amtrak day trips northern california

Complete Guide to Train Rides & Attractions in Northern California (with Map)

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: July 11, 2022

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Few places have a richer railroad legacy than the San Francisco Bay Area and greater Northern California. Trains were a vital part of the development of the state, from their role in logging in the redwoods to moving goods and people as the state boomed after the Gold Rush. Railroad tycoons like the Big 4 of San Francisco (Crocker, Huntington, Stanford, and Hopkins) helped to build the Transcontinental Railroad – the terminus of which eventually ended up in my now hometown of Alameda, CA .

As a result, Northern California is the place to visit to see a wide variety of train-related attractions today. Travelers to the area will find so many opportunities to learn about historic trains and ride the rails. Over the years, my kids and I have been able to visit most – but not quite yet all – of the most popular train attractions in the Bay Area and all over Northern California.

Here are 13 of the best train-related things to do in the northern part of the Golden State, as well as a dozen more smaller train attractions in the area.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

13 Bucket List Worthy Train Rides and Sights in Northern California

If you are looking for a full scale train ride or a railway-related experience worthy of traveling to see, these are the headliners in NorCal.

Roaring Camp Railroads (Felton, CA)

One of the most well-known train destinations in the state is located in the town of Felton in Santa Cruz County. Roaring Camp Railroads offers two different passenger train experiences. The first, the open air narrow gauge Redwood Forest Steam Train, travels deep into the coastal redwoods with magnificent views. It ultimately climbs a small grade to Bear Mountain by means of a switchback where it reverses direction.

The second route is aboard the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk train. This train travels through redwoods, gorges, tunnels, and across a historic steel truss bridge from Felton, ultimately arriving at the famed Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Each direction takes about an hour, and guests can start either at the beach or in Felton for a round trip journey (and can hop off and spend some time in either destination for a full day’s activity).

Roaring Camp Railroads hosts a number of seasonal events, from Thomas the Tank Engine special visits to holiday celebrations and drive in movies.

Skunk Train (Fort Bragg & Willits)

Far north of San Francisco in the heart of old redwood logging country is an area rich with train history. In Mendocino County on the coast, one of the most well-known and well-preserved of these historic logging trains takes passengers today – the Skunk Train . Dating from 1885, this railroad line has served many functions over the years.

Related : Guide to Mendocino County with Kids

The Skunk Train got its name because of the smell of the trains that carried passengers in the 1920s – railbuses running on gasoline and burning crude oil in stoves for heat. The train doesn’t have the same smell today thankfully!

Two routes are available for visitors to ride. The first is the shorter one hour 15 minute Pudding Creek Express that makes a round trip from the coast in Fort Bragg – perfect for families. The second is the 2 hour Wolf Tree turn from Willits. The railroad now also offers rail bike experiences out of Fort Bragg.

Be sure not to miss the Mendocino Model Railway just behind the Fort Bragg depot. This independently run model train build run entirely by volunteer enthusiasts is truly amazing.

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad (Sonoma)

In the heart of Sonoma County wine country, this beloved local theme park celebrates all things railroad. Sonoma TrainTown has regular amusement rides for kids (trained themed ones, of course!), but the headliner is the park’s miniature gauge railroad. This 20 minute train ride stops at Lakeview, a miniature town and petting zoo play area where kids can hop out and explore. The park also features a few historic train cars that guests can tour.

The park is open daily in summer and Saturdays and Sundays the rest of the year. Admission and parking are free; guests purchase a la carte tickets to each attraction in the park.

California State Railroad Museum & Sacramento Southern Railway (Sacramento)

For families who want to learn more about trains, the California State Railroad Museum is a true gem. The museum has exhibits featuring trains and locomotives from every era of railroad history and is located right in the center of Old Sacramento . Admission is just $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 6-12 (kids ages 5 and under are free), making this a very affordable stop that will probably keep most families busy for several hours.

Next door to the California State Railroad Museum, guests can hop aboard the affiliated Sacramento Southern Railroad for a full scale train ride along the Sacramento River. The train operates on Saturdays and Sundays in summer, with seasonal train rides available at other times of the year like the Spookomotive at Halloween and a Polar Express in winter months.

Sacramento River Fox Train (West Sacramento)

Not too far down the road and river northwest of Sacramento is another train ride option. The Sacramento River Fox Train company specializes in train experiences and events. Most rides are 2.5 hours and stop at the train’s private park before returning for the round trip.

There’s a variety of options for both adults as well as families. Excursions for the over 21 set include the Beer Train, Happy Hour, and Old Vine Express.

For families, the regular River Fox excursion focuses on California’s Gold Rush history and includes gem mining. There’s another option where guests don fancy hats and enjoy tea. And of course, there are seasonal trains galore – from Halloween, Christmas, and Easter for families to an adults-only Valentine’s Day offering.

Niles Canyon Railway (Fremont & Sunol)

For a full size passenger train experience in the heart of the Bay Area, head to the Niles Canyon Railway in Fremont and Sunol.

The Niles Canyon Railway operates steam and diesel engines along a portion of the First Transcontinental Railroad. During December, look for the railway’s Train of Lights (be ready to book as soon as tickets are released because it normally sells out immediately!).

Railroad Park Resort (Dunsmuir)

For anyone obsessed with trains, the chance to sleep or dine in a historic train car is a truly unique experience. You can do both at Railroad Park Resort in Dunsmuir not far from Mount Shasta along Interstate 5.

