grand view cruise train

Alaska Railroad Grandview Scenic Train - Anchorage to Seward

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

If your Alaska cruise embarks or disembarks in Seward, you will need a transfer to or from Anchorage which is 127 miles away. Cruise passengers can choose either a 3-hour bus transfer or a 4.5-hour ride on the Grandview Train of the Alaska Railroad . The train runs directly between the Anchorage airport and the cruise pier in Seward so it's a great option for cruise passengers.

The train fare is about 40 to 50 percent more than the bus, but the wilderness train route is more scenic and relaxing, passing by picturesque glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and mountains. In addition, the road is very busy in the summer and circles around the mountains, so you won't get as close to the glaciers as you will on the rails.

The Alaska Railroad initiated the Grandview passenger train in 2000 to serve cruise ship passengers traveling between Seward and Anchorage. The train follows the Coastal Classic route, but the departure time is adjusted for the cruise ships.

At the Station in Anchorage

The Alaska Railroad train station in Anchorage is across the street from the Anchorage Airport, so it's easy to fly into Anchorage and take the train to your cruise ship. However, there's so much to do in Anchorage, it's better to fly in a few days before and spend some time sightseeing in the city.

In Seward , the Grandview Train terminal is at the cruise pier, so it is very convenient for those riding the train from Anchorage. Seward also has several hotels and accommodations for guests who want to arrive a day or so before their cruise and do some exploring of the region around Seward.

Alaska Railroad Dome Car

The domed-car seats on the Alaska Railroad Grandview Train are arranged four to a table, making for a comfortable ride with a scenic view through the roof of the train. It's fun to be able to see all of the surrounding scenery and mountain tops (even when it is raining or cool). Sitting at a table is also very conducive to conversation, so it offers people the opportunity to make new friends as they ride.

Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet

Clouds often cover the mountains, giving them an eerie appearance.  Visitors to Alaska soon learn to appreciate the "mist" that covers many of the mountain tops. Turnagain Arm, one of two arms at Cook Inlet, is subject to climate extremes and large tide ranges.

Waterfall Views

Alaska has many waterfalls, and this one is visible from the train. Cruise travelers will see many more waterfalls as their ship visits the fjords of Alaska.

Mountain, Marshes, and Wildlife

This type of marshy area is perfect for moose, but none were visible on this day. Visitors to Alaska should always be on the lookout for moose when they see a boggy or swampy area.

There are opportunities for viewing wildlife from the train and you may see black and brown bear, caribou, moose, bald eagle, ptarmigan, salmon, mountain goat, and Dahl sheep.

Mountain View

Even though the weather is not too cold in Alaska in the summer months, visitors will see snow-capped mountains year 'round. This photo was taken in July, and you can see snow in the mountains the entire summer season before the first snow showers start to fall in September. 

Spencer Glacier Views

Spencer Glacier rises 3,500 feet from a lake of blue icebergs. The train linking Anchorage and Seward includes a look at this glacier, one of many that cruise passengers have an opportunity to see since Alaska is famous for its tidal glaciers that seem to flow into the ocean.

Alaska Railroad Grandview Train - Coastal Classic Train

When on a train, it's always fun to get a photo of the rest of the train when you are going around a bend. The Alaska Railroad Grandview Train consists of regular passenger and dome observation cars pulled by diesel engines. 

River Views

The Coastal Train passengers see snow-capped mountains, lakes, glaciers, and even a few rivers and streams as their train makes its way from Anchorage to Seward. The rivers look grey as they carry glacial run-off on their journey to the sea. 

Bartlett Glacier

The Grandview Train passes within 800 feet of the Bartlett Glacier. The Coastal Classic train has local experts on board who will point out all of the important sites along the route. Bartlett Glacier is 30 nautical miles long and 5 nautical miles wide. It was named after Captain Robert A. Bartlett, of Newfoundland, an Arctic explorer.

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Glacier Discovery Train

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Glacier Discovery Train - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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What is the Grandview Train Transfer in Alaska?

Why the Train?  

• A relaxing transfer experience at the beginning or end of the cruise.
• Direct boarding from either the pier or airport (complementary transfer from the Anchorage Hospitality Center to the Grandview).
• Provides those of you who are not able to take a Cruisetour with a glimpse into Alaska’s scenic landscape, some of which is only visible by train.
• You can stand and move about the train during the transfer.
• Dining and lounge cars offer varied food & beverage options (cashless system only Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and Diners) plus added areas for relaxation.
• Wildlife sightings along the train route are common.

Northbound or Southbound

Southbound Train for Southbound Cruises

• Anchorage to Seward Pier Terminal
• Used by guests arriving in Anchorage to board their cruise in Seward.

Northbound Train for Northbound Cruises

• Used by guests ending their cruise in Seward and going to Anchorage for flights or other post cruise plans.

Booking/Reservations Information

Air/Sea guests may book the upgrade to the train transfer as follows: 

• Southbound guests may purchase the upgrade at the Anchorage Hospitality Center. This will be charged to the guests’ onboard account.
• Northbound guests may purchase the upgrade at the Guest Services Desk onboard the vessel.

Cruise only transfer and pre cruise hotel package upgrades to train transfer can be booked: 

• In advance with Royal Caribbean Reservations Dept. (UK) 0344 493 4005 or (Ireland) 1800 555 604
• At the Anchorage Hospitality Center

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Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery Train

Ride the railroad to Whittier and beyond.

• Alaska Railroad

Quick Links

• Anchorage to Whittier Train
• Whittier Roundtrip Train
• 26 Glacier Cruise
• Spencer Glacier Day Trips
• Train & Bus Express Checkout

Transportation Finder

Compared to the Coastal Classic and Denali Star , the Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery route is a bit more complex. This part is simple, though: It's a beautifully scenic route with glaciers galore.

The Alaska Railroad runs one Glacier Discovery train daily during the summer. It travels out and back from Anchorage to Grandview with stops in Girdwood, Portage, Whittier, and the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. Most passengers ride just from Anchorage to Whittier , leaving at 9:45 AM and arriving at 12:05 PM. Because of this, the Glacier Discovery works well as a cruise transfer for passengers embarking on a cruise from Whittier to Vancouver . You can also make it a day trip by riding Anchorage to Whittier roundtrip . The return train departs Whittier at 6:45 PM, leaving plenty of time for a day cruise into Prince William Sound. For those adventurous travelers going beyond Whittier, add-on iceberg kayaking or a raft trip that start from the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop.

