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Amtrak Empire Builder 3 Days On The Most Scenic Northern Train

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  • čas přidán 26. 05. 2022
  • This is our Amtrak Empire Builder (3 days on the most scenic train) vlog. We start in Chicago and take the train all the way to Seattle. We follow part of the Lewis and Clark trail as we cross from Illinois to Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, a small portion of Idaho and into Washington State. This train is a 46 hour train ride across the country. We'll also cross the Mississippi River, catch sunset at Glacier National Park, follow along the Columbia River and get a fabulous view of Puget Sound as we come into Seattle.
    On this Amtrak Vacation we rode in a roomette and had traditional dining.
    For access to the Amtrak Map used in this video:
    www.groundedli...
    Our Cruise Channel:
    / @groundedlifecruises
    CONNECT WITH US!
    www.groundedli...
    / groundedlifetravel

Komentáře • 501

  • @2112BassDude
    @2112BassDude Před 2 lety +67

    NEVER do this trip in the winter. I was one of the ones that got stuck in Wenatchee, WA this past January for 3 days and got stuck in an avalanche zone in the middle of the cascades. Had to have a freight train come and get us and pull us out (we were jammed in the snow and couldn't move). Never made it to Seattle. We reversed and had to go back to Spokane where they got us all plane tickets. They did keep us fed well and got us nice hotel rooms during the 3 extra nights. Full refund too. Lol, I'm from Texas and thought I would do this trip in the winter (all the way from Chicago to Seattle) so I could see some snow and cold weather. Well, I sure did. What an experience.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +7

      Wow, somehow we hadn't heard of this before, thanks for sharing, what an experience indeed!

    • @LisaSoulLevelHealing
      @LisaSoulLevelHealing Před rokem +2

      Lol, glad you made it Allright but this made me laugh 😅

    • @JonSkinner1944
      @JonSkinner1944 Před rokem

      A friend of mine, how worked that train show, a picture of snow up window of exit door of the car in the centre.

    • @danbev8542
      @danbev8542 Před rokem +1

      Wow! Sounds like an ordeal! I suspect that if your experience was typical, they would stop running trains over that route at certain times. They certainly didn’t make any profit on that trip!

    • @06Aztecrose
      @06Aztecrose Před rokem +2

      Awesome luck 🍀

  • @rossm7071
    @rossm7071 Před 2 lety +47

    I think I am addicted to these train videos. Empire Builder is on my list to do. I wish the East coast trains had the same quality of meals as the west coast ones

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +7

      Thanks! The menu will be changing soon we've been told!

    • @rossm7071
      @rossm7071 Před 2 lety +4

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks. You both have the best and most informative travel blogs. This is encouraging news.

    • @jojoinrancho320
      @jojoinrancho320 Před 2 lety +6

      Grounded Life Travel: I hope they keep my favorite, the flat iron steak!

    • @lennylee2638
      @lennylee2638 Před rokem

      I love the videos

    • @himbourbanist
      @himbourbanist Před měsícem

      EB is well worth the trip out. If you get an opportunity to take the trip it's absolutely incredible

  • @lmc958
    @lmc958 Před rokem +4

    Whenever I'm having a not so great day.....I watch one of their Amtrak videos and pretend it's me enjoying life traveling with my wonderful husband!♥️

  • @catylynch7909
    @catylynch7909 Před 2 lety +6

    "Would you like some extra red wine?" That's MY kind of travel!!!

  • @friendlydaisies
    @friendlydaisies Před 2 lety +49

    Beautiful! Thx for the post. Best part of my morning drinking coffee and watching a new video from you guys. Taking my mom on our very first overnight trip. Actually this is mom’s first time on Amtrak and I’ve never taken a trip longer than a few hours in coach. Roomette this time. Leaving in 2 weeks. Flying to Chicago for a couple of days, then southwest chief from Chicago to California. Disneyland a couple of days before flying back home to Philly. We are beyond excited!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +7

      Wow, that sounds like an amazing trip! Have a great time!

    • @AndrewTubbiolo
      @AndrewTubbiolo Před 2 lety +7

      Heck you're excited, after reading this post, I'm excited for you. Have a great trip. :)

    • @LisaSoulLevelHealing
      @LisaSoulLevelHealing Před rokem

      @@AndrewTubbiolo same! I'm now incorporating train travel, amtrak should make these two ambassadors!

    • @carlsmith5545
      @carlsmith5545 Před rokem

      Wanna see a train? Typ in, Japanese maglev train better yet, China's new maglev train. Those are trains....

  • @apriljackson5304
    @apriljackson5304 Před 2 lety +36

    You guys do absolutely world class travel vlogging! The videos are gorgeously picturesque, informative and so soothing. I continue to thank you for putting so much consistent quality control in the production of your content.

  • @monarusch4087
    @monarusch4087 Před 2 lety +8

    I did the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago the last week in April. I'm so bummed they didn't do the National Park stamps when I was on the train. Because dinner is so much food with the appetizers and full main course, I always took dessert back to my room - it made a great late night snack just before I went to bed. The dinning car attendant seemed pleased I was taking dessert to go so they could prep the table for the next setting. Love your videos!!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks so much!

