California Here I Come!
On Track in California!
Sun & Fun in Southern California
California's National Parks
Travel throughout California by rail! Amtrak provides daytrip service from city to city as a motorcoach follows you with your luggage! Cities may include San Francisco, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, the Danish-inspired village of Solvang, San Jose, Los Angeles and/or San Diego to name just a few. Explore the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento and enjoy a private trolley ride on the streets of San Francisco. Meals along the way at rail-themed restaurants along with optional scenic train rides, create a special itinerary that can be easily expanded into Oregon, Washington, or Nevada and points east with travel aboard the Coast Starlight or California Zephyr.
California's National Parks
Sun & Fun in Southern California
California's National Parks
While everyone knows the name "Yosemite," California is home to 9 National Parks and 24 other National Historic Sites, Trails and Monuments. Our tour to explore these significant wonders can begin almost anywhere in California as a circle route. See the waterfalls of Yosemite Valley, the steaming fumaroles of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the giant trees of Sequoia & Redwood National Parks, the vast desert expanses of Death Valley and Joshua Tree, and the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean from Cabrillo National Monument and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Accommodations can be easily found inside and outside the parks.
Sun & Fun in Southern California
Sun & Fun in Southern California
Sun & Fun in Southern California
Discover the southern side of the Golden State with visits to Los Angeles, Hollywood, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Palm Springs and the charming Danish village of Solvang! Explore world-class art museums including the Getty, the Broad and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Get up close to the Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center or the USS Iowa Battleship in San Pedro or the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier in San Diego. Eat your way through LA's Farmer's Market on a chef-led walking tour. Dine aboard the famous Queen Mary and visit Catalina Island by high speed ferry. Explore San Diego's wrold-famous zoo and don't miss Palm Springs' Thursday Night Villagefest!
The Music of California
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
Sun & Fun in Southern California
California is home to several kinds of American music. Country music has a special place in the Central Valley, not to mention the surf rock of Southern California, the folk rock of San Francisco, and the West Coast Punk and Hip Hop of Los Angeles. The Beach Boys, the Doobie Brothers, The Doors, The Grateful Dead, Guns 'N Roses, Green Day, Jefferson Airplane, The Eagles, Van Halen and so many others began their musical journeys in California. Start in Los Angeles at the Grammy Museum and discover the rich music history of the past. Explore the beach community of Oceanside with a visit to the California Surf Museum. Visit the Rock Walk in Hollywood and meet a former road musician who now repairs the guitars of the stars. In Bakersfield, enjoy dinner and dancing at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace and explore the foundations of the Bakersfield Sound. Rediscover the Summer of Love in San Francisco with a special tour of the Haight Ashbury District.
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
A great combination of the Silver State and the Golden State following in the footsteps of the Miner 49ers! Begin in San Francisco: Explore the waterfront in the City by the Bay by boat and visit the museums of Golden Gate Park. Maybe you'd like to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge? Travel next to Sacramento, California's Capital City. Tour Old Town Sacramento, the state capitol and the California State Railroad Museum. Visit a recreation of John Sutter's fort, the first non-native settlement in the region, and learn how the discovery of gold in California ultimately ruined him. Pan for gold in Coloma and descend into the depths of an actual gold mine. Travel next to Lake Tahoe: Enjoy a luncheon cruise on the lake and an evening performance by a professional magician. Crossing into Nevada, ride the Virginia & Truckee Railroad to Virginia City and take in a performance at the famous Bucket of Blood Saloon. After trying to find Lady Luck, return home from Reno.
West Coast Swing
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
Silver & Gold: Nevada & California
The scenery along California's Coast is a study in diversity. From the high cliffs and rugged shores of Northern California, to the warm, gentle sloping beaches of Southern California, there's a spot for all tastes. Redwoods dominate the north, while the fertile valleys of the Central Coast host crops that feed the world. Follow the El Camino Real to discover the historic Spanish Missions of Father Junipero Serra. Explore Hearst Castle on an evening tour as famous visitors come to life! Discover the Danish village of Solvang on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Relive the stories of John Steinbeck along Cannery Row in Monterey and visit his home in nearby Salinas. Take a ride on a sea-side roller coaster on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and take a train ride through the coastal redwoods. Discover what lies beneath in Monterey Bay with a short cruise and visit its world-famous aqaurium. Enjoy a bonfire on the beach in Cambria, complete with s'mores as you watch a golden sunset.
All Over Oregon!
I'm Partial to Portland!
Oregon's Captivating Coast
I'm Partial to Portland!
