American Heritage Trail by Rail
A Car-Free Rail Journey Through Historic Cities, Coastal Charm & America’s Founding Story
Follow in the footsteps of America’s founders on this fascinating rail journey through the historic heart of the United States. Beginning in the cobbled streets of Boston and ending amongst the monuments of Washington, this itinerary combines iconic cities, Revolutionary War history, world-class museums and vibrant neighbourhoods, all without the need to drive.
Ditch the car and travel comfortably by Amtrak through the historic Northeast Corridor, discovering the maritime heritage of New England, the Ivy League charm of New Haven, the energy of New York City, the birthplace of American independence in Philadelphia and the political heart of the nation in Washington DC. Along the way you’ll experience some of America’s most important historic sites, beautiful waterfronts, world-famous landmarks and fascinating stories that helped shape the United States.
Remember: We’re UK-based, and every holiday we create is fully flexible – you can add nights, upgrade hotels, or enhance your itinerary. We love designing tailor-made rail adventures just for you!
14 night rail holiday from £2,399pp including flights, accommodation & rail travel
Highlights
Car-Free: Travel comfortably by Amtrak through the heart of America’s historic Northeast Corridor.
Explore Boston, Cape Cod and the historic sites that helped spark the American Revolution.
Discover iconic East Coast cities including New York City, Philadelphia and Washington DC.
Visit famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Independence Hall and the Lincoln Memorial.
Your itinerary
Days 1–4: Boston
Revolutionary History & Cape Cod Adventures
Arrive in historic Boston, one of America’s oldest and most characterful cities. Founded in 1630, Boston played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and remains one of the country’s most walkable and fascinating destinations.
Spend your first days exploring the famous Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route linking sixteen significant historic sites including Paul Revere House, Faneuil Hall and the Old North Church. Stroll through the elegant streets of Beacon Hill, explore Boston Common and enjoy the lively atmosphere around Quincy Market.
On your final day, enjoy a memorable excursion to Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod, which offers beautiful beaches, colourful streets, art galleries and maritime history. Climb the Pilgrim Monument for spectacular views over Cape Cod and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that has made this seaside town one of New England’s most beloved destinations.
4 Nights in
Boston, MA
Arrive &
Explore
Cape Cod tour
included
Days 5–6: NEW HAVEN
Ivy League Heritage & New England Culture
Travel south by Amtrak to New Haven, home to the prestigious Yale University. Founded in 1701, Yale’s beautiful campus features impressive Gothic architecture, historic courtyards and world-class museums.
Spend time exploring the university grounds, visiting the renowned Yale University Art Gallery and the fascinating Yale Peabody Museum. New Haven is also famous as the birthplace of New Haven-style pizza, widely regarded as some of the best pizza in America.
The compact downtown area is easy to explore on foot, with independent cafés, theatres and historic buildings creating a welcoming New England atmosphere.
2 Nights in
New Haven, CT
140m by
Rail
Days 7-9: New york city
Skyscrapers, Broadway & World Icons
Arrive in the city that never sleeps, New York City. With three nights to explore, you’ll have ample time to experience some of the world’s most famous landmarks and attractions.
Take in the views from the top of Empire State Building, visit Times Square after dark, and stroll through the green oasis of Central Park. A ferry trip to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island offers a fascinating insight into America’s immigration story.
Explore vibrant neighbourhoods such as Greenwich Village, SoHo and Brooklyn, enjoy a Broadway show, and experience the incredible food scene that reflects cultures from around the globe.
3 Nights in
New York City, NY
75m by
Rail
Days 10–11: philadelphia
The Birthplace of American Independence
Continue south to Philadelphia, where many of America’s defining moments took place.
Visit Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and adopted. Nearby, see the iconic Liberty Bell and explore the wider Independence National Historical Park.
Beyond its revolutionary history, Philadelphia offers vibrant neighbourhoods, excellent museums, impressive public art and the bustling Reading Terminal Market. The famous “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art remain a popular stop for visitors.
2 Nights in
Philadelphia, PA
95m by
Rail
Days 12-15: washington dc
Monuments, Museums & American Democracy
Your final destination is Washington, the nation’s capital and home to some of America’s most important landmarks.
Over the next three nights, explore the iconic National Mall, where you’ll find the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and United States Capitol. Visit the White House and enjoy the remarkable collection of Smithsonian museums, many of which offer free admission.
History enthusiasts can explore the National Museum of American History, while aviation fans will love the National Air and Space Museum. The city’s grand avenues, impressive architecture and fascinating museums provide a fitting finale to this journey through America’s historic heartland before you make your way to the airport for your flight home.
3 Nights in
Washington, DC
135m by
Rail
June - mid Sept: Many lodgings and transport links are only open during the Summer. Amazing wildlife including bears, bald eagles, whales, sea otters and seals can be spotted.
Daytime temperatures are usually cool but very comfortabl, generally in the 15-20°C range and even into the high 20s. Days are long during the with July being the peak month.
You’ll need a connecting flght from the UK, probably via Seattle or Vancouver, we highly recommend a couple of days to explore the connecting city. Alaska is 8 or 9 hours behind the UK.
Speak to a Travel Expert
Our team have travelled extensively across the USA & Canada to ensure that they can give first hand, unrivalled experience when discussing our holidays.
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