The property is a hotel with multiple caboose cars converted into individual hotel rooms. Each caboose is complete with private bathrooms and electricity. The restaurant on property is a fine dining (but ultimately kid-friendly) experience also located within a train car. While a stay is not very expensive, the hotel is extremely popular. Be sure to book well in advance.

(There’s a similar caboose hotel in Lake County, CA – Featherbed Railroad – but rooms there are limited to an occupancy of 2 and the resort is focused on romantic getaways. Leave the kids at home and save this one for a couples trip!)

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad (Fish Camp)

Yosemite National Park is one of the top stops for travelers to the northern half of the state. It’s easy to add a train experience to your national park trip if you happen to be making the right approach to the park.

Located just 4 miles south of the Yosemite’s southern entrance (by Mariposa Grove and Wawona) is the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad . The railroad runs one hour rides with steam engines through the adjacent Sierra National Forest. It’s closed in the winter months, so check your travel dates with their schedule before you go. For more details and tips, be sure to check out this guide to visiting Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad . (Also, if you plan to visit while on a trip to the park, don’t miss my complete guide to Yosemite National Park with kids ).

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park (Jackson)

Travelers taking the northern routes into Yosemite National Park may find a stop at Railtown 1897 Historic State Park an easy detour. Operated in partnership between the California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum, this park runs both historic steam and diesel locomotives through the heart of California Gold Country in Tuolumne County. The park has a working roundhouse and a number of historic trains on display outdoors to view and explore.

Napa Valley Wine Train (Napa)

This historic rail lines runs through a large swath of Napa wine country, from the town of Napa to St. Helena, passing several dozen famous wineries along the way. More than just a train ride, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a wide variety of excursions that include meals, tastings, and stops at wineries along the way. Trips can be as long as a full day (6 hours) or just a few hours, depending on what itinerary you book.

Related : Guide to Napa Valley with Kids

While the Napa Valley Wine Train welcomes kids on some trips, I wouldn’t recommend this train for families with younger kids due to its more adult focus on food and wine. But for for couples travelers or those with tweens and teens who appreciate food and views, it’s a unique way to get an overview of the entire area.

Western Pacific Railroad Museum (Portola)

The Western Pacific Railroad Museum is off-the-beaten track in the more remote northeast part of the state about an hour from Reno/Tahoe. Always a favorite with true railroad enthusiasts, it’s worth the trip.

Calling it a museum might be a bit misleading as it is really more about actually exploring and climbing aboard the many dozens of pieces of railway equipment in the outdoor yard. The incredible collection includes a number of diesel-electric locomotives as well as passenger cars, freight cars, and cabooses.

The museum offers train rides on weekends for a small fee. Want to drive a train? The museum’s Run-A-Locomotive Program lets you be be a train engineer for an hour (kids too! – with parent accompanying and a signed release of liability). Be aware that the museum is closed in winter months so call ahead before you make the drive. It will reopen April 1, 2022 next year.

Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum (Nevada City)

California Gold Country in Nevada City is home to a lovingly-maintained and fascinating narrow gauge railroad museum, the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum . The museum highlights the role of the railway in hauling supplies through the region during the Gold Rush.

One of the museum’s most prized items in its collection is its historic Number 5 engine that spent many years starring in Hollywood movies before returning to the railroad. On Saturdays, the museum offers free railbus rides on a network of narrow gauge tracks that is a must-do. Just be sure to call ahead to make a reservation!

The train yard around the museum is full of restorations-in-progress, open cars to explore, and friendly volunteers and enthusiasts. This impressive combination of offerings has made it one of our family’s favorite railroad attractions in the state, even though it might not have as big of a name as several other stops on this list.

El Dorado Western Railroad (Placerville)

Also in Gold Country is Placerville’s El Dorado Western Railroad . This railroad offers rides two Sundays a month from its El Dorado Station, running along the tracks of the old Southern Pacific Railroad line.

This is definitely a railroad to watch in the coming months and years. The railway has plans to expand to Shingle Springs in the not-too-distant future and has a number of restorations and track repairs in progress.

12 More Smaller Trains to Ride in NorCal

If you are a local looking to take a smaller train-related excursion or ride, there are lots of options in the northern half of California – especially in the Bay Area. These are mostly located within local parks, theme parks, or in association with other family-friendly attractions. For some smaller and less expensive train outings, keep these on your radar too:

Redwood Valley Railway (Berkeley)

Tilden Park in the Berkeley and Oakland hills is home to several railway-related attractions known as the Tilden Park steam trains. The main event is the open air narrow gauge Redwood Valley Railway that travels a one mile loop through the park.

There are also miniature scale trains just large enough to sit and straddle like a horse – the Golden Gate Live Steamers . These traditionally run only for a few hours on Sundays and are run by a dedicated group of train enthusiasts who enjoy sharing their love of trains with kids.

Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad (Los Gatos)

In the South Bay, the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad operates real steam engines that travel through Oak Meadow and Vasona parks in the town of Los Gatos. In operation since 1968, this railroad is generally open daily in summer and Saturdays and Sundays the rest of the year.

Railroad Museum at Ardenwood (Fremont)

The Railroad Museum at Ardenwood is a nonprofit railroad in Fremont was founded with a mission to preserve West Coast narrow gauge railroad technology and history. It is located on the grounds of Ardenwood Historic Farm Regional Preserve, a popular family-friendly outing to view a historic working farm in the Bay Area. Train rides are available from the first weekend in April through the weekend before Thanksgiving on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, as well as for some additional special events.

