I have stayed at CitizenM in both Seattle and Chicago, and loved it both times. It makes me feel like a young, hip artist, instead of the boring old fart that I am. :)
I've stayed at the Pod hotel and loved it. Granted I was traveling alone, but I spent 4 nights there and was very comfortable. I tend not to hang around hotel rooms much anyway, so all I really did was sleep, but it was close to the Theater District which is why I was in NYC in the first place.
@@TypoKnig It's really much bigger than a roomette. It has a desk, a bathroom, and, if memory serves, a small dresser that a suitcase could sit on. The floor space isn't much bigger than the roomette except for the area between the bed and the door passing the bathroom so not much of a sitting area. I do think having two people sharing the room would be cramped, but for a single traveler it was cheap(er) and quite comfortable. Almost forgot! That was for an twin bunk pod. They have other sized rooms, too.
I am looking for a place to stay when I take the train to NYC for a taping of The Late Show at the Ed Sullivan Theater. It will be just me, so the Pod sounds like it will work…just one with a bathroom.
Thanks for highlighting the two hotels we stayed at when traveling on the California Zephyr back in January, 2023. In Chicago we stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn and in Emeryville we stayed at the Sonesta Hotel. Both within walking distance from the Amtrak stations. Age-wise we are in our late 60's and early 70's and enjoy walking. So even with our luggage, the walk was not unreasonable. Both hotels had fantastic staff that took care of us like we were family.
Re: Seattle, I had originally booked the CitizenM due to no availability at the the Best Western Plus across the street. Yes, the Embassy Suites was really expensive, about $600 a night total, and the CitizenM was about $450 total including an advance purchase breakfast. Closer to my departure the Best Western opened up and I got $245/night total including a breakfast and was upgraded one notch due to Platinum status So I'm here at he Best Western and staying two nights now. Nothing wrong with this place; it's a National Historic Register property; everything is neat and clean and the rooms should exceed most people's expectations in the budget category. Happy trails on the rails to all.
I agree 100% agree with the Marriott Fairfield Inn at Penn Station. I left a positive review about this property. The manager awarded us an upgrade to a suite for the price of a standard room.
In Boston, you could get off the train at Back Bay instead of South Station and have a whole different set of hotels in walking distance around Copley Square.
From LA Union Station, the best public transportation is to catch the LAX Flyaway Bus from the bus plaza at the back of the station and go directly to LAX airport.. Once you get to the airport, several hotels are within a short walk from Terminal One. Personally, I have stayed at the Hyatt Regency LAX more than once when going from Union Station -- it is the absolute closest hotel to the airport, but several more options are right there along Century Blvd.. The Flyaway bus costs $10 one way, and it's a non-stop service which runs from the wee early morning to very late night. It's a nonstop service, and I have never seen anyone change their clothes on that bus!
Totally agree. We also stayed overnight at the Hyatt Regency next to LAX after our flight from Australia and then took the LAX Flyaway Bus to Union Station to catch the Southwest Chief. I can recommend both the hotel and the bus service.
The Metro Plaza just down the street from LA Union Station was a short walk and great for when I was over 8 hours late into LA. That was in 2014, but reviews have not changed much over the years and the price has remained about the same.
Used the Metro Plaza 2 years ago. In bad need of updating. But it was clean and convenient since we just needed a few hours sleep before boarding the train.
Would second the Phoenix in DC. We stayed in August last year for a week last year (congress was not in session).. We took the Cardinal from Chicago and The Capitol Limited back. The hotel has a restaurant attached that serves breakfast , lunch and dinner. Some rooms are on the small side but for the two of us is was just fine. Metro subway and DC circulator (bus) are both within a block..
I used to live in Los Angeles from 1973 to 2010, and I grew up using public transportation. (Mainly buses, until the rail system was introduced in 1990.) BUT, I always hated the Redline because it traveled underground the entire route!! 😮😮
At LA Union Station the closest is the Metro Plaza. It's just a half block away. It's also at the foot of Olvera Street (off the original LA Plaza), so you can get a good meal and fun shopping. The last few times, I've stayed at the DoubleTree. It's just three blocks away. It's in Little Tokyo, and a few blocks walk to the iconic LA City Hall, Grand Central Market, Angels Flight, just six blocks (the short side of the block) from spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall.
I stayed at the Metro Plaza the last time I was in LA and it was great. They let me check in at 8am after the Southwest Chief arrived early. It's also on the edge of Chinatown. I was able to spend two days in LA car free.
In the days when I traveled for NASA, I stayed at the Metro Plaza - then a Days Inn several times. Great place. There's also a Best Western not much farther
Thank you for an informative and helpful video. We’re beginning our third year of Amtrak travel across the nation and have followed the lodging recommendations we found on your website for the large cities. We’ve always found your recommendations to be accurate. We stayed at one of your recommended hotels in New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, and Seattle. Next month we’re going to DC and booked a hotel there recommended by you. In places where you haven’t suggested a hotel we first locate a hotel near the station by researching Google Maps and then checking the hotel reviews on TripAdvisor. We’ve enjoyed rides to, or from, and stays in Denver, Sacramento, San Antonio, Toronto, St Albans,VT, Brunswick, ME, Roanoke, Staunton, and Winter Park, FL. Besides the upcoming stay in DC we’ve booked a June trip to Providence, RI. We prefer trips to smaller, walkable, cities. Your videos were responsible for interesting us in Amtrak travel and we appreciate greatly the time you spend creating your CZcams content and your website. Keep up the great work. We’re looking forward to some exciting trip reports when you return to the US.
100 Percent agree with the La Quinta in Chicago. It's inexpensive (but doesn't feel "cheap") and within walking distance to Union Station and the L if you wanna get around town.
RE:LA, you could take the now open Metro A or E line one stop to Little Tokyo (previously the station was under construction, so now you don't have to take a shuttle, just follow the signs within Union), where you can cross the street from said station, walk past the red tower, and stay at the Miyako Hotel, if you don't want to Uber or walk the extra 2 blocks to check in at the Double Tree. The best thing about Miyako is that you have the easiest access to all the late night dinner/bar spots without having to walk particularly far, especially under dimmer lighting. Can't go wrong with either if you need to be as close as possible to Union Station and amenities with the least worry.
In Boston, there are several hotels within walking distance of Back Bay station. The Westin Copley Pace is right across the street and there's a Marriott at the other end of the Copley Place mall. The Sheraton at the Prudential Center is also an all indoor walk from Copley Place. The Fairmount Copley Plaza is one block from the station and the Copley Square, a bit less expensive, is also close. There are plenty of others in the Copley Sq. area.