The first glaciers on the Glacier Discovery route come into view above Girdwood, the train's first stop after departing the historic Anchorage Depot. From here, the train continues to Portage, then takes the spur track into Portage Valley where several hanging glaciers cling high up on the steep mountainsides. The train passes through a 2.5 mile tunnel to emerge on the other side of the mountains in Whittier and, after a 40-minute stop, retraces the scenic spur back to Portage. The two most prominent glaciers on the railway are soon reached, first Spencer Glacier and then Bartlett Glacier. Grandview marks the Glacier Discovery train's turnaround point. The complete circuit takes just under 12 hours, with the segment between Anchorage and Whittier running 2.5 hours.

The Alaska Railroad offers only the Adventure Class service on the Glacier Discovery train. All passengers enjoy reserved seating in spacious cars with picture windows and a bistro car selling snacks and drinks. To learn more about onboard amenities, please visit our Adventure Class page.

You can use our Train & Bus Express Checkout to see availability and rates for one-way Glacier Discovery trips from Anchorage to Whittier and Whittier to Anchorage. Visit our Anchorage to Whittier roundtrip page to book the full day trip. If you'd like to travel beyond Whittier to Spencer Glacier or Grandview, please contact us for details.

Interested in seeing more of Alaska by rail? Check out the Denali Star and Coastal Classic routes.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Whittier

Transfer to Prince William Sound day tours and cruises leaving out of Whittier on this scenic 63-mile train ride along the Turnagain Arm. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Whittier to Anchorage

Return to Anchorage after a trip in Whittier aboard this evening Glacier Discovery train route. The train offers Adventure Class seating and café car with grab-and-go snacks. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Whittier Roundtrip

Transfer to Prince William Sound day tours on this convenient roundtrip train ride out of Anchorage. Learn More >

Alaska Train Day Trips

Discover train adventures perfect for visitors with an extra day or two in Anchorage. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Grandview Valley Day Trip

Spend more time along the Alaska Railroad's most scenic miles of track on this day-long roundtrip ride from Anchorage aboard the Glacier Discovery train. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Spencer Glacier Day Trip

Explore a bit of Alaskan backcountry with this roundtrip Glacier Discovery train ride to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Schedule

See the departure and arrival times for all segments of the Alaska Railroad, including the Denali Star, Coastal Classic, and Glacier Discovery trains. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Rates

See adult and child Alaska Railroad ticket prices based on the season, route, and either the standard Adventure Class or premium GoldStar service. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Reservations

Reserve your Alaska railroad train tickets plus other transportation you'll need during your Alaskan vacation with us online or over the phone. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Whittier

Connect to cruises into Whittier by the Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery train. The route links the Prince William Sound port town with Anchorage. Learn More >

Riding The Glacier Discovery Whistle Stop Train With Alaska Railroad

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Last updated on November 9th, 2021 at 07:17 pm

A re you curious about the best train ride in Alaska?  One of my favorite things about visiting Alaska without a cruise is the luxury and flexibility to enjoy some of Alaska’s best-kept local secrets, like the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train, including the Spencer Whistle Stop.

I love this train trip so much that for my bachelorette, I opted for a ride on the Glacier Discovery Train to Spencer Glacier. My friends and I boarded the train with our camping equipment (not required), some hard ciders from Double Shovel cidery (definitely recommended), and a sneaky bottle of whiskey (probably not recommended) and settled in for one of the most stunning train rides in the world. Even as a born and raised Alaskan, seeing the sweeping views of the inlet with the endangered pod of Cook Inlet beluga whales hiding under the bore tide, mountain goats balancing on mountain ridges, glaciers, waterfalls, and bear and moose butts running into the marshes blew me away. As part of my ever-growing list of top things to do in Anchorage riding the Alaska Railroad, Glacier Discovery Train is in the top 10. [no_toc]

WHAT WE’RE COVERING

Why Ride the Glacier Discovery

Customize & Plan Your Trip

How to Book

What to Pack

Discuss and share.

• Riding the Glacier Discovery Train with the Alaska Railroad is one of the best things to do near Anchorage
• Hop on and hop off for a fully customizable day of adventures to suit your taste
• A leisurely pace prioritizes views, wildlife, and an intimate introduction to Alaskan nature
• See glaciers, waterfalls, and hopefully lots of wildlife

Why the Glacier Discovery Train the Best Train Trip in Alaska

The Glacier Discovery Train is a scenic ride offering the very best views in Alaska, including mountains, wildlife, glaciers, waterfalls, and historical sights. The train chugs along at a slow and leisurely pace with chances to hop on, hop off, and customize your trip with an excursion. Glacier Discovery focuses on providing guests with an intimate introduction to Alaska’s unique nature and landscapes. With guided commentary covering ecology and history, it is not uncommon for the conductor to stop the train for wildlife sightings and ample photos of cascading waterfalls. Whether you’re interested in getting off the beaten track, looking to add an epic adventure, explore quiet nature, or get some frame-worthy photographs, then this tour is for you.

A Ride Through the Lush Chugach National Forest

For a decent portion of the trip, you’ll be in Chugach National Forest. The Chugach National Forest is a magical place where thick towering spruce trees emerge from the mist and shelter salmon swimming through pristine waters. The Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery train offers a unique look at the animals, glaciers, waterfalls, roaring rivers, and dense forests that make the Chugach region so special.

• Chugach National Forest is the northern and westernmost national forest in the United States. 
• About 30% is covered in ice including the glaciers you’ll see along the way. 
• Some of our salmon and trout fishing happens in the region, including commercial fishing in the copper river.
• Many Alaskans rely on the pristine water, lush forest, and wildlife for subsistence living.
• There are 96 watersheds and it is a place where rivers and forests exist to provide clean air and clean water.
• Hundreds of species call this forest home including bear, moose, eagle, coyote, wolf, deer, all five species of Pacific salmon, and gorgeous Sitka spruce.

Customize Your Trip with the Alaska Railroad

A day riding the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery train is fully customizable. With stops in Girdwood, Seward, Portage, and Spencer Glacier, you can create a trip starting in Anchorage, stopping at Portage to visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and finishing with glacier views. Or you could head to Whitter for a glacier and wildlife cruise. You could then end with a night in Girdwood at one of Alaska’s most luxurious hotels before heading back to Anchorage the next day. For the adventurous type, you can hop off and for an overnight camp (camping equipment required as well as reserving a spot) or book a rafting excursion before catching the train back to Anchorage. 

The train makes frequent stops, and you can hop on or hop off, including places like the Spencer Whistle Stop. However, the train only runs once a day RT, and you must let the conductor or train staff know what your planned schedule is. The route can be somewhat complicated, but the Alaska Railroad staff are accommodating and will prompt you when it is time to hop off and when the train will return to pick you back up. For this reason, I recommend making sure your battery is fully charged or wearing a watch to make sure you know what time it is to catch the train.

