Showcasing the United States by rail from sea to shining sea, Railbookers Group has unveiled its all new “Stars and Stripes Collection” of holiday itineraries that allow travellers to experience America by train through its Amtrak Vacations brand.
The Stars and Stripes Collection is comprised of 23 trips that range from the historic colonial capitals of the East Coast, the purple mountain majesties of the Rockies, and onward to the Pacific shoreline. The release coincides with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the United States of America’s formation.
“Our company’s roots are deeply tied to showcasing the United States, and that makes it especially meaningful to share our new Stars and Stripes Collection with the world,” said Frank Marini, President & CEO of Railbookers Group. “From coast to coast, every part of America has a story worth celebrating, and with Amtrak Vacations, travellers can appreciate them seamlessly. This collection shines a light on the best of the U.S. while continuing our mission to deliver unforgettable travel experiences for our guests and travel agents.”
The Stars and Stripes Collection covers a quarter-millennium of U.S. history, from the country’s founding to the westward expansion across iconic landscapes and train routes. Featuring Amtrak’s most venerable routes such as the California Zephyr, City of New Orleans, Empire Builder, Coast Starlight and Southwest Chief, the itineraries showcase the comfort, ease and memorable experiences that train travel provide.
“As America’s Railroad, Amtrak connects more people with more places, offering our guests unrivaled views of rural towns, city landscapes, and beautiful terrain across the country,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch. “We’re excited to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, with The Stars and Stripes Collection as the premier way to travel and honour the occasion.”
Itineraries such as “Route 66 by Rail”, which traces the historic route from Chicago to Los Angeles, and “Founding Fathers Trail by Rail” (Boston-New York City-Philadelphia-Washington DC-Williamsburg-Charleston) connect America’s biggest and most significant cities. Additional themed trips, such as the “Journey Through Presidential History – Boston to Texas by Rail,” explore key chapters of America’s past with visits to presidential libraries and historic sites, or “Lewis and Clark Trail by Rail,” which follows the momentous path of America’s westward expansion.
Specialised sightseeing and attractions are included in all itineraries, such as “Jazz Blues and Rock n’ Roll” (Chicago-Memphis-New Orleans) and “Hollywood to Broadway” (Los Angeles-Chicago-New York City)
As Amtrak’s national tour operator, Amtrak Vacations have carefully crafted each itinerary to include rail and hotel accommodations, sightseeing and activities at each destination, and much more. All of the itineraries are now available for booking, with flexible travel dates from immediate departure to two years out.
In total, more than three dozen destinations are featured, from America’s largest cities and capitals (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC) to the historic birthplaces of the country (Boston, Philadelphia, Williamsburg, Charleston, St. Augustine), hubs of music and culture (Austin, Atlanta, Memphis, New Orleans, San Francisco), spectacular landscapes including at least seven U.S. National Parks, and much more.