Oakland Zoo’s Outback Express Adventure Train (Oakland)

Guests visiting the Oakland Zoo can take a ride aboard the Outback Express Adventure Train. The train is located in Adventure Landing along with several other kid-friendly rides outside of the paid entry area into the zoo. No separate zoo admission is required, but the parking fee ($10 per car) is in addition to the small fee for the train itself. The ride takes you into the enclosures where the emus and wallaroos are kept for a down under adventure.

San Francisco Zoo’s Little Puffer Miniature Steam Train (San Francisco)

The San Francisco Zoo is home to the 100+ year old Little Puffer Miniature Steam Train . It’s one of only three 22 inch gauge railroads left in the world. Admission is a little pricey ($7 per passenger in addition to the zoo’s admission and parking fees), and it only takes two short laps. But it’s a really unique steam train experience that enthusiasts will enjoy.

Golden State Model Railroad Museum (Point Richmond)

Owned and operated by the East Bay Model Engineers Society, the Golden State Model Railroad Museum has three model train layouts to view in operation. Admission is very reasonable – a ticket to admit the whole family is just $10. The museum is only open Sundays from noon to 4:00 pm right now, so check operating dates and hours carefully!

Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society

The Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society runs the Diablo Valley Lines model railroad which features a mix of model railroad types – standard gauge, narrow gauge, and overhead electric freight and trolley lines. The railroad is only on view for specific shows (a few days a month on weekends, but more frequently during the holidays).

Theme Park Trains

A number of local Bay Area theme parks also have small train rides you shouldn’t miss if you are planning a day at the amusement park with a train-loving kiddo. Our favorites include:

• Bonfante Railroad Train Ride at Gilroy Gardens (Gilroy) : One of the hidden theme park gems for families with young kids is Gilroy Gardens , which has a train that circles the park. This train is the largest of the ones at theme parks in NorCal and is a 1/3 scale replica of an 1863 C.P. Huntington steam locomotive.
• Jolly Trolly at Children’s Fairyland (Oakland) : This slow moving train is ideal for even babies and toddlers in laps. Plan to ride it early in the day as lines get long.
• Pixieland Express Train (Concord) : This small scale amusement park has a little 1/4 mile train for adults and kids who are big enough sit up on their own.
• Seaside Railway at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (Vallejo) : This amusement park just outside of the Bay Area has a small train perfect for families to ride together. (See my related Tips for visiting Six Flags Discovery Kingdom )
• The Little Engine that Could at Fairytale Town (Sacramento) : Another neighborhood amusement park great for little ones features this famous blue train kids know and love!

Seasonal & Holiday Train Experiences in Northern California

Trains are often the most popular for families to visit during special events offered around the holidays. From haunted trains to holiday trains of lights, there are a number of special railway seasonal events in San Francisco, Sacramento, and all over Northern California.

(These special events are all hosted by attractions listed above.)

Halloween Trains

• Halloween Express (Skunk Train)
• Spookomotive (Sacramento Southern Railway)
• Pumpkin Patch Express (Sacramento River Fox Train)
• Halloween Limited (Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railway)

Christmas & Winter Holiday Trains

• Magical Christmas Train (Skunk Train)
• Polar Express (California State Railroad Museum & Sacramento Southern Railway)
• Polar Express (Railtown 1897 State Historic Park)
• Train of Lights (Niles Canyon Railway)
• Magical Christmas Train (Sacramento River Fox Train)
• Tis The Season To Sip (Napa Valley Wine Train)

Other Holiday Trains

• Easter Egg Express (Sacramento River Fox Train)
• Valentine’s Day Dinner Train (Sacramento River Fox Train) – adults only

Are there any train rides or attractions in Northern California we missed? Leave your recommendations in the comments and we’ll keep this list updated.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

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eric mencis

Monday 11th of July 2022

You missed the Western Railway Museum www.wrm.org https://www.facebook.com/WesternRailwayMuseum

Leslie Harvey

Thursday 28th of July 2022

Thanks for the tip! As much as I think I've found every offering in the northern half of the state, more are brought to my attention. Will include in the next update.

The 9 Best Train Rides in Northern California

Northern California is a railroad buff’s paradise, as there are many steam and diesel locomotives still in operation today. Your choices range from luxurious dinner trains through Napa Valley Wine Country to relaxing trips through the California Redwoods . For railroad fans who want a behind the scenes look, there are museums where you can view massive locomotives and almost every other kind of railroad equipment.

The California State Railroad

BenFranske/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

The California State Railroad Museum is located in Sacramento. Excursion trains run through Old Sacramento in April through September. The Museum's other train option, Sacramento Southern Railroad runs a 6-mile loop along the levees of the Sacramento River. The locomotives can be either steam or diesel, depending on the tour, and the rolling stock consists of vintage passenger coaches and converted freight cars.

Check the California State Railroad Museum Foundation website for information about special excursion trains, such as the Halloween Spookomotive Train Ride in October and The Polar Express in November and December.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

 A Yee/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is located in Jamestown, in the heart of California's Gold Country . The park features a preserved roundhouse and locomotive repair shop, both of which are still functional and guided tours are available. 

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed at "The Movie Railroad," including High Noon , ​ Unforgiven , Death Valley Days , and Petticoat Junction .

Steam-powered excursion trains run every weekend from April to October. Trains depart the Railtown Depot on the hour for a 6-mile run through the Sierra foothills. Special and seasonal trains, such as Santa's Starlight Express, operate at other times during the year. 

