Travel by train fell out of favor once passenger airlines ascended in popularity. Why sit on a train for hours and hours when you could take a quick flight?
The romance of the rails seems to be returning, however. Amtrak’s investment in intercity passenger rail meant an 89% growth in ridership during fiscal year 2022.
Some of those new riders are likely commuters. For example, in September 2021, Amtrak added a Richmond-to-Washington, D.C., line that arrives in the nation’s capital before the workday begins. The new route resulted in more than 93,000 passengers in 2022 and continues to pull in new people. It saw a 40% increase in riders in April 2023 as compared with a year prior.
Whether you ride for work or for pleasure, rail travel can be a delight – and if you’re a senior, that delight can sometimes be found at a discount. All aboard!
Amtrak
Providing service to 500 locations in 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces, Amtrak offers a 10% discount with some limitations to those age 65 or older. The same discount is available to those 60 and older on trips jointly operated with VIA Rail Canada.
As noted, limitations do apply. For example, you can’t get this discount for the Auto Train, certain Amtrak Thruway connecting services, or on non-Acela business class, first class or sleeping accommodations. You also might not be able to combine it with other discounts.
Learn more when you book online or call 800-872-7245.
Pacific Surfliner
This Amtrak train moves along a 351-mile route through six Southern California counties; much of the route is along the shoreline so you’ll get an eyeful. It’s the second-busiest intercity passenger rail service in the United States.
Those age 62 and older can get 15% off full adult fares, except during a blackout period near Thanksgiving. To get the discount, use the booking widget or visit the Amtrak site and use the promo code V282. You can also call Amtrak at 800-872-7245 and ask for discount code V282.
Nevada Northern Railway
The railroad here closed in 1983, but residents proposed it be reopened as a tourist attraction. Four years later, the steam-powered passenger train was back on track. Daily touring excursions take 90 minutes round-trip; the railway also offers themed trips, such as “Roaring ’20s” or “Sunset, Stars and Champagne.”
Passengers age 65 or over can get $6 off any ticket when they book online or call 775-289-2085, ext. 1.
Alaska Railroad
During the off-peak season, typically mid-May to late September, seniors 65 and older get a 50% discount on the train from Anchorage to Fairbanks (or any spot in between). This is the only passenger line that runs in Alaska during the fall and winter.
Note: This train runs only on weekends during the off-season so your options are somewhat limited. However, the scenery is top-notch and you may see moose, bears, lynx and other critters.
Book online or call 800-544-0552.
Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
This 65-mile excursion on restored train cars runs from Williams, Arizona, (about 30 miles west of Flagstaff) to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The railway also offers trips on authentic steam railroads several times during the year.
Riders age 62 or older get a 15% discount when booking with the discount code SENIOR. The discount is not valid for The Polar Express excursion.
Verde Canyon Railroad
This four-hour, 20-mile train excursion takes place in refurbished (and air-conditioned!) railroad cars. You’ll travel into Arizona’s Verde Canyon, about 25 miles southwest of Sedona.
The Verde Canyon Railroad also offers special excursions, such as a Halloween-themed trip and a “Grape Train Escape” that features wine tastings.
Among the discounts offered is 10% off for AARP members. To get this discount, book directly with Verde Canyon Railroad and use the code “AARP.”
Vacations by Rail
This British-based company organizes rail trips all over the world, including North America. With an AARP membership, you can get 5% off bookings and also take advantage of special offers for AARP members.
If you plan to take a railroad trip, the 5% discount will be more than enough to cover the annual membership fee, which can be as little as $12. According to Vacations by Rail, the average savings is $175 per person.
Commuter rail services
Commuter rail services are available to everyone, not just workers. They can be a fun way to get from place to place either as a day trip or as part of a longer vacation. These lines offer discounts to seniors:
- Long Island Rail Road (New York)
- Maryland Area Regional Commuter
- Metra (Illinois)
- Metro-North Railroad (New York and Connecticut)
- Metrolink (California)
- Virginia Railway Express
