Vacations By Rail has changed tracks. The trusted Chicago rail specialist is now Great Rail Journeys.
The move brings its United States business under the same name as its global parent brand. It also gives American travellers access to more than 200 escorted and independent rail holidays around the world. The company’s official website confirms that Vacations By Rail is now Great Rail Journeys, with its established holidays and customer support continuing under the new identity.
The good news is that the people behind the service remain in place. The Chicago team, its rail knowledge and its focus on customer care are unchanged. Only the name on the ticket has moved on.
The wider range covers Europe, North America, Asia and other key regions. Guests can choose guided tours, flexible independent holidays, scenic rail routes and luxury train journeys. There is plenty for travellers who prefer a window seat to an airport queue.
One new option is Premium Glacier Express: Switzerland’s Alpine Icons. The trip puts Switzerland’s grand mountain scenery front and centre. Other journeys explore the Scottish Highlands and famous luxury rail routes. Great Rail Journeys also offers a dedicated range of Glacier Express itineraries through Switzerland.
“This rebrand reflects how far our business has evolved and the opportunities now available to our customers,” said Dave Riley, CEO of Great Rail Journeys. “By bringing our U.S. business under the Great Rail Journeys name, we’re giving travelers access to a broader range of destinations, experiences and travel styles while continuing to deliver the personal service and expertise that have always set us apart.”
The rebrand is more than a fresh coat of paint. It gives the US business a clear place within a well-known global rail brand. It also makes the full range easier to find and understand.
Escorted guests can leave the planning to experienced tour managers. Independent travellers can follow a planned route at their own pace. Both styles aim to blend famous scenery, local culture and smooth logistics.
Great Rail Journeys now offers escorted and independent holidays across the United States, Canada, Europe, and other global destinations. Luxury rail trips also have a dedicated place in the range.
Travellers can explore the full collection through the Great Rail Journeys US website.
For travellers who believe the journey should be part of the holiday, this relaunch is right on time. The rails are set, the map is wider, and the whistle has well and truly blown.
By: Kanda Limw – © 2026.
Read Time: 2 minutes.
Author Bio:
Kanda Limw is one of those rare people every office quietly depends on. She doesn’t fuss or fanfare her way through the day; she simply notices what needs doing and gets on with it, often before anyone else has drawn breath.
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Kanda has no appetite for the spotlight. Yet ask anyone who works alongside her, and they’ll tell you that when she’s there, everything runs just a little smoother.
