The rugged terrain of the Allegheny Mountains and the tunnels and turns of the rail lines that run through them are the focus of “West Virginia Mountain Railroading,” a train-lovers’ trek slated for Oct. 12-18. The journey features seven trains in seven days, employing such historic equipment as the steam-powered logging locomotive Durbin Rocket, the self-propelled Cheat Mountain Salamander and a vintage streamliner that squeezes through the Cumberland Narrows. Passengers have an opportunity to experience two of the sharpest railroad curves in the country, while keeping an eye out for the wildlife–bear, bobcat, beaver and bald eagles–often found along the way. The $1,019 price covers a round-trip coach seat on Amtrak from Chicago or Dyer, Ind., four nights’ hotel accommodations, the train excursions, escorted motor-coach tours, admissions and some meals. Sleeping car accommodations on Amtrak for the two nights not covered by the package are optional. “West Virginia Mountain Railroading” is offered by the 20th Century Railroad Club of Wilmette. (312-829-4500; www.20thcentury.org)
FALLING FOR HISTORY
Clipper Cruise Line of St. Louis has designed several autumn itineraries that should please fall foliage fanciers and history buffs alike. “Exploring Atlantic Canada” calls at L’Anse Aux Meadows, a Norse settlement that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also takes in charming towns, including picturesque Peggy’s Cove. The Sept. 2-12 cruise is priced at $4,130, including shore excursions and port charges. The sailing begins in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and ends at Halifax, Nova Scotia. Another run, “The Making of America,” departs Halifax on Sept. 12 to highlight the Atlantic coastline in its fall colors. This cruise covers many cities and battlefields that were pivotal to the country’s history, ending Sept. 26 at Savannah, Ga. The price of $4,450 is inclusive of port charges but not shore excursions. Both voyages are on the 122-passenger Clipper Adventurer. (800-325-0010; www.clippercruise.com)
YELLOWSTONE COURSE
Among the educational “Lodging and Learning” programs at Yellowstone National Park is “Roosevelt Rendezvous,” a four-night wildlife course based at Roosevelt Lodge in the Tower-Roosevelt area of the park, with field trips, hikes and evening presentations by naturalists. Starting Sept. 10, 14, 18 and 22, the “Roosevelt Rendezvous” sessions are priced at $530, including lodging in Roughrider Cabins at the lodge, meals and all activities. Tax is extra. Presented by the Yellowstone Association Institute and Xanterra Parks & Resorts. (307-344-5566; www.yellowstoneassociation.org)
L.A. FOR LESS
Offering discounts at some of Los Angeles’ popular attractions, shopping centers, hotels and car rental agencies, “The LAcard” is available in short and long versions. A 60-day card costs just $20, but it can be purchased only in person–at the Hollywood & Highland Visitor’s Center–meaning it would not be useful for plan-ahead hotel or car rental bookings. The standard full-year “LAcard” can be purchased online, however, making it possible to have the card in hand when planning a trip and making reservations. The full-year “LAcard” is priced at $40, plus $5 shipping and handling. (323-852-9149; www.thelacard.com)
FREE STUFF
Two Welsh guides, “Wales, Go a Little Further” and “Wales, Where to Stay 2004,” are available from VisitBritain, as is the “Scotland 2004” trip planner. (877-899-8391; www.visitbritain.com/usa) . . . Closer to home, Orlando’s lesser-known attractions are the subjects of “Unexpected Orlando.” (800-367-1496; www.orlandoinfo.com) . . . And closer still, communities in southeast Michigan, including one named Hell, are featured in the “Livingston County Official Visitors Guide.” (800-686-8474; www.lccvb.org)
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Prices generally are per person double and based on availability.
