Discounts are available on Amtrak routes between Chicago and downstate Illinois, including on Lincoln Service, Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg, and Illini/Saluki. In addition, savings are available on Wolverine Service, Blue Water, and Pere Marquette routes between Chicago and Michigan and on the Missouri River Runner between Kansas City and St. Louis.

Terms and conditions vary, but big savings are possible by using Amtrak fare codes V619 for the Illinois trains, V505 for the Michigan routes and V328 for the Missouri trains.

Below are just a few of the special prices available (adult fares, each way, as low as):

The fare codes must be used to take advantage of these low fares. Tickets are non-refundable and some blackout dates apply. See the “Deals” tab on Amtrak.com for other applicable restrictions, including advance reservation and purchase requirements.

About Amtrak

As the nation’s intercity passenger rail operator, Amtrak connects America in safer, greener and healthier ways. Last fiscal year (FY 2009), the railroad carried 27.2 million passengers, making it the second-best year in the company’s history.

With 21,000 route miles in 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces, Amtrak operates more than 300 trains each day—at speeds up to 150 mph—to more than 500 destinations. Amtrak also is the operator of choice for state-supported corridor services in 15 states and for four commuter rail agencies.

Visit Amtrak.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for schedules, fares and more information.

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Amtrak to Parks website

Amtrak introduced a new Web site designed to show travelers how convenient it is to travel by train to visit the country’s national parks.

With the theme “Parks in Your Backyard,” Amtraktoparks.com allows users to see the nearest Amtrak route to featured national park sites, each of which can be reached using public transportation from an Amtrak station.

Amtraktoparks.com offers a trip wizard which allows users to customize their search based on geographic location and personal interests — Monuments/Memorials, Revolutionary History or Water Activities to name a few.

Information on accommodations such camping sites and hotels is also provided. Once the user selects a national park, information on the park as well as which Amtrak route provides service to that park is shown. The site provides a direct link to Amtrak.com, allowing users to book rail travel.

Initially, the featured national parks include Glacier, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Everglades, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Rocky Mountain and 50 others located along the Northeast Corridor and in the nation’s capital.

These parks were selected due to their proximity to an Amtrak route. There are plans to add more national parks to the site. Eight routes are currently highlighted on the site. They are:

• Acela Express (Washington — New York — Boston)
• Northeast Regional (Virginia Beach — Richmond — Washington — New York — Boston)
• Silver Service (New York — Miami), Palmetto (New York — Savannah)
• Empire Builder (Chicago — St. Paul — Portland/Seattle)
• San Joaquins (Bakersfield — Sacramento — Oakland)
• California Zephyr (Chicago — Denver — San Francisco Bay Area)
• Southwest Chief (Chicago — Albuquerque — Los Angeles)

“This new website brings together two of America’s favorite pastimes — traveling by train and visiting national parks,” said Emmett Fremaux, Amtrak’s vice president of marketing and product development. “With more than 500 Amtrak stops in 46 states and the District of Columbia, a national park is as close as your backyard.”

“Passenger rail and national parks have rolled through history in tandem since the 1880s,” said Dean Reeder, National Tourism Director of the National Park Service. “By facilitating visitor access to the many wondrous experiences available in many of our nation’s parks, Amtrak helps us advance the values of sustainable tourism.”

In addition to the highlighted Amtrak routes, seven other routes are also included so users may see other Amtrak routes that offer service to stations near national parks. Those routes are:

• Capitol Limited (Washington — Pittsburgh — Chicago)
• City of New Orleans (Chicago — Memphis — New Orleans)
• Coast Starlight (Seattle — Portland — Los Angeles)
• Crescent (New York — Washington — Atlanta — New Orleans)
• Lake Shore Limited (New York/Boston — Albany — Chicago)
• Texas Eagle (Chicago — St. Louis — Dallas — Los Angeles)
• Sunset Limited (New Orleans — Houston — Los Angeles)

Under the Find a Park function, users may view a complete list of national parks that are accessible by train. Another link provides details on special fares and Amtrak Vacations packages which include rail travel, hotel accommodations and tour tickets.

