Train travel is quite popular in Europe, not to mention economical and (usually) efficient. But here in the US, you don’t hear a lot about trains. People are either taking roadtrips in their own vehicle or flying. If you do some research, or ask your fellow travel agent (ahem, that would be me), you will find that it can be a fancy and unique way to travel.
When my dad had mentioned he always wanted to take a train through the Adirondacks, I thought this would be a great surprise for his 70th birthday. You see, my dad doesn’t ask for much nor does he show a lot of emotion, but he did enjoy our little trip! I do have a picture of my dad and Bill, the conductor. But Mike (my dad) is a little shy and doesn’t even know what social media is, so I left it out. Besides, I figured I could maybe blackmail him someday with the juicy pic;) Let me tell you about it…
If you head to https://adirondackrr.com you will find several options for itineraries based on what you would like to see and how much time you want invested into the ride. You can also call 1-800-819-2291 to speak with someone and book this way if you choose. Please know that booking trains is slightly different than buying plane tickets. You’re basically reserving your space but have to go to the ticket window at the station to retrieve your boarding pass. Your email confirmation alone will not get you on the train. So be sure to leave enough time to park the car and wait in line to get your documents. Keep those boarding passes handy, as someone will come by eventually and ask for your tickets (this also happens in Europe).
There are a variety of options of short and long excursions. Trains leave from Utica Station, Holland Patent or Thendara Station depending on what you choose. We chose the Fall “Gateway” ride for 5.5 hours departing from Utica. I booked first class tickets which included a choice of a salad OR small meat & cheese platter, non-alcoholic beverage and cookie. Other drinks and food were available for purchase. What I didn’t know was allowed is bringing your own food on board. I saw families bring bagels, snacks etc. This is a great way to save money if you want to purchase Coach class seats. We had a 45-minute layover in Thendara Station that gave us enough time to peruse the gift shop and stretch our legs before heading back.
One of the best things about our trip, besides the beautiful landscape, was the staff. They are ALL volunteers! They were all so friendly, accommodating and passionate about what they do. I have lived in NY my whole life and live an hour away from the Utica Station but I did not know this fact: this train ride in the Adirondacks is the longest tour train in the US! It’s right in our backyard, isn’t that amazing? All 107 plus miles of it.
I had heard about the Polar Express train named after the book & movie. But did you know they also have a Pumpkin and Family Halloween Train? Obviously, this is available during a limited time in the Fall, but what a fun activity to do with the family. The Halloween train leaves from Holland Patent and is 1.5 hours long and a reasonable price of $16-21. Every child in a costume receives a FREE pumpkin and there’s also a hay ride and other fun activities along the way. The Pumpkin Train is similar but leaves from Thendara Station, also 1.5 hours long and $15-20. Let’s not forget the Polar Express! Wearing your pjs is encouraged (yes, even the adults) where you’ll enjoy a short 2 hour ride accompanied with Christmas carols, hot cocoa & cookies and Santa, of course! I don’t know about you, but I would love to be a kid again.
Now, they didn’t forget about the adults. There is fun for you too. Why not check out the Beer & Wine route available in the Spring, Summer and Fall? Participants must be at least 21 years old, prices range from $38-55 and light snacks are served with drinks. Lastly, there is a Dinner train available in the Fall and Spring. Local chef, Patrick O’Connor provides the meal for the 3 hour duration. Prices start at $139 per person.
As you can see from the images, the views were stunning. This was such a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend the day, I highly recommend it. Can you imagine what other train companies might be like? This is a great time to put in a plug for the more luxurious views you can experience around the world.
Belmond https://www.belmond.com is a luxury company that’s been around for almost half a century. They have exotic and unique experiences, which include some of the best by train. Want to experience Machu Picchu in Peru, Southeast Asia or ride the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express? Just google it, and tell me this doesn’t look like a dream. Maybe you want to stick to North America where you can take part in the Rocky Mountaineer and see Western Canada https://rockymountaineer.com. There’s always the great USA where you can head west on the Durango https://durangotrain.com. The views are amazing through the Rocky Mountains and San Juan National Forest. They also have packages that include snowmobiling, white water rafting, ATV and zip lining for all you adventure enthusiasts!
I hope at the very least, this has piqued your interest in train travel. If you’re looking for something different than the norm, this is something to consider. If anything, give the Adirondack Railroad a try! It’s economical and a way to get your feet wet with this type of excursion. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. If you’re interested in booking a trip, no matter where, send me an email at [email protected]. All aboard!
