Vacations By Rail · Independent rail vacation

California Zephyr Experience

California Zephyr Experience, a rail journey with Vacations By Rail

One of the most scenic routes in the U.S., Amtrak's California Zephyr takes you from Chicago to San Francisco by way of the spectacular Rockies and Sierras.

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Chicago

    Chicago

    Independent arrival into Chicago; transfer to your downtown hotel. Explore the city via a hop-on/hop-off trolley tour or the Chicago 'L' train.

  2. Day 2overnight: Train

    California Zephyr

    Depart Chicago's Union Station aboard the California Zephyr, beginning the 2,300-mile journey to San Francisco. Dinner is served in the Dining Car while crossing the Mississippi River (meals included for sleeping car occupants).

  3. Day 3overnight: Train

    Colorado Rockies aboard the California Zephyr

    Wake to views of the Colorado Rockies as the Zephyr climbs toward the Great Continental Divide, passing Winter Park, Colorado.

  4. Day 4overnight: San Francisco

    San Francisco Arrival

    The Zephyr climbs from Nevada to California via Reno and the Donner Pass, arriving in Emeryville in the early evening; an Amtrak Shuttle transfers you to the Ferry Building, from where you make your own way to your hotel at Fisherman's Wharf.

  5. Day 5

    San Francisco

    Your tour concludes as you spend the day exploring Golden Gate Park, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, Telegraph Hill, and Jackson Square, independently or with optional tours.

Included

  • Hotel accommodations for 2 nights
  • Transportation aboard Amtrak (2 nights on train)
  • Meals on train included when upgrading to private sleeping accommodations

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the tour but can be arranged
  • Flights and Airport transfers not included

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