In the U.S. and Canada, seniors can take advantage of discounts on Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada train travel. Train travel in Mexico is extremely limited.
United States
In the U.S., passenger train service is provided by Amtrak. Passengers age 62 and older are eligible for a 15 percent discount on train tickets. In most cases, the discount is applied to the lowest available fare. If your train journey takes you across the border into Canada, you will receive a 10 percent discount, but it will also be applied to your VIA Rail Canada travel. Cross-border discounts apply to seniors age 60 and older.
Of course, some restrictions apply. Senior travelers cannot receive discounts on weekday Acela Express train travel, Auto Train trips, business class, first class or sleeper car tickets. You can't combine the senior discount with other Amtrak discounts, and you'll need to be ready to supply proof of age.
Canada
VIA Rail Canada offers seniors age 60 and older a 10 percent discount on train travel. This discount applies to the Economy Class full adult fare. You get to pre-board, too.
If you're planning to travel with your spouse or a friend, take a look at VIA Rail Canada's Seniors: Bring a Friend for Free promotion. If you buy a full fare senior ticket in Economy Class (called "Comfort Class"), you will receive a companion ticket for free. This offer does not apply between December 14 and January 6. This promotion also includes special companion fare offers for summer travel in VIA 1 (first) class in southern Quebec and Ontario and for sleeper class travel.
Mexico
Unfortunately, passenger train travel in Mexico is restricted to two train lines, the Tequila Express between Tequila and Guadalajara and the Chepe train between Chihuahua and Los Mochis. According to the Chepe train website, senior discounts are not available on the Chepe route. Ferromex does not quote Tequila Express prices on its website.