    • @shizzle7642
      @shizzle7642 Před 2 lety +2

      I’m considering the same trip but need to travel with my pet Terrier and not sure how that would factor in and I’ve not seen any videos of others taking a companion either.
      Confusing information about the meals, I’ve seen posted they only offer microwave meals now…idk if traveling via train will be the experience of this couple

  • @mariegarside8830
    @mariegarside8830 Před 2 lety +7

    I'm sorry happy to see the return of National Park Service volunteers. I've had the pleasure traveling on trains with them. These wonderful folks carry bird watching charts for passengers to know which birds they are seeing.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      They pointed out some very interesting "oreo cows" to us, pretty interesting

  • @lisalowery4849
    @lisalowery4849 Před 2 lety +4

    Hahahaha, Gets extra wine. . . . . " We just pulled into our firsh frish air break." Lol. Only way to travel!

  • @dsjohuang
    @dsjohuang Před 2 lety +17

    Thanks to your inspiration, I finally got to go on my bucket list train ride - the Southwest Chief a few weeks ago. I first read about it in David Baldacci's book, "Christmas Train." So so glad that I took that train. It was amazing. Now I'm planning on going on this one. Thank you again for your videos and inspiration. Hope to see you on one of these trains!

  • @ryanridder4576
    @ryanridder4576 Před 2 lety +9

    Great trip! One thing though you gotta keep in mind when taking the Empire builder is that if you want to see the Columbia River from the observation car you would need to travel to Portland because once the train gets to Spokane the observation car parts ways from the Spokane-Seattle portion

  • @noirskate
    @noirskate Před 2 lety +5

    Thanks for this post. As I sit here a LAX and have just heard that my flight has been delayed by 4 hours flying back to Detroit. I realize that Amtrak rail is a great alternative that I need to consider moving forward. Especially as it relates to seeing awesome sites here I the United States.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      It is the best way to see things, we'd have to agree. Thanks for watching!

    • @mariegarside8830
      @mariegarside8830 Před 2 lety +2

      If you have the time you won't regret seeing our beautiful countryside.

  • @stephenspilker9334
    @stephenspilker9334 Před 2 lety +9

    i've been on this train many times over the years. it's a great trip and the scenery is awesome. the dining car is a good part of the experience. the crew's over the year's have been very good. it might take longer by rail but it beats the view from 40,000 feet.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +3

      You are exactly right, we loved it too

    • @ernestgalvan9037
      @ernestgalvan9037 Před rokem

      By plane, it’s all about the “Get There Now” destination.
      By train, it’s about the voyage, the scenery, the people and places, relaxing, and leave the driving to someone else.

  • @VictoryHighway
    @VictoryHighway Před 2 lety +9

    FYI, those were GE Genesis P42DC locomotives pulling your train, not the newer Siemens Charger ALC-42s.

  • @Bmwdressage
    @Bmwdressage Před 2 lety +6

    What I LOVE about this video is that you have featured more of the views. For me the best part of long train rides is watching the world go by outside. Thank you so much for sharing more of the views -spectacular or mundane it’s all beautiful. Much improved video ❤️

  • @aimeelim6532
    @aimeelim6532 Před rokem +2

    This is one of my bucketlist. Hope i xan do this before i progress with my ALS.

  • @daveagreg
    @daveagreg Před 2 lety +6

    So neat getting that National Parks passport book stamp. Unique!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +1

      It was unexpected, we didn't know they were back on the trains, but really great!

    • @daveagreg
      @daveagreg Před 2 lety +1

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Great! I have a trip on the Texas Eagle this summer and your video was informative....I found the comparable National Parks program for that route. Thanks so much!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      @@daveagreg Unfortunately. the Texas Eagle and the Capitol Limited still have flexible dining, and don't presently have a Sightseeing Lounge north of San Antonio...

    • @daveagreg
      @daveagreg Před 2 lety

      @@ronclark9724 Yeah, I've been keeping up on the Unlimited group to see if/ when things change. 😕

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 Před 2 lety

      @@ronclark9724 not totatlly true with the Texas Eagle, it only has flexibile dinning from Chicago to San Antonio and then traditional dinning from San Antonio to LA. Also when the train connectes with Sunset limited there is an observation car (unless it is broken) according to a website I read.

  • @yuckyool
    @yuckyool Před 2 lety +8

    Thank you again Rob & Allie . . . we are coming up to our 7-train / 15-day "cruise" around the country (inspired partially by your channel!). . . We will be doing EmpBldr E/B from Portland (roomette & fam.bedroom). Breaking it up with a 2-nite stay at East Glacier.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +4

      Wow, sounds amazing! We've never gotten off in Glacier, but would love to one day. Have a great trip!

    • @yuckyool
      @yuckyool Před 2 lety +3

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Whitefish might be nicer. East Glacier Lodge and the town are "mixed". But St Mary's Lakes are sublime!!!