Train Route and Dates

The train only runs from Anchorage to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop from early May to the beginning of June (May 29 – June 4, 2021). Starting June 4th, you can ride the entire route from Anchorage to Grandview until it closes for the end of the season, beginning of September (Sept 6, 2021). So, keep that in mind when thinking about how you want to customize your day. Worry not for the spring and early summer travelers, the route from Anchorage to Spencer Glacier hits all the fantastic highlights, and you won’t miss a thing.

You’ve Got Options

No matter how you customize your day, you’re likely to start your day from Anchorage. The train departs from the Anchorage train station at 9:45 am. The train runs along the coast of the Turnagain Arm. Where to sit? You can move around the train, so it doesn’t matter.. but..

On your left side, you have mountains with chances to see Dall Sheep defying gravity and clinging to the rocks.

Dall Sheep males have massive rounded curled horns, and females have smaller curved horns. The horns grow rather quickly in the summer, and they stop growing in the winter.  You can tell their age by looking at the growth rings on the horn, and females up to 19 years old have been spotted. Look for bits of white along the mountain. 

On the right, you have sweeping views of the inlet with water and mountain views. If you’re fortunate, you’ll spot a beluga whale. 

This particular pod of Belugas is endangered, and there are only about 250-300 left. They are a genetically distinct pod separated from other pods in Norway, N. Alaska, and Canada for generations. The pod is threatened by global warming, noise and toxic pollution, and killer whale predation. Look for white melon heads. You’ll likely think the waves are belugas, but it is probably just a wave as they are tough to spot. 

You’ll learn all about Alaska’s unique geology of the region, including the deadly glacial silt and bore tide, so I’ll save more juicy details for the commentators on the train. Your first stop will be a quick one in Girdwood. 

BOOK ALL OPTIONS THROUGH THE ALASKA RAILROAD, except anything you do in Girdwood, such as staying at the hotel. You do not need to purchase separate tickets or book excursions on your own. *Prices are for people 12 and up. Children receive a different price.

Option 1: Overnight in Girdwood.

You can choose option 1 and stay the day and night in Girdwood and continue your journey the next day. Basically, you can catch the Glacier Discovery train to Girdwood, hop off, stay the night, and then board the train the following morning on its first stop in Girdwood. You can also choose to stay in Girdwood on the way back if you want, staying in Girdwood after your train ride and then catch it back into Anchorage the following evening. Of course, you can ride the train RT from Anchorage if you don’t want option 1. Either way, you still need to pay full price for RT tickets. You just need to book a return trip the following day if you overnight. 

I have a complete guide to Girdwood coming soon, but I highly recommend staying in Girdwood for at least a night on the way there or back. The Hotel Alyeska is one of Alaska’s best hotels, with a spa, pool, fine dining, hiking, mountain biking, great local pubs, and restaurants. This is my favorite town in Alaska. I was a big snowboarder and basically lived here in winter. You can ride the tram to the top of the mountains for great views of 7 glaciers, fancy cocktails, or just a brisk hike. I love Girdwood so much I got married here (wedding image above).

Option 2: Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

After the train leaves Girdwood, it continues to a stop called Portage – named after Portage glacier. Here you can get off and choose to visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is an animal rehabilitation and research center. They save certain animals and release them into the wild if they are able. Some animals like Chena, the lynx that was abused and kept in a chicken coop her whole life, were brought to the center and live a pampered life as close to the wild as they can get. The center has also successfully reintroduced an extinct group of wood bison back to the wilds of Alaska. It’s a large area with lots of room for the animals, and you can spend time walking around and viewing the brown and black bears that live there full time, along with lynx, and other animals such fox, muskox, moose, and eagle. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alaska Wildlife Cons. Center (@akwildlife)

While you’re visiting the center, the train continues to Whittier – it will pick you up on its return from Whitter. For those that want to go on a glacier and wildlife cruise in Whitter, you’ll stay on the train. You should 100% make this stop unless you’ve booked the glacier cruise for the day. 

• Price: $220* includes tickets to the wildlife center and RT passage on the Glacier Discovery Train
• Time: 1.5 hours at the wildlife center

Option 3: Glacier and Wildlife Cruise in Prince William Sound

As the train departs Portage, it enters the longest rail tunnel in N. America and emerges into a charming fishing village with its own weather pattern. 

Fun fact: Most of Whittier’s residents live in one building. My mom lived here when she was a little, and you might notice a derelict building in the distance. She lived there with her family along with all the other Whitter residents. It would snow so much during her childhood they had to use a tunnel system to get to school. Otherwise, everything they needed was in the building, including Dr., post office, and little market. Now, most residents live in the modern central building you see.

You’ll disembark the train and board a glacier and wildlife cruise with Phillips 26 Glacier cruises. The cruise explores fjords and bay for views of tidewater glaciers and wildlife. A hot meal is provided. The train will pick you up on its way home at the end of the day. 

• Price: $284* – includes glacier and wildlife cruise and RT passage on the Glacier Discovery Train
• Time: 5-hour cruise

Option 4: Spencer Glacier Walk

The train leaves Whittier, returning to Portage to pick up the Wildlife Center passengers, and continues to Spencer Glacier, the next stop of the day. The train stops at Spencer Glacier, and you can disembark to enjoy a 3.3-mile walk out to the Glacier trail terminus. There are plenty of reasons to stop and take photos along the way. The trail is gravel, but it is primarily flat and well maintained. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here, so if you’re a fast walker, you can also head down the Glacier Discovery trail, which takes you to a lovely river over a rustic wooden bridge. There are restrooms and a sheltered area in case the weather turns. The train will pick you up on its way back, and you’ll need to make sure you are back at the stop on time.

• Price: $132* for RT tickets on Glaicer Discovery Train from Anchorage to Spencer. Exploring is free!
• Time: About 2.5 hours at Spencer Glacier/Lake

Sub-option 4a: Camp at Spencer Glacier in one of 3 campsites. Each campsite accommodates multiple tents ranging from 10 people – 20 people. You’ll need some friends, a couple of tents, and proper gear. Reservations are popular, so you’ll need to contact Alaska Railroad as soon as you know you want to do this and see what your options are. This is what I did for my bachelorette, and we had such a great time building a bonfire, drinking that bottle of whiskey, and maybe skinny dipping in the glacier lake, but shhh, that’s a secret and definitely not recommended.

