Disclaimer: My trip was partially hosted by Alaska Railroad. All opinions are my own.
In the Land of the Midnight Sun, even getting there feels like the main event. When our train pulled out of Anchorage, my husband and I weren’t just headed to Seward—we were traveling through a living postcard. America’s 49th state unfurled outside our dome car like an epic film: snow-dusted mountains, turquoise rivers, and backcountry only accessible by rail. For couples over 50 craving romance, nature, and a break from the fast lane, the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic is a dream on rails.
Why This Rail Journey Is Ideal for Couples Over 50
The Coastal Classic turned what could’ve been a transfer into the highlight of our Alaska trip. We rode Adventure Class to Seward, then returned in GoldStar Service. The difference was clear: upgraded comfort, dome car views, and meals included. The relaxed pace gave us time to connect—no traffic, no airport stress, just panoramic views and meaningful moments. With optional multi-day packages, this rail journey is ideal for mature travelers who prefer ease over effort.
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Ride Into Alaska’s Wild Interior
Departing early from Anchorage, the train hugs the Turnagain Arm before veering into untouched wilderness. Think waterfalls, glaciers, and maybe a moose or two. In Adventure Class, we sipped coffee in the café and wandered between cars for fresh air and better views. The onboard host’s narration enriched the journey with stories about the region’s geology, wildlife, and railroad history. Some call the train “slow”—but that’s the point. You don’t rush through views like these.
Two Classes, Two Experiences
Adventure Class was cozy and casual. On the return, we upgraded to GoldStar Service—and wow, was it worth it. Panoramic dome ceilings, an open-air observation deck, and cocktails at our seats set the mood. Dinner in the lower-level dining room felt like date night. We shared a table with a couple from Houston. Roger recalled “probably the best views I’ve ever had from a train”—and I agree.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Skip the airport stress — Lyft’s On-Time Pickup Promise guarantees your scheduled ride shows up within 10 minutes of your pickup time. If it doesn’t? You’ll get Lyft Cash. You can schedule up to 90 days in advance and even lock in your rate. Use code SBT25 to save 25% off ONE scheduled ride to the airport.
The Alaska Railroad: A Ride Through History
The Alaska Railroad was completed in 1923, when President Warren G. Harding drove the final ceremonial spike. Originally built to connect resource-rich areas with ports, today it connects visitors to the heart of Alaska.
Construction began in 1915 and took nearly nine years, employing over 4,500 workers at its peak. The final cost—about $60 million—was more than eight times what the U.S. paid to purchase Alaska from Russia in 1867. Against all odds, it became a lifeline to the Last Frontier.
The Coastal Classic is a “whistle stop” train, meaning it also serves locals in towns like Girdwood and remote communities along the route.
SheBuysTravel Tip: For $5 cash, pick up the onboard Ride Guide—packed with maps, vintage photos, and a mile-by-mile log. It turned our ride into a story, adding context to every glacier and bend. A staff member offers it early in the journey—don’t miss your chance.
Ride in Comfort: GoldStar vs. Adventure Class
GoldStar seating feels like flying first class. Oversized chairs, wide spacing, and glass ceilings offer uninterrupted views. In Adventure Class, seats are also comfortable, though without the dome. Passengers can take turns in a shared upper-level dome car and step into open vestibules between cars for fresh air and photos.
A Taste of Alaska at 60 MPH
GoldStar Service includes a hot meal, soft drinks, and two alcoholic beverages. I started with creamy halibut chowder, followed by tender herb-roasted chicken breast over seasoned rice with broccolini—elegant and satisfying, served in the private downstairs dining room. In Adventure Class, travelers can purchase breakfast or snacks from the Wilderness Café or bring their own. My meals in both classes were fresh and enjoyable, though reviews range from rave-worthy to mixed depending on the day’s crew and menu. Gratuities are included, but you’re welcome to tip for exceptional service.
Narration, Nature, and Little Luxuries
Who needs a screen when the windows deliver this much wonder? Between engaging narration, shifting landscapes, and wildlife sightings, we never lost interest. The GoldStar bar attendant kept the drinks flowing as the mountains rolled by. Could the windows have used a little Windex? Sure—but the views were still stunning. Our car was clean, cozy, and full of character. One thing we missed? A charging port at each seat would’ve made it perfect.
Stations, Stopovers & Stress-Free Packages
The Coastal Classic makes a brief stop in Girdwood, a charming resort town with hiking trails and great restaurants. Anchorage’s historic depot is spacious and efficient, while Seward’s small wooden station sits conveniently near the harbor. Staff at both were helpful, and boarding was smooth and well-organized.
Prefer not to DIY your trip? Multi-day rail packages bundle tickets, lodging, and excursions—perfect for couples who want a relaxed, ready-made Alaska adventure.
Ideal for Cruisers and Scenic Seekers
The Seward depot is a short walk from the cruise terminal, making this rail journey a seamless pre- or post-cruise add-on. Daily summer departures and hotel pickups simplify logistics. The return train leaves Seward in the late afternoon, letting you enjoy Alaska’s famously long summer days with soft lingering evening light. We soaked in golden glacier views all the way to Anchorage. This is slow travel at its best: immersive, unhurried, and unforgettable. Start planning your journey with Alaska Railroad soon.
Accessibility and Adventure Class Viewing
All Alaska Railroad trains are ADA-compliant, with elevators to GoldStar dome seating and wheelchair lifts at stations. In Adventure Class, passengers can access open-air vestibules and a shared dome car. The narration added color and local insight, though I occasionally found it hard to hear—especially when the guide was at the opposite end of the car.
SheBuysTravel Tip: We booked our return flight to the mainland for 1 a.m.—a smart move that saved us an extra night of hotel costs. After arriving in Anchorage just after 10 p.m., we had plenty of time to reach the airport. Toast the end of your Alaska adventure with a glass of wine, sit back, and start reliving the memories before wheels up.
Seward: More Than a Cruise Stop
Spending a night in Seward turned out to be a trip highlight. We strolled the harbor, watched fishermen unload their catch, and explored the Alaska SeaLife Center. A slower pace let us soak in the charm of this waterfront town—highly recommend a stay before heading back.
Kenai Fjords Cruise: A Front-Row Seat to Nature
Our Kenai Fjords Glacier Cruise was six hours of jaw-dropping beauty and untamed Alaskan wilderness. We cruised through Resurrection Bay past puffins skimming the waves, sea lions lounging on rocky shores, and a pod of humpbacks breaching just beyond the bow.
But the showstopper was Aialik Glacier. As the captain cut the engine, a hush settled over the boat. Then came the thunder—massive chunks of blue ice calving into the sea with a crack and splash we could feel in our chests. That one electrifying moment—alone with the glacier, suspended in stillness—was worth the journey all on its own.
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