  • @norcalrailfan1
    @norcalrailfan1 Před 2 lety +10

    As a Railfan, I’d like to point out, leading your Empire Builder was 161 which is in fact a heritage unit. That’s something I’ve wanted for a long time, a heritage unit leading my train. Great content!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +3

      Thanks! It was our second one, but the first was not operational, it was just being delivered last summer. We were surprised to get the one, it was really nice. The train was a little late leaving Chicago, so it was hard to get a break long enough to get a picture with it, but we finally did!

  • @AA_8184_1
    @AA_8184_1 Před 2 lety +11

    Loved your European adventures, & glad to see you back with an Amtrak video! Amazing she set

  • @robertlandry5676
    @robertlandry5676 Před 2 lety +10

    Excellent trip ! Amtrak stepping up their game👍🏼The food looked good especially the🥕cake.

  • @RWernsing
    @RWernsing Před 2 lety +18

    Looks like train trips are getting back to normal! 😋 Congrats Amtrak!

  • @karolmolitor4675
    @karolmolitor4675 Před 2 lety +3

    I just booked a 9 day 14 state train trip on Amtrack for me and my niece. Staying overnight in Whitefish MT, Seattle and Chicago. Back home to St. Cloud MN.. I got great information from your you tube channel. Bed rooms were a must.. Between the travel agency and Amtrack we pulled it together .Thank you ,love your channel. ❤

  • @jena6587
    @jena6587 Před 2 lety +2

    It’s so cute you guys actually use you’re utensils.

  • @pressley71
    @pressley71 Před 2 lety +4

    I did the Empire Builder in March. I was surprised by ND. Very scenic. I was a little disappointed crossing MT. Almost every town we stopped at in MT seemed to have junked cas everywhere! The journey from the west side of MT through to Seattle was very picturesque. Almost as picturesque as day 2 on the westbound California Zephyr (did that last year). It was nice to see Traditional Dining back up and running, even if I did my dining in my roomette! Meals much better than last year's reheated ones.

  • @ozgirl45
    @ozgirl45 Před 2 lety +5

    Beautiful trip! North Dakota was stunning and unexpected - I thought it would be more like the Canadian prairies with grain and silos. Your anxiety about getting to Glacier Park before sunset reminded me of a trip we took (long time ago) across Canada for three days from Montreal to Vancouver. Back in those pre internet days we had no prior information about the trip and were crushed to realize we would go through the Rockies at night! Fortunately we were able to go through the western edge down the Fraser River valley gorge while having breakfast the next morning. The best view of the Rockies is to fly over them 😀.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks! We were pretty sure we wouldn't make it in time, but we luckily just made it.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety +2

      Western North Dakota is more ranch country than eastern North Dakota that does have those farms and grain silos...

    • @timnewman1172
      @timnewman1172 Před 2 lety +2

      We drove thru the Canadian Rockies 40+ years ago when I was a teen, I sooo want to go back!!!

  • @melodierussell3825
    @melodierussell3825 Před 2 lety +7

    Thanks so much for the room tour and tips. My husband and I are planning our first train trip from Atlanta to Utah this summer and I had so many questions as to what we should expect. Looking forward to seeing you in the next video!

  • @patriciabreckenridge4248
    @patriciabreckenridge4248 Před 2 lety +4

    What a true blessing this is! Smile. I'm soooo elated to be on board, virtually! It's certainly a blast to embark upon, many adventurous scenic tours & preferences! Also, points of interest as well! I'm loving it immensely!! Kudos! Kudos!! As husband & wife, you're both so unique and can't be beat! Smile. Great hosts representing Amtrak "A" all the way! Smile. lol. Keep up the good work! You're both more than a chaperone! I'm a bona-fide true NYer! Hope to travel 1st time, by long distance Amrrak! NY via LA! I'm 74 now! Gotta do it! Smile. Enjoy! Be safe! lol.

  • @whhrms
    @whhrms Před 2 lety +2

    I grew up in the Puget Sound area and in my student days, I rode the Great Northern Empire Builder up to 4 times a year. I thought you did an *excellent* job of coping with the local place names: "Puget," "Spokane," and "Wenatchee" can be so difficult for non-locals. I won't frighten you with some of the others which are even worse. Anyway, it was an excellent video that brought back lots of memories. I particularly enjoyed your comments on the dining car food. Thanks!

  • @sewcrazybaker
    @sewcrazybaker Před 2 lety +5

    That scenery is stunning! I probably will never get to see that part of the country in person, so I'm glad to see it with you! Just Beautiful!

  • @pbyguy7059
    @pbyguy7059 Před 2 lety +20

    Awesome! I was supposed to do this exact trip myself a few weeks ago but was delayed because of weather. I'm rescheduled to go now right at the beginning of July and I can't wait to see so much of the country all warm and summery!
    Edit: P.S. I'm getting that carrot cake.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +4

      Wow, have a great trip! July will be beautiful. Allie recommends the Carrot Cake fully!