Option 5: Float Rafting on Spencer Lake

If you’re looking to get up close and personal with the glacier, you can book an excursion through Alaska Railroad for a leisurely paddle around Spencer Lake. This is a relaxed excursion or float, and kids as old as 5 are welcome to join. You’ll float away from Spencer glacier down the Placer River with your guide. The train makes a special stop just to pick you up along the riverside. Life jackets and rain boots are included. 

• Price: $258 Includes float trip and RT tickets on the Glacier Discovery Train
• Time: About 2 hours

Combo Options: Option 2 & 4 or Option 2 & 5

You can stack options, and you can combine the Wildlife Conservation Center with either of the Spencer Glacier options, including the walk or the float trip. 

• Prices vary based on the combo.

Option 6: Stay on the Train

If you’re happy as a clam just kicking back and staying on the train from point A to B and back to A again, you are more than welcome. The ride from Spencer Glacier to Grandview is lovely. You’ll see two other glaciers, including Bartlett and Trail Glacier. The trail winds through the Grandview valley with stunning exclusive views on either side. 

• Price: $148* RT from Anchorage to Grandview

Alaska Railroad and the Chugach Forest Whistle Stops

From Portage to Grandview, the train may make some unexpected stops and whistle stops. Locals use these whistle stops to access backcountry regions in the Chugach Forest for things like packrafting, hiking, skiing, or other activities. You can use the train as a whistle-stop and get on and off as you please as long as you have the right ticket, equipment and know the train schedule to make sure you’re not stuck out overnight when you don’t plan to do so. I only recommend this for more advanced outdoor people that have the proper equipment, and outdoor savvy. But, you’ll notice people coming and going along these stops with lots of outdoor gear. 

Return home

After the train reaches the final destination in Grandview, it turns around, making all the same stops picking up rafters and those at Spencer Glacier. It stops through Whittier and again in Girdwood before returning to Anchorage as the sun begins to set. 

Option 7: Take a motorcoach back to Girdwood or Anchorage .

You have the option to skip the trip back into Whitter and to Anchorage and ride a coach home. It saves you some time, but honestly, I love riding back toward Anchorage, as you can look out beyond the inlet to see distant mountains such as Denali on a clear day and some of our Aleutian volcanoes. 

How to Book the Glacier Discovery Train with Alaska Railroad

You can certainly book online on the Alaska Railroad website. If you plan to keep it simple and stay on the train most of the time, you can book an RT train passage for the day of your choosing. I’ll be honest, though, I find their booking system frustrating and confusing, and if you can call or email, you might be better off. Bookings of the Glacier Discovery Train are made online at the Alaska Railroad website.

If you utilize any options 2-5 or a combo option, you’ll want to call or email the Alaska Railroad as they need to coordinate with their excursion partners and create a custom package for you. You can call them at 800-544-0552 or email them at [email protected]

There is no VIP section on the Glacier Discovery Train, and everyone gets the same seating and the same comfort level.

Prepare for a 13 hour day. If you ride a full RT from Anchorage and back, you’ll be gone for 12+ hours. Bring any medication or supplies you’ll need to be gone a whole day. 

• Camera – you’ll see lots of great views and hopefully some wildlife, even if it’s just at the conservation center. So, if you have an excellent zoom lens, make sure to pack that too.
• Snacks & water – there is food and beverage on the train, including local craft beer! But if you want to save some money or like snacking, bring some granola bars or a packed sandwich.
• Athletic clothes and supportive athletic shoes – Whether you’re floating on a raft or just walking around the wildlife center, you’ll want stable tennis shoes or hiking boots/shoes. Based on the weather, you’ll want pants and a jacket for walking outdoors. I recommend some hiking pants or something similar.
• Rain Jacket/warmer layers – even if it is bright and sunny in Anchorage, weather changes fast near Spencer Glacier and Whitter as you pass through mountains. Trust me; you’ll likely see rain no matter how sunny you think it is. Be prepared with a rain jacket and extra warm layers like smart wool or flannel. It can get very cool near glaciers.
• Bug spray – Mosquitoes love Alaska.
• Backpack – you’ll need a decent day bag. Fill it with an extra layer or two, a water bottle, snacks, your camera, and even a change of socks. 
• Notebook for journaling all the awesome things you see
• Sunscreen for when the sun does shine
• Wallet with credit and some extra cash.
• A book for any lengthy whistle stops along the way.
• Power cords and chargers.
• A reliable watch or time keeping system

Riding the Glacier Discovery Train is one of the best ways to get an intimate look at Alaska’s more hidden scenic views. The customization and additional excursions mean that there is something for the entire group. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did and make memories as big as mine for my bachelorette party. 

• Are you curious about booking the Glacier Discovery Train with the Alaska Railroad? Which option looks the best for you? Let me know in the comments!

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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24 comments.

What a beautiful train ride! The scenery looks stunning! I’d love to take a ride and admire the views! Thanks for the great guide!

Oh my goodness! This is on my list now!! I would LOVE to do this!

I dont know why I never thought about taking a train in Alaska before now, I have to do it!

This sounds like a great adventure to go on, and I would definitely be visiting Alaska without a cruise so I have more freedom to do things such as this.

Alaska is such an amazing state to visit. I love all of the scenery. I did the train when I went but I would love to do some of the hikes next time. The Spencer Glacier Walk looks like a hike I would like.

Oh my my…This is surely on my list now. I am going here as soon as I can :)

Great post! I love going on train rides. They’re honestly my favorite way to see natural scenery. I’ll have to try to ride this one sometime!

Train rides really are the best way to see a region and the Alaska Railroad does not disappoint.

oh my goodness I always see TV shows about the Alaska Railroad and would love to experience it myself one day, this has just made me even more determined to! It looks and sounds epic!

Hahah it’s funny, there are so many TV shows about Alaska. I haven’t seen any of them to be honest, but I’m glad they inspire people to want to visit!

I really enjoy going on train rides so I can see more of the landscape and enjoy the view rather than having to drive. This looks like an amazing journey to go on!

This drive is lovely too, but it’s hard to stop and take photos if you are driving. The Glacier Discovery Train is the perfect way to take photos and relax while getting all the amazing views

OMG, this is so beautiful and great way to explore Alaska glaciers. Alaska is brimming with natural beauty that just leaves you mesmerized. Added this to my bucket-list

I hope you are able to visit some time and ride the Alaska Discovery Train

Hi, thank you, this was an amazing article! If we want to customize is it best to call the railroad and make the reservation? Thinking about and Anchorage-Portage to see wildlife conservatory, then back on train. If we get off at Spencer to do the 1.3 mile hike, do we wait for train to come back through or would you recommend not getting off at Spencer and take the entire train through to Grandview? How do we book the Motor Coach on the way back, is that through the website also? Thank you for all the information!

