Item: Continental US Train Zephyr Adventure
Rating: 4
Author: Karmv_707

Continental US Train Zephyr Adventure

3.5

2 Ratings

Emeryville

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Embark on a luxurious train adventure from California to Chicago. Explore iconic cities, stunning landscapes, and enjoy gourmet dining. Tailor your journey with our app.

Duration: 3 days

Cancellation: 24 hours

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Highlights

California - Nevada

Emeryville Amtrak Station - Emeryville serves as the starting point for the iconic Amtrak California Zephyr Express – a train journey like no other! As you board, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area, featuring its sparkling waters and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
**Amtrak…

California - Nevada

Amtrak Station - Sacramento, the vibrant capital of California! This city is rich in history, exciting attractions, and countless fascinating things to discover. So, get ready to explore the heart of this lively city.

Emigrant Gap Scenic Overlook - The Emigrant Gap Scenic Overlook, located at the entrance of Tahoe National Forest, is a sight to behold. Imagine standing on a cliff, surrounded by towering trees stretching as far as the eye can see.

Reno - Welcome to the thrilling city of Reno, Nevada! Prepare to experience the endless excitement and discover why it’s known as the “Biggest Little City in the World.” Reno offers everything from a lively downtown filled with shops and restaurants to exhilarating casinos that make you feel like a high roller. We’ll spend about 25 minutes here.

Black Rock Desert - Welcome to the stunning Black Rock Desert! Prepare to be amazed by one of Nevada’s most unique and astonishing locations. This place is so captivating, you won’t believe your eyes! Let’s explore the sandy wonders of the Black Rock Desert and enjoy a fantastic time!

Elko - Welcome to Elko, Nevada, the gateway to the magnificent Ruby Mountains! Here, you can experience the true beauty of nature and unleash your adventurous spirit. With its breathtaking wilderness, Elko is the perfect destination for hikers and explorers!

Utah - Colorado

Salt Lake City - Welcome to the magnificent Salt Lake City, Utah! Prepare to be amazed by this incredible destination, nestled amidst picturesque mountain ranges. Salt Lake City is brimming with adventure, making it the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Grand Junction - Get ready for an unforgettable journey as we make a stop in the sensational town of Grand Junction, Colorado! This charming town is set amidst stunning scenery, with the majestic Colorado National Monument as its backdrop.

Denver - Welcome to Denver, Colorado - the Mile High City! We’re here to explore a city that knows how to have a great time. You’re in for an adventure filled with urban excitement and outdoor thrills.

Nebraska - Illinois

Lincoln - Welcome to Lincoln, Nebraska - where culture and history blend seamlessly! As the capital of Nebraska, this city offers a perfect mix of historical adventures and modern hustle and bustle.

Omaha - Get ready to explore the vibrant city of Omaha, Nebraska! This unique place boasts a lively atmosphere and plenty of exciting discoveries. Omaha is a cultural haven for enthusiasts.

Naperville - Welcome to Naperville, where you’ll immerse yourself in charming community vibes and a slice of Chicago suburbia that’s sure to leave you wanting more! Imagine a vibrant downtown area with picturesque views and postcard-worthy scenes.

Chicago - Welcome to Chicago, the Windy City, where the adventure never ends! Get ready to dive into a world-class cultural experience and enjoy exploring everything this city has to offer. From stunning architecture to delicious deep-dish pizzas, there’s something here for everyone!

What's Included

Amtrak Train Ticket (only if option selected)
Pintours App Guide
Unlock secret stories, audio, and music

Additional Information

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Step aboard the iconic California-Chicago Train Expedition as we whisk you away on a journey that combines the thrill of train travel with the magic of California’s breathtaking scenery. From the vibrant streets of Oakland to the sun-kissed Lakes of Salt Lake City, discover the majestic United States, like never…

Location

Emeryville Amtrak Station

Horton Street

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

3.5

(2 Ratings)