I was just about to write the same thing. I'm surprised, because Rob and Allie did a video in which they stayed at a hotel after they got off at Back Bay station. Walk across the street in any direction from Back Bay and you're at a hotel.
The three hotels you mentioned in Emeryville are all close to the Powell Street Plaza shopping center. If you're departing from Emeryville the Trader Joe's is a good place to find snacks and the BevMo! is good for adult beverages (assuming you'll be in a sleeper). I've stayed at the citizenM Seattle (Pioneer Square) two times. One thing to check carefully for any of the hotels near King Street Station -- sporting events at either of the two stadiums. Prices can be considerably higher. It is a nice walk to the station in the morning; 1/2 mile, 12 minutes.
Thank you, you are the best! I had booked a room at La Quinta in February for my Roc to Glacier trip this September and after checking all 3 of your Chicago recommendations from this video, I actually cancelled it and rebooked at the same place for $100 less. Giordano's, here I come!
Fairfield 33rd Street NYC is awesome. I stay there everytime. Great staff, impeccably clean, fantastic breakfast, and location location location. The prices do fluctuate a lot though. I've paid anywhere from 275 to 450 a night. Also, if cruising, they contract with a limo company and I've actually gotten an Escalade cheaper than a cab. I refuse to Uber/Lyft... just a me thing.
I had a nice stay at the Warwick Hotel in Seattle. It is on the ridge, just west of the Space Needle. At the foot of the ridge, on the north side, is where the cruise ships tie up.
5:26 I definitely agree with Downtown Chicago La Quinta Inn! We try to be somewhere in the middle as far as semi-luxury and budget/economy. But this LQI, in particular, was surprisingly decent. I'd stay there again just for AMTRAK trips. As far as safety, even tho downtown is very quiet at night, business-wise, I still wouldn't wander around downtown at 2am and I'm always hanging out in that area visiting. Do that at your own risk, with mace in hand. Not all experiences are the same. Also, look up. If it's not too cloudy, you'll see Willis Tower-ing above you😉
For my Amtrak grand loop 1-week vacation, I have 1-night hotel stays in both Los Angeles and Chicago. In Los Angeles, I am staying at the “Metro Plaza Hotel” located directly across the street from Union Station at 711 North Main Street in the Chinatown district. Folks can see the hotel from station off of Alameda Street. For this stay, I am scheduled to arrive on the Coast Starlight #11, and then the following night, depart on the Texas Eagle/Sunset Limited for Chicago, rather than riding the Southwest Chief. The hotel was chosen for its proximity to Union Station and so that I avoid an immediate train-to-train connection between long distance trains on the same day during a 1-week vacation.
AWESOME suggestions on hotels near train stations. Something I was researching just recently for Fredericksburg, Virginia. I have made notes from this video. Thanks!
You got that right about Miami. You are in the middle of nowhere. A friend of mine wanted to walk 2-3 blocks to the Brightline train. I told him you cannot walk anywhere, b/c all you see are trains all over the place. And the neighborhood that is nearby looks shady!! And he plans on riding amtrak in January. At 6:30pm it's dark.
Greetings from upper left USA! In the walk a little farther category for Seattle, the Arctic Club and the Silver Cloud Hotel Seattle Stadium are both nice places to stay. Easy to walk all the way to Pike Place Market from either - or grab a bus since you'll be in or near Seattle's free ride zone. In Portland the Hyatt House Portland Downtown is always my first choice. It's not near the station but it is a very nice hotel. It's a block-ish from a wonderful walking trail along the river. Nice place to stretch your legs and good restaurants nearby. You didn't mention Spokane. 😂 The Amtrak station there is unfortunately not in the best place. 🫤 Take an Uber or a Lyft to your hotel, especially since you're probably arriving in the middle of the night. And wait in the station until it gets there. (Sorry Spokane. I love you and you are my hometown but the train station area needs help and your late night only arrivals and departures schedule doesn't help. 🙈🙉🙊)
Recently found your page and love your content. Since Denver wasn't mentioned, highly recommended The Crawford Hotel which is inside the gorgeous Union Station. There are also lots of places to eat, drink and shop inside there too. Though there are many other hotels close by. Wanted to make sure Denver got some love!
Such a commonsense important topic. I was looking at hotels near the Chicago station. Luckily, my mom lives in New Jersey, so I would just be getting a ride to the NYC station. I'm planning to go from NYC to Seattle, where I live. Thanks for the Chicago options bcuz I want to spend a full day in Chicago b4 moving on.
The POD doesn't seem smaller than an Amtrak Roomette, so it should be something you are accustomed to. Plus, their website states most rooms have a private bath.
@@matthewhildebrandt1901 There are now more hotels across the street from the Sac Amtrak station. I was looking at the google map. I did not realized there a lot more hotels now. some cheap one some upscale hotels there even a hostel there as well. all pretty close to the Amtrak station.
I am disabled myself. I am legally blind from birth and later on in life, I use a power wheelchair. I rode Amtrak to see a friend in Hutchin KS. I wish that what Amtrak considers as a first class would be considered as a coach and they make the first class much better and bigger? When it comes to hotels there were cities you forgot Salt Lake City Utah. It would be nice from your perspective to make a vise talking about new cities that you didn't talk about but it would be nice to know of some hostiles?
Great channel with a lot of good information for travelers. The red line is the B-line. I take that often, incidences are not as common as you would think. Also there are security guards as of late so you might want to give it a second chance. And this is coming from somebody that grew up in the upper middle class suburbs.., I'm very sheltered, not used to seeing anything really.
Please be aware that I watched another Amtrak traveler like you. He went to Miami and there was NO taxi service at all. He ended up calling for a taxi and then split the ride with an elderly couple. There was no taxi's out front waiting at all even though he was assured there would be some.
Thank you. So much for all your videos they're very helpful. From watching your Amtrak videos about 6 months I got the Amtrak credit card for the points and then scheduled 3 trains California zypher and sunset limited and the empire builder. Plus with this video I got all the close motels like right across the street or walking bridge. Thanks again
As always another exceptional video and perfect information for those of us who have been waiting for something like this! Thank you so much for sharing such information.And I know you have helped me tremendously in my travels!!!
Great vid, wish you guys covered a couple more cities though - however, I will say that as far as Boston goes, I've gone there a few times. The last two years, even though I wasn't traveling by train primarily, I did stay at Club Quarters to be near the station. It was a pretty easy walk to the station but I don't mind taking an uber or lyft if I have to find a more budget friendly/ farther away hotel. I will keep your suggestions in mind for the other cities too!