Near the confluence of the Willamette and the Columbia Rivers is Oregon's largest city, Portland! The cultural and culinary center of the state, Portland offers so much, so close. Within the city are museums dedicated to art, science and industry. Cruise the Willamette with a luncheon cruise aboard the Portland Spirit or opt for something more vigorous: a jet boat voyage on the Explorere. Shop to your heart's content and discover the wines of Willamette Valley Vineyards. Get up close to the Spruce Goose at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum and take a ride on the Mt. Hood Railroad, in the shadow of its namesake. Towering Multnomah Falls as well as picturesque Silver Falls are must sees!
Portland Rose Festival
Oregon's Captivating Coast
I'm Partial to Portland!
For over 100 years, this annual event celebrates that most fragrant of flowers with several weeks of activities including the Grand Floral Parade! And don't worry about rain! Reserved seating for the parade inside Portland's Memorial Coliseum provides excellent (and dry) viewing regardless of the weather as the colorful floats and marching bands pass through! Can't get your fill of all things flora? Add visits to the International Rose Test Garden, the Portland Japanese Garden and the festival's own Rose Show. Nearby, visit Multnomah Falls and the Portland Art Museum to create a fabulous weekend getaway or add the Rose Festival to another Oregon tour!
Oregon's Captivating Coast
Oregon's Captivating Coast
Oregon's Captivating Coast
Begin in Portland with local sights and sounds! Don't miss the amazing food trucks and Portland's fabulous Saturday Market! Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark as you head west along the mighty Columbia River to Astoria. Ft. Clatsop, a recreation of their winter home from 1805-06, provides insight to the challenges faced by these brave explorers. Visit Tillamook, home to the famous cheese factory, and the beach-side community of Seaside. In Newport, your rooms overlook the Pacific Ocean. Discover the Oregon Coast Aquarium and learn about life under the sea with Marine Discovery Tours. Further south, explore the sand dunes and covered bridges of Lane County before returning to Portland.
A Holiday in Portland
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
Oregon's Captivating Coast
Portland is host to several wonderful holiday events and gatherings! Stroll through the beautiful Christmas lights at the Grotto, a national Catholic shrine. Drive through the holiday lights at the Portland Raceway - considered the largest display of lights in the Pacific Northwest! How about a cruise on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers to view the Christmas Ships Parade from your dinner table aboard the Portland Spirit? More lights are available at the Portland Zoo and historic Pittock Mansion is always decorated for the holidays! And don't forget that other important holiday tradition in Oregon: tax free shopping! Add a special visit from St. Nick, off-season accommodations decorated from the floor to the roof, a performance at Portland Center Stage and a few special holiday meals and you have a wonderful holiday getaway!
Oregon Theater Party
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
Oregon possesses a rich culture of theater; from the well-known Oregon Shakespeare Festival in the quaint town of Ashland to smaller festivals and theater companies performing works both young and old. Start in Portland with a performance by Portland Center Stage at the historic Armory. Head south to Eugene, home to the University of Oregon and the Oregon Festival of American Music. The festival features live musical concerts, films, plays and musical theater at the Shedd Institute. Further south, discover Ashland, home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Enjoy classic comedies, histories and tragedies from the Bard's cannon along with plays and musicals from all over the world. Explore the festival grounds on a backstage tour and take a daytrip to Medford, home of Harry & David's. Enjoy Crater Lake National Park on a daytrip or extend your visit to include Klamath Falls and Bend.
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
In Their Footsteps: Lewis & Clark and The Oregon Trail
Oregon Territory encompassed what are now the states of Oregon, Washington, Idaho and parts of Montana and Wyoming. Wedged in between the Spanish in California and the English in British Columbia, the region was one of the last to be fully explored in the union. The stories of Lewis & Clark motivated settlers to come west. Beginning in Boise, follow in the footsteps of explorers and settlers. In Baker City, discover the National Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. In Pendleton, famous for its rodeo called "The Roundup," get a taste of the old west that existed at the time of the Oregon Trail. Travel through the Columbia River Gorge toward Portland pausing to explore the gorge from the water on board the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler and from the rails on the Mt. Hood Railroad. Wrap up your journey at the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Oregon City.
