Looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life here in Canada? A great travel option that’s often overlooked is Amtrak. Their expansive train routes through Canada and the US offer fantastic travel options that promise relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or urban explorer, there’s something for everyone. Here are five quick Amtrak trip destinations to take from different cities across Canada, each offering a unique and memorable experience.
1. Seattle, Washington – Emerald City Adventure
Train duration: 4 hours from Vancouver, BC
Hoping to explore Seattle, but not up for the drive? Hop on the Amtrak Cascades route, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest, including the beautiful Cascade Mountains. The train heads south from Vancouver to Seattle, Washington, known as the Emerald City, famous for its stunning natural beauty, iconic Space Needle, and thriving food scene.
Highlights of your trip might include:
- Pike Place Market: Stroll through this bustling market and savour freshly caught seafood, artisanal pastries, and unique crafts.
- Space Needle: Enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of this iconic landmark.
- Museum of Pop Culture: Explore a must-visit destination if you’re interested in the intersection of popular culture, music, science fiction, and contemporary art.
2. Portland, Oregon – Hipster Haven
Train duration: 8 hours from Vancouver, BC
If you travel south from Vancouver on the Amtrak Cascades, you’ll immerse yourself in the eclectic and artsy city of Portland, Oregon. Known for its craft breweries, food carts, and lush green spaces, Portland offers a laid-back escape with these must-see attractions:
- Powell’s City of Books: Get lost in the world’s largest independent bookstore.
- International Rose Test Garden: Explore thousands of rose varieties in this stunning garden.
- Food Carts: Portland has a legendary food truck/cart scene. Sample an array of international cuisine from these carts scattered throughout the city.
3. Chicago, Illinois – Windy City Adventure
Train duration: Approximately 12 hours from Toronto, ON
For a taste of the Midwest, board the Amtrak Maple Leaf from Toronto, Ontario, to Niagara Falls, NY, and transfer to the Amtrak Empire Builder, taking you all the way to Chicago. The Windy City offers a mix of architecture, history, and culture, with note-worthy sites like:
- Millennium Park: Explore the famous Bean sculpture and attend outdoor concerts here, depending on the time of year you visit.
- Art Institute of Chicago: Admire world-class art at one of the world’s oldest art museums, including Grant Wood’s “American Gothic.”
- Chicago Architecture Tour: Discover the city’s iconic architecture on a boat tour along the Chicago River. Learn about famous buildings like the Willis Tower and the Wrigley Building while enjoying stunning skyline views.
4. Montreal, Quebec: French Canadian Charm
Train Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours from Toronto, ON
Montreal, Quebec, is one of Canada’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities, known for its unique blend of French and English influences. When you take a train journey from Toronto to Montreal, you’ll be treated to scenic views of the Canadian countryside. Here’s what you can expect in Montreal:
- Old Montreal (Vieux-Montreal): Explore the historic heart of the city, with its cobblestone streets, charming architecture, and numerous shops and cafes. Don’t miss the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica.
- Museums and Art Galleries: Montreal is home to several world-class museums, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Pointe-à-Callière Archaeology Museum.
- Food Scene: Enjoy Montreal’s renowned culinary scene, with a focus on French cuisine. Be sure to try Montreal-style bagels, poutine, and dine in the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
5. New York City, New York – Ultimate Urban Escape
Train duration: Approximately 11 hours from Montreal, QC
Take a quick journey from Montreal, Quebec, to New York City via Amtrak’s Adirondack route. Otherwise known as The Big Apple, the city promises to be an iconic destination with limitless possibilities like:
- Central Park: Relax and stroll through the heart of the city; this vast and popular park is beaming with lush greenery, lakes, and several cultural events.
- Times Square: Experience the dazzling lights, impressive billboards and endless selection of Broadway shows (but be prepared for a crowd).
- Statue of Liberty: Take a ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island for a taste of U.S. history. For a budget-friendly view of the Statue of Liberty from the water, take the ferry to and from Staten Island instead.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, natural beauty, urban exploration, or a mix of everything, these five Amtrak getaways from Canada offer diverse experiences for every type of traveller. Amtrak provides convenient and scenic options for your next adventure, so what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your travel insurance, and get ready for an unforgettable journey from Canada to these fantastic destinations. Let us know where you’re heading next in the comments!
Happy training,
Linnea