  • @myracastillo4882
    @myracastillo4882 Před 2 lety +4

    My sister and I just completed this trip 16-18 may. The food was good and the scenery was beautiful.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +1

      That is awesome, we were just 5 days ahead of you I think, May 11-13

  • @gregpreston7301
    @gregpreston7301 Před 2 lety +2

    We made the trip last August from Western PA all the way to Pasco Washington (where are grandkids are). Although we did Coach Class (we book the Rail Pass) the whole way it was an amazing experience. We did miss the Dining experience and hope to do the Roomette on an upcoming trip on the AutoTrain. We appreciate all you do. Thanx, Greg and Liz

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      That is awesome! We've heard that the dining will open to coach passengers sometime this year, but no official date yet.

    • @mbbuckeyes8386
      @mbbuckeyes8386 Před 2 lety +1

      I did the Auto train in January 2022 and it was awesome. Also had a roomette- the only down side - it got dark so early - around 5:15pm - as we went thru Ashland VA - after that town - it was too dark to see outside. I plan on taking the auto train again but in late March or April 2023.

    • @gregpreston7301
      @gregpreston7301 Před 2 lety +1

      @@GroundedLifeTravel great to hear they may offer Dining to Coach Class again. I'm sure you'll post when that happen. Thanx again. Greg and Liz

  • @stephw1702
    @stephw1702 Před 2 lety +1

    One thing my family learned years ago is that Hershey kisses or other individually wrapped candies make wonderful checker pieces. Just be sure to bring plenty for snacking too.

  • @valatina8147
    @valatina8147 Před rokem +1

    This train made me cry a little. I went to montana every winter on this train.

  • @marshataylor599
    @marshataylor599 Před 2 lety +2

    Be safe we had that happened to us in central Florida last month and I fell to the floor and started to shake.thank God 🙏.

  • @cdthompson9833
    @cdthompson9833 Před 2 lety +4

    We have traveled on the Empire Builder several times. Wonderful trip.

  • @chrisylink
    @chrisylink Před 2 lety +2

    I took this train from Sacramento CA to the twin cities where my brother lives. By far one of the most incredible journeys of my life. In havre Mt I got a pizza from pizza hut and will never forget that. Cheers! Love your videos, keep up the great work.

  • @janinebell763
    @janinebell763 Před 2 lety +2

    I loved this post, it was great to see America looking so good. This is a good opportunity to get away from the bad happening there. You try to give us so much beauty. The snow is amazing as we don’t get it in Perth, Western Australia.

  • @ubon11
    @ubon11 Před 2 lety +1

    I took this train once. I was on leave in Chicago, but I was stationed at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the ride. If you have the time, train travel is so much better than air travel.

  • @inca10
    @inca10 Před rokem

    I did the Southwest Chief from Chi to LA after the Indy500 this year and have already booked the Empire Builder after the 500 next year! As a Brit, we just dont have routes or trains like this and I cant wait to get back onboard :-).

  • @giovannadisarno9945
    @giovannadisarno9945 Před rokem +1

    I’m taking the Empire Builder this December from Chicago to Seattle. It will be my third rail journey as last year I did the Coast Starlight from LA to Seattle. My train journeys all started several years ago when my husband and I took the AutoTrain from Lorton VA to Sanford FL. I find Amtrak to be a wonderful way to travel and see the country at a leisurely genteel pace.

  • @randysonkin3769
    @randysonkin3769 Před 8 měsíci

    On my bucket list for the past 25 years has been taking the Empire Builder from Chicago to Glacier National Park and spending 3 days at the park and returning back to Chicago.

  • @PaulsWanderings
    @PaulsWanderings Před rokem +2

    I remember doing this route in '94. I spent a lot of time in the observation car. There was a guy in like the snack car, there probably is an official name for it but it's been so long, I cant remember it, that was very lonely as he was calling out interesting sights such as the big rock on the right and the cows on the left so I went and kept him company.

  • @cyndyjohannsen3387
    @cyndyjohannsen3387 Před 2 lety +2

    Have taken this trip numerous times and I see something new and beautiful when I watch your video.

  • @JustAThought155
    @JustAThought155 Před 2 lety +2

    Great video! I took this route back in 2000, to Havre, MT. I spent time in Canada, and then rode that same train to Edmonds, WA.

  • @patriciaherlevi6217
    @patriciaherlevi6217 Před 2 lety +3

    I took this trip in reverse from Seattle-Everett to Chicago. I missed the Columbia River. We passed by that way after dark.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      We did it that direction first too, and we were really surprised when we saw it this time, it was really nice.

  • @davidgordon7306
    @davidgordon7306 Před 2 lety +2

    Chicago to Seattle on Amtrak is the best trip that I have ever taken

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      I found the California Zephyr and Coast Starlight better, but the Empire Builder did not disappoint...

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      Empire Builder is up there, easily top 3 on Amtrak, we really loved it this time, this particular trips was one of our favorites ever.