Hi Cheryl, thanks so much for reading. Anchorage – Portage for the Wildlife Conservation sounds like a great plan! If you get off at Spencer you will wait for the train to return. Which option you choose really depends on what you are looking for in your day – a more active trip with lots of walking around Spencer Glacier, or a scenic relaxing train ride through Grandview? I would recommend contacting the Alaska Railroad via email to get the right ticket and option for you. The motorcoach should be included, but due to COVID and everything, you’ll want to double-check that it is running and anything you need to do to make sure you have that option. Best of luck and have fun! Susanna

Hi Susanna,

Can you take the discovery train, the Phillips cruise, sleep in Girdwood, then catch the coastal train to Seward the next morning?

Hi Brian, I don’t think you can do that on one ticket, but you might be able to book separate tickets. I would email Alaska Rail Road customer service to verify everything though just in case I am wrong. They are super helpful! Good luck!

I’m so glad I found this website, I’m planning to take my 10 yo and to be honest I couldn’t decide, but after reading your detailed sections about each stop, I think the glacier route is the one? Any other suggestions for what to do with 1 yo?

Hey Leslie, stopped at the Alaska wildlife center and Spencer Glacier is a great option. Stopping at the glacier is a great way to get out and stretch your legs and explore a glacier lake. I don’t have kids, but that sounds like it would be a good way to keep them entertained. The alternative is staying on the train the entire time, which is more relaxing, but for an energetic kid, might be a long stretch. The decision really comes down to what your personal interests and activity level are. Hope you enjoy the glacier discovery train!

One more thing, it looks like it’s got to be one or the other in terms of stops: the glacier cruise or conservation one? Any opinions?

Hey again, yes, that is correct you can either do the glacier cruise out of Whittier or the Wildlife Conservation Center and continue on the train. This is a tough decision – they are both so great. If this is your only chance to do a glacier cruise while in Alaska, the tour with https://phillipscruises.com/ is pretty special. It will significantly cut train ride time down, but you do get a scenic ride from Anchorage to Whitter and back. Again, it comes down to your interests – does a shorter train ride with a glacier cruise seem more appealing? Or a longer train ride with stops to see animals at the wildlife center and a nature walk at Spencer sound more appealing to you and your kid? I hope you have a great time whatever you choose!

Thanks for this wonderful write-up, Susanna!

We (family of 5) are thinking of taking this train and then go on to Seward (for a 1 or 2 night stay). We will then head back to Anchorage. It doesn’t seem like there’s a train between Grandview and Seward. What would be your recommendation to travel from the train to Seward and then back to Anchorage?

Car rental may be an option but I read that dropping off at a different location can incur a high fee.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Hey Cedric, this is more of a scenic tourist train focusing on glacier viewing and nature walks. If you want the passenger train to Seward, you will need to book the Coastal Classic Train from Anchorage to Seward. This is still run by Alaska Railroad, but it doesn’t make stops at places like Spencer Glacier. It is still scenic, though, and an excellent option for 1-2 nights in Seward. You can always reach out to the Alaska Railroad for help. Make sure you check out my post on local tips for Seward https://curiositysavestravel.com/sustainable-travel-guide-seward-alaska/ have a great time.

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Alaska Tour & Travel

Glacier Discovery Train

Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery Route

Understanding why the railroad calls this the Glacier Discovery Route may also help you understand the somewhat complex route the train follows. The train departs Anchorage for Whittier each morning during the summer, returning from Whittier to Anchorage in the evening. This schedule allows for a day trip from Anchorage, with plenty of time in Whittier for a day cruise to the see the glaciers of Prince William Sound. However, during the middle of the day, the train heads back out of Whittier on a sightseeing trip up Spencer Glacier and Grandview . If you choose to stay on the train for this portion you will see your share of glaciers as well as you travel through the Kenai Mountains to Grandview. You also have the option to disembark at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop and take an optional tour such as rafting or hiking.

The morning trip from Anchorage to Whittier is popular for passengers departing on seven day cruises to Vancouver. In addition to the convenient schedule and reasonable cost, the train pulls up right in front of the cruise terminal. Northbound cruise passengers disembarking in Whittier have time for a day cruise before catching the train to Anchorage in the evening, but most passengers opt to depart earlier by motorcoach or other cruise line options. You can read more about Alaska cruise transportation here .

The Glacier Discovery train also stops in each direction in both Girdwood and Portage. On AlaskaTrain.com you can easily book travel online for Anchorage to Whittier or Whittier to Anchorage. There are numerous other choices for travel on this route, so please contact us if you need assistance with these other options.

Highlights on this route will vary depending on the itinerary you choose, but nearly all travelers will experience the 50 mile scenic section along the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Portage. The Turnagain Arm has the largest tidal range in the United States at 30 feet, and is bordered on both sides by steep mountains seemingly rising from the sea. The Whittier tunnel may not be a scenic wonder, but it is an impressive sight just the same. This one lane 2.5 mile tunnel is the second longest highway tunnel in North America, and shares alternating one-way traffic with both vehicles and trains.  If you choose to travel up to Grandview, you will be treated to one of the most scenic sections of the Alaska Railroad, with glaciers, steep river gorges, tunnels and panoramic views along the way. Read more about Spencer Glacier and Grandview on this page .

The Glacier Discovery train just offers the Adventure Class of service. Not to worry… you will be riding in style and enjoying the large viewing windows and comfortable reclining seats. The train will typically have a locomotive, a baggage car, several Adventure Class coaches, a shared dome viewing car, and a dining car. Meal service is more limited in comparison to the Denali Star or Coastal Classic routes, but there is a nice selection of Grab ‘N Go food and beverage items. The train is wheelchair accessible, all non-smoking, and there are friendly host guides that provide commentary throughout the trip.

Follow these links for Glacier Discovery rates , schedules or more information on Route Guide .

• Royal Caribbean International

Grandview Train

By rdcmadden , November 21, 2023 in Royal Caribbean International

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We are cruising from Seward Alaska next June. I called today to setup the Grandview Train from Anchorage to Seward and the agent said the only Royal Caribbean transfer available was the bus. Are they no longer offering it or is it too early to book maybe? 

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• Nov 21 rdcmadden changed the title to Grandview Train

Our TA told us that she couldn't book this until January.  She thinks the space available depends on sales of land/sea packages.  We booked direct partly to get in earlier than cruise line charter.

