Thanks for the heads up‼️Been waiting on this one👍🏾Back in 1973 when we took our 1 st cross country Amtrak ride, our mama and daddy packed us corned beef sandwiches with butter instead of mayo. They were the best sandwiches ever‼️Pop, fruit, candy bars and potato chips too‼️Daddy did take us to the cafe car for cheese sandwiches which were the best cheese sandwiches ever🥰 Precious memories, how they linger, how they ever flood my soul❣️❣️❣️
Was your mama from New York or the New England area? I'm only asking because my mother and my grandmother always put butter on almost every sandwich even if they add mustard afterwards
I always make a point of asking hotels to make a note that I'm traveling on AMTRAK, and will very likely be late. My favorite hotel in Seattle holds rooms until 3 AM. The Coast Starlight is scheduled to get in to Seattle around 7 PM. I emphasize to them that I don't want to risk losing my room ... they're always willing to make a special note.
Long time Amtrak traveler here and the #1 rule is don’t expect to get to your destination on time. If my train comes in within 2 hours of ETA, I consider that a good trip.
Here's one thing I learned the hard way on my first train trip: take note of your train car number (and room number!) If you wander around you might lose track lol. I love Amtrak and your content is excellent 🙂
I am riding for the first time and I am glad to know that I can plan on the trains being late. I am going from Jacksonville FL to Seattle WA to catch a cruise to Alaska. This is also my first ever cruise. I booked the train to get in 2 days before the cruise and so hopefully I don't miss the ship.. Thanks for your info. I have watched several of your videos and am planning on watching more. I don't leave until Sept.
I really love these two, they seem like such good folks, and they hardly ever really complain, which is a breath of fresh air, and as I always say Allie is really nice to look at.
I am an old railbird from infancy in the pullman days and have never tired of just looking at the passing views. Yay for the observation cars! Have you ever mentioned that the observation cars sometimes feature Rangers? Not to be missed these well informed volunteers give talks relevant to the area you are passing through. Special meals must be ordered in advance. Check for what is currently available and how far in advance to order and bring emergency rations because they are not always loaded on the train.
I just finished my cross country trip on Amtrak. After watching your videos I was so excited to take this cross country trip.. I had very mixed reviews and totally different experiences on the different legs of the trip. Started in LA on the Coast Starlight. Was so terribly disappointed. My roomette was on the east side of the train so no view of the ocean. I and another passenger tried to get into the observation car but people were laying across the seats and it looked like a homeless area. Not only were people laying across the seats sleeping but people were also taking up 3 seats to themselves by stacking up all their luggage next to them. When we said something to the car attendant she said that somebody should probably tell the conductor but didn't move from her position sitting in the dining car with her friend who was working there. We were happy to finally get into the dining car and had a great view but the food was terrible and disappointing. The guy at the table with me said that his salmon was just warm and didn't seem to be done so he didn't eat it and my chicken was so full of grease and laying in oil that he laughed and said he could save it and lubricate his car. I only saw the car attendant near our rooms twice, once when we got on and she introduced herself and pointed us to our room not explaining anything about the room and when it was time to get off the train and she was there to collect tips. When I got off in Emeryville and went to the hotel. I was so disappointed and was hoping that the rest of the trip wouldn't be like that. When I got on the California Zephyr, the attendant not only introduced herself to everyone individually but did an explanation of everything in the room and what to expect on the journey. Her name is Janell and if you ride the Zephyr and get her as your attendant. you're in for a treat. I had a family room on this leg of the journey so I had a view on both sides and more room than one person needed. I made friends with some people in the roomettes in my car and had a great time sharing the room for views and sharing space under my seats for some of their small luggage as the luggage racks got full at some point. Janell called it the party room because she would find 3 or four of us sitting in my room laughing and talking. If she'd go to a roomette on our end and it was empty, she would come laughing to my room to see if they were there. Everyone loved her in our car. I'm 73 so the "party" room was pretty mild 🙂The interaction and sharing of experiences with people on the journey was one of the best parts.. Being able to be seated with different people and hearing where they were coming from and where they were going was a treat. The food was great on the train. The staff in the dining car were perfect. Victor's humor took minute to get but once you did, he was delightful. The view was fantastic between San Francisco and Denver. Between Denver and Chicago just restful. My best memory from