I’ve personally received dozens and dozens of airfare deals in my inbox as summer comes to a close.
To entice us to travel more in the fall, airlines are offering some jaw-dropping cheap flights right now!
Just because we can zoom through the skies doesn’t mean we should overlook the thrill of a good old-fashioned train ride, especially through some of America’s most vibrant fall foliage and scenic mountains.
Amtrak isn’t the only way to get around the U.S. by train; there are ample local rail lines scattered across the country.
For sightly autumn colors and stunning landscapes, hop aboard these 3 incredible train rides for the ultimate fall excursions!
Kentucky’s Big South Fork Scenic Railway
Kentucky boasts far more than fried chicken, horse races, and awkward family reunions – there is so much to explore in this underrated state!
You’re probably aware of Louisville, Kentucky’s claim to fame, but have you heard of the Big South Fork Scenic Railway?
That might be a mouthful to say, but with The Colonel as the unofficial state mascot, mouthfuls are commonplace around here.
Located in the teeny town of Stearns, accessible from Lexington, Nashville (TN), and Knoxville (TN), is the starting point to an epic fall adventure where history meets natural beauty.
Absorb fascinating stories of former mining areas, like Blue Heron Coal Camp, all while taking photo-ops amongst the state’s scenic countryside.
Suitable for all ages, this slow-moving train only travels 5 miles in total for a 3-hour round-trip journey through beautiful vistas, mountain streams, and endless fall splendor.
Set to depart October 10th, the ‘Fall Color Run’ can be booked on the historic train’s website for $14 – $42 (depending on your package and discount eligibility).
Tip: If winter wonderlands are more your style, keep an eye out for the train’s ‘Polar Express’ ride beginning in Nov.!
New Hampshire’s Conway Scenic Railroad
While so many destinations hit their peak in spring and summer, fall is New Hampshire’s time to shine.
In fact, you might be surprised to know millions of tourists flock here to bear witness to a fall fiesta of colors.
Road tripping through the state’s kaleidoscopic back roads is cool and all, but why not let someone else take the wheel, or whatever the heck Engineers use to drive?
That’s the sole purpose of the Conway Scenic Railroad this time of year cruising through boundless autumn colors leaving you mesmerized for the entire mountainous journey.
The train offers 4 different excursions ranging from $24- $80, but make sure you pick one including the Crawford Notch for the best views of vibrant forestry.
The Mountaineer appears to be the fan favorite as this 4 – 5.5 hour trip through majestic scenery of flowing rivers, towering peaks, and rugged landscapes.
The ride is family friendly, even offering a kid’s menu for lunch while the grown-ups enjoy freshly made sandwiches or hummus.
Tip: If you’ll be ordering food, make sure to book 48 hours in advance! (No alcohol allowed on board)
Maryland’s Western Maryland Scenic Railway
Maryland?! Who goes there?
Well, like New Hampshire, millions and millions of people, actually!
Another underrated state in its own right, this gorgeous train ride makes a visit all the more worthwhile.
Oddly sounding more like a winter trip, the ‘Frostburg Flyer’ is where you’ll want to snatch a window seat as you chug along on a vintage steam locomotive through deep tunnels, foliage-lined waterways, and of course, the stunning views of Mountain Maryland.
Departing from Cumberland, smack dab between Baltimore and Pittsburgh (PA), get ready for one of the best fall train rides on the East Coast.
Coach seats start at $55, going up to $130 for Lounge class (age 21+) where all seating is assigned whether you splurge or not.
This trip from Cumberland to Frostburg is 4.5 hours in total, including a layover, making for a great time to stop at the fully-stocked bar (including local craft beer) if you book a Lunch class ticket.
The ‘Frostburg Flyer’ has already been running since May and ends in October, so you’ll want to book ASAP before the excursion switches gears toward winter’s ‘Allegheny Winter Express’.
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