Train from Anchorage to Seward (Coastal Classic) has only been open for booking since November 2.  This train leaves Anchorage at 6:45am and gets into Seward before noon.  Both Adventure Class and Goldstar are available for most of the summer.  Note that this goes into the main station in Seward while the cruise line train ends on the dock next to where you check in.

https://www.alaskarailroad.com/ride-a-train/buy-tickets/search?trip=AA

Thanks LeeW. 

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A ride across passages of history - Moscow Metro rolls on

Click on the map to enlarge it

Lying at a depth of 5 (Pechatniki station) to 80 metres (Park Pobedy station), the history of the last eight decades unfold before your eyes, carved out of marble and granite and built in iron and glass – revealing the tastes, ideas, dreams, hopes and disappointments of the previous generations and contemporaries. The Moscow Metro dates back to 1931, when its construction first began, although engineers Pyotr Balinsky and Evgeny Knorre submitted their first designs to the Moscow City Duma as far back as 1902. “His speeches carried a strong temptation: like a true demon, he would promise to cast Moscow down to the bottom of the sea and raise it above the clouds”, a journalist for the Russkoye Slovo newspaper commented on Balinsky’s idea. Yet the Duma, made up of rich people, did not bite the bait: after all, they all lived in the centre of the city and never rode overcrowded trams.

After five failed proposals before the Duma, the Moscow Metro finally threw open its doors on May 15, 1935, 18 years after the revolution, and carried the first passengers on its moving staircases, escalators, and the padded seats of its new wagons (unlike the wooden seats in trams). The first metro line – from Sokolniki to Dvorets Sovetov (now known as Kropotkinskaya) -- was 11 km long and had 13 stations. Now, the Moscow Metro has a track of over 300 km with 12 lines and 182 stations. The city’s development outline for 2020 envisages that, by then, another 120 km will have been added to the existing routes.

For the first 20 years of its history, the Moscow Metro was named after Lazar Kaganovich, the “iron commissar” and Stalin’s right hand man, who was in-charge of construction of the first stage of the metro (incidentally, he personally blew up the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in December 1931 as a part of the Proletarian Capital project). In 1955, however, the Metro was renamed after Vladimir Lenin. Although Russia has long since changed its political track, you can still find the images of the former leader at over 10 stations, including, for instance, busts of Lenin at Belorusskaya and Komsomolskaya stations, impressive mosaics at Baumanskaya and Kievskaya stations, a tile panel in the passage between the Borovitskaya and Biblioteka Imeni Lenina stations. By a bitter irony of fate, Lenin’s full-face and side-face images decorate the Tsaritsyno (translated as the Tsarina’s Estate) station (dubbed Lenino up until 1990) – images of the very person who ordered the shooting of the royal family. You will not, however, find any images of Stalin in Moscow’s underground. A symbol of Russia's victory, he was omnipresent in the late 1940s. After his death in 1953 and the denunciation of Stalin’s personality cult, his images were gradually withdrawn from the Moscow Metro.

“Architecture developed along the same lines, both above and below the surface. Anything that emerged above ground had a reflection underground. It is equally true that vice versa never occurred: good architecture underground but bad architecture above the ground,” says Nikolay Shumakov, chief architect of the Moscow Metro. The first metro stations, up until the mid-1950s, were conceived and built as luxurious “palaces for the people”, great architecture for a great state. Art historians insist that the richly-decorated underground was a deliberate ideological move to eulogise the young Soviet country. Stations built between 1937 and 1955 are characteristic of the first architectural period. Everything completed at this time is worthy of special attention. For instance, look at the ceiling at Mayakovskaya and Novokuznetskaya stations to see mosaic panels based on designs by artist Alexander Deineka – 24-Hour Soviet Sky and Heroic Labour of the Soviet People on the Home Front. The mosaics were assembled by famous mosaic artist Vladimir Frolov, author of the mosaic icons in St. Petersburg’s Church of the Saviour on Blood. The Ploshchad Revolutsii station was decorated with 76 bronze sculptures of workers, soldiers, farmers, students and other Soviet people. You can even find a frontier guard with a dog and rub its nose for good luck. You may also note that all the figures (except pioneers) are either sitting or bent, which engendered the sad joke – “Any Soviet man is either in jail or on his knees.”

 Elements of decoration in Moscow's metro.   Photos by Alexandr Ganyushin

1955 heralded the end of the good times for Russian architecture – both underground and above ground – after the Communist Party issued a decree "On elimination of extravagance in design and construction.” Dull stations, without any stucco work, mosaics, original columns or other “unjustified” elements, were built under the slogan “Kilometres at the expense of architecture”. Things were the same above the ground, where entire cities were built of commonplace five-storey apartment blocks, all looking the same, nicknamed ‘Khrushchevkas’ after the then leader, Nikita Khrushchev. To get a sense of this period’s architecture, see the few stations built in the 1960s-1980s like Tverskaya, Kitay-Gorod and Kolomenskaya. In 2002, with the reconstruction of the Vorobyovy Gory station, the development of the Moscow Metro entered a third stage, which could be defined as ‘renaissance’. The platform of the station offers a splendid view of the Moskva River, the Luzhniki Olympic Complex and the Academy of Sciences building. Architectural canons of the 1930s-1940s were once again in use in the design of underground stations. By the same token, artists once again become involved in decorating the stations. As such, the Sretensky Bulvar station boasts silhouettes of Pushkin, Gogol, and Timiryazev and Moscow sights; the Dostoevskaya station is decorated with black-and-white panels featuring the main characters from Dostoyevsky’s novels The Idiot, Demons, Crime and Punishment, The Brothers Karamazov, and the Maryina Roshcha station flaunts its pastoral mosaic landscapes. In 2004, Russia's first monorail transport system was launched into service – an elevated track (running 6 to 12 metres above the ground) in the northern part of Moscow, linking the All-Russian Exhibition Centre and the Timiryazevskaya metro station. The evolution of the Moscow Metro goes on. It’s still a work in progress, with ambitious plans to move the Moscow Metro even closer to passengers over the next ten years, not just by adding an extra 120 km to its total track. “We want to strip the stations of everything we can,” says Nikolai Shumakov. “We are trying to show the passengers their very framework, what the metro is made of. Cast iron and concrete are beautiful.”