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Exiting the Tunnel

On Santa’s annual sojourn away from the North Pole, his favorite pastimes are listening to children’s gift wishes and satisfying his passion for vintage trains. Lucky for us his December schedule prior to Christmas includes Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday afternoons riding the rails of the Verde Canyon Railroad’s Santa Claus Express. Eagle-decorated FP7 engines pull coaches filled with gleeful passengers away from the station at 1:00 p.m. for a round trip through the wonderland of Verde Canyon to the old Perkinsville Ranch, returning at about 5:00 p.m.

Santa excitedly fills two seats with his ample girth and invites the children to gather round his magic story book for ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…’ Mrs. Claus doles out scrumptious cookies to all, and Elfie tags behind with milk and hot chocolate. Beer, wine and cocktails are available for the big kids.

Outside the panoramic windows of the comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, the breathtaking splendor of crimson cliffs and brilliant blue sky passes by. From lofty trestle bridges the shimmering Verde River is seen snaking along the valley floor. Deer, elk and Javelina emerge from the forest of Cottonwoods and Sycamores to quench their thirst and Great Blue Heron cruise along its emerald waters.

Nesting Bald Eagle

As nature’s extravaganza unfolds in the canyon, the train’s narrator enriches the experience with historical, archaeological, geological and wildlife facts. Young and old alike take to the open-air viewing cars as attendants point out the sizable nest perched precariously on a canyon wall. Everyone wants to know if Black and Decker, one of the resident bald eagle couples, are at home. Eagle Watch will soon be underway as many annually returning bald and golden eagles join the locals and a variety of other migratory birds and waterfowl already comfortably ensconced within the rugged canyon walls.

Join Santa, the king of merriment; his better half, Mrs. Claus, and Elfie as they sweep you away from the bustling city into a magical family get-a-away steeped in nature’s spectacular wilderness vistas.

The Verde Canyon Railroad depot is located at 300 N. Broadway in Clarkdale, AZ, 25 minutes from Sedona, 2 hours north of Phoenix, and 90 minutes south of Flagstaff. Passengers are encouraged to arrive approximately one and one-half hours prior to departure.

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Colorado Skiing. Photo by Shay Haas.

As the weather changes and glimpses of the holiday season begin to appear, create memories that will last a lifetime with a winter escape to Colorado. Perfectly groomed ski slopes, free lift tickets and fun-filled train rides to the North Pole are just a couple reasons to plan a winter vacation in Colorado. Now through the New Year, travelers heading to this winter wonderland can take advantage of a multitude of holiday-inspired packages and events. Below are just some of the ways to celebrate the holidays in Colorado this year. For a complete list of travel packages, vacation values, itineraries and more, visit www.colorado.com.

Give Thanks at the Westin Riverfront

Stay at the Westin Riverfront in Avon from November 23 — November 28 and enjoy the Family Thanksgiving package. The package includes lodging in a studio suite, Thanksgiving dinner for four (two adults, two children), complimentary parking, one hour family photo sitting (don’t forget the dog, the hotel is dog-friendly!) and registration in the 2nd Annual Riverfront Turkey Trot. Rates start at $229 per night. A three-night minimum stay is required. For additional details or to make a reservation visit www.westinriverfrontavon.com or call 866–949-1616.

Ski Free at Steamboat

Book three nights lodging in Steamboat, through Steamboat Central Reservations®, between November 25 – December 18, 2009 or April 4 — April 11, 2010 and receive FREE lift tickets. Local experts are available seven days a week to assist guests in planning and building a customized Ski Free at Steamboat lodging package starting as low as $119 per adult. And that’s not all, for those looking to indulge in the latest equipment; the Ski Free package also offers 20 percent off rental equipment at all Steamboat Ski & Sport locations. For more information visit www.steamboat.com/skifree.

