Chicago to Los Angeles: The Great American Rail Journey

Arrive in Chicago and make your way to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day discovering the city's vibrant atmosphere, impressive architecture and famous landmarks. You could explore Millennium Park, admire the Cloud Gate sculpture or enjoy a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk before settling in for the evening.

Enjoy a full day exploring Chicago at your own pace. Visit the city's renowned museums, admire its striking skyline or discover the historic streets associated with the beginning of Route 66. Sample classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and experience the city's lively music and dining scene.Chicago to St. Louis

Head to the railway station and board your Amtrak train to St. Louis. Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel through the American Midwest. On arrival, check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day exploring the local neighbourhood or relaxing after your journey.

Discover St. Louis, a city known for its musical heritage, historic attractions and connection to the Mississippi River. Visit the famous Gateway Arch, stroll through downtown or explore local restaurants and cultural attractions. Enjoy a relaxed day discovering this important stop along the historic Route 66 corridor.

Continue your American rail adventure aboard Amtrak towards Albuquerque. Settle into your Coach Class seat and enjoy views of wide-open landscapes, rural communities and changing scenery along the way. This is a travel-focused day, offering a chance to relax and experience the atmosphere of long-distance train travel.

Arrive in Albuquerque and check into your hotel. Discover the city's distinctive Southwestern character, colourful adobe architecture and rich cultural heritage. Depending on your arrival time, explore historic Old Town, browse local shops or enjoy the beautiful desert views framed by the surrounding Sandia Mountains.

Spend the day discovering Albuquerque's blend of Native American, Hispanic and contemporary American culture. Wander through Old Town, visit local museums or sample traditional New Mexican cuisine. With its striking desert scenery and historic Route 66 connections, Albuquerque offers a memorable introduction to the American Southwest.

Board Amtrak for the journey towards Williams Junction, Arizona, travelling through the impressive landscapes of the Southwest. Enjoy views of arid plains, rugged terrain and remote communities from your train window. On arrival, continue to your arranged accommodation and prepare to explore the spectacular Grand Canyon region.

Explore the Williams area, a historic town known for its nostalgic atmosphere and railway heritage. If your travel arrangements permit, take the opportunity to visit Grand Canyon National Park, where enormous rock formations, colourful cliffs and breathtaking viewpoints reveal the beauty of one of America's most celebrated natural landmarks. Entrance fees and excursions may be additional unless specified.

Enjoy more time in Williams, a charming town celebrated for its classic heritage. Explore its historic main street, browse independent shops and discover vintage signs that recall the golden age of American road travel. You can also enjoy the surrounding Arizona scenery before continuing your journey west.

Spend a leisurely day enjoying the landscapes and attractions around Williams. Depending on your interests and transport arrangements, consider additional sightseeing in the Grand Canyon region or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this historic railway town. Enjoy another evening surrounded by the distinctive scenery of northern Arizona.

Board your Amtrak train for the final leg towards Los Angeles. Watch the scenery transform as you travel from the landscapes of Arizona towards Southern California. Settle into your Coach Class seat and enjoy the experience of crossing another part of America by rail before arriving in the Los Angeles area.

Discover Los Angeles, a vibrant city famous for entertainment, beaches and iconic landmarks. Explore Hollywood Boulevard, see the legendary Hollywood Sign from a suitable viewpoint or head to Santa Monica Pier for ocean views and a taste of the California coast. Enjoy your final full day experiencing the sights and atmosphere of Southern California.

Enjoy breakfast if included with your accommodation before checking out of your hotel. Depending on your onward travel arrangements, you may have time for a final stroll or some last-minute shopping. Your rail adventure concludes in Los Angeles, leaving you with lasting memories of America's cities, landscapes and legendary train journeys.