Miami to Denair train

With its sprawling beaches, beaming sunshine and thriving nightlife, Miami is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States, if not the world. Boasting an incredible 35-mile stretch of beachfront and warm ocean water, Miami is the perfect place to relax and recharge under the sun. And recharge you must, as it is at night when the city really comes to life. Famous for its vibrant bars and nightclubs, Miami will help you dance all your troubles away.

If you are a foodie, you will be delighted to know that Miami is the city with the highest number of restaurants per capita in the U.S., giving you the unique opportunity to treat your tastebuds to fine cuisine from all over the world, including Cuba, Colombia, Russia and Ethiopia. And if you’re a brew connoisseur, keep in mind that Miami has some of the highest-rated beer in the country.

While you’re in Miami, make your way to the Wynwood district and check out the world-famous Wynwood Walls – a growing outdoor art exhibit featuring large-scale works by some of the best-known street artists from around the globe. After that, head over to the Miami Design District for a well-deserved shopping spree.

Denair is a small town between Modesto and Merced on the Amtrak San Joaquins route. Many of the restaurants, shops, and amenities are in the neighboring town of Turlock, and you won't find chain restaurants in this quiet, friendly community. Instead, you can find local favorites like Riveras Crazy Snacks, Denair Donuts, and the El Jidalguense taco truck when hunger strikes.

Plus, since you're in the agricultural embrace of central California, there is no shortage of foodie experiences in the area around Denair and Turlock. Bring an appetite to Resendiz Family Fruit Barn, where you can sample fresh fruit, baked goods, and to-die-for smoothies. Meet the local chicks at Hen and Harvest Farm, open in Turlock on Sundays.

There is also plenty of outdoor adventure in Stanislaus County. Turlock Lake State Recreation Area is just one of central California's gorgeous spots to go boating or camping. A little further west, you'll find Don Pedro Lake in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas.

Thanks to the San Joaquins trains that stop in Denair each day, it's easy to reach the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, or Bakersfield within a few hours. Plus, it's a straight shot on the train from Denair to Merced, one of the main gateways to Yosemite National Park. Although Denair does not have intercity bus service, Greyhound runs several routes to its neighbor, Turlock.