7 destinations where the train is the best part of the journey – Local News 8

For decades, modern travel has largely been a race against the clock.

Official response and confirmed impact

Airlines have promised faster connections, highways have shortened distances, and even vacation itineraries comprising just a few days have packed in as many destinations as possible.

But now, a different kind of travel—one that invites travelers to slow down—is gaining steam.

Train travel is experiencing a renaissance as more travelers seek scenic, immersive ways to explore a destination that allows them to kick back and simply enjoy the view outside.

A May 2026 survey conducted by EF Go Ahead Tours found that 93% of North American travelers are increasingly considering train tourism, while 78% are interested in incorporating trains into their guided vacations or tour experiences.

Scenic views ranked as the top reason for the interest in train travel, followed by comfort and the opportunity to enjoy a unique travel experience.

The shift reflects a broader change in what travelers value. Getting somewhere quickly still matters, but, increasingly, so does enjoying how they get there.

Incident background

Instead of treating transportation as merely a means to get from one place to the next, rail journeys are increasingly becoming a part of the travel experience itself.