For "fun in Seattle," I would add The Edgewater Hotel to your list. It's built out over the water of Elliot Bay, so a waterside-room takes on a ship-like feeling (that's the fun part). It's not very far from the King Street station, but a short cab ride is a good idea, depending on your luggage load. It's on "Fisherman's Wharf," and a scenic walk from Pikes Market, downtown Seattle and the Space Needle. It's a Noble House hotel, and I don't know anything about their credit card arrangements. During the summer months they sometimes require a 2+ night stay.
@@ifxequalswhy Yes. Evidently, that was a feature of the Edgewater, when they first opened. Guests could fish, from their balconies. I understand that caused some problems, and they had to discontinue the practice. But, there are all kinds of the "Fab Four," during their stay.
@catylynch7909 I'm sure guests not having a fishing license was only one of the issues. Lol. I enjoy walking around in The Edgewater to look at the memorabilia. The location is also great if you want to stay in that area. But, for the price and what it offers overall in comfort, it's never my first choice. 🤷🏼♀️
Take advantage of the Metro (subway) in Los Angeles, Union Station. There is a new station that you might not be aware of in Little Tokyo. It's a very short ride and drops you right in the heart of Little Tokyo.
I use motel 6 everywhere I go, it’s cheap and they have everything I need. I would use Metrolink in la not metro. I use Metrolink, the one line in seattle, Bart in the bay and nj transit or north eastern to get to nearby areas that are cheaper than downtown
citizen M Times Square in NYC 218 West 50th is near Broadway theatre district. Today's rate is $90 cheaper than Fairfield Inn Penn Station. Definitely a cab/uber from station.
Helpful video! We stayed at the Hyatt Olive 8 in Seattle for 2 weeks in a suite upgrade. It was quite luxurious. One morning we investigated a sound in the hallway. It was a robot vacuuming the carpet! This is a great location for exploring Seattle, but it's 1.5 miles from the train station, so you shouldn't try to walk it with your bags. It's an inexpensive Uber ride at less than 10 minutes.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 No, we weren't scared. If you Google "Whiz Vacuum Robot Video" you can see what it looks like. That's the first time that I've seen a commercial robot vacuum in person. It is bigger and much more advanced than a Roomba.
I live in downtown LA and there is lots to do here! I metro everywhere, but agree that the metro to Hollywood is fine in regular hours, but not a late night thing to do. You can take the metro to the Conrad (which is in my neighborhood). Stay at the Conrad and go eat at the Grand Central Market and check out the Broad and other museums, take in a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Ahmanson, then hop on the train and continue your trip. Also, if you are going to stay at the Conrad, see if you can make a reservation at Jose Andres’ restaurant while you’re there. It’s a tourist destination all in itself. You can also walk to the Perch from there and get great food and drinks at a rooftop bar looking at the famous skyline.
Many people in Midwest from the north connect to Chicago Union via Milwaukee Airport Station. Parking is available for $10 a night. Hotels nearby include Super 8 and Hyatt. Unless you connecting on Amtrak from elsewhere with stay in Chicago, little reason exists to go to Downtown Chicago for a stay.
I've taken the light rail to Westlake and stayed at the Olive 8 and I love that hotel. You can switch to light rail that goes by every half hour, a block away at Union station and go 1 1/2 miles north to Westlake Center actually puts you in the best part of town near Olive 8, especially in December to wander around in the magical Christmas season. However, absolutely, if getting back on Amtrak early in am, I would definitely stick to staying much closer at the Hilton Embassy Suites. I love your ideas on hotels in this video. Thanks.
Hello Allie and Rob, I know you said this is for major train stations; but I have a suggestion for a small station in northern Vermont. Specifically, St. Albens, Vermont where you can go to view beautiful Autumn colors in October. They have a Hampton Inn about 500 feet (or maybe 600 feet) from the St. Albens station in a southeasterly direction. They - the state of Vermont- has an approximately 10 mile walking trail starting from the North end of town and going northeast to 2 other towns to look at those leaves. And in the winter/early spring you can do cross country skiing on or next to the trail.
If you are taking the Acela into Boston, there is an Amtrak stop in Back Bay. I am surprised you don't mention that; since very few people do the West-East trip compared to NER. You also don't mention North Station and Amtrak's orphaned DownEaster line; but it's hardly a surprise why.
@@traceecj Then why not recommend the new $900/night Raffles hotel or the Marriott basically right above the Back Bay Amtrak Station in Boston? I get it, Back Bay is not a terminus nor a great station in terms of grandeur. Boston has three Amtrak stations and only 1 was talked about.
The InterContinental in Boston has a terrific Breakfast Buffet on Weekends. I am Diamond IHG and that has a free breakfast perk that is wonderful for the InterContinental stays. Breakfast is pricey without the perk.
Emeryville: one block north of the Hyatt House is a public market with multiple food and craft beer choices. Portland: the MAX light rail gives easy access to multiple hotels, board one block south of the station.
Hey did you get your stay with hello landing set? We were hoping to stay with them in Portland Oregon for our first stay. We had to renew our drivers license so have to wait until we get our new I D s back to reserve and get the free membership. Hopefully they will arrive before the end of April! Thanks for the video!!
We got registered with landing. Now on wait list for Portland. Ones you get your first standby they close open enrollment so current customers always have a place to bounce to next. When they have more than enough they open up to everyone that wants to use the standby by program. I like this system!
If you go to Amtrak Trains Station in Savannah GA you have to go into the Downtown Savannah GA to any hotels. There's no hotel around Amtrak Savannah GA.
Correct, I was just in Savannah and Charleston a month ago. Barely made it out of flooding downtown Charleston back to the train station in a really bad thunderstorm.
I arrived in LA in the evening and had a reservation at the Metro Plaza Hotel which I knew was only about 3 blocks away. I decided to just walk it (around 11pm) and WOULD NOT RECOMMEND. I still regret that walk 2 years later, should have taken a taxi even for that short of a distance. The hotel btw is a little sketchy but not that terrible if you want somewhere close and don't need something amazing but the 3 blocks in between, not walkable after dark. Now the next morning when I walked back, it seemed fine.
What about the Standard Hotel at 6th and Flower in downtown LA? I used to work in the building when it was an office building. It is right across the street from an underground shopping plaza, formerly known as Arco Plaza.
For Philadelphia, my go-to has been The Club Quarters in Rittenhouse Square. It’s not right by the station, but could be walked in a pinch. It’s also an extremely easy regional rail ride from 30th Street just one stop to Suburban (and it’s FREE due to the Amtrak ticket). It’s in a good location near a lot of amenities and transportation, and consistently $100 cheaper than surrounding hotels.
One tip for late night arrivals and taxis - call a couple of days earlier to see if you need an advance booking. Generally you call as the train gets within about 25 minutes or so, and the cab should be waiting. Also - if it's a short trip, always leave a significant tip.