Grandest Christmas Package

This holiday season, Crested Butte is offering skiers and snowboarders the Grandest Christmas package. Pack up the whole family and head to the mountains for a snow-filled weekend while saving a bundle. For under “a grand,” a family of four can enjoy four nights of lodging at the Grand Lodge and three days of skiing or riding. This limited time package is perfect for families and makes a holiday ski vacation affordable on any budget. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.skicb.com.

Boulder Ski Escape

Those looking for a more cost effective way to ski this winter, set out to Eldorado Mountain Resort, located just 30 minutes from Boulder, and find lodging with lift tickets, starting at just $64.50 per person for a one-night stay. The Boulder Ski Escape Package is the perfect way to enjoy the slopes without breaking the bank. Some deals even include breakfast and transportation. To experience the laid back local vibe of Boulder visit www.boulderskiescape.com from November 20, 2009 to April 11, 2010.

North Pole Bound on the Santa Express Train

Head to Cañon City this holiday season and experience the thrill of the Santa Express Train. The Santa Express Train departs the Historic Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City on an evening journey to the enchanting “North Pole.” The magic comes to life while children listen to special holiday classics and enjoy hot chocolate as the train makes its way through the amazing surroundings of the Royal Gorge on its way to the bright lights of the North Pole. Children are welcome to dress in their pajamas in the spirit of the Santa Express Train. The train ride takes approximately 1 1/2 hours. Prices are $19 for ages 3–12 and $29 for adults. Call 888–724-5748 or go online to www.royalgorgeroute.com to purchase tickets and for more information.

A Classic Broadmoor Christmas

Spend the night at the renowned Broadmoor Hotel and experience a magnificent, heart-warming holiday show for the entire family featuring Colorado favorite and Emmy Award Winning performer, Jim Salestrom. He’ll be joined by Nelson Rangell, The Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale, Lila Mori, The Broadmoor Pops Band, and a special presentation of dancing and singing by The Rocky Mountain Holiday Singers. And, to top off the night, there will be a special appearance by the man in the red suit himself – Santa Claus. Shows are scheduled throughout December and prices start at $170 per person, per night. For reservations and additional information call 800–634-7711.

Light Extravaganza on the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk

Each year Pueblo’s Riverwalk brings the joy and wonder of the holiday season to life by hosting the Annual Holiday Lighting Extravaganza, Friday, November 27. Come see the Riverwalk illuminated with holiday lights and displays, sip a cup of hot chocolate, listen to live carol singers or ride the boats down the river. The grand finale of the evening is a stunning fireworks show over Lake Elizabeth. A must attend holiday event for the whole family. Visit www.puebloharp.com for details.

Shop ‘til You Drop in Cherry Creek

Looking for fun off the slopes? Unwind at the JW Marriott Denver and spend the holidays in Cherry Creek. This package is available from November 1, 2009 — January 31, 2010 and includes a stay in a luxurious guest room, a $50 gift certificate to the Spa at Cherry Creek, a $50 gift card to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, two happy hour drinks or appetizers at Second Home Kitchen + Bar and complimentary valet parking. Rates start at $269 per night; Available Thursday – Sunday nights. For additional information or to make a reservation visit www.jwmarriottdenver.com or call 866–706-7814.

Start the Season with a Carousel Christmas

In Burlington, the 23rd annual Christmas at The Carousel will be held Sunday, December 6 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Carousel Park at the Kit Carson County Fairgrounds. Rides on the historic carousel will be free and tours of the Carousel Museum are also available at no charge. The museum building will be decked out for Christmas and will be toasty warm with hot cider and homemade cookies. Take a ride on the carousel and enjoy the sounds of the fully restored magnificent Wurlitzer Monster Military Band Organ that will be churning out holiday carols for the carousel’s riders. Visit www.kitcarsoncountycarousel.com for details.

Winter WildLand Zoo Lights

The holidays are more festive than ever this season at Colorado Springs’ Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Winter WildLand. With thousands of lights, holiday characters, story telling and the opportunity to make gifts for the animals, it is the perfect family outing. Visitors will also accompany Santa Claus as he delivers the hand-made presents to the Zoo residents. The Zoo will be bustling with activities from December 4 – 31, for more information or to purchase tickets visit www.cmzoo.org.