Western Pacific Railroad Museum

 Paul Sullivan/Flickr/CC BY-ND 2.0

The Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola houses a large collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and a collection of items from the historic rail line. Among the collection is the UP 6946, the largest diesel locomotive ever built, and historic equipment from the famous California Zephyr. The Museum is a great "hands-on" place for kids, with touching and exploring encouraged.

Train rides are conducted on diesel locomotives, and there are also special seasonal trains, such as the Santa Train in December. 

Sacramento River Train

Jack Snell/Flickr/CC BY-ND 2.0

The Sacramento River Train offers a number of options for 28-mile, 3-hour trips along the Sacramento River. Trains board in Woodland, just north of Sacramento. Depending on the trip you choose, this excursion train offers brunch, lunch, and dinner in two dining cars.

There are numerous special trains throughout the year - check the website for the calendar and trip details . 

Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is the height of luxury and takes riders on a trip to St. Helena and back, and of course, stopping at wineries along the way. The views are wonderful, and each guests’ ticket includes a four-course meal. The train offers special events such as “Rock the Rails” where they bring in popular musical acts to perform on the train and private twilight tours as well.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Ian Gratton/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0

This tiny railroad spans only 4 miles, but what it lacks in distance, it makes up with gorgeous vintage steam trains bustling through majestic redwoods. 

Sierra Railroad Dinner Train

Drew Jacksich/Wikimedia Commons

Fancy a murder mystery dinner? How about brunch? The Sierra Railroad Dinner Train is located between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park and offers a wide variety of themed train rides through the beautiful Central Valley countryside. 

Fort Bragg Skunk Train

The name may not appeal to everyone, but the Fort Bragg Skunk Train has plenty of family-friendly, nature-themed train rides that can last up to four hours. 

Roaring Camp Railroads

If you have dreams of spending some time at the beach, ride the Roaring Camp Railroad from the Santa Cruz Mountains, through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, all the way down to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . 

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Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at [email protected].

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The nostalgia that good old-fashioned train rides in Northern California can bring is truly special. Locomotive travel can bring us back to a time when we took the time to watch what was outside our window and simply enjoy the journey. If you’re looking to remember what it’s like to enjoy the journey and tour Northern California in a unique way—or you just want to give the family a special experience they’ll never forget—then traveling Northern California’s scenic railways are the perfect way to do just that. The following are eleven train rides in Northern California that will give you an unforgettable experience.

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Have you ever traveled along any of these train rides in California? Share your thoughts, train photos, and railway experiences with us in the comments below. For more scenic adventures, hop in the car and take this beautiful road trip in Northern California . And don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Train rides in northern california.

Can I go for a train ride in Northern California?

Other train rides in Northern California include:

• Niles Canyon Railway
• Pumpkin Patch Express

In addition to the train rides mentioned above, there are even more scenic train rides in Northern California that are ideal for a day trip. The Niles Canyon Railway operates several different train rides, ranging from team locomotives to self-propelled railcars, and even special holiday train rides which are a must during Christmas. If you just can’t wait for the holidays, the Pumpkin Patch Express is a great fall-weather train ride where you’ll get to travel by train through the Yolo County farmland and even pick yourself a pumpkin before heading home.  

What are the best day trips in Northern California?

Some day trips in Northern California include:

• Yosemite National Park
• Half Moon Bay

The Golden State is ripe with incredible adventures to occupy your day, you just need to pick the sights! A tour of the gold country is always a good idea, where you can learn more about the history of the gold rush and see what the towns look like today. Of course, seeing the majestic redwoods should be on everyone’s bucket list, and Redwood National Park is a great place to start. Nature lovers will have a blast taking a paddle around one of the many gorgeous lakes in Northern California , and there are always Northern California’s beautiful beaches that make for a memorable day trip.  

What are the best road trips through Northern California?

Besides train rides, road trips are a great way to see the sights of Northern California. One of the most underrated road trips through Northern California will take you to this side of the state’s most majestic lighthouses. So not only will you still get to see the beautiful beaches of Northern California, you’ll get to experience these historic lighthouses, too! If you’re traveling with kids who aren’t thrilled at the idea of seeing lighthouses, we’ve mapped out a family-friendly road trip in Northern California that’ll take you to more whimsical attractions, like the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Jelly Belly factory, and more.  

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Amtrak’s California day-trip services

Three regional trains offer same-day adventures across the Golden State

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California can lay claim as one of the nation’s top rail passenger capitals. Amtrak is a key player in the Golden State, with three state-supported regional trains connecting multiple metropolitan areas. From the capital city of Sacramento to the beaches in San Diego, here are some great Amtrak day trips you can take in California.

Capitol Corridor

Auburn – Sacramento – San Jose: The Capitol Corridor provides a 169-mile connection between the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento Region. Twelve weekday trains – 11 on weekends – zip between Sacramento and Oakland’s Jack London Square Station daily. Extension services are scheduled to and from San Jose six times a day with an extra train on weekends, while one round trip is provided for Auburn. Day-trip opportunities are endless. Multiple trains connect major destinations along the route, including Santa Clara’s Great America and San Francisco by way of Emeryville Station.

Quick Notes: Amtrak’s long-distance Chicago-Emeryville California Zephyr and Seattle-Los Angeles Coast Starlight both provide additional station stops along the Capitol Corridor ‘s route. Commuter rail connections can be made with San Francisco’s BART , San Francisco-San Jose’s Caltrain , and Stockton’s Altamont Commuter Express (ACE) .