3:34 This hotel looks like they took their vibe from the rooms on the train itself with the bunk bed. Thanks for your tips. I’m a couple of years from retiring, so I’m looking around so I can hit the ground running when I’m able to. One request: Sorry if you did this already…I’ve looked at,a lot of your videos and wonder if you have one on how to save as a single traveler who wants a bed on the train. Will a BOGO let you get a bedroom or roomette for the single passenger price?
Not a city on your list, but if you ever find yourself in Pittsburgh, 2 hotels I recommend are the Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown (easy walk from the Amtrak station) and the Embassy Suites, which is a little farther away but they have nice rooms.
Just a warning for the Hyatt House in Emeryville. I did stay there and the hotel was wonderful.The staff was great also but I arrived after dark late at night and I went to do the overpass Where you go up the elevator in the parking lot next to the station and walk across the overpass to take the elevator down to the parking lot of the Hyatt House. When I got across the walkway to the down elevator, the doors opened to large homeless guy laying in the elevator asleep with all his belongings. A sleep or drunk.I didn't stay around to find out which... And I had to hurry up and back track quickly because he was upset that I woke him when the elevator opened, so I would caution anyone traveling alone late at night.Get an uber even to go around the corner to get over to the Hyatt House instead of going on that overpass late at night if you're by yourself!
This is true all over the Bay Area. Using elevators can be a risk, especially close to transportation centers for some reason. As a handicapped individual, I have seen some crazy stuff.
Could you do a video about nearby hotels near Yemassee SC. I'd like to take the train to Beaufort SC, to visit the Marine Corps base. The closest stop, I think, is Yemassee and, if I'm not mistaken, it's a late night stop and I'd be afraid to be the only one out there at that time with no car or no lodging. I'm not sure if Uber will even stop there at that time and would not want to take that chance as well. I would love to see you guys visit there and show us how to navigate this situation. Thank you and I love your videos!
We're Canadians from Vancouver and would like to take our first Amtrak excursion with our folding bicycles. Our wishes were from Vancouver to Seattle then Portland and back. This was a very informative video amongst your other videos and you kept mentioning points on point cards. Is this something we, as Canadians, can also apply for and utilize? Is it like a credit card that you would use throughout said trip? Also, do you have to book the whole itinerary through Amtrak? Sorry....... newbies.
....:) There is a Hotel in the Miami Airport---AND----a Hotel in the Jeddah Airport in Saudi Arabia---AND---a Hotel across the Road from the Iceland Airport...!!!....Can You Visit ALL and Let us Know...!!!...We All Travel through you Guys....!!!.....lol......:).....🤩
am i correct in assuming that you wouldn't book hotels in advance if taking amtrak, since the train's pull in time has a reputation for being unpredictable. I'm used to booking hotel rooms months ahead when possible so that the family knows plans are as set and predictable as possible. I'd like to take a trip by train but might need to wait till empty nest
I'm sad you didn't mention my favorite go to hotel in Manhattan and that is the InterContinental on W 44th street. Its walkable from the Train Station and also to the Port. Or if its raining the Subway is one stop and right at the Hotel from the Train Station.
They speak truth about the Redline in LA. People getting completely naked to change clothes is one of the more “tame” things you’ll see on the Redline.
For anyone looking to travel as cheaply as possible, check out hostels. Some are so-so, some are excellent. You do share a bunk bed dorm room with others, no private bath, so not for everyone. For couples traveling, some have coed facilities, others not, but all have same gender rooms.
I stayed at the Embassy Suites in Seattle. It was a great hotel. I used points for this stay. I timed the “walk” to the train station and it was one minute. 🤣 One advantage of the hotel is it is near the Link train that goes to the airport. I took a flight the next day to Alaska. I also stayed at the Hyatt House in Emeryville. It was an excellent hotel. Unfortunately, they are only open for breakfast (as of early March 2024). Thanks for all of this information. I will have to make a list. Any recommendations for Denver?
We took the Empire Builder to Seattle on our 25th anniversary trip several years ago and stayed at the Embassy Suites. Not only across the cul-de-sac from the station but only three blocks from the light-rail station and downtown bus stops. Even took it out to the airport to rent a car for a day (none of the rental places downtown had cars available!) The Embassy even had Alexa in the room, and the evening reception and pool were fantastic. The breakfast buffet was the nicest we'd ever seen, they would even cook made-to-order omelets with lots of great choices!
I have stayed at CitizenM in both Seattle and Chicago, and loved it both times. It makes me feel like a young, hip artist, instead of the boring old fart that I am. :)
I've stayed at the Pod hotel and loved it. Granted I was traveling alone, but I spent 4 nights there and was very comfortable. I tend not to hang around hotel rooms much anyway, so all I really did was sleep, but it was close to the Theater District which is why I was in NYC in the first place.
It looks about the size of an Amtrak roomette. How much bigger is the room in the pod hotel?
@@TypoKnig It's really much bigger than a roomette. It has a desk, a bathroom, and, if memory serves, a small dresser that a suitcase could sit on. The floor space isn't much bigger than the roomette except for the area between the bed and the door passing the bathroom so not much of a sitting area. I do think having two people sharing the room would be cramped, but for a single traveler it was cheap(er) and quite comfortable. Almost forgot! That was for an twin bunk pod. They have other sized rooms, too.
@@cbaxel5784 Thanks for the detailed update!
I am looking for a place to stay when I take the train to NYC for a taping of The Late Show at the Ed Sullivan Theater. It will be just me, so the Pod sounds like it will work…just one with a bathroom.
Thanks for highlighting the two hotels we stayed at when traveling on the California Zephyr back in January, 2023. In Chicago we stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn and in Emeryville we stayed at the Sonesta Hotel. Both within walking distance from the Amtrak stations. Age-wise we are in our late 60's and early 70's and enjoy walking. So even with our luggage, the walk was not unreasonable. Both hotels had fantastic staff that took care of us like we were family.
Re: Seattle, I had originally booked the CitizenM due to no availability at the the Best Western Plus across the street. Yes, the Embassy Suites was really expensive, about $600 a night total, and the CitizenM was about $450 total including an advance purchase breakfast. Closer to my departure the Best Western opened up and I got $245/night total including a breakfast and was upgraded one notch due to Platinum status So I'm here at he Best Western and staying two nights now. Nothing wrong with this place; it's a National Historic Register property; everything is neat and clean and the rooms should exceed most people's expectations in the budget category. Happy trails on the rails to all.
If you take Amtrak thru Winslow Arizona. One of the BEST hotels ever is "La Posada" -- a true classic from the Harvey Girls days of train travel.
Yes!
I didn't think the train stopped there anymore? Love the LaPosada however.. worth the drive from phoenix.