Photo by Shay Haas

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Amtrak is looking to change that and make traveling by train a more competitive option by introducing free Wi-Fi and better eTicketing and mobile ticketing services.

According to a new five year plan released by Amtrak on October 29, 2009, next year Amtrak plans to deploy Wi-Fi technology on its Northeast Acela Express high-speed train routes, which cover Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, and then expand the service to other routes over time. The initial Wi-Fi deployment will be free for use by passengers.

While this service is initially aimed at business travelers, it seems obvious vacationing families and individuals would also be much more likely to travel long distances by train if they knew they had reliable Wi-Fi internet access to keep them company.

Amtrak also plans to introduce and/or improve self-service reservation booking and ticket delivery programs to implement eTicketing, enhance current Quik-Trak ticket kiosks, better customize the Amtrak.com web site, and enable ticket retrieval by mobile device.

Amtrak trains already make it easier to work with laptops and other wireless devices than airlines do. Amtrak trains offer power outlets for use with computers and other devices and riders can also use mobile phones on trains except in “quiet cars.” All of those things should make it easier and more convenient to book travel by rail for vacationers as well as business travelers.

“We must think big, be innovative and pursue opportunities and decisions that make good business sense because the competition is real,” said Amtrak President and CEO Joseph H. Boardman.

The five year plans seeks to align Amtrak’s goals with those passed by Congress in Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 and in the Obama administration’s Vision for High-Speed Rail in America.

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Beaver Creek, OH

With Ohio’s peak fall foliage season nearly upon us, now is the perfect time to plan an Ohio getaway that offers a new perspective on how to view the blazing reds, yellows and oranges throughout the state. Whether you are interested in exhilarating outdoor activities or are looking for a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, Ohio has a number of ways to enjoy the fall foliage season. For additional ideas and getaways created to maximize Ohio’s fall foliage and to view the latest fall color report, we encourage travelers to check www.DiscoverOhio.com and click on the Autumn Adventures icon. Ohio’s fall season truly is too much fun for just one day!