San Joaquin

Oakland/Sacramento – Stockton – Bakersfield: The 315-mile San Joaquin traverses its namesake valley with six daily round trips traveling through the state’s agricultural region. Bakersfield serves as the southern terminus, from which one train heads to and from Sacramento; the remainder serve the San Francisco Bay Area at Oakland’s Jack London Square Station. Key station stops include the diverse city of Fresno, the town of Merced – where passengers can hop on a quick shuttle to Yosemite National Park – and Stockton, where the service diverges to either Sacramento or Oakland.

Quick Notes: The San Joaquin makes commuter rail connections with BART at Richmond and ACE at Stockton’s Robert J. Cabral Station for the San Joaquin ’s Sacramento service only (Bakersfield-Oakland trains use Stockton’s San Joaquin Street Station).

Pacific Surfliner

San Luis Obispo – Los Angeles – San Diego: The Pacific Sufliner is the longest of the three state-supported Amtrak routes in California. It hugs the Pacific coastline, linking the metropolis of Los Angeles with San Luis Obispo and San Diego. Each terminus offers multiple daily departures and connects major points in between – including the coastal cities of Santa Barbara and Oceanside. The 350-mile scenic route makes it a perfect day trip with far less hassle compared to driving or flying. Views of the Pacific Ocean are usually guaranteed along the way.

Quick Notes: Additional station stops along the Pacific Surfliner’s route are provided by the following long-distance trains: the Coast Starlight at San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Oxnard, Simi Valley, and Van Nuys; and the Chicago-Los Angeles Southwest Chief at Fullerton. Commuter rail connections are made with Los Angeles’ Metrolink , San Diego’s Coaster , and Oceanside’s Sprinter light rail .

Please be aware of schedule changes and service disruptions by visiting Amtrak’s website for the latest updates.

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Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Coastal Day Trips

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Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains run along the coast of Southern California from  San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Sleek double-decker trains whisk you up to 90 miles an hour along the coast. Riding the Surfliner allows you to see scenic coast areas not viewable by car.

On a trip from Los Angeles to San Diego, you pass the world-famous surfing beach Trestles and then through Camp Pendelton to Oceanside. This section of the track is wide open, and the engineer operates the train at top speed.

From Oceanside to Torrey Pines, the train runs along the coast and then turns inland for the final miles before it reaches downtown San Diego. Taking the train for a day trip to San Diego is a fun alternative to driving the 405 freeway.

Just a short walk from the San Diego train station is the USS Midway Museum, restaurants, and the ferry to Coronado Island. Rail options from the Amtrak train station include the San Diego Trolley to Old Town San Diego or the border.

North from Los Angeles, the Surfliner hugs the coast from Oxnard past Vanderberg Air Force Base. The train passes through Santa Barbara, Gaviota State Beach, Jalama Beach, Santa Maria, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo.

There are miles of pristine coastline that are not accessible by car on this section of the track. 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.

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.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains consist of double-decker California passenger cars with expansive windows perfect for viewing the Pacific Ocean. All cars are equipped with power outlets for laptops. Amtrak’s Surfliner route is one of the busiest in the country and for a good reason.

The two largest train stations on the Surfliner route are Los Angeles Union Station and San Diego Union Station. Both destinations offer easy access to nearby attractions and connections to a trolley or underground train system.

One unique train station along the Surfliner route is San Clemente. The Surfliner drops off passengers at the San Clemente Pier and only steps to the sand.

The Los Angeles to San Diego track was once served by the Santa Fe San Diegan trains. Amtrak took over the route in 2000, and the Pacific Surfliner was born. Today the Pacific Surfliner route is one of the busiest passenger train services in the nation.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers twelve daily round-trip journeys between San Diego and Los Angeles. There are daily trains from Los Angeles Union Station north to Santa Barbara.

If you were to travel the entire 350-mile route, the trip would take a little over eight hours. Los Angeles to San Diego travel time is a little under three hours.

Reservations are not generally required on Pacific Surfliner trains; however, booking a few days before departure on busy summer weekends is best.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Stations – Day Trips

List of points of interest, destinations, and popular day trips by train along California’s Pacific Surfliner train route.

San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo is the Northern stop of the Amtrak Pacific Surfline. You can continue on the Coast Starlight train if you wish to travel further north from here. San Luis Obispo is nestled among the hills, just south of Paso Robles, Atascadero, and north of Pismo Beach; the city is halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. San Luis Obispo is the closest train station to Hearst Castle.

Grover Beach – Pismo Beach

Grover Beach is one of the Five Cities of the Central Coast. Pismo Beach, Oceano, Arroyo Grande, and Shell Beach. Grover Beach Amtrak station is located on Grand Ave, the entrance road to the Pismo Dunes recreation area. Grover Beach is the nearest station to Pismo Beach. From here, the Surfline route turns inland to San Luis Obispo.

Goleta California

Goleta, California, is just north of Santa Barbara. Goleta beaches are typically less crowded than Santa Barbara’s, and Goleta Beach Park is the ideal destination for a quiet family day trip or a romantic weekend getaway. You should check out Goleta’s South Coast Railroad Museum if you are a railfan. The museum offers exhibits about rail life, historical artifacts, and a collection of rare photographs and memorabilia.

Santa Barbara California

Santa Barbara, California Amtrak train station is a ten-minute walk to Stearns Wharf and beach hotels. While taking the Surfliner train to Santa Barbara for a day trip is possible, we suggest spending at least one night. Attractions are plentiful in this beautiful coastal town. One day is just not enough for most travelers. Santa Barbara is a three-hour train trip from Los Angeles.

Carpinteria California

Carpinteria is south of Santa Barbara, and the Amtrak station is within easy walking distance of Carpinteria State Park. This sleepy suburb on the Santa Barbara Channel of the Pacific will put visitors in touch with destinations that make California’s coast a traveler’s delight.