Joy ride: Read Gogol, Dante or savour art

The Aquarelle Train.   Source: Reuters/Vostock-Photo

With any luck, you can ride in a retro train, a moving art gallery or a library. The trains are actually a part of the general traffic (i.e., they do not run to any special schedule) and are used on certain lines. The Reading Moscow Train , an ordinary train on the face of it, features extracts from literary works for adults and children. Each wagon has its own selection, from children’s fairy tales to Gogol. Circle Line. The Poetry in Metro Train carries an exposition, updated this year, dedicated to Italian poets Dante Alighieri, Francesco Petrarch, Giacomo Leopardi, etc. All the poems are featured in two languages, Russian and Italian. Filevskaya Line. The Sokolniki Retro Train looks exactly like the first Moscow Metro train, both inside and out. Painted brown, it has padded seats, typical wall decorations and retro lamps. Sokolnicheskaya Line. The Aquarelle Train looks like a cabinet painted with flowers and fruit on the outside. Inside, it is an art gallery featuring art reproductions from the Vyatka Apollinary and Viktor Vasnetsov Art Museum. Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line.

Revolution Square station (built in 1938) is close to the Red Square area. There are 72 sculptures in the station, depicting the people of the Soviet Union, including soldiers, farmers, athletes, writers, industrial workers and school children.

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Love Exploring

How Airports, Train Stations And Cruise Ports Used To Look In North America

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

Journeys through time

Whether by land, sea or air, travel to and through the United States and Canada has been enabled by a familiar selection of large stations, ports and airports for quite some time. But how have these famous thoroughfares moved with the times? We’ve compiled a collection of fascinating then-and-now images to reveal their decades-long transformations.

Click through this gallery to see how some of North America’s most important transport hubs have changed over the years…

Then: John F Kennedy International Airport, New York, USA

Originally opened as New York International Airport, JFK was built on the grounds of the former Idlewild Beach Golf Course in Queens, which inspired its local nickname, Idlewild. It was hoped that it would relieve congestion at nearby LaGuardia Airport, and construction began in 1943. Within two years of its 1948 opening, Idlewild was operating around 70 flights per day and by 1957 it was facilitating more than 1,200 departures per week. It’s pictured here in 1957 after the completion of the International Arrivals Building.

Now: John F Kennedy International Airport, New York, USA

Following the assassination of 35th president of the United States John F Kennedy in 1963, the airport was swiftly renamed in his honor. There have been a number of notable modifications made to the site in the years since, including a rapid transit system (completed in 2003) that connects all JFK’s terminals to the railway and the subway. It is New York City’s largest and busiest airport, and is still evolving today. Construction began on two new international terminals in January 2020, both of which are expected to open in 2026.

Then: Port of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

When this photo was taken in the early 1900s, the Port of Vancouver (Canada’s largest) was just emerging as a major shipping hub. Its first terminal, initially built for cargo ships, was established at Ballantyne Pier in the 1920s, but it took a further six decades for Vancouver’s passenger cruise industry to really boom. The state-of-the-art Canada Place cruise ship terminal – which can dock up to four luxury cruise ships at once – was completed in the mid-1980s, and remains one of the most striking structures on the port’s waterfront.

Now: Port of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Today Canada Place – with white sails rising from its roof like peaks of meringue – welcomes vessels from at least 20 different cruise lines from around the world, including Royal Caribbean, Princess, Viking and Disney. It is also the only homeport in the world offering one-way and round-trip itineraries through the stunning Inside Passage, a famous route through a coastal archipelago that follows more than 1,000 miles of North America's west coast, from Seattle in the US all the way up to Skagway in Alaska.

Then: Grand Central Station, New York, USA

Opened just after midnight on 2 February 1913, Grand Central Terminal quickly became the busiest train station in the US. The station as we know it today was almost lost forever in the 1950s and the 1960s, when it was threatened by proposals to build a tower block either in its place or on top of it. Former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was instrumental in campaigning to preserve the building and the station was named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Here it is pictured in January 1924, with early high-rises just beginning to grow around it.

Now: Grand Central Station, New York, USA

Taken a century after the previous photo, this shot from March 2024 proves that Grand Central Station still holds its own in the Big Apple, despite being dwarfed by the ever-extending skyline. The iconic station was meticulously renovated through the 1980s and particularly the 1990s, when a large-scale restoration added escalators and restaurants and removed decades of dirt and grime. The sweeping project created more than 2,000 jobs throughout the state. Today the terminal is one of NYC's most visited attractions, second only to Times Square.

Then: Port Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Located on the Bay of Fundy, Saint John was Canada’s first incorporated city and has always thrived off its maritime location. Served by the highest tides on Earth and a year-round ice-free harbor, the city's waterfront was blessed with natural advantages. Before the days of plane travel, Port Saint John was a vital point of entry for immigrants into Canada, and had emerged as the largest shipbuilding city in British North America by the early 19th century. This image from the 1920s shows Port Saint John in all its early industrial glory.

Now: Port Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

Cruise ships are now a regular sight in the harbor, and Port Saint John celebrated 35 years of cruising history in 2023. The city's cruise terminals are found in the Uptown neighborhood – the buzzing heart of the city. Just next to the berths, you’ll find one of the port’s more modern additions: the Area 506 Vendor Village (pictured), whose food trucks, retail outlets and pop-ups bring the old port to life during summer and autumn. Founded in 2022, the waterfront installation operates out of more than 60 vibrantly painted shipping containers.

Then: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Georgia, USA

Before Atlanta's main airport began taking shape in the 1920s, its site was occupied by an abandoned racetrack. Initially named Candler Field after the site's former owner, the airport saw its first commercial flight in 1926 and welcomed famed aviator Charles Lindbergh a year later. The airport would double in size during the Second World War and had become the busiest airport in the US by 1957 – and the busiest in the world between midday and 2pm each day. This 1927 image captures the airport in its earliest stages.

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Now: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Georgia, USA

The airport opened the world’s largest air passenger terminal complex in 1980, and claimed the title of the world’s busiest airport (by passenger volume) for the first time in 1998 – a record it's held almost every year since. Renamed Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in 2003, the airport became the first to process more than 100 million annual visitors in 2015. Taken in 2022, this image shows Delta Air Lines planes parked at the airport. The carrier began operating out of Atlanta in the 1930s, making it the airport's oldest continuous tenant.

Then: Gare du Palais, Quebec, Canada

Inaugurated in 1916, Quebec City’s main train station was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway at the height of the First World War. Intended to rival other stations on the continent during the Golden Age of rail travel, Gare du Palais was designed in the opulent style of a French chateau. You can see in this photograph taken within a year or two of the station opening how its imposing facade contrasts with the architecture of the old rail terminal building, originally built by Quebec North Shore and later demolished.