1. Ride the rails through it. Traveling through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad features vintage engines and coaches built in the 1940s and 1950s. Round-trip excursions take visitors to Peninsula, Hale Farm and Village, Quaker Square and Akron’s North side and offer some of the most stunning fall foliage sights in the state on a relaxing train ride. While the park is located near Cleveland, Akron and Canton, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is worlds away. The 33,000 acres of diverse landscape include sandstone ledges, 70 waterfalls (most notably the 60-foot-tall Brandywine Falls), rolling hills and river gorges that can be viewed from 186 miles of trails. Peak fall foliage views: Late September/early October.
2. Rise above it. For a truly breathtaking view of Ohio’s fall foliage, consider getting a birds-eye view with a hot air balloon ride. There are numerous options geographically to start off your adventure. Prices for hot air balloon rides range anywhere from $320 — $500 for two people. After an exhilarating balloon ride, stay grounded at a local restaurant and share stories of this high-flying experience. Peak fall foliage views: Depending on geographic region, late September through late October.
3. Segway into it. What better way to combine technology with the outdoors than to embark on a journey through Mother Nature’s territory on a guided Segway tour? Firefly Hollow Segway Tours in Little Hocking (SE Ohio) offers fantastic eco-friendly opportunities to navigate the outdoor landscape for anyone, even those with physical limitations. Along 3.5 miles of terrain, visitors travel deep into the woods, up and down hills, enjoying the finest in fall foliage. Be sure to bring binoculars, as the tour educates visitors on the area’s birding population and provides tips on how to spot birds. Peak fall foliage views: Late October.
4. Fly through it. Ohio offers two unbelievable ziplining adventures with two different experiences. In Oregonia (SW Ohio), Ozone Zipline Adventures takes thrill seekers above the Little Miami River Valley canopy on seven sky bridges spanning two miles. Among the reds, oranges and yellows, see 500 million-year-old fossils and 2,000-year-old Native American earthworks in the valley on this educational ride. In Rockbridge (SE Ohio), the Hocking Hills Canopy Tours takes riders on a faster zipline where views of the Hocking River and rock cliffs provide a breathtaking backdrop for the area’s natural flora and fauna. Peak fall foliage views: Late October.
5. Float past it. No visit to Historic Roscoe Village is complete without a relaxing float along a 1.5-mile stretch of canal aboard the horse-drawn Monticello III. A part of the Lake Park Recreational Complex, the 45-minute canal boat ride allows passengers to experience a serene glide at 4 mph from which fall colors along the forested banks can be savored. The canal boat captain provides passengers with a little insight into life on the canal during its 1800s heyday. Don’t miss the village’s historic shops and restaurants and sited including the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum or the nearby Raven’s Glenn Winery. Peak fall foliage views: Early to mid-October.
6. Trot past it. Take a horse-drawn buggy ride through the rolling hills of Ohio’s Amish Country at Schrock’s Family Farm near Berlin (NE Ohio). Located in the heart of the country’s largest Amish population, the farm provides visitors with an understanding of local Amish customs, traditions and lifestyle. Take the opportunity to browse the region’s numerous cheese houses or shop for quilts and hardwood furniture. Peak fall foliage views: Late September/early October.
7. Get up close to it. Ohio has two backpacking trails that offer hikers opportunities to get away from it all and experience nature’s fall foliage. The 23.5-mile Zaleski State Forest backpack trail in Vinton County (SE Ohio) is great for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous hiking and backpacking experience in Ohio’s second-largest state forest. Also called “The Little Smokies of Ohio,” Shawnee State Forest’s backpacking trail in Scioto County (SE Ohio) offers 60 miles of rugged terrain ideal for more moderate and advanced hikers. Peak fall foliage views: Late October.
8. Paddle through it. Ohio’s 14 state scenic rivers offer unique views of brilliant fall foliage and migrating birds. Located in Hiram (NE Ohio), the Camp Hi Canoe Livery offers visitors a peaceful canoe or kayak experience along the upper portion of the scenic Cuyahoga River. On the State Scenic Sandusky River, Ridgway Canoe Livery near Tiffin (NW Ohio) offers canoe or kayaking trips for spectacular fall foliage views. Peak fall foliage views: Late September/early October.
9. Road trip it. Ohio’s scenic byways are a fantastic way to enjoy Ohio’s fall colors, and each one offers a very different experience. Consider a drive along the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway through Wayne National Forest (SE Ohio) in Ohio’s Appalachian region or cruise along the flatlands of the Old Mill Stream Byway (NW Ohio) along the Blanchard River and Lake Erie. Peak fall foliage views: Depending on geographic region, late September through late October.
10. Hoof it. Ohio state parks and forests offer more than 500 miles of bridle trails through all types of landscapes and terrain in 24 parks. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced equestrian, Ohio has eight state parks that are adjacent to state forests and provide more than 200 additional miles of riding trails. In particular, Hueston Woods State Park in Butler and Preble Counties (SW Ohio) offers horse rentals and guides who take horseback riders along the park’s scenic trails. Peak fall foliage views: Depending on geographic region, late September through late October.

For the most up-to-date information on Ohio’s fall foliage, follow us on Twitter @DiscoverOhio or become a fan of the Ohio Tourism Division on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/DiscoverOhio. To order a free copy of the 2009 Ohio Travel Planner or the 2009–2010 Fall/Winter Ohio Calendar of Events, click on the Free Publications icon at www.DiscoverOhio.com or call 1–800-BUCKEYE. The Ohio Travel Planner and Ohio Calendar of Events also are both viewable online. Trained travel counselors are available to assist 1–800-BUCKEYE callers weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Hallowfest at Chicago Botanic Gardens. Photo courtesy Chicago Botanic Gardens.

