These days train travel can mean a cattle car between two cities or a very scenic high class experience that can give you breathtaking views and allow you to step back into the 19th century.

AmtrakIf you are starting out from a rural location (several hours from the nearest major airport), then taking the train makes the most sense, especially if your traveling on a regional basis.  You don’t have to worry about weather delays or missing connecting flights and you’ll be able to see a lot more then if you were at 30,000 feet.

If you are traveling overseas, then definitely check out travel by rail.  European, Asian and South American countries generally have more modern and extensive rail systems then the U.S. and it is cheaper and more convenient.

These sites all provide information on rail travel in the U.S. and abroad, and are your best resource to researching and booking.

Canadian Scenic Train TravelUS/European Scenic Train TravelIf you are looking for the more historic or scenic train trip, check out these sites.  The first “USA By Rail” surprisingly has better information about Canadian scenic train lines and the second link “US Train Travel” supplies ideas for US scenic lines and provides information on train travel abroad.