Washington - The Evergreen State
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
The rail and aviation histories of the Pacific Northwest are unsurpassed. Both Oregon and Washington are home to scenic trains which ride in the shadows of mountains. Oregon is home to the famous Spruce Goose while Washington is home to Boeing and its world-class museum and Wide Body Aircraft tour facility. Connect the two states with scenic rail service provided by Amtrak's Cascade. Add travel by float plane and visits to America's Car Museum and the World of Speed and you have a fantastic inter-modal tour! See wide-body jets built before your eyes. Stroll through a Concorde and a former Air Force One Presidential Jet. Continue your tour to the islands of Puget Sound, take a fast ferry to Victoria or continue by rail to Vancouver!
Simply Seattle!
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
Washington's largest city features sights and sounds like no other. History, art, and culture come together in a fantastic setting of water and mountains. The Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden of Glass, Pike Place Market, Boeing's Museum of Flight are just three of the world-known attractions on a tour focused on this cosmopolitan city. Enjoy a Salmon Bake on an island in Puget Sound and a train ride through the Evergreens just outside of the city. Sip wine at world-class wineries and take a ferry ride to a small town with a big Norwegian heritage. Explore the city by "Duck" from the roads and from the water. Flightseeing, a Mariners game at Safeco Field, and special culinary experiences may also be part of your visit! Expand the itinerary to include the Olympic Peninsula or Cascade Mountains!
The Sound of Music in the Cascades
On Wings & Rail in the Pacific Northwest
From Mountains to Sea: Washington's National Parks
Every year the Leavenworth Summer Theater performs The Sound of Music from an outdoor amphitheater with the majestic Cascade Mountain Range as its backdrop. Travel to the town of Leavenworth by train from Seattle. Your accommodations reflect the Bavarian theme of the town. Stroll amongst the shops and restaurants and take in two performances, including The Sound of Music. Partake in family-style dining and polka music at a local, family-owned restaurant. Enjoy a sweet treat at Applets and Cottlets and visit beautiful Ohme Gardens. Return to Seattle through North Cascades National Park and travel along Puget Sound to the fishing village of La Conner. Combine this tour with our Islands of Puget Sound tour for a full mountains to sea experience!
From Mountains to Sea: Washington's National Parks
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
From Mountains to Sea: Washington's National Parks
Explore the natural wonders on this tour to one of the most picturesque regions in the world. Mountains meet sea in Washington, home to Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens and Olympic National Parks. Begin in Seattle and make your way to Olympia, Washington's captial city. Ride the Mt. Rainier Railroad before moving south to discover the devastation created in 1980 when Mt. St. Helens erupted. Follow the mighty Columbia River to Long Beach, at the southern tip of Washington's coastline, home to kites, oysters and Lewis & Clark! Heading north, explore inlets and bays before arriving at Lake Quinault Lodge. At Hoh Rain Forest, find ferns and evergreens that thrive in its 150 inches of annual rainfall! Port Angeles is your gateway to Hurricane Ridge, the crown of Olympic National Park. Returning to Seattle, first visit the quaint village of Port Townsend, nestled on Puget Sound. You may also add a visit to Victoria from Port Angeles!
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
The maritime culture of Puget Sound speaks to the proud traditions and history of this region. Discover these traditions for yourself as you explore the islands and towns of southern Puget Sound including a visit to Olympia's annual Harbor Festival. A regional event featuring art, music, and food, the highlight is its famous tugboat races, which you will observe from the water! Discover the Foss Waterway Museum and the Museum of Glass in nearby Tacoma. Explore the small town of Port Townsend and walk the fields of lavender in the town of Sequim. Norwegian heritage is found in the lovely community of Poulsbo. A ferry from Bainbridge Island delivers you to Seattle where you may add any number of additional activities. Or combine this itinerary with a trip around the Olympic Peninsula or a visit to Victoria!
Islands of Puget Sound
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
A Mariner's Life: Puget Sound & Olympia's Harbor Festival
It's a different way of life: living on an island sandwiched between two countries and coming and going by float-plane and ferry. Discover for yourself on this visit to the northern islands of Puget Sound! Begin in Seattle and head north to Mukilteo. A ferry brings you to Whidbey Island and the towns of Clinton and Coupeville. In Anacortes you can explore further by taking the ferry to San Juan Island and the "city" of Friday Harbor. Orcas Island is also a ferry away as are Vancouver Island and the city of Victoria should you wish to add a maple leaf to your trip! Discover small museums dedicated to the unique history of the region. Walk the towns and villages with people who call them home. Enjoy fresh seafood and other bounties produced locally at every meal. Above all, learn how water and geography has shaped these communities and their residents!
