11 Day Virginia by Rail

The USA's capital city, Washington DC so much to see and do. You can discover inspiring museums and monuments, explore diverse neighbourhoods, stroll around gorgeous parks and gardens, dine in world-class restaurants, and enjoy endless entertainment.

Head to the Lincoln Memorial to see a 19-foot President Lincoln. Read the original U.S. Constitution at The National Archives. Wave at the White House. See Dorothy’s ruby-red slippers at the National Museum of American History. And take in internationally acclaimed art and artefacts at the city's numerous Smithsonian galleries and museums.

This morning, you'll make your way to Union Station for the hour train journey to Fredericksburg, where history and adventure awaits. From battlefields and museums, to hiking trails, there's plenty to see here. Historic Downtown Fredericksburg features numerous specialty retail, craft, and antique shops, plus more than 60 restaurants in restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings. Kayak on the Rappahannock River, tour craft breweries and the distillery, or watch artisans as they create unique pieces.

If history is your thing, Fredericksburg offers the opportunity to experience numerous periods in time. You can explore colonial and revolutionary-era museums and historic sites in and around the city. Retrace the steps of Civil War soldiers and listen to the stories of former slaves on the Trail to Freedom. Meanwhile, nature-lovers should go hiking, boating and fishing in Lake Anna State Park.

Today, you'll board your Amtrak train in Fredericksburg and embark on the 90-minute journey to Richmond Main Street station. You can then tour the historic Richmond area. Step into the Virginia State Capitol building designed by Thomas Jefferson. Cruise the downtown canal built by George Washington. Or check out more than a dozen themed gardens at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Board your Amtrak train and travel from Richmond to Charlottesville Union Station in just 90 minutes. This college town has a sophisticated, youthful vibe, while the surrounding area is famous for wineries. Why not check out the Red, White and Brew Trail? It includes stops at wineries, breweries, a cidery, and a distillery in the Blue Ridge foothills.

And be sure not to miss Monticello – it's the only US home to be on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The restored mountaintop estate of Thomas Jefferson, this place encompasses a gran house, flower and vegetable gardens, and a plantation that tells the story of a large, diverse community

It's just a short 75-minute journey today, as you ride an Amtrak train from Charlottesville to Lynchburg. Known as the “City of Seven Hills,” Lynchburg is in Central Virginia at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, built along the James River. 

This bustling city has five colleges and universities – Central Virginia Community College Liberty University, Randolph College, the University of Lynchburg, and the Virginia University of Lynchburg. You can also explore the historic districts and cultural sites, including Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, the restored Historic Theatre, and the Academy Center of the Arts. Whether you're seeking culture, history, great food or family attractions, you're sure to find something exciting in Lynchburg.

Take a last lingering look at the beautiful scenery of the USA's Capital Region, before your board your Amtrak train back to Washington DC. After your four-hour train journey, you can hop in a taxi to the airport for your flight home.