Now: Gare du Palais, Quebec, Canada

The historic building, which marked its centenary in 2016, is still an operational train station today. It was closed to passengers between 1976 and 1985 to undergo major refurbishment, but is now a major stop along VIA Rail’s corridor between Quebec City and Windsor in Ontario, Canada’s southernmost city. Gare du Palais has retained several of its period features, including stained-glass lanterns and vaulted ceilings, and was designated a Heritage Railway Station of Canada in 1992.

Then: Juneau Cruise Port, Alaska, USA

One of the smallest state capitals in the US, Juneau is named after one of its two founding fathers, Joe Juneau – and used to be named after the other. Originally called Harrisburg, the city was established after local Tlingit Chief Kowee guided two prospectors, Joe Juneau and Richard Harris, to the discovery of gold nuggets at Gold Creek in 1880. Shortly after, early tourists arrived in Juneau on cruise tours of Alaska’s Inside Passage region, initially run by the Pacific Coast Steamship Company. This image shows Juneau as cruise-goers would have seen it in the early 20th century.

Now: Juneau Cruise Port, Alaska, USA

Cruises arriving in Juneau today are following a well-trodden path, as the Pacific Coast Steamship Company’s pioneering route proved so popular that it ultimately increased its modest flotilla from two ships to six. The Inside Passage remains the most traveled summer route for small and large cruise ships sailing out of Seattle, Los Angeles and Vancouver. Juneau’s port, pictured here in 2022 from the slopes of Mount Roberts, is within walking distance of most of the small city's attractions, including the State Capitol.

Then: Kansas City Union Station, Missouri, USA

After a devastating flood destroyed the original Kansas City railway station in 1903, it was decided that a new one needed to be built on higher ground. Designed in the Beaux-Arts architectural style that swept the United States and France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the new Union Station – pictured here near the beginning of its long life – opened in 1914. The first train to roll onto its platform was the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Flyer, later known simply as 'the Katy.'

Now: Kansas City Union Station, Missouri, USA

The station has witnessed plenty of dramatic moments. In 1933, convicted gangster Frank Nash was being escorted by police and FBI agents when he was fatally shot outside Union Station on 17 June. The deadly shootout also claimed the lives of four law enforcement officers. Union Station was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, but closed in the 1980s due to dwindling passenger traffic. It reopened to the public in 1999 as an interactive science center, while Amtrak rail services resumed in 2002.

Then: PortMiami, Florida, USA

Originally located at the mouth of the Miami River, the Magic City’s port was first established to ferry tourists to the Florida Keys. The decision to move the port to what is now Maurice A Ferre Park on the banks of Biscayne Bay was not popular with many civic leaders, who feared its commercial operations would blight the scenic shoreline. Nevertheless, the project to build the new port was announced in 1959. This photo shows the Turkish steamship Tarsus anchored off Miami's shores before construction of the new port began.

Now: PortMiami, Florida, USA

Now one of the busiest ports in the US, PortMiami (as it is styled) has been called the cruise capital of the world and 'the global gateway of the Americas'. This photo shows Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Spirit vessel sailing away from the marina in 2023. In January 2024, PortMiami became the homeport of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, lauded as the largest cruise ship in the world. With 40 bars and eateries, 20 decks, eight themed 'neighborhoods,' seven pools and six waterslides, it’s something of a floating city.

Then: Los Angeles International Airport, California, USA

LAX’s humble beginnings belie its modern mega-airport status. From as early as 1925, aviators were leasing the land (then fields of barley, beans and wheat) around where the airport now stands in order to fly their planes. One of these fields, Mines Field, was chosen as the site for Los Angeles’ municipal airport in 1928. The soon-to-be airport hosted the National Air Races later that year, and again in 1933 (pictured). Los Angeles Municipal Airport was officially dedicated in 1930 and within a few years was regarded as a major aircraft center.

Now: Los Angeles International Airport, California, USA

After the Second World War ended, plans for the airport’s expansion gathered momentum, with commercial operations starting in 1946. American Airlines, TWA, United, Western and Pan Am were the first airlines to move into the airport, which was renamed Los Angeles International Airport (LAX being its code) in 1949. One of its most famous features was added in 1961 – the futuristic Theme building, seen just off-center in this image from 2022. Today, LAX is one of the world's busiest airports, with nine interconnected terminals.

Then: Toronto Union Station, Ontario, Canada

This image from around 1900 shows Toronto’s old Union Station – the second on the site – which opened in 1873. At that point it was one of the most modern rail stations in North America, but Canada’s most populous city soon needed an even larger station to meet increasing demand. The old train sheds and station were demolished between 1927 and 1931, while a brand-new Union Station opened in 1927 after 13 years of construction, partially hampered by material shortages during the First World War.

Now: Toronto Union Station, Ontario, Canada

At the time the new Union Station opened, a railway station was seen as the gateway to a city, and therefore needed to be a grand and stately introduction to the destination it served. So the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Grand Trunk Railway had the station built in the Beaux-Arts style and it has endured for more than 90 years as one of North America's finest examples of early 20th-century architecture. Toronto Union Station was designated a National Historic Site by Parks Canada in 1975. 

Then: Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Texas, USA

Although Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (pictured here during construction) didn’t begin operations until 1974, it formed as an idea much earlier. Before DFW opened people were flying between the two cities on a regular basis, prompting discussions about building a large airport in between them as far back as the 1930s. The first collaboration was a small military airport erected between the two cities during the Second World War, but it took another three decades for Dallas and Fort Worth to agree on where to build a shared commercial airport.

Now: Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Texas, USA

Eventually, DFW was built on the outskirts of the city of Irving and originally named Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Airport. At the time, the airport was considered the biggest in the world and was served by nine airlines. It became Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in 1985 and now flies directly to 67 destinations around the world, as well as 193 domestic airports. Spanning five terminals and more than 17,000 acres, it is the first carbon-neutral airport in North America and the largest in the world.

Then: Chicago Union Station, Illinois, USA

Shown here at its dedication ceremony in 1925, Chicago’s Union Station has served America’s rail travelers for almost a century. Designed by Daniel Burnham – the architect behind the iconic Flatiron Building in New York and many more landmarks in the Windy City – it took 10 years and a cool $75 million ($1bn today) to complete. It is now one of Amtrak’s busiest stations, as since 1972 all the operator’s Chicago services have departed from and terminated at Union Station.

Now: Chicago Union Station, Illinois, USA

Between Amtrak passengers and the commuters that use the city’s Metra rail system, nearly 40 million people pass through Union Station each year, with more than 300 trains operating daily. Various restorations and upgrade works have been carried out in recent years to improve accessibility and drainage, and return the Great Hall and its grand staircases to their original splendor. You can see from this recent image that the hall, still filled with shiny wooden benches, looks almost as pristine as it did when freshly built.

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