Rail is a fantastic way to getaway and treat yourself to the perfect escape. Discovering the countryside by train is an exhilarating experience and can be enjoyed around the globe. Many countries such as Japan, Spain, India, Canada, UK, US, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Tanzania, Australia, Russia, and Italy (to name a few) have train systems that allow you to enjoy travelling in comfort.
Amtrak in the US provides different packages to enjoy the country side, whether it’s a getaway, independent journey, rail and sail, coast to coast, and national park experiences. The packages tend to be reasonable and easy to book. For example, the Jazz Blues and Rock ‘N’ Roll roundtrip from New York trip starts at $1,749 per person. This includes an 11-day roundtrip rail journey travelling from New York, taking in Chicago and its popular culture, then head down to Memphis to enjoy the many blues and jazz clubs on Beale street, then head down to the Big Easy and treat yourself to beignets, crawfish, gumbo, red beans and rice, jambalaya, and other delectable dishes.
The package also includes 7-nights accommodations with 3 nights onboard Amtrak and 2 meals. The itinerary is as follows:
DAY 1 NEW YORK
Today board Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited in New York Penn Station for your trip to Chicago! Sit back and relax you’re your journey to “The Windy City”. (Overnight onboard Amtrak)
DAY 2 CHICAGO
Welcome to Chicago! Explore the Windy City on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour that will guide you throughout the city. This is a perfect way to experience Chicago’s top attractions. Hop off at any of the stops along the tour to enjoy the sights at your leisure. Later in the day, adventure throughout the city on your own. We suggest that you explore Chicago’s River North neighborhood, home to many shops, restaurants, and night-life! (Overnight in Chicago)
DAY 3 CHICAGO
Continue your sightseeing tour with your multi-day hop-on, hop-off tour. Be sure to visit Chicago’s popular attractions such as the Skydeck Chicago, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile. This evening enjoy dinner at a popular Chicago restaurant. (Overnight in Chicago) D
DAY 4 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK®
Today you will board Amtrak’s City of New Orleans for an overnight trip down to Memphis. As the train winds its way South through the heart of the country, prepare yourself for a wonderful time in Memphis. (Overnight onboard Amtrak)
DAY 5 MEMPHIS
After arriving in Memphis this morning travel to your hotel in downtown Memphis. Today you’ll have some free time to explore the sights and sounds of this musical city. If you’re looking for places to go, check out the music scene on Beale Street or head to the Peabody Hotel to see the iconic ducks do their march through the lobby. (Overnight in Memphis)
DAY 6 MEMPHIS
Today, enjoy a tour of Memphis, including the famous Graceland. This narrated tour will help you discover all that Memphis has to offer, from the Mighty Mississippi, Sun Studio, the statues of the two kings (B.B. King and Elvis the “King of Rock & Roll), and many more exciting attractions! On your Graceland tour, you’ll get up close and personal to everything Elvis. As you walk through the mansion you will be in awe of the many collections of platinum records, concert outfits, and Elvis memorabilia. (Overnight in Memphis)
DAY 7 MEMPHIS > NEW ORLEANS
This morning board Amtrak to New Orleans. Upon your arrival, you will travel to your hotel, where you can settle in for the night or start exploring the “Crescent City”. (Overnight in New Orleans)
DAY 8 NEW ORLEANS
Start the day with a jazz brunch at a popular French Quarter restaurant. After brunch, you’ll set off for your guided sightseeing tour of the city. Absorb the sights and culture of the French Quarter and the historic Jackson Square. Explore the cemeteries, known as the “Cities of the Dead.” And enjoy the fascinating stories of voodoo and piracy on Bayou St. John. There is plenty to do and see in the “City that Care Forgot”. (Overnight in New Orleans) BR
DAY 9 NEW ORLEANS
Today you will enjoy a cruise on an authentic paddlewheel boat! Take in the amazing views of the French Quarter and the Port of New Orleans from the river as the boat’s captain entertains you with a detailed history of New Orleans landmarks, and river lore. (Overnight in New Orleans)
DAY 10 OVERNIGHT ONBOARD AMTRAK
Today you will board Amtrak for your trip back to New York. As you travel north, reflect upon the wonderful experiences you had on your Jazz, Blues, and Rock ‘n’ Roll journey! (Overnight onboard Amtrak)
DAY 11 YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN NEW YORK
Get out there and experience a trip by rail, the scenery is beautiful, and it is a trip of a lifetime. If anyone has any train experiences, please share by respond below.
Visit Ketour Travel’s website (https://ketourtravel.com) read the blogs and updates on current and future trips. Go to https://discover.ketourtravel.com/ to purchase airfare, hotel, transfers, activities and holiday packages. Do not forget to subscribe to the newsletter, follow Ketour on our YouTube channel, Facebook page, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram