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1 star

Karmv_707

Aug 10, 2025

Fantastic w/ a few cons - Book ahead. This was a last minute booking. Just 3 days in planning. There is no actual tour guide person. You are just riding a train w/ the use of an app( Pintour app) that welcomes you & describes in general what you'll experience. There are 2 separate company sending you email. Viator & and an agency ( no name but uses the "California ZEPHYR adventure" tour which basically directs you what is going to happen: send info on ticket link: to show Amtrak people ( coz Amtrak do not know what this tour is because this "no name agency" will only buy the Amtrak tix for you. Also directs you to download Pintourapp. Your departure place is EMERYVILLE AMTRAK station in Oakland. Ca. You will need to book your Amtrak ticket from your place to Emeryville. This was a challenge because all transportation ( amtrak, greyhound, or flight) to Emeryville was too long not making it to the 8am CA ZEPHYR Adventure in Emeryville. We had to drive instead which was another problem coz we got there to Oakland but the Enterprise rental car offices ( all sfo/ oakland branches) opens at 8am and the trip starts at 820am. We had to be on-time. We were lucky that the people at Enterprize took us ti return the car early at 745pm. We had to drive 35 mins from Berkeley to Emeryville & return the rental car. All these happened before 8am. We then took Uber from the rental car place, took us 10 mins & $12 . We barely made it. No one was there at AMTRAK from this PinTour to help us. The Amtrak train was there in less than 5 mins of our arrival and if we did not asked questions. We would hv missed the CaZephyr Adventure which listed us ($600) plus all the rental& flight /hotel cost coming back ( $200 car& gas; 1$130 hotel). Almost $1000+ . Another problem was there was a change in the travel date going back to California, 1 day late. THUS: a stressful arrangement prior & after this tour. My suggestion: You can book this on your own. But prepared to plot your plan. "Hows& wheres" you going to get to the starting & End point ans how to get back to California. This DIY maybe cheaper or about same cost. The only difference is having the agency you'll have some direction ( but very confusing on PinTours,). Be prepared, book months ahead. Amtrak ricket can get pricey nearing the date of tour.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Carmelita_v

Aug 14, 2025

Great View but NO real person guide. Not great w/ back problems - It is all AMTRAK ride. No real person guide. An app is used for a general guide with a map that you manually map out. There was only a greeting about the CA Zephyr Adventure 2 minute and the rest is just a map. If you have back problem, this is not for you. The Coach class has roomy leg room much better than airline legroom :) . Emeryville was our meeting point in Oakland. So prepare to be there hours ahead 1 hour the minimum. Again there will be no guide for you. Do It Yourself kinda thing with this one. Once you ride the train, it is all smooth sailing. WE had a 7 hour arrival delay in Chicago. SO have a one day extra. Unfortunately we have to take a flight back to California because the return date was delayed a day ( instead of a Sunday Aug 10, we were told it will be delayed to Wednesday ( Aug 13) return. This was NOT on our confirmed original reservation). Due to work schedule ( must work Au 13), we have to take a flight back on Aug 11 (supposed to be returning to California as per original schedule Aug 10). SO we had to take a hotel overnight on 8/10 and take a flight on 8/11. Also 2 companies will be emailing you Viator & the actual agents for this Amtrak Zephyr adventure. You can do this adventure on you own. . Buy the Amtrak ticket, decide how you get to Emeryville. ( Amtrak, GreyHound,or Plane). It is best to probably tour during Springtime. Amtrak food is expensive. Dinner $45 ( steak or salmon: Lunch $25 (smoregasboard meals). You can bring a cooler of food, no microwave us in the train for customers. I suggest bring bottled water, yogurt for first night, fruits, granola bars, snacks. Bathrooms are very small, i mean tigh space maybe 2 feet distance from your body. So if you are a buff person it will be very cramped unless you use the sleeper restrooms. ( if you dont get caught). Bring outlet cords and a light blanket. Old newspaper for restroom floor especially if you want to gear up, floor might be wet. Think of this as a "camping adventure on wheels" get the idea??? no shower. Must bring: Lots of wipes, dry shampoo, ear phones , movies to watch/ games to play :)

Review provided by Viator

Check Availability

From $5

up to 15 guests

1 - Adult