Los Angeles Union Station

Union Station is a hub of activity, with Metro and Amtrak trains arriving hourly. Passenger trains depart hourly South to San Diego, North to Santa Barbara, and beyond. Downtown Los Angeles Union Station’s nearby attractions include Chinatown and Olvera Street. Metro rail lines connect with the rest of the city, Including Universal Studios Hollywood.

Fullerton California

Fullerton offers a family-friendly environment. more adult-oriented evenings. Fullerton has a sizeable modern train station with a short walk to the old town with dining & shopping options. The Surfliner travels through Santa Ana, Irvine, and San Juan Capistrano from the Fullerton train station.

San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano is one of the most popular day trips by train along the route of the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. Historic  Mission San Juan Capistrano is within easy walking distance of the Amtrak station. Families, school groups, and day-trippers all enjoy the convenience of traveling by train to see the mission.

San Clemente California

San Clemente’s Train Station is adjacent to Pier, only steps to the beach and nearby hotels. San Clemente is a popular summer beach day trip from inland areas of Southern California. Visitors can enjoy a day at the beach and avoid summer traffic and parking problems.

Trestles World Famous Surf Break

Surfliner does not stop at Trestles, but passengers get as close as possible without standing on the beach. The train passes over the “Trestles Bridge” and follows the coast past upper, middle, and lower trestles surf breaks. The nearest train station to Trestles is in San Clemente.

Oceanside California

Oceanside Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train station is three blocks from the beach and the town’s substantial wooden pier. Oceanside is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway by train. The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Slogan once promoted this beach town with a massive 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.”

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego State Historical Park is a short walk from the train station. Some Amtrak trains stop here along with the San Diego Red Car Trolley. Visiting Old Town San Diego is like taking a step back in history. Often called the birthplace of California, Old Town is the first Spanish settlement in the region and near the site of the first of California’s 21 missions.

San Diego California

San Diego’s historic Santa Fee train Station is the end of the Pacific Surfliner route. There are several popular attractions within walking distance of the station. Many riders continue to the border via San Diego red trolley. Buses and trolleys depart from the train station every few minutes to many of San Diego’s most popular attractions.

How much do Amtrak Surfliner tickets cost?

Way adults tickets from Los Angeles to San Diego start at $45, and from Los Angeles to San Barbara about the same.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Train train tickets buy online at Amtrak California’s website , train stations, or onboard trains.

Places to Ride Trains in Southern California

Can you take a train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara and then back to Los Angeles in the same day?

It’s possible. We traveled from Fullerton to Santa Barbara in one day, but there was a delay at the LA station because the train had to back into the station as there is no through track. You would avoid this delay if you were traveling from Los Angeles.

Can I get on in San Diego, get off at stops along the way and reboard on the same ticket, same day?

You will have to call Amtrak with that question. On another note “Due to repairs on an unstable cliff in San Clemente that caused the tracks to shift, Metrolink and Amtrak shut down service and hope to resume it by Oct. 4, 2020.”

Interested in a private car for 25 people from SLO to San Diego (round trip). Is such a thing feasible ?

There used to be a company that hooked on a Parlor car to Amtrak trains. But it seems they no longer operate due to the current public health issue (Covid).

You can still do it. There’s no assigned seating on trains so most likely if you have a group that large it would fill a train car.

Staying in Santa Barbara. Would like to take the train south and back for the day mostly just to experience the ride. Any suggestions?

My recommendation would be to go north to San Luis Obispo. The ride is a lot more scenic, and downtown SLO is within walking distance. If you are set on going south downtown Los Angele (Union Station). From there you can walk to Olvera Street and Chinatown. There are homeless people in and around the LA station. something to keep in mind. One-way travel time to both destinations is 2.5 to 3 hours.

Please let me know about how many days a train trip along the west coast would take and cost. It would be nice to travel from Seattle to LA.

Travel time on the Coast Starlight from LA to Seatle is 36 hours. It would be best to contact Amtrak for exact cost and departure dates.

Have a fun trip.

I am having a hard time trying to find info re possibly taking a trip for 2 from Guadalupe to Washington State. I believe the Starliner is my interest. I want to take advantage of discount tickets. NO particular travel times or days. I would also be interested in traveling from Guadalupe to Durango, Colorado by train.

Coast Starlight trains run from Guadalupe to Washington State. Getting to Durango will take a couple of transfers plus a bus ride.

Discounts: 62 years and over 15% discount, AAA members can save 10%, students 15%. Some restrictions may apply.

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Amtrak’s 10 Best Scenic Day Trips

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

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You can argue the relative merits of air and train travel all day, but trains outscore planes every time on one important factor: scenery. With their large windows and comfortable coach seats, trains are unsurpassed for enjoying the countryside as you go.

Amtrak posts a list of what it considers its most scenic trips . Amtrak’s list is based on trips that may entail a night or two en route. But you don’t have to travel overnight to enjoy spectacular scenery by train. Several Amtrak routes include some spectacular day trips or day-trip segments. I tried to cull the best day-only options between cities with good air and highway access. The final list is mine, not Amtrak’s.

Obviously, you can enjoy more daylight sightseeing in the summer than in the winter, but some trips can be good even when you pass through bleak winter snowscapes. Fall trips, of course, can be fantastic for viewing foliage. Check Amtrak’s schedules for further details.