La Posada is the train station, so it's absolutely perfect. We love the restaurant and the museums in the hotel.
I agree 100% agree with the Marriott Fairfield Inn at Penn Station. I left a positive review about this property. The manager awarded us an upgrade to a suite for the price of a standard room.
In Boston, you could get off the train at Back Bay instead of South Station and have a whole different set of hotels in walking distance around Copley Square.
From LA Union Station, the best public transportation is to catch the LAX Flyaway Bus from the bus plaza at the back of the station and go directly to LAX airport.. Once you get to the airport, several hotels are within a short walk from Terminal One. Personally, I have stayed at the Hyatt Regency LAX more than once when going from Union Station -- it is the absolute closest hotel to the airport, but several more options are right there along Century Blvd.. The Flyaway bus costs $10 one way, and it's a non-stop service which runs from the wee early morning to very late night. It's a nonstop service, and I have never seen anyone change their clothes on that bus!
yeah I heard of the Flyaway bus from the Amtrak station in LAX to the LAX airport
The thing about those LAX hotels is that it is a very competitive market...It's not difficult to find a good rate.
Totally agree. We also stayed overnight at the Hyatt Regency next to LAX after our flight from Australia and then took the LAX Flyaway Bus to Union Station to catch the Southwest Chief. I can recommend both the hotel and the bus service.
The Metro Plaza just down the street from LA Union Station was a short walk and great for when I was over 8 hours late into LA. That was in 2014, but reviews have not changed much over the years and the price has remained about the same.
Used the Metro Plaza 2 years ago. In bad need of updating. But it was clean and convenient since we just needed a few hours sleep before boarding the train.
You would think that hotels would build closer to train stations. They do it for airports it seems like. This was such great advice.
Would second the Phoenix in DC. We stayed in August last year for a week last year (congress was not in session).. We took the Cardinal from Chicago and The Capitol Limited back. The hotel has a restaurant attached that serves breakfast , lunch and dinner. Some rooms are on the small side but for the two of us is was just fine. Metro subway and DC circulator (bus) are both within a block..
I used to live in Los Angeles from 1973 to 2010, and I grew up using public transportation. (Mainly buses, until the rail system was introduced in 1990.)
BUT, I always hated the Redline because it traveled underground the entire route!! 😮😮
At LA Union Station the closest is the Metro Plaza. It's just a half block away. It's also at the foot of Olvera Street (off the original LA Plaza), so you can get a good meal and fun shopping. The last few times, I've stayed at the DoubleTree. It's just three blocks away. It's in Little Tokyo, and a few blocks walk to the iconic LA City Hall, Grand Central Market, Angels Flight, just six blocks (the short side of the block) from spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall.
I stayed at the Metro Plaza the last time I was in LA and it was great. They let me check in at 8am after the Southwest Chief arrived early. It's also on the edge of Chinatown. I was able to spend two days in LA car free.
In the days when I traveled for NASA, I stayed at the Metro Plaza - then a Days Inn several times. Great place.
There's also a Best Western not much farther
Agree with your DC picks. Those are the same two I recommend for someone who wants to be near Union Station. 👍
Thank you for an informative and helpful video. We’re beginning our third year of Amtrak travel across the nation and have followed the lodging recommendations we found on your website for the large cities. We’ve always found your recommendations to be accurate. We stayed at one of your recommended hotels in New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, and Seattle. Next month we’re going to DC and booked a hotel there recommended by you. In places where you haven’t suggested a hotel we first locate a hotel near the station by researching Google Maps and then checking the hotel reviews on TripAdvisor. We’ve enjoyed rides to, or from, and stays in Denver, Sacramento, San Antonio, Toronto, St Albans,VT, Brunswick, ME, Roanoke, Staunton, and Winter Park, FL. Besides the upcoming stay in DC we’ve booked a June trip to Providence, RI. We prefer trips to smaller, walkable, cities. Your videos were responsible for interesting us in Amtrak travel and we appreciate greatly the time you spend creating your CZcams content and your website. Keep up the great work. We’re looking forward to some exciting trip reports when you return to the US.
100 Percent agree with the La Quinta in Chicago. It's inexpensive (but doesn't feel "cheap") and within walking distance to Union Station and the L if you wanna get around town.
Hi I like your comment I’m going to Chicago and this Hotel would be great. Does the Loop have attractions that’s in walking distance? Thank You
RE:LA, you could take the now open Metro A or E line one stop to Little Tokyo (previously the station was under construction, so now you don't have to take a shuttle, just follow the signs within Union), where you can cross the street from said station, walk past the red tower, and stay at the Miyako Hotel, if you don't want to Uber or walk the extra 2 blocks to check in at the Double Tree. The best thing about Miyako is that you have the easiest access to all the late night dinner/bar spots without having to walk particularly far, especially under dimmer lighting. Can't go wrong with either if you need to be as close as possible to Union Station and amenities with the least worry.
In Boston, there are several hotels within walking distance of Back Bay station. The Westin Copley Pace is right across the street and there's a Marriott at the other end of the Copley Place mall. The Sheraton at the Prudential Center is also an all indoor walk from Copley Place. The Fairmount Copley Plaza is one block from the station and the Copley Square, a bit less expensive, is also close. There are plenty of others in the Copley Sq. area.
I was just about to write the same thing. I'm surprised, because Rob and Allie did a video in which they stayed at a hotel after they got off at Back Bay station. Walk across the street in any direction from Back Bay and you're at a hotel.
There is a really nice Embacy suites in downtown Portland Oregon in a historic building. Beautiful!!
I was thinking about the same place. Truly a beautiful hotel with lovely rooms
The three hotels you mentioned in Emeryville are all close to the Powell Street Plaza shopping center. If you're departing from Emeryville the Trader Joe's is a good place to find snacks and the BevMo! is good for adult beverages (assuming you'll be in a sleeper).
I've stayed at the citizenM Seattle (Pioneer Square) two times. One thing to check carefully for any of the hotels near King Street Station -- sporting events at either of the two stadiums. Prices can be considerably higher. It is a nice walk to the station in the morning; 1/2 mile, 12 minutes.
Thank you, you are the best! I had booked a room at La Quinta in February for my Roc to Glacier trip this September and after checking all 3 of your Chicago recommendations from this video, I actually cancelled it and rebooked at the same place for $100 less. Giordano's, here I come!
Fairfield 33rd Street NYC is awesome. I stay there everytime. Great staff, impeccably clean, fantastic breakfast, and location location location. The prices do fluctuate a lot though. I've paid anywhere from 275 to 450 a night. Also, if cruising, they contract with a limo company and I've actually gotten an Escalade cheaper than a cab. I refuse to Uber/Lyft... just a me thing.