Enjoy a frightfully good time at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s popular Model Railroad Garden during Trains, Tricks & Treats on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 24 and 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In celebration of Halloween and its closing weekend for the season, the Model Railroad Garden will be decorated with spider webs, ghosts, goblins, and pumpkins, as well as seasonal plant materials.

Families are invited to come in costume and trick-or-treat for prizes and candy throughout the 7,500-square-foot garden. See figurines of trick-or-treaters on Main Street, bats and crawly creatures, a graveyard, and more, all tucked among miniature scenes of America’s best-loved landmarks and beautiful gardens planted to scale. Children will also have the opportunity to pot up a catmint plant.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Model Railroad Garden, and visitors will see a special train on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line chugging around the White House—it’s the train line that once transported Abraham Lincoln. Visitors will see a vegetable garden and swing set in front of this year’s White House. New landmarks include Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Also, see the “W” sign atop Wrigley Field and hear Harry Caray singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game!”

“Landmarks of America” trains speed on nearly 1,700 feet of track through miniature scenes of the USA’s most treasured sites. More than 5,000 tiny plants of 250 varieties recreate the geographical landscape of America. Vignettes of tiny people and animals give the exhibition a storybook feel. Sound effects and a working geyser capture imaginations.

Paul Busse of Applied Imagination, Alexandria, Ky., helped design and create the “Landmarks of America” exhibition. Busse’s fascination with trains began at age five when he received an American flyer train. By 1982, he was a landscape architect and entered a competition for model train gardens at the Ohio State Fair. Since then, he has enjoyed a career in train garden design. His exhibitions are in numerous private and public spaces, including botanic gardens in New York and Atlanta.

The Model Railroad Garden is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Sunday, Oct. 25.

Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 3–12 (Garden members save $1 per ticket). Parking is $20 per car; free for Garden members. Strollers are not permitted in the “Landmarks of America” exhibition. Stroller parking is located near the entrance. For information, call (847) 835‑5440, or visit www.chicagobotanic.org.

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Early morning Amtrak train crossing railroad bridge in Fredericksburg, Virginia

Now through December 19, 2009, Amtrak Guest Rewards (AGR) members will earn double points for every qualifying trip they take on any Amtrak route from coast to coast — and earn points twice as fast towards free travel and other rewards.

Guest Rewards members may earn double points on up to two qualifying trips per day — one roundtrip or two one-way trips. Travel on every Amtrak route and in all classes of service is eligible. To take advantage of the double points offer, passengers must be members of AGR and must first register to participate at AmtrakGuestRewards.com using registration code 91409 or by calling 1–800-307‑5000, selecting option 2 and entering the registration code.

“The fall season brings back a resurgence of both business travel and leisure travel for long weekends and holidays,” said Michael Blakey, senior director, Loyalty Marketing. “We are pleased to reward our loyal customers with double points and hope to encourage new customers to become Amtrak Guest Rewards members.”

To receive the double points for travel, members should include their AGR membership number when making reservations to ensure they receive credit for all qualifying travel. Reservations may be made online at Amtrak.com or by calling 1–800-USA-RAIL.

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Entrance to the National Park. Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee. Photo by Cindy Seigle

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire/ — Marriott International, Inc., one of the world’s leading lodging companies, is helping families plan fun-filled trips to some of Tennessee’s top attractions. From Chattanooga to Nashville, museums to theme parks, with comfortable, affordable Tennessee hotels in virtually every corner of the state, families can find budget-friendly accommodations near the places they want to see most.