Image Gallery

The trip between New York City and Montreal on the Adirondack tops Amtrak's list of the most scenic train trips. It's one full day in either direction, with varied river, lake, and mountain scenery. It can be attractive for fall foliage. Going north from New York, you start out along the bank of the Hudson River, with great views of the Palisades and West Point in the morning, pass through Albany around midday, and enjoy views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks in the afternoon. To avoid looking into glare, as well as for a minor schedule advantage, northbound is a tad better. If you prefer not to enter Canada, you can use Plattsburgh, New York, as your northern terminal. Several airlines fly to Plattsburgh, largely catering to Canadians looking for lower airfares.

The daily train between New York City and St. Albans, Vermont, is another top choice in New England. It's a full day in either direction, with varied rural, mountain, and river scenery. It's also a good choice for foliage. Going north, you start out along the busy Northeast Corridor as far as New Haven, turn up through Hartford and Springfield, and travel through rustic New England hill, river, farm, and town scenery. St. Albans isn't much of a destination, and the Montreal bus connection no longer operates, so your better option is to use Essex Junction (the stop for Burlington) as your northern terminal. And if you want to avoid New York City, you can use Hartford or Springfield (or the joint airport at Windsor Locks) as your southern terminal without missing much scenery.

Lake Shore Limited (Massachusetts Section)

This overnight train operates daily between Chicago and either Boston or New York, splitting at Albany. The segment between Albany and Boston passes through some great New England scenery. It's another great fall foliage option. Leaving Albany, you head right into the Berkshires, passing through New England towns and near Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony, before you get into the populous part between Springfield and Boston. You can also use Springfield as the eastern terminal.

Lake Shore Limited (Upstate New York Section) and Empire Service

The daily Lake Shore Limited and several daily Empire Service Amtrak trains between Albany and Buffalo pass through the scenic areas of upstate New York. The Empire Service passes through the Finger Lakes, New York's wine country, and the Mohawk Valley by day in either direction. The Lake Shore Limited also goes on to cover the same Hudson River Valley trip as the Adirondack.

Pennsylvanian

This daily day trip between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh follows the old Pennsylvania main line through the mountains in the western portion of the state. It's of special interest to old-time rail fans because it includes the famous "Horseshoe Curve" you see in so many pictures. Leaving Pittsburgh, you head into Arnold Palmer country around Latrobe, hit the mountains at Horseshoe Curve, travel through the flatter Pennsylvania Dutch country around Lancaster, and finally arrive in the busy Harrisburg and Philadelphia areas. You get to see the scenic mountain areas during daylight in either direction.

The overnight Chicago–New York Cardinal , operating three days a week, passes through some great Virginia countryside and West Virginia mountain and river scenery during the day between Washington, D.C., and Charleston, West Virginia. Leaving D.C., you first pass the historic Virginia countryside, including Manassas and Charlottesville, then you go through the mountainous area from White Sulphur Springs and along the Kanawha Valley to Charleston. The main scenic area is the western end of the trip, so the eastbound schedule is the better option. For a better-connected western terminal, consider Cincinnati. (But the post-midnight arrival and departure times are off-putting.)

Capitol Limited

The daily overnight Capitol Limited between Chicago and Washington, D.C., travels through some scenic mountainous and historical areas of Western Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania on the segment between D.C. and Pittsburgh. The route passes first through the Potomac Valley and then the Appalachian Mountains, with stops at Harpers Ferry, Martinsburg, and Cumberland. Neither direction is ideal for daytime viewing, but eastbound is the better of the two choices. The inconvenient departure time at Pittsburgh and late departure from D.C. make the Capitol Limited a marginal candidate for this list.

California Zephyr (Denver–Salt Lake City Section)

The daylight segment between Denver and Salt Lake City on the daily two-night California Zephyr is another favorite for great Rocky Mountains scenery. Westbound, the train climbs up to the five-mile Moffat Tunnel then goes through the Rockies, Gore and Glenwood canyons, and the Colorado River Valley. Next, it's on to the Utah desert, with another mountain climb and a descent into the Salt Lake Basin. In midsummer, the westbound trip optimizes viewing time, but neither direction is ideal. You might prefer to use Grand Junction as your western terminal; you'll still get the best of the scenery with far better departure and arrival hours.

California Zephyr (Reno–Emeryville Section)

The Zephyr 's other blockbuster day trip is the segment between Reno and Emeryville, which crosses the high Sierras through the historical Donner Pass during daylight hours. Eastbound from Emeryville, you start out along the northern end of San Francisco Bay, cross the flat area through Sacramento, climb into the Sierras, and then descend to Reno. Either direction is good for sightseeing, even in the dead of winter.

Coast Starlight (Los Angeles–Oakland Section)

The Los Angeles–Oakland section of the overnight Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle is another favorite. After leaving the suburban Los Angeles sprawl, the train hugs the Pacific Ocean coast for more than 100 miles, through Pismo Beach. Then it heads north through the missile and rocket-launch center at Vandenberg Air Force Base, to some rugged low-mountain country, and through the famous farmlands around Salinas. Next, the train heads into Silicon Valley and Oakland. Travel northbound to avoid looking into the sun along the coast but southbound for more daytime hours.

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Northern Rail Experience with Glacier National Park

$4,649 - 12 Days

• Chicago >
• Santa Fe >
• Grand Canyon >
• Flagstaff >

Venture from the breathtaking great plains of the Midwest, to the pristine mountains and lakes of Glacier National Park, to the serene waters of the Pacific Coast on this scenic rail journey from Chicago to San Francisco, with a stop in Glacier National Park and Seattle. Enjoy the landscapes as you tour the famous Going-to-the-sun Road ascending high in Glacier. Explore Seattle on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. Discover the sights of San Francisco. Spend some quality time in two majestic parts of Northern California: Muir Woods and Sausalito. Then head back to the “Windy City” on board one of most beautiful train trips in all of North America.

