendships: Get to meet people from around the world and create meaningful relationships that will last.
Relaxed atmosphere: Train vacations are comfortable for senior citizens looking to experience a relaxing vacation.
Explore new destinations: As your train makes multiple stops along the way, you’ll get to see different wildlife, sceneries, and cultures and create new and wonderful memories.
Arches and Canyonlands Getaway
This trip takes you through two of America’s most beautiful national parks. It’s a great choice for seniors traveling by train. Get to see awe-inspiring views of the Canyonlands National Park and the Colorado River. The Arches National Park is a must-see as it’s filled with thousands of sandstone arches. You can camp, trek, bike, or hike on the Mesa. The trails accommodate all skill levels and are perfect for the young and the old.
At night, you can spend plenty of time stargazing from any of the high points. Take in the panoramic views and star-filled sky. During the day, enjoy a relaxed drive through the sandy desert and see the area in a whole new way.
Niagara Falls Roundtrip
This four-day, three-night rail vacation roundtrip starts from New York and is filled with breathtaking sights and sounds. Get to explore the Niagara Falls and the quaint little town that surrounds it. The rail vacation for seniors is filled with plenty of activities, so you’ll never lack something to do.
The train takes you by the basin directly in front of the falls and you can enjoy panoramic views atop the Skylon Tower. If you love golf, this is the perfect trip for you as you get to play the game in an award-winning golf course. Afterwards, you can relax at the spa or visit the botanical gardens.
Wine tasting is one of the key points of the roundtrip, and you can spend your evenings at a posh restaurant that serves delectable meals. There’s a beautiful firework show over the Falls in summer, so book the trip when the weather is nice.
USA and Canada Rail Vacation
North America has some of the best landscapes in the world, and you can take them in as you travel by rail. This train vacation for seniors takes you from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest. Some of the outstanding sceneries include the Glacier National Park, Granville Island, and Stanley Park.
Explore Vancouver’s beauty from the Vancouver Lookout and from different vantage points. Seniors who have booked this trip get free access to the Vancouver Lookout. You’ll see the Canadian Rockies up close and the gorgeous countryside that’s a sight to behold. You’ll have lots of time to explore Toronto at your leisure before embarking the train to go back home. The trip includes a sightseeing tour of Toronto.
Pacific Northwest Roundtrip
If you’ve never seen the Pacific Northwest, this is time to book a train vacation. The journey starts from Los Angeles and covers three amazing cities: San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle. You’ll also get to see beautiful Los Angeles. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of San Francisco that takes you to popular attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate, and Pier 39. See Muir Woods in all its splendor and gaze at its stunning redwoods. The quiet town of Sausalito is perfect for a leisurely stroll in the afternoon.
Afterward, go explore Portland and see all its top spots, like the Portland Japanese Garden and Washington Park. In the evening, go on a tranquil dinner cruise along the Willamette River. Your next stop is the Emerald City with great sights to offer, like Pike’s Place Market and the Space Needle. A guided sightseeing city tour ensures you make the most of your in the bustling city. This train vacation for seniors perfectly combines travel and leisure and offers great value for money.
Closing Thoughts
Looking to go on a train vacation? Roundtrip train vacations for seniors are perfect for retired couples, single seniors, and retiree groups. Using the train makes it easy to view different spots, such as mountain ranges, national parks, lakes, and stunning wildlife. If you’re looking for weekend train trips near you for yourself or a group, don’t hesitate to try some of the above trips. Have a great time, and make the most of every moment!
Alice is a writer and editor for Gainful Retirement. She is passionate about helping retirees live fulfilling lives without financial constraints. She puts a lot of time and effort conducting market research to identify common issues faced by retirees. Her passion is to help you enjoy retirement and solve the most pressing issues you face.