Frequently asked questions

What is a private railcar?

Private railcars are privately-owned passenger rail coaches that are unlike any other transportation available today. These meticulously-maintained homes on rails boast bigger bedrooms, private kitchens and lounges, dedicated observation areas, and other high-end amenities not found on regular commercial trains. Many retain their historic charm, while others have been updated and modernized to meet today's luxury standards. No matter the kind of passenger rail experience you're looking for, Halloway has private railcars that can meet any need.

How can I book a private railcar?

Booking private railcars through Halloway is easy - the Halloway platform has both private rail excursions and charters.

Private railcar excursion allow you to book a single bed or room on a trip across the scenic United States, similar to a cruise but on land. Many of our excursions feature decadent onboard dining, entertainment and stops along the way in fabulous destinations.

Private railcar charters are planned to your specification. Most private railcars listed on Halloway can be booked between any origin and destination on the Amtrak network. Charters are priced based on a daily rate plus operation charges, which will vary based on the type of railcar, the route, and other factors. Contact support@gohalloway.com for more information about charters and pricing.

Does Halloway operate private rail charters and excursions?

Halloway is the first search and booking platform exclusively dedicated to private railcar charters and excursions. We connect travelers with operators of premier private railcars across the United States. At this time, Halloway does not operate any private railcars ourselves.

Will the railcar be staffed?

Yes, all private railcar charters and excursions include expert onboard staff members to assist you with anything you need.

Is lounge access included in my trip?

Yes, access to Amtrak Metropolitan Lounges is included with every private railcar excursion or charter, if a lounge is available at your departing station. Check the Amtrak website for information about lounge locations, hours and amenities. Due to Amtrak restrictions, lounge access is not available to Halloway travelers at Los Angeles Union Station.

Can I cancel my trip or get a refund?

See our Cancellation Policy and our Rebooking and Refund Policy for Private Railcars. The operator you contract with for private railcar services may have additional cancellation and refund terms that you agree to at checkout - see their policies for more details.

If I'm running late, will the train wait for me?

No - all trips are scheduled to depart at specific times. The train cannot be delayed and will leave if you are not onboard. See our Cancellation Policy for information regarding cancelling your trip.