  • @trishoconnor2169
    @trishoconnor2169 Před 2 lety +3

    Such a lovely trip! As I watched, I found myself wondering how many times in your travels you may have passed my hometown. At times, I have even watched videos where I knew you must have passed through, hoping to hear it mentioned, or to see a glimpse of it out the window. Alas, so far, no. I know the trains don't stop long enough in Elkhart for a "fresh air" break, and if it's not your destination, you probably don't give it a second thought. But everyone's home is special to them!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +3

      Thanks for letting us know and sharing!

    • @trishoconnor2169
      @trishoconnor2169 Před 2 lety +2

      @@GroundedLifeTravel You know, we've got a Jazz Festival coming up, and we ARE the "world capital of band instruments." Elkhart could be your next place to be! (I know. It sounds like an ad from the Chamber of Commerce. But it's not. I'm just proud of my hometown, and would like non-local people to see something that makes them think it's worth getting off the Amtrak there occasionally.)

  • @evavln
    @evavln Před 7 měsíci

    I definitely recommend the Portland section. Not only does it have the observation car, it’s also rated more scenic because it follows the Colombia river for the rest of the trip after the fresh air break in Pasco, WA. Also, after the non fresh air stop in Wishram, WA, it goes through the cascades while still following the Colombia river with views of mt hood, the tallest mountain in Oregon

  • @vickireynolds4055
    @vickireynolds4055 Před 2 lety +2

    Thank you for sharing this journey! I would love to travel by train, but right now, I don't travel without my dog, Abbie. I know, stupid, but we are all we have, and she loves to travel as much as I do, so car it is!

  • @yuckyool
    @yuckyool Před 2 lety +1

    So we just did our Empire Bldr'S (#28 from Portland). Two trains, with a two-day stop in-between at East Glacier. The travel is so much more than room controls and dining, but hard to encapsulate in a post or even a CZcams video. We also did a LkShore, 2 x CalZephyr, Coast*Light, and now going home on Cardinal. So much to see along the way, moderate sleeping, imperfect equipment, late'ish arrivals, plenty of food, very nice sleeping car attendants, etc. Thanks for these videos that prepared us . . . a little.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      You are correct, it is hard to boil 56 hours down to 30 minutes! So much to see along the way!

  • @marjorieprintz2468
    @marjorieprintz2468 Před 2 lety +2

    Love watching you folks💞😌🌸
    I get my breakfast & Earl Grey tea watching the great scenery & learning about our beautiful USA🇺🇸

  • @christinwilhelm183
    @christinwilhelm183 Před 2 lety +1

    My family does the National Park Passport as well. How neat to get that stamp! Thank you for sharing. I live in Wisconsin so we are looking to do some of the train rides from Chicago.

  • @dianaw.571
    @dianaw.571 Před 2 lety +1

    Yes, Wenatchee is correct🙂 I was born there. Just discovered your channel today and want to plan an overnight trip. Your tips are very helpful since I've only taken a day trip Irvine/San Luis Opispo, and several to Orange County areas/San Diego. Thanks for all the info.

  • @MadeNCda
    @MadeNCda Před rokem +2

    You guys are so generous with sharing your knowledge - thank you! And you've inspired me. I'm going to California in August, and after doing a cursory search on Amtrak this morning, just booked a roomette for $525 US approx for this journey. I was shocked at the price. Now I presume the roomette includes my meals...either way, it was too good to pass up. Now I'll just fly down to California from Seattle (will book plane tkt for day after expected arrival in Seattle to be safe).

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před rokem +2

      Yes it does include your meals, have a great trip!

    • @MadeNCda
      @MadeNCda Před rokem +1

      @@GroundedLifeTravel Thank you, I'm so excited 😊

  • @magnushirschfeld3406
    @magnushirschfeld3406 Před 2 lety +1

    I took this train in 1967 2h3n I was 17 and this vid brought back a lot of memories

  • @Supergeologist
    @Supergeologist Před 5 měsíci

    OMG this took me straight back to my own trip from Chicago to Portland on the Empire Builder in September 23. A truly remarkable experience, the prairie just stretching for ever hour after hour with derelict homesteads every couple of miles. How on earth did the settlers think they could eke an existence in such a barren looking landscape.
    I too had a roomette, it was the only way really. Spent hours just looking out the window. Met some lovely folk at dinner and in the observation car . Even had a long chat with an Amish family who seemed to have a deep curiosity about Europe and the UK. Suffice to say they had some odd ideas about Europe!
    I thought the food was awesome, the blueberry cobbler cheesecake was to die for, in fact all of the food was first class.
    The Northern Prairie although a lot of flat nothing, was simply stunning in its absolute expanse. Its like Stalin said 'Quantity has a quality all of its own'
    Then of course there was the Rockies and the Columbia River valley with distant views of Mt Hood, spectacular.
    Would I do it again, definitely although I would do it in reverse so that I could see the bits I missed at night time.

  • @valiant60s
    @valiant60s Před 2 lety +2

    Thanks for doing all these train videos. I am planning a cross country trip on the California Zephyr based on your videos. Much appreciated.