I had a nice stay at the Warwick Hotel in Seattle. It is on the ridge,
just west of the Space Needle. At the foot of the ridge, on the north side, is where the cruise ships tie up.
5:26 I definitely agree with Downtown Chicago La Quinta Inn! We try to be somewhere in the middle as far as semi-luxury and budget/economy. But this LQI, in particular, was surprisingly decent. I'd stay there again just for AMTRAK trips. As far as safety, even tho downtown is very quiet at night, business-wise, I still wouldn't wander around downtown at 2am and I'm always hanging out in that area visiting. Do that at your own risk, with mace in hand. Not all experiences are the same. Also, look up. If it's not too cloudy, you'll see Willis Tower-ing above you😉
Also, easily accessible by public transit-I used public transit last year twice to that hotel. Solo, senior female.
For my Amtrak grand loop 1-week vacation, I have 1-night hotel stays in both Los Angeles and Chicago. In Los Angeles, I am staying at the “Metro Plaza Hotel” located directly across the street from Union Station at 711 North Main Street in the Chinatown district. Folks can see the hotel from station off of Alameda Street. For this stay, I am scheduled to arrive on the Coast Starlight #11, and then the following night, depart on the Texas Eagle/Sunset Limited for Chicago, rather than riding the Southwest Chief. The hotel was chosen for its proximity to Union Station and so that I avoid an immediate train-to-train connection between long distance trains on the same day during a 1-week vacation.
AWESOME suggestions on hotels near train stations. Something I was researching just recently for Fredericksburg, Virginia. I have made notes from this video. Thanks!
Thanks so much!
You got that right about Miami. You are in the middle of nowhere. A friend of mine wanted to walk 2-3 blocks to the Brightline train. I told him you cannot walk anywhere, b/c all you see are trains all over the place. And the neighborhood that is nearby looks shady!! And he plans on riding amtrak in January. At 6:30pm it's dark.
I walked from the Brightline to the Amtrak. It's not exactly scenic but it's still doable.
@@monty306 He's walking with suitcases and someone who is wheelchair bound. Because they are going on a cruise, leaving from Miami.
Greetings from upper left USA! In the walk a little farther category for Seattle, the Arctic Club and the Silver Cloud Hotel Seattle Stadium are both nice places to stay. Easy to walk all the way to Pike Place Market from either - or grab a bus since you'll be in or near Seattle's free ride zone. In Portland the Hyatt House Portland Downtown is always my first choice. It's not near the station but it is a very nice hotel. It's a block-ish from a wonderful walking trail along the river. Nice place to stretch your legs and good restaurants nearby. You didn't mention Spokane. 😂 The Amtrak station there is unfortunately not in the best place. 🫤 Take an Uber or a Lyft to your hotel, especially since you're probably arriving in the middle of the night. And wait in the station until it gets there. (Sorry Spokane. I love you and you are my hometown but the train station area needs help and your late night only arrivals and departures schedule doesn't help. 🙈🙉🙊)
Recently found your page and love your content. Since Denver wasn't mentioned, highly recommended The Crawford Hotel which is inside the gorgeous Union Station. There are also lots of places to eat, drink and shop inside there too. Though there are many other hotels close by. Wanted to make sure Denver got some love!
Thanks for the tips!
Staying at Citizen M Seattle next week, happy you mentioned it!
Such a commonsense important topic. I was looking at hotels near the Chicago station. Luckily, my mom lives in New Jersey, so I would just be getting a ride to the NYC station. I'm planning to go from NYC to Seattle, where I live.
Thanks for the Chicago options bcuz I want to spend a full day in Chicago b4 moving on.
The POD doesn't seem smaller than an Amtrak Roomette, so it should be something you are accustomed to. Plus, their website states most rooms have a private bath.
In Sacramento, CA is the Holiday Inn directly across the street from the station.
I've stayed there. It's nice and also really convenient.
@@matthewhildebrandt1901 There are now more hotels across the street from the Sac Amtrak station. I was looking at the google map. I did not realized there a lot more hotels now. some cheap one some upscale hotels there even a hostel there as well. all pretty close to the Amtrak station.
And a fine Best Western with a very good Mexican restaurant on the River about a mile away. Good cab service.
I am disabled myself. I am legally blind from birth and later on in life, I use a power wheelchair. I rode Amtrak to see a friend in Hutchin KS. I wish that what Amtrak considers as a first class would be considered as a coach and they make the first class much better and bigger?
When it comes to hotels there were cities you forgot Salt Lake City Utah. It would be nice from your perspective to make a vise talking about new cities that you didn't talk about but it would be nice to know of some hostiles?
Great channel with a lot of good information for travelers. The red line is the B-line. I take that often, incidences are not as common as you would think. Also there are security guards as of late so you might want to give it a second chance. And this is coming from somebody that grew up in the upper middle class suburbs.., I'm very sheltered, not used to seeing anything really.
Please be aware that I watched another Amtrak traveler like you. He went to Miami and there was NO taxi service at all. He ended up calling for a taxi and then split the ride with an elderly couple. There was no taxi's out front waiting at all even though he was assured there would be some.
Hyatt House in Emeryville also has a great breakfast buffet!
Agree about the Fairfield in NYC. Great place, and location is great.
Thank you. So much for all your videos they're very helpful. From watching your Amtrak videos about 6 months I got the Amtrak credit card for the points and then scheduled 3 trains California zypher and sunset limited and the empire builder. Plus with this video I got all the close motels like right across the street or walking bridge. Thanks again
I was just wondering about a nearby hotel in Chicago. You 2 are the best! Thank you!!
Thanks for these tips. Recently stayed at that La Quinta in downtown Chicago. It's a nice place with a good breakfast.
Phoenix Park Hotel in DC is really very very very nice!
Agreed! We really liked our stay there and so convenient to Union Station.
As always another exceptional video and perfect information for those of us who have been waiting for something like this! Thank you so much for sharing such information.And I know you have helped me tremendously in my travels!!!
Want to plan a circle trip on Amtrak and you are the best on recommendations, thanks for sharing this video 👍
Great vid, wish you guys covered a couple more cities though - however, I will say that as far as Boston goes, I've gone there a few times. The last two years, even though I wasn't traveling by train primarily, I did stay at Club Quarters to be near the station. It was a pretty easy walk to the station but I don't mind taking an uber or lyft if I have to find a more budget friendly/ farther away hotel. I will keep your suggestions in mind for the other cities too!
La Quinta is my go to hotel in Chicago, but when the rate is right and/or I'm feeling flush I go to the Silversmith.
