Depending on the region of the country, seasonal fall foliage day excursions will offer both up-close and expansive scenic views. One such excursion can be found in New Hampshire's White Mountain region aboard the Hobo Railroad for a special one-and-a half-hour trip through the region twice daily. The train fare is $11.00 as of 2011, with a picnic lunch provided in the dining car for an additional $10.
Begin in Boston and over the course of 8 days, ride Amtrak's "Vermonter," switch to local scenic trains and deluxe motor coaches and visit all six states of New England in a fall foliage tour. Besides the Amtrak train, travelers will ride the Cape Cod rail, the Conway Scenic Railway and Mount Washington Cog Railway. All train rides are during the daylight hours to afford the greatest scenic views. Night lodging is provided, as are 15 meals and a tour guide. As of 2011, rates range from approximately $1900 to $2500 per person.
The North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth, Minnesota, offers an annual two-and-a-half-hour "Beer Train." Travelers will enjoy food and beer from local breweries as they ride 34 miles of track. Following the beer-tasting excursion, travelers can find evening entertainment at a local club. As of 2011, the cost per adult is $30 and $55 for first class.
During the months leading up to Halloween, many locations offer a "pumpkin patch" train. One such train, the Middletown and Hummelston Railroad in Middletown, Pennsylvania, offers 3:30 pm train rides on October weekends with a stop at Farmer's Field for families to pick their own pumpkins. In addition, families can be photograph with the scarecrows dotted among the field. As of 2011, fares range from $10 for children over the age of two, to $17 for ages 11 years and older.