  • @MrThebirddog
    @MrThebirddog Před 7 měsíci

    I just took this trip! I can fix Amtrak, get rid of at least half of the stops in tiny town. Just when you get going good have to stop to add maybe 2 passengers. Half, get rid of half of them.

  • @two3D
    @two3D Před 2 lety +1

    I live in Minneapolis. I just took the Empire Builder to Milwaukee and back the weekend of 5/20. Just six hours between but it was nice to take a train ride again 🙂

  • @chrstnanomee7494
    @chrstnanomee7494 Před 2 lety +1

    This goes through my Northern home! I live south of Havre which it passes through, this thing is actually on my bucket list

  • @Yesica1993
    @Yesica1993 Před 2 lety +4

    CHICAGO! I'm not sure I want to end up in Seattle, but the trip was beautiful. Sleeping on a train with rain hitting the windows is a dream of mine! Except for the tornado warning. YEGADS! Glad you were all okay. I'm unable to travel, so this is probably the closest I'll be. I long to do a real train trip one day. My only wish is that windows could be open! I can't stand being inside. I'm glad there are little breaks in between so you can at least breathe real air and stretch your legs a bit.
    I just recently found your channel. Love your content as well as your personalities. The video with you explaining all the different room options was so helpful! I've always wanted a train trip, but I know zero about the practicalities of it all. I've bookmarked that one to refer back, if I ever do get to book a trip someday. Thank you again!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      Wow, thanks for your comments, we appreciate them. It was really nice to hear the rain and hail in the room. Sounded really cool.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety +1

      As you watched on this video, the Roomette is sufficient for two, a bit tight maybe. The larger Standard Bedroom and with a tiny ensuite is really too large for one, but great for two... With both rooms one adult out of two will have to sleep on the upper cot...

  • @Roadcalldude
    @Roadcalldude Před 2 lety

    Did this trip back in 2003. Was a good trip but, the train was 8 hours late. Missed Glacier. Thanks for posting

  • @barbaragreene7500
    @barbaragreene7500 Před rokem +2

    Glad to see you two. We made it through the pandemic. Keep up the travel ventures; good seeing you!

  • @sickheadache9903
    @sickheadache9903 Před 2 lety

    LOL love it when you say ..Off The Grill….For Ump teen years Amtrak has been using “Sous Vide” …Basically…Boil in the Bag. All Meals, from Steaks to Burgers, whatever require cooking, it comes frozen in a bag, and THE BOIL CHEFS boil ur good eats and Bam there you go. Please look it up..Sous Vide, Marriott Hotels for years have been using this method.

  • @benedmonson3445
    @benedmonson3445 Před 2 lety +1

    What a wonderful trip video. Heading this way in October round trip to Whitefish and return to Chicago for 62nd anniversary trip. Plus riding City of New Orleans Memphis to Chicago to connect. Fall should be great & train trip as well.

  • @lennylee2638
    @lennylee2638 Před rokem

    Best time to take this trip is in the summer and enjoy the nice sunny wram weather at the rest stops where you can get off and stretch your legs. My husband and I are taking this trip again next month leaving Chicago on June 5th going to Portland and Tacoma Washington to celebrate our 5th Anniversary and my sister in Law graduation from culinary school..

  • @ourdailyview
    @ourdailyview Před 2 lety +2

    Hi! We love watching your videos! We will be taking our first Amtrak journey in October on the Southwest Chief. We are very excited! Your videos are so inspiring and helpful! I haven’t seen any information on Amtrak souvenirs and Train Station gift shops. We would love to see a video of the Union Station gift shop and merchandise. We are particularly interested in Amtrak shirts. It would also be great to see a video tour of the Chicago station restaurants/ food area.
    We watch a lot of Disney and Universal Studios bloggers also and many of them have merchandise you can buy like shirts etc. we would love to be able to by Grounded Life Travel shirts! Thank you for all your videos. We look forward to them!

  • @makulewahine
    @makulewahine Před 2 lety +5

    Loved this. Kind of a morning coffee meditation. Wish it wasn't such a big difference in cost between the roomettes and coach. Especially without the parlor car which was a big draw for me. Round trip from Olympia WA to Denver on coach was less than $500 but roomette was a ton more. Sigh.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you!

    • @trishoconnor2169
      @trishoconnor2169 Před 2 lety +5

      I know what you mean. When I first started looking seriously at Amtrak (in part because of this CZcams channel), I got sticker shock! I had naively expected it to be an affordable way to travel, because, after all, it's an old technology, and takes so much longer than a plane while being less flexible than a car and having many times the passenger capacity of either. But the economics of passenger rail are more complicated than that. Two things are gradually making me feel better about it: One is viewing the journey itself as the vacation, instead of as just a slow transportation method TO a vacation spot. The other is comparing the price of a room on a sleeper car with flying first class rather than with flying coach. That's more of an apples-to-apples comparison, and the train looks more competitive that way.