For "fun in Seattle," I would add The Edgewater Hotel to your list. It's built out over the water of Elliot Bay, so a waterside-room takes on a ship-like feeling (that's the fun part). It's not very far from the King Street station, but a short cab ride is a good idea, depending on your luggage load. It's on "Fisherman's Wharf," and a scenic walk from Pikes Market, downtown Seattle and the Space Needle. It's a Noble House hotel, and I don't know anything about their credit card arrangements. During the summer months they sometimes require a 2+ night stay.
This is the infamous hotel The Beatles stayed at in Seattle where they fished from the window in their room. 😀
@@ifxequalswhy Yes. Evidently, that was a feature of the Edgewater, when they first opened. Guests could fish, from their balconies. I understand that caused some problems, and they had to discontinue the practice. But, there are all kinds of the "Fab Four," during their stay.
@catylynch7909 I'm sure guests not having a fishing license was only one of the issues. Lol. I enjoy walking around in The Edgewater to look at the memorabilia. The location is also great if you want to stay in that area. But, for the price and what it offers overall in comfort, it's never my first choice. 🤷🏼♀️
LA--Westin Hotel accessible by airport shuttle. Stay here night before am departure, return your rental car that night and take shuttle next am.
I have finally got subscribed to your channel, been trying for months.
Awesome!!! I’ve been waiting for this video! ❤
And the Phoenix Park hotel has the Dubliner.
Take advantage of the Metro (subway) in Los Angeles, Union Station. There is a new station that you might not be aware of in Little Tokyo. It's a very short ride and drops you right in the heart of Little Tokyo.
I use motel 6 everywhere I go, it’s cheap and they have everything I need. I would use Metrolink in la not metro. I use Metrolink, the one line in seattle, Bart in the bay and nj transit or north eastern to get to nearby areas that are cheaper than downtown
citizen M Times Square in NYC 218 West 50th is near Broadway theatre district. Today's rate is $90 cheaper than Fairfield Inn Penn Station. Definitely a cab/uber from station.
Thanks so much for this, doing a Amtrak trip to DC and wanted to know the closest hotel to Union Station.
Helpful video! We stayed at the Hyatt Olive 8 in Seattle for 2 weeks in a suite upgrade. It was quite luxurious. One morning we investigated a sound in the hallway. It was a robot vacuuming the carpet! This is a great location for exploring Seattle, but it's 1.5 miles from the train station, so you shouldn't try to walk it with your bags. It's an inexpensive Uber ride at less than 10 minutes.
That's so great
Were you scared from the robot.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 No, we weren't scared. If you Google "Whiz Vacuum Robot Video" you can see what it looks like. That's the first time that I've seen a commercial robot vacuum in person. It is bigger and much more advanced than a Roomba.
I LOVE watching you. I can't wait to travel. I wish you had given us the actual (or estimated) price of the hotels.
Thanks for showing the path forward. Robert in NYC.
I live in downtown LA and there is lots to do here! I metro everywhere, but agree that the metro to Hollywood is fine in regular hours, but not a late night thing to do. You can take the metro to the Conrad (which is in my neighborhood). Stay at the Conrad and go eat at the Grand Central Market and check out the Broad and other museums, take in a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or the Ahmanson, then hop on the train and continue your trip. Also, if you are going to stay at the Conrad, see if you can make a reservation at Jose Andres’ restaurant while you’re there. It’s a tourist destination all in itself. You can also walk to the Perch from there and get great food and drinks at a rooftop bar looking at the famous skyline.
Although I travel via train on the Northeast Corridor, these are great tips!
Many people in Midwest from the north connect to Chicago Union via Milwaukee Airport Station. Parking is available for $10 a night. Hotels nearby include Super 8 and Hyatt.
Unless you connecting on Amtrak from elsewhere with stay in Chicago, little reason exists to go to Downtown Chicago for a stay.
I'm from CT, not staying at any hotel in NY. I did Philadelphia {Dtwn} twice and Charlotte. Working on Delaware and DC for 2024
I've taken the light rail to Westlake and stayed at the Olive 8 and I love that hotel. You can switch to light rail that goes by every half hour, a block away at Union station and go 1 1/2 miles north to Westlake Center actually puts you in the best part of town near Olive 8, especially in December to wander around in the magical Christmas season. However, absolutely, if getting back on Amtrak early in am, I would definitely stick to staying much closer at the Hilton Embassy Suites. I love your ideas on hotels in this video. Thanks.
Hello Allie and Rob, I know you said this is for major train stations; but I have a suggestion for a small station in northern Vermont. Specifically, St. Albens, Vermont where you can go to view beautiful Autumn colors in October. They have a Hampton Inn about 500 feet (or maybe 600 feet) from the St. Albens station in a southeasterly direction. They - the state of Vermont- has an approximately 10 mile walking trail starting from the North end of town and going northeast to 2 other towns to look at those leaves. And in the winter/early spring you can do cross country skiing on or next to the trail.
If you are taking the Acela into Boston, there is an Amtrak stop in Back Bay. I am surprised you don't mention that; since very few people do the West-East trip compared to NER. You also don't mention North Station and Amtrak's orphaned DownEaster line; but it's hardly a surprise why.
They are talking about hotels!!
@@traceecj Then why not recommend the new $900/night Raffles hotel or the Marriott basically right above the Back Bay Amtrak Station in Boston? I get it, Back Bay is not a terminus nor a great station in terms of grandeur. Boston has three Amtrak stations and only 1 was talked about.
The InterContinental in Boston has a terrific Breakfast Buffet on Weekends. I am Diamond IHG and that has a free breakfast perk that is wonderful for the InterContinental stays. Breakfast is pricey without the perk.
That Pod 51 reminds me of the room I get on Amtrak haha… 🤭
Emeryville: one block north of the Hyatt House is a public market with multiple food and craft beer choices. Portland: the MAX light rail gives easy access to multiple hotels, board one block south of the station.
Thanks!
Thank you!
Curious to see how your list matches with my experiences in DC, New York, and Seattle this year in Portland
Hey did you get your stay with hello landing set? We were hoping to stay with them in Portland Oregon for our first stay. We had to renew our drivers license so have to wait until we get our new I D s back to reserve and get the free membership. Hopefully they will arrive before the end of April! Thanks for the video!!
We got registered with landing. Now on wait list for Portland. Ones you get your first standby they close open enrollment so current customers always have a place to bounce to next. When they have more than enough they open up to everyone that wants to use the standby by program. I like this system!
If you go to Amtrak Trains Station in Savannah GA you have to go into the Downtown Savannah GA to any hotels. There's no hotel around Amtrak Savannah GA.
Correct, I was just in Savannah and Charleston a month ago. Barely made it out of flooding downtown Charleston back to the train station in a really bad thunderstorm.
