Train travel is gaining momentum as more travelers are interested in the romantic experience, the amazing views, the slow travel trend, and the eco-guilt-free experience. And now, American travelers have a great opportunity for an amazing getaway in New York.
Amtrak recently announced its “New York Winter BOGO” sale for midweek travel, allowing two travelers to explore the state for half the regular price. The offer is already available and will be running through Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. Travelers who want to take advantage of the buy one, get one free promotion must buy the tickets prior to that date for travel until February 28 this same year.
To get the discount, customers must use the promo code “V309” when booking and choose Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday as travel dates. Only certain routes apply, but there are great options for unique adventures. There are certain considerations—described below— and here are two incredible New York Train Rides travelers can take:
The Adirondack Route – New York, Albany, and Montreal
Grab your travel buddy and jump on board this amazing route! This rail route has been considered one of the Top 10 Most Scenic Train Rides in the World, and it just resumed services in December after a 3-year pause due to the pandemic restrictions.
The route covers 400 miles, from New York City to Montreal, and takes passengers across beautiful landscapes between mountains for 10 hours. It’s a perfect opportunity for slow travel with good company. Travelers can stop at certain great destinations to visit wineries or the impressive Lake Champlain.
On the Adirondack route, the train stops at major cities like New York City —where visitors can stay for less than $150 per night—, Yonkers, Poughkeepsie, Hudson, Albany-Rensselaer, Saratoga Springs, and Montreal, where travelers can find great activities and travel experiences.
The Maple Leaf Route – Niagara Falls, Syracuse, Albany, New York
The Maple Leaf route takes travelers from New York to Toronto through a spectacular ride. Through this route, passengers will get to see the Hudson River Valley, the incredible gorges of the Finger Lakes region, and stop for an amazing experience at Niagara Falls.
According to Amtrak’s route guide, it takes around 9 hours to reach Niagara Falls from New York City. As a tip, for those who want to get the best views of the Hudson River from the train, they should sit on the left side heading northbound and, when heading southbound, on the right side.
On this route, travelers can stop at major cities like New York City, Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls. On both routes, travelers have access to wifi and café services onboard.
More About Amtrack’s Sale
Travelers interested in experiencing one of the amazing scenic train routes in New York State should bare in mind Amtrak’s terms and conditions before buying.
Here are the main points:
- The promotion considers one ticket at full price and the second ticket for free, and travelers must travel and purchase tickets together.
- Travel is valid for travel on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only.
- Tickets must be purchased at least 1 day prior to travel and up to February 27.
- Travelers must remember to include the promo code V309.
- The sale is valid “for travel on the Empire Service, Ethan Allan, Adirondack, Maple Leaf, and associated thruways; Except 7000-8999 thruway series.”
- The offer is only for coach seats, and upgrades are not permitted.
The trains offer all travelers amenities, benefits, and services like free wifi, the possibility to use electronic devices at all times, and comfortable seats. Those interested in taking their pets can also do it if the cat or dog weighs less than 20 pounds — for a fee. More details are available on the official website.
Other impressive routes, such as the new Berkshire Flyer route, have not been included in the sale, but Americans still have great options available. Amtrak has been restoring routes and adding new routes—including services where you can actually bring your car with you— to meet travelers’ needs and improve their service.