    • @makulewahine
      @makulewahine Před 2 lety +3

      @@trishoconnor2169 yeah. I don't go first class flying either. About 15 years ago the difference wasn't as great as it is now and there was a parlor car, an added attraction. But I have always seen it as part of the vacation. A wonderful, restful part.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety +2

      @@trishoconnor2169 Furthermore, every night on the train is most likely one less night at a hotel, whether flying or driving. In the sleeper Amtrak is providing meals and drinks with that fare. Think of a train trip as more than a transportation option, but as a part of a journey.

    • @trishoconnor2169
      @trishoconnor2169 Před 2 lety +2

      @@ronclark9724 Yes, exactly. That's the only way it makes financial sense.

  • @kristaclark4950
    @kristaclark4950 Před 2 lety +1

    I love your little neck scarf!!

  • @shelzp7272
    @shelzp7272 Před 2 lety +2

    Loved riding along with you guys…

  • @marinacam
    @marinacam Před 2 lety +1

    I love the background music you play during scenic pans!

  • @williamo.2519
    @williamo.2519 Před 2 lety +1

    I'll be on this train 6/10. Bucket list vacation time. Thanks for the tour.

  • @catherineanthony5353
    @catherineanthony5353 Před 2 lety +2

    Beautiful views

  • @divox9pqr
    @divox9pqr Před 2 lety +1

    I can’t wait to get back on board the Empire Builder for my birthday trip in Feb. I would expect Minot SD to be its usual subzero then. Not exactly tolerable as during your trip. Your vlog is the next best thing to being there. Thanks so much.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      Thanks so much! Wow, that would be so cold, we've never tried it in the winter, we'll have to look into it!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      @@GroundedLifeTravel When the temperatures do drop considerably below zero, Amtrak does have problems with keeping the pipes from being frozen. Trains will run considerably late as Amtrak at certain stops blow torches the pipes to unfreeze them. While the Superliners were designed with significant insulation, there is no basement under Amtrak trains....

  • @johnryan9626
    @johnryan9626 Před 2 lety +1

    What a great pair you are. I just found your videos . The current train your on I have traveled 3 times. Great trip I went to Montana. So every stop you made I saw the same thing. I very much enjoy your video so I will be following you 2 from now on. Have a great time and enjoy that wonderful trip... Peace and be safe 👍🙏

  • @susiekovalick5101
    @susiekovalick5101 Před 2 lety +2

    I just watched this video and was so excited to see it as we are taking it in about 10 days. Unfortunately, we have long layovers in Pittsburgh to go to Chicago and then in Chicago before we get on the Empire, but still looking for to the adventure with my 9 year old. Still trying to decide what to do in Pittsburgh before the midnight train.

  • @erinh.1577
    @erinh.1577 Před 2 lety +2

    Thank you so much for everything you do here to educate and help others know and learn more about Amtrak all thats available! Beautiful video as well ❤

  • @Steven_Williams
    @Steven_Williams Před 2 lety +2

    Great video! I live in Chicago and always wanted to travel by train like I use to as a child.

  • @regularrjoe
    @regularrjoe Před 2 lety +1

    Very nice video.

  • @kathiesullivan2543
    @kathiesullivan2543 Před 2 lety +1

    The tracks were so close to the water! Incredible.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      Yep, you get a good view of Puget Sound all the way from Everett to Seattle...

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      One of the reasons we love that route!

  • @everettrailfan
    @everettrailfan Před 2 lety +1

    The entire time I waited for you to notice the Phase 1 50th Anniversary unit lol. Also nice catch at 34:40 of the deadline at Interbay. Sad to see those old beasts awaiting their time to be sent off to storage and scrapped.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      Ah we noticed the Phase 1 as soon as we got on! It was our second time with a special one, last year we were also treated on the California Zephyr

  • @rocketmansdaughter5613
    @rocketmansdaughter5613 Před 2 lety +3

    I'll be taking the auto train in September with my mom to head to Florida to celebrate her 90th birthday! I've done that train before, but this will be her first trip. I would love to know where you got your adapter with the USB ports, because I think it will be good for the trip if there is only one plug. LOVE your content! I used to work for CSX, so I feel like trains are part of my soul...you guys have rekindled that love of trains, and I can't wait until I retire and can do some of the trips you have highlighted on your channel. Great way to see the US, and I'm loving the European content as well!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +2

      Awesome, thanks! Sounds like a great trip. We have links on our site to the adapter and everything we travel with on the front page just look at the 20 must have items for a train trip article.

  • @jojoinrancho320
    @jojoinrancho320 Před 2 lety +2

    That was a beautiful video! Was hoping that the train would stop in Glacier National Park, but was glad you were able to catch the views. Thank you for the wonderful content you put out. 🥹

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      Thanks so much!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      The Empire Builder runs adjacent to Glacier National Park through the Marias Pass. I recommend a planned layover on all of Amtrak's long distance overnight route somewhere along the route to add spice to your journey. East Glacier or West Glacier would be a great one day layover. When I ride Amtrak I say I wish I could spend a day here, well, do it.... You are riding Amtrak in no hurry to get anywhere, spend a day or two somewhere along the long route... Get the most out of your train journey...