Super, Natural British Columbia
Springtime in Victoria
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
Vancouver Island & The Sunshine Coast
British Columbia's capital city lives up to its name with a decidedly "British" atmosphere. You can see it in the architecture, especially the buildings of the provincial parliament and its grand dame of hotels, The Empress. Travel by air or ferry from Vancouver or Seattle, arriving in the late morning. Lunch and settling into your hotel on the Inner Harbour are first on your list. Get your bearings with a stroll along the Inner Harbour followed by a guided city tour. High Tea at the Empress is always a treat along with a tour of the buildings of parliament. A carriage ride delivers you to the Royal BC Museum with exhibits for all tastes. A short drive from town, see the wonderful gardens created from an old rock quarry by the Butchart Family. Time your visit during summer and enjoy an evening illumination of the gardens! Combine this tour with a visit to Vancouver, Seattle, the Olympic Peninsula or our Islands of Puget Sound tour!
Vancouver Island & The Sunshine Coast
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
Vancouver Island & The Sunshine Coast
At nearly 300 miles long, Vancouver Island is the largest island off the West Coast of North America. With such size comes amazing diversity - from the influence of the British in the south to the native traditions still practiced throughout the island. Explore the island from Victoria north along the Strait of Georgia. Walk among the nearly 50 totem poles in Duncan and enjoy a salmon BBQ at the Quw'utsun' Cultural Center. Chemainus hosts the world's largest collection of outdoor murals. On the Pacific Coast you'll find Tofino, a secluded location to be sure! In Comox, board the ferry for Powell River and the Sunshine Coast. The Sunshine Coast is home to one of the highest per capita ratios of artists, crafters and talented artisans anywhere in Canada. You'll find their works in small towns like Lund, Sechelt, and Gibsons, all accessible only by ferry only. Photo Credit: Destination BC/Albert Normandin
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
Is your summer defined by seeing fantastic fireworks displayed in the warm night sky? The come with us to Victoria and Vancouver for a summer that will light up the sky! Begin in Victoria with local sightseeing and summer fireworks at Butchart Gardens. The gardens are also illuminated for evening displays and we'll include dinner onsite at the restaurant in that was once the family home. Later, in Vancouver, fireworks light up the night over English Bay for the city's Celebration of Light - an annual competition where teams vie to put on the best firework display based on a theme. View the fireworks from the water during a dinner cruise on the bay. Local sightseeing will include Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Grouse Mountain. And we certainly won't miss the opportunity for some wonderful shopping along Robson Street and at the remarkable public market on Granville Island.
Circle BC
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
Fireworks in BC: The Best of Victoria & Vancouver
This tour provides a vast exploration of British Columbia and includes travel by motorocoach, train and ferry. Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver for two nights and ferry to Victoria for two more nights. Enjoy High Tea at the Empress and a visit to Butchart Gardens with lunch. Travel north through Duncan, Nanaimo and Campbell River, discovering the rich history of Canada's First Nations and the scenic wonder provided Vancounver Island. In Port Hardy, board the overnight ferry to Prince Rupert, on the northern coast of British Columbia. VIA Rail's Skeena delivers you to Prince George. Travel south by motorcoach to the historic town of Barkerville and Hat Creek Ranch, just outside of Kamloops. Return to Vancouver for your flight home. Schedule this trip with the Celebration of Light in Vancouver for a truly unique itinerary.
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
Victoria, British Columbia for the holidays! Yes, it's a little more chilly than usual but the city is decked with lights, especially the buildings of parliament and, of course, the amazing Empress Hotel! Butchart Gardens does some amazing decorating as well, especially the incredible nighttime illuminations you can stroll through with a cup of hot chocolate, of course! Enjoy dinner at the gardens and a holiday tea at The Empress Hotel. Explore the Royal BC Museum, discover Craigdarroch Castle and enjoy plenty of time for holiday shopping. Travel by air direct into Victoria or by scenic ferry from Seattle or Vancouver. Stay along the Inner Harbour, within walking distance of many attractions. Combine this itinerary with holiday visits to Seattle or Vancouver.
The Rocky Mountaineer
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
It's a Holiday in Victoria!
Explore British Columbia by rail on board the famous Rocky Mountaineer. Travel by day throughout the BC Interior with sightseeing and chef-prepared cuisine served on board. Sleeping accommodations are at hotels each night making sure you get a good night's rest before continuing on your journey the next day. The scenic wonder of British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies surrounds you at every turn! On board the train you have the option of two levels of service and accommodations to fit your travel budget. Routes may include the cities of Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel, Kamloops, Jasper and Banff with access to the Columbia Ice Fields and Lake Louise. New service now includes Seattle! Experience the very best way to see this spectacular scenery - by train!