Move over, Orient Express! While luxury train journeys have long been synonymous with European elegance and historic routes like the Paris-to-Istanbul classic or Switzerland's Alpine-conquering Glacier Express, the United States is finally throwing its hat into the glamorous rail ring. Come January 2026, American travelers will no longer need a passport to experience opulent rail travel, thanks to Halloway's ambitious plan to attach fully restored luxury cars to some of Amtrak's most scenic routes. This isn't just a train ride; it's a rolling five-star hotel with views that'll make your Instagram followers weep with envy.

🚂 Two Iconic Routes, One Luxurious Experience

Halloway, the innovative online marketplace revolutionizing private train travel in the U.S., is launching not one but two spectacular journeys that promise to redefine American rail travel:

The Coastal Grandeur: Los Angeles to San Francisco

• Launch Date: January 15, 2026

• Route: Mimicking Amtrak's Coast Starlight path

• Duration: Approximately 12 hours of pure luxury

• Price Tag: $10,000 for six passengers

• Scenery: Sweeping Pacific Ocean vistas, California's golden hills, and vineyard-dotted landscapes

Halloway's website tantalizingly describes it as traveling in "rare style aboard two of your own private rail cars for the day, with every curve of the track revealing sweeping ocean vistas, rolling golden hills, and postcard-worthy shoreline."

The Mountain Majesty: Oakland to Denver

• Launch Date: January 16-17, 2026 (overnight journey)

• Route: Following Amtrak's California Zephyr path

• States Crossed: California, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado

• Price Point: $18,000 for six passengers

• Visual Feast: Mirror-bright lakes, granite peaks, Sierra Nevada landscapes, Utah's red rock canyons, and the majestic Rocky Mountains

🏨 Behind the Luxury Curtain: What $10K-$18K Actually Buys

So, what exactly does this princely sum include? Forget cramped seats and microwave dinners—Halloway delivers an experience that would make railroad tycoons of yesteryear nod in approval.

The Evelyn Henry Sleeping Car (Built 1954)

The Warren R. Henry Dome-Lounge Car (Built 1955)

• Panoramic Glass Dome: 360-degree immersive views

• Dining Salon: Mahogany-paneled elegance

• Open Viewing Platform: Breathe in the mountain air

• Lounge & Bar: Socialize in vintage style

🍷 Culinary Excellence at 70 MPH

Forget airplane food—Halloway's onboard dining would make Michelin-starred chefs take notice. The menu features what they proudly call "North America's finest ingredients," including:

• Smoked king salmon 🐟

• Black Angus filet mignon 🥩

• Chef-prepared meals using locally sourced ingredients

• Extensive wine selection at the dedicated wine bar

Every meal is prepared fresh by an onboard culinary artist, ensuring that your taste buds enjoy the journey as much as your eyes.

💼 Booking & Practical Details

Despite being operated by a private company, Halloway passengers enjoy premium amenities from start to finish. Those departing from Los Angeles gain access to passenger lounges at the historic Los Angeles Union Station, setting the luxurious tone before you even board.

Key Booking Information:

• Website: Tickets available exclusively at GoHalloway.com

• Group Size: Prices cover six passengers (perfect for families or friend groups)

• Timeline: Both journeys launch in January 2026

• Note: Halloway operates independently—not in partnership with Amtrak

🌟 Why This Changes American Travel

This venture represents more than just fancy train cars—it's a renaissance of American rail travel. While Europe and Asia have long celebrated their luxury train cultures, the U.S. has primarily focused on practical transportation. Halloway's initiative proves that Americans are ready to embrace rail travel as an experience rather than just a means to an end.

The timing couldn't be more perfect. As travelers increasingly seek sustainable, immersive experiences, these journeys offer both environmental consciousness and unparalleled access to America's most breathtaking landscapes—all from the comfort of moving luxury accommodations.

So, if you've ever dreamed of watching the Pacific coastline glide by while sipping fine wine, or witnessing the Rocky Mountains unfold from a glass-domed observatory, 2026 might just be your year to trade the airport security line for the gentle rhythm of the rails. All aboard the American luxury revolution! ✨