    • @minnahumble2294
      @minnahumble2294 Před 2 lety

      I think the train does allow passengers to layover at Glacier although that information,surprisingly, is not given in this video. Important omission.

  • @donnajackson8
    @donnajackson8 Před 2 lety +1

    the stamp was great..then I spied the Wonder Woman bracelet. LOVED IT!
    As USUAL the ride and commentary were second to none. Waiting on the next ride!!!

  • @jennabees_vibe
    @jennabees_vibe Před 2 lety +3

    This trip is a beautiful. My daughter and I traveled it earlier this year from Chicago to visit my son in Seattle.

  • @edwinmoore510
    @edwinmoore510 Před 2 lety

    Enjoyed working with Trails and Rails on the Cresent out of Atl to New Orleans back in 2005 thru 2008

  • @michaelcarnahan1630
    @michaelcarnahan1630 Před rokem +1

    This is part of this year’s Amtrak adventure. I need to find the music that accompanies this video so I can hear it while we’re rolling along. Just kidding, love these videos. This year’s adventure includes the Texas Eagle, the Coast Starlight (both ways), the Adirondack, and the Lake Shore Limited.

  • @NickGoesFar
    @NickGoesFar Před rokem +1

    Neat to see your perspective on this trip! I also had no idea that they did things like the Rails to Trails stamps. I'm riding this weekend, same route, Chicago to Seattle.

  • @howardwhitney9314
    @howardwhitney9314 Před 2 lety +2

    How about some vlog about the trip from Hatch NM to Tucson. Driving our RV along the RR track shows us views that are amazing into Demming NM and the onto Tucson AZ. Someday we can only hope.

    • @martharetallick204
      @martharetallick204 Před 2 lety +1

      And I would be happy to welcome you to Tucson!

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +1

      We went' to Tucson in 2020 and got off and rented a car and drove all around the area and to route 66. There are some old videos from years ago in the area. We really loved it, spent about 3 weeks doing it!

  • @dianashelton1371
    @dianashelton1371 Před rokem +2

    I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! I have traveled several short routes but am planning a cross country this spring and maybe a big round trip next year. Your videos are without doubt the best!!!!

  • @debschlehlein5090
    @debschlehlein5090 Před 2 lety +1

    We just got off the train today in Seattle. Loved it. Had to get used to sleeping on the train.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      Awesome! Thanks for watching

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      Trains do have motion... I found the horn more disturbing though... But after you eventually fall asleep, the horn no longer matters...

  • @rickygarcia3454
    @rickygarcia3454 Před 2 lety +2

    That locomotive is not the new Siemens ACL-42 it's a General Electric Genesis P42 awesome video.

  • @hughosborn7292
    @hughosborn7292 Před 2 lety +1

    So happy to have found your videos !!! Thank You !!!

  • @jodydorsett8726
    @jodydorsett8726 Před 2 lety +2

    One of my favorite food items on Amtrak is the tamale. Also, the chocolate Torte.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety

      We have to agree!

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety

      Frankly the best Amtrak lunch ever used to be the "Idaho Star", a stuffed baked potato with all of the trimmings...

    • @jodydorsett8726
      @jodydorsett8726 Před 2 lety

      @@ronclark9724 i think that was on the old Frontier Liner. I wish they'd bring that line back.

  • @mycontainergarden
    @mycontainergarden Před 10 měsíci +1

    Love you Guy's Channel! I am planning my Amtrak Adventure soon with some Anita Baker Soundtrack with a glass of Vino! lol

  • @SignalLightProductions
    @SignalLightProductions Před 2 lety +1

    Y'all are the cutest couple ever! I always love watching your videos and trips!

  • @edwinmoore510
    @edwinmoore510 Před 2 lety

    Thoses are the Genesis Loco's built back in later 90's Semens New Generations are working their way thru services..now hope to see one soon in service..

  • @dexteralexander2437
    @dexteralexander2437 Před 2 lety +2

    Great video, as always. We are booked on the Empire Builder, boarding in Chicago on July 24, and riding to Seattle. We lucked out and got a bedroom, although we booked only one week ago. We noticed the dining room did not seem crowded. Contrast that to our 90% full train with sold out sleepers. We are looking forward the trip. Thanks for the preview of our own trip.

    • @GroundedLifeTravel
      @GroundedLifeTravel  Před 2 lety +1

      That is great and a bedroom will be wonderful! Our train was pretty full too, but it is dependent on the passengers, as the staff on most trains is trying to get people to sit together, many people are just eating in their room. So, when you actually go down to the dining car nobody is there!
      They are going to be opening it back up to coach passengers sometime this year, but not sure it'll be before July 24.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Před 2 lety +1

      Presently the coach passengers are not allowed to dine in the diner. Hopefully soon that pandemic measure will pass. That diner will fill up much more when coach passengers are allowed to dine there...