I arrived in LA in the evening and had a reservation at the Metro Plaza Hotel which I knew was only about 3 blocks away. I decided to just walk it (around 11pm) and WOULD NOT RECOMMEND. I still regret that walk 2 years later, should have taken a taxi even for that short of a distance. The hotel btw is a little sketchy but not that terrible if you want somewhere close and don't need something amazing but the 3 blocks in between, not walkable after dark. Now the next morning when I walked back, it seemed fine.
So glad I watched this. I have a trip to Leavenworth through Seattle planned. Just updated my room at Seattle end of the trip.
What about the Standard Hotel at 6th and Flower in downtown LA? I used to work in the building when it was an office building. It is right across the street from an underground shopping plaza, formerly known as Arco Plaza.
For Philadelphia, my go-to has been The Club Quarters in Rittenhouse Square. It’s not right by the station, but could be walked in a pinch. It’s also an extremely easy regional rail ride from 30th Street just one stop to Suburban (and it’s FREE due to the Amtrak ticket). It’s in a good location near a lot of amenities and transportation, and consistently $100 cheaper than surrounding hotels.
One tip for late night arrivals and taxis - call a couple of days earlier to see if you need an advance booking. Generally you call as the train gets within about 25 minutes or so, and the cab should be waiting. Also - if it's a short trip, always leave a significant tip.
Excellent info! Thank you.
What about San Antonio, where you might have to wait overnight to make a connection?
If anyone can post budget hotels for female solo travelers and also too bad this video did not mention public transit options to get to the hotels.
The first option mentioned is supposed to be "walkable." Not sure how safe that would be late at night.
Thank you this was helpful for the Cast Starlight in Seattle.
3:34 This hotel looks like they took their vibe from the rooms on the train itself with the bunk bed. Thanks for your tips. I’m a couple of years from retiring, so I’m looking around so I can hit the ground running when I’m able to.
One request: Sorry if you did this already…I’ve looked at,a lot of your videos and wonder if you have one on how to save as a single traveler who wants a bed on the train. Will a BOGO let you get a bedroom or roomette for the single passenger price?
Great list! Hampton Inn Orlando Downtown South (SODO area) is walkable from Orlando Amtrak. Maybe like a 5 minute or so walk. This is my home station.
Not a city on your list, but if you ever find yourself in Pittsburgh, 2 hotels I recommend are the Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh Downtown (easy walk from the Amtrak station) and the Embassy Suites, which is a little farther away but they have nice rooms.
Just a warning for the Hyatt House in Emeryville. I did stay there and the hotel was wonderful.The staff was great also but I arrived after dark late at night and I went to do the overpass Where you go up the elevator in the parking lot next to the station and walk across the overpass to take the elevator down to the parking lot of the Hyatt House. When I got across the walkway to the down elevator, the doors opened to large homeless guy laying in the elevator asleep with all his belongings. A sleep or drunk.I didn't stay around to find out which... And I had to hurry up and back track quickly because he was upset that I woke him when the elevator opened, so I would caution anyone traveling alone late at night.Get an uber even to go around the corner to get over to the Hyatt House instead of going on that overpass late at night if you're by yourself!
This is true all over the Bay Area. Using elevators can be a risk, especially close to transportation centers for some reason. As a handicapped individual, I have seen some crazy stuff.
Thanks for your hotel recommendations. Do you think it is safe to be in NY Penn station for a solo traveler from 10pm to 1220 am?
IN the station, yes. They have security. Outside🤷🏻♀️
What about a hotels in Toronto? Going from Kansas City to Halifax. Also, thanks for your advice on the Zepher.
Excellent videos and information. Thanks!
Could you do a video about nearby hotels near Yemassee SC. I'd like to take the train to Beaufort SC, to visit the Marine Corps base. The closest stop, I think, is Yemassee and, if I'm not mistaken, it's a late night stop and I'd be afraid to be the only one out there at that time with no car or no lodging. I'm not sure if Uber will even stop there at that time and would not want to take that chance as well. I would love to see you guys visit there and show us how to navigate this situation. Thank you and I love your videos!
We're Canadians from Vancouver and would like to take our first Amtrak excursion with our folding bicycles. Our wishes were from Vancouver to Seattle then Portland and back.
This was a very informative video amongst your other videos and you kept mentioning points on point cards. Is this something we, as Canadians, can also apply for
and utilize? Is it like a credit card that you would use throughout said trip? Also, do you have to book the whole itinerary through Amtrak? Sorry....... newbies.
Do you have a Memphis recommendation?
Thank you. Very helpful.
Redline is now called the B-Line. Everything else you described has likely not changed LOL
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am i correct in assuming that you wouldn't book hotels in advance if taking amtrak, since the train's pull in time has a reputation for being unpredictable. I'm used to booking hotel rooms months ahead when possible so that the family knows plans are as set and predictable as possible. I'd like to take a trip by train but might need to wait till empty nest
Definitely be cautious if a delay would put you over midnight into the next day; most will charge you for not giving sufficient cancellation notice.
I'm sad you didn't mention my favorite go to hotel in Manhattan and that is the InterContinental on W 44th street. Its walkable from the Train Station and also to the Port. Or if its raining the Subway is one stop and right at the Hotel from the Train Station.
They speak truth about the Redline in LA. People getting completely naked to change clothes is one of the more “tame” things you’ll see on the Redline.
For anyone looking to travel as cheaply as possible, check out hostels. Some are so-so, some are excellent. You do share a bunk bed dorm room with others, no private bath, so not for everyone. For couples traveling, some have coed facilities, others not, but all have same gender rooms.
What about the Palmer House in Chicago.
LA Metro has stepped up on security and added "Ambassadors" who will offer help. But that being said... there is no reason to visit Hollywood.
I stayed at the Embassy Suites in Seattle. It was a great hotel. I used points for this stay. I timed the “walk” to the train station and it was one minute. 🤣 One advantage of the hotel is it is near the Link train that goes to the airport. I took a flight the next day to Alaska. I also stayed at the Hyatt House in Emeryville. It was an excellent hotel. Unfortunately, they are only open for breakfast (as of early March 2024). Thanks for all of this information. I will have to make a list. Any recommendations for Denver?
We took the Empire Builder to Seattle on our 25th anniversary trip several years ago and stayed at the Embassy Suites. Not only across the cul-de-sac from the station but only three blocks from the light-rail station and downtown bus stops. Even took it out to the airport to rent a car for a day (none of the rental places downtown had cars available!) The Embassy even had Alexa in the room, and the evening reception and pool were fantastic. The breakfast buffet was the nicest we'd ever seen, they would even cook made-to-order omelets with lots of great choices!