In Europe and Asia, there are many luxury trains available to choose from. Royal Scotsman The Iconic Golden Eagle. But in the US, most rail journeys are limited to Amtrak trains—and while they are a great way to travel, don’t expect Champagne or caviar butler service in the roomette bunkbed.
Halloway is a private rail company that will launch limited-time overnight trains through California and Western US in January. The demand for luxury train travel has risen. The privately operated railcars are historic rolling stock from the 1950s that have been fully restored to their mid-century splendor—featuring private bedroom suites, a dining room with meals from a private chef, and a glass-domed observation deck. Passengers can look forward to seeing the Californian Pacific Coast, the canyons in Utah’s desert and the snow-covered summits of the Rockies.
The railcars can be chartered by private groups up to six people and will travel along two routes. Amtrak’s most scenic routesThe Coast Starlight The following are some examples of how to get started: California Zephyr. The two itineraries, both of which are one-time offerings, consisting of a single day and a single night, scheduled for January 15, and January 16, and 17, are not the only options available to travelers. luxury train In the US. Amtrak has a large fleet of railcars that can be chartered for private use at any destination.
How to hire a private car on a train in the US
Traveling in a private railcar is a journey through yesteryear, with many dating back as far as the 1920s and ‘30s. Imagine traveling across the country in an historic cabin, complete with mahogany panels and brass fixtures. It may also include authentic furnishings, private rooms, and stunning glass-clad observation areas. But it will also feature modern comforts like climate control, onboard showers, and authentic furnishings.
Private individuals in the US who own railcars that are available for charter are often train enthusiasts seeking to preserve a bit of rail history. The journeys are booked via a third party travel website. (HallowayBookings for January’s journeys are handled by. Amtrak allows you to book a car with staff aboard and travel between any two points on its rail network. Owners attach their cars directly to an Amtrak train, for a customized experience.
“These meticulously-maintained homes on rails boast bigger bedrooms, private kitchens and lounges, dedicated observation areas, and other high-end amenities not found on regular commercial trains,” Halloway’s website says.
Chartering your private railcar could cost anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on what type of car you want to rent and the journey that you are interested in. Booking times also vary according to the type of trip. It is best to plan your charter in advance to get your first choice of railcar.
If you do not want to pay for a private tour, many railcar operators run public tours a few times per year. These trips are open to all travelers and can be purchased as an individual ticket. Keep an eye out on the websites of railcar operators for information about upcoming trips.
Check out some of the top private railcars you can charter for any Amtrak US destinations.
The best private trains in the US
Cedar Rapids
Milwaukee Railroads’ Skytop observation car is marketed as “the finishing touch on a perfect train”. You’ll agree when you see the stunning lounge area on the Cedar Rapids railcar.