Some of the top destinations include:

• Grand Ole Opry. It’s the #1 attraction in Tennessee and a must-see for music fans. And whether families snap up tickets for a show or just wander its exhibits, visitors to Nashville will find an array of inspiring sights and sounds.
• Graceland. In the heart of Memphis, music fans can experience a one-of-a-kind journey through the life and times of Elvis Presley. From his humble childhood to his meteoritic rise to fame, this unique museum allows guests to get to know the man behind “Blue Suede Shoes.”
• Rock City. Just minutes from many affordable Tennessee hotels, Rock City at Lookout Mountain boasts breathtaking rock formations, picturesque gardens and unmatched panoramic views. From Enchanted Trail, a woodland path packed with natural beauty, to Fairyland Caverns, this is the perfect spot for families to enjoy a budget-friendly day in the great outdoors.
• Dollywood. Dubbed as a one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain Family Adventure, this 125-acre theme park in Pigeon Forge, near Gatlinburg, is one of the state’s top-rated destinations. Featuring exciting rides, great music and plenty of Southern cookin’, it’s a family-friendly destination with something for everyone.
• Tennessee Aquarium. Located on the Chattanooga Riverfront, this aquarium takes visitors from the depths of the Gulf of Mexico to the top of an Appalachian forest. Featuring thousands of animals, including penguins exhibits and butterfly gardens, as well as breathtaking living forests, families can spend hours learning about the world around them.
• Incline Railway. Also located in Chattanooga, this National Historic Site and National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark takes adventurers on trolley-style railcars high into the clouds along the steepest passenger tracks in the world, where — at the top, visitors can see over 100 miles away to the Great Smoky Mountains.

With affordable, luxury accommodations and the home-like amenities of extended-stay hotels, Marriott’s convenient locations make it easy for families to plan a summer vacation for less. For more information about Tennessee hotels and attractions, visit http://www.marriott.com/hotel-search/united-states/tennessee.

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Crossing Cheak Canyon Bridge

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada — Rocky Mountaineer, recently recognized as the top train in the world by The Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), is celebrating its recent distinction with an unbeatable offer to experience both of its highly regarded routes. Guests who book a Rocky Mountaineer rail journey or package from now until September 25, 2009, receive a free round-trip journey onboard the Whistler Mountaineer, which also made the “Top Ten” train list at number eight. In addition, travellers have a chance to bring home a few mementos of their trip with a $50 souvenir credit.

“With both of our world renowned trains making SATW’s “Top Ten” train list, we really wanted to give travellers a chance to see what this prestigious organization is raving about,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President, Marketing of Rocky Mountaineer. “There is so much to experience in Western Canada and this new offer affords us the opportunity to showcase the stunning scenery of British Columbia, the Canadian Rockies, as well as the Sea-to-Sky region to Whistler.”

The Rocky Mountaineer train travels between Vancouver, Whistler, BC and Jasper, Banff or Calgary, Alberta and offers a two-day, all daylight rail journey through the Canadian Rockies. Passing by these beautiful landscapes, guests experience the best mix of exceptional service and magnificent views of snow-capped mountain peaks, rugged canyons and crystal clear lakes. As a perfect complement to the Rocky Mountaineer, the Whistler Mountaineer links the world-class destinations of Vancouver and Whistler, proud hosts of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This spectacular three-hour trip features some of the most spectacular scenery in North America, through the Sea-to-Sky Corridor, along Howe Sound and into the Coast Mountain range. To top it all off, guests receive a $50 credit to choose from a wide variety of souvenirs to remember their journey with Rocky Mountaineer. From stylish jackets to watches, there is something for everyone to mark their memories.

Rocky Mountaineer

This offer is valid between now and September 25, 2009 on new bookings for the 2009 season only. Free offers must be requested at the time of the booking and used as part of the vacation package or two-day rail journey. The trip cannot be deferred to another date, refunded or credited. The onboard $50 souvenir credit is non-transferable, has no cash value, is not applicable to children and must be used onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Further restrictions may apply.

For more information on this limited time offer, please contact your local travel professional or Rocky Mountaineer directly at (800) 665‑7245, or visit www.rockymountaineer.com.

Rocky Mountaineer offers unique Canadian vacation packages and four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. Best known for the internationally-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day, all daylight rail journey through Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers trips onboard the Whistler Mountaineer train, a daily three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Since its inception in 1990, the company has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and welcomed its one millionth guest in 2008. Rocky Mountaineer has been honoured with three World Travel Awards as “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” and was named by National Geographic as one of the “World’s Greatest Trips.”

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