Reservations: 1-800-268-7252

For pricing and availability from your Amtrak Station:

Highlights:

• Two Medicine Valley Boat Cruise of Glacier National Park
• Big Sky Circle Tour of Glacier National Park
• Admission to the Space Needle and Chihuly Glass & Garden Exhibit 
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Seattle
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of San Francisco
• Sightseeing tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito
• Sightseeing cruise in San Francisco

Package Also Includes :

• One-way Amtrak® from Chicago to Glacier National Park to Seattle on the Empire Builder®; Seattle to San Francisco on the Coast Starlight®; San Francisco to Chicago on the California Zephyr® in Coach accommodations
• 6 nights' accommodations; 5 nights on board Amtrak
• 4 meals included (2 breakfasts and 2 dinners)

Call us to customize this vacation!

Other Packages Available:

Disclaimer:

Package prices are per person, double occupancy, tax included. Prices do not include rail from your hometown. Please call for pricing. Package prices are subject to change without notice, and all reservations are based upon availability at the time of booking. Amtrak travel is for Coach accommodations unless otherwise noted. Upgrades to Roomette or Bedroom accommodations on board Amtrak are available. Call for pricing. Other restrictions may apply. Activities referenced in the itinerary during free time are for suggested purposes only and are not included. Seasonal activity (if applicable): During the off-season, some tours may not be available. In this case, a similar tour will be substituted. Passports (if applicable): Passports are required when crossing the Canadian border. Amtrak and Amtrak Vacations are registered service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

DAY 1 YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN CHICAGO Welcome to Chicago! This afternoon, travel on your own to Chicago's Union Station and board Amtrak to Glacier National Park. The Empire Builder takes you along major portions of the Lewis and Clark trail. Settle in for an exciting adventure through the majestic wilderness as you venture out West, following the footsteps of early pioneers! (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 2 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK This morning, you will travel through the gorgeous North Dakota plains and cross over the spectacular Gassman Coulee Trestle as you make your way to “Big Sky Country.” This evening, you'll arrive in Glacier National Park, home to two different mountain ranges, 130 lakes, 1,000 species of plants, and over a million acres of pristine landscapes. (Overnight in Glacier National Park) DAY 3 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Today, you will explore Glacier National Park on a Big Sky Circle Tour, which features a breathtaking ride along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, stops at Goat Lick for wildlife viewing and Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Afterward, you'll return to the Glacier Park Lodge for your final night's stay in the park. (Overnight in Glacier National Park) B, D DAY 4 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK This morning you'll travel to Two Medicine Valley, a hidden gem in Glacier National Park, where you'll enjoy a scenic boat cruise in this gorgeous area. Spend the afternoon relaxing at Glacier Park Lodge before taking a short walk to the East Glacier Station to board Amtrak continuing your train journey west. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) B DAY 5 SEATTLE Welcome to Seattle! The “Emerald City” is full of gorgeous sights just waiting for you to discover! Upon arrival, you will travel on your own to your hotel to drop off your luggage. Then, the rest of the day is yours to explore all Seattle has to offer. (Overnight in Seattle) DAY 6 SEATTLE Use your hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to see some of Seattle's most popular sights! Your tour will connect you to downtown attractions such as Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden & Glass, Seattle Center, Seattle's Waterfront and more! (Overnight in Seattle) DAY 7 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK Today, travel on your own to Seattle's Amtrak station and prepare to take a beautiful ride on the Coast Starlight to San Francisco. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is truly breathtaking. Enjoy the majestic landscapes right outside your window as you wind through lush forests, fertile valleys, and long stretches of Pacific Ocean shoreline. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 8 SAN FRANCISCO You will arrive in San Francisco this morning and then head to your hotel to check in and drop off your belongings. Then, it's time for some sightseeing! Climb aboard a hop-on, hop-off tour that includes all San Francisco's great locations, like Fisherman's Wharf, Downtown, the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, and many more. You can hop off the tour at any of the designated stops to explore them at your own pace. (Overnight in San Francisco) DAY 9 SAN FRANCISCO Today, get ready to discover the beauty of the Muir Woods and Sausalito! On the drive to Muir Woods, you'll cross over the Golden Gate Bridge and disembark in the serene redwood forest. Once you've taken in all that Muir Woods has to offer, you'll stop over in Sausalito, a “California original.” This charming coastal town is home to many artists and has a delightful array of restaurants, galleries, walking paths, and spectacular Bay and City views. You'll have some free time to explore all Sausalito has to offer before your 30-minute bay cruise, which takes you back to Fisherman's Wharf. This evening, enjoy your included dinner at a popular local restaurant. (Overnight in San Francisco) D DAY 10 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK This morning, travel on your own to the Amtrak station and board the California Zephyr® back to Chicago. This route is said to be one of the most beautiful train trips in all of North America. As you climb through the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains and the heart of the Rockies, you may find it hard to disagree. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 11 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK Wake up this morning on the California Zephyr and take in the gorgeous landscape of the American countryside as the train ventures east to Chicago. There are so many great sights to behold on this ride! Keep your eyes peeled for the Moffat Tunnel, Glenwood Canyons, and Midwest plains. (Overnight onboard Amtrak) DAY 12 YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN CHICAGO

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