10 Train Trips That Cost $100 (or Less!) You Need to Take Your Family On

There's a reason this trip (which starts at $97 per ticket) has been considered one of America's most beautiful train rides since the 1940s: It takes passengers from Seattle to Los Angeles, showcasing the west coast's most beautiful mountains, forests, valleys and ocean views.

Back in 1901, this railroad was built to haul lumber to the mill in Cass, West Virginia, but today, those same old logging flat cars are used to show visitors Bald Knob (the highest point in the state) and Whittaker Station. Rates for this historic experience start at $61.

If taking in the enormous Grand Canyon feels daunting, look no further. This vintage train runs a daily two-hour service from Williams, Arizona to the famous natural wonder. Prices start at $65 per trip for the 1923 pullman car, which is at the front of the train.

Since this line is one of the few in the country that still operates both freight and passenger service, it lets you get a close look at the freight experience, while also taking in views of Arkansas and the Boston Mountains in the Ozarks. Tickets range from $40 to $90 depending on the season.

North Carolina is home to this scenic ride, which stops in three historic towns (Dillsboro, Bryson City and Andrews) and features stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the southern Blue Ridge Mountains for prices starting at $51. 

This train ride (which starts at $65 per ticket) from Anchorage to Whittier via Portage lets you view waterfalls, glaciers and wildlife from the comfort of a train car. A naturalist is also available to answer any of your questions about the terrain or your likelihood of spotting a moose (hint: it's high!).

If you've dreamed of traveling along California's Pacific Coast Highway, this train ride, starting at $61, might be even better. It goes from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, stopping in some of California's most beautiful towns along the way and offering wi-fi and a bar car that automobile travel does not.

Not only does this trip begin and end with skyline views of Chicago and New York City, but it also runs past some of America's most beautiful shorelines, including Lake Michigan, the Mohawk river and Lake Erie. Prices for this memorable trip start at $84.

The original purpose of this 131-year-old train was to transport massive redwood logs through the Mendocino County in Northern California, but now it offers the most mesmerizing views of this part of the country for visitors. People can pick between departing from Fort Bragg or Northspur for tickets starting at $47.

Since 1881, this Colorado railroad line has run continuously, but back in the day, it was toting metal, not tourists. Today, the vintage train runs from Durango to the Cascade Wye during winter and from Durango to Silverton during the summer, starting at $79.