Whether you’re in need of a quick day trip or a full weekend getaway, NYC’s train offerings can provide great scenic escapes! From summer blooms to fall foliage and even majestic wintry whitecaps, there are so many scenic train journeys you can take from the city! Cheers to planning your next mini-vacation now!
1. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River from a 1940s train
Hop aboard the 20th Century Limited train and enjoy an authentic recreation of a 1948 locomotive to Chicago. Celebrating a 75th anniversary of the “World’s Most Famous Train,” guests are invited to explore this limited trip from September 17-21. There’s first-class dining, overnight accommodations, and so much more. The waitlist is currently open right now! Learn more here.
2. Grab international views en route to Montreal
Three years later, Amtrak’s Adirondack service to Montreal is finally back! This scenic trail journey will whisk you through the wine country of Hudson Valley before landing you across the border in Canada! Of course you’ll pass through the state’s Adirondack region too, where you’ll catch a glimpse of lake shores and mountain ranges that made it rank as a “top 10 most scenic train ride in the world.” Learn more here.
3. Bask in the luscious landscapes of Vermont
Whether you’re in search of some wintry ski mountains, spring wildflowers, or views of Lake Champlain, the Ethan Allen Express route to Vermont is one of our favorites. The appropximately 8 hour train will wind you northbound through the Northeast, with a great view of the Hudson River on the left side of the train. Learn more here.
4. Check out the Palisades in Poughkeepsie, NY
Believe it or not but the ‘ol MTA Metro-North can actually offer some scenic options around its route, especially when you head north to Poughkeepsie. The Palisades cliffs and foliage are stunning to view as you chug your way two hours north of NYC. In fact, the whole Hudson Line is pretty great, with stops along the way like Beacon, Peekskill, and Cold Spring. Learn more here.
5. Bask in the harbors of Boston on the way through New England
If you want to try out the newest and sleekest train journey, book an Amtrak Acela train, which speeds up to 150 mph en route to Boston! The speed demon will pass by the ships and harbors of New England along the way, leaving you with gorgeous nautical views to ponder as you enter Boston. Sit on the right side for the best coastal views! Learn more here.
6. See the ruins of Bannerman Castle and Hudson-Athens lighthouse in Hudson, NY
The Hudson Valley offer some of the best small towns near NYC, and the scenic train ride upstate to them is just as incredible. There are a few Amtrak options that service Hudson, NY in particular, which is home to views of Bannerman Castle, Bear Mountain, and the Hudson-Athens lighthouse! Plus, it’s only a 2 hour journey. You can take an Amtrak Maple Leaf, Adirondack or Ethan Allen Express line.
7. Explore the countryside through Pennsylvania
For more of a countryside scenic escape, hop on board the Amtrak Pennsylvanian, which makes daily stops throughout the state en route to Pittsburgh. Scenic highlights include Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle (the place where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers meet), the Allegheny Mountains, the famous Horseshoe Curve near Altoona, PA, and Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The route stretches 9 hours in total, but it’s totally worth it. Learn more here.
8. View the skyline as you pull into Philadelphia
We know how much New Yorkers love a scenic skyline view, and if you ride the Amtrak Northeast Regional, you’ll be delighted to a nice silhouette of Philadelphia as you arrive! The mere 1.5 hour journey flies by, and if you sit on the left side of the train you’ll get a delightful taste of the City of Brotherly Love before you officially arrive. Learn more here.
9. Take in views of the Berkshires on weekends
Making 4 hour trips from late May through early October, Amtrak’s Berkshire Flyer train makes seeing Massachusetts’ foliaged region even easier. The mountains and woodlands of the Berkshires are gorgeous without an explanation needed, and are perfect for hikers, outdoors enthusiasts, and everyone in between. Learn more here.
10. Hop on the LIRR to Montauk
When you want your Hamptons fix, hop on the LIRR which can get you to the eastern most of Long Island in 3 hours. We all know how fun Montauk is (for various reasons), but many forget how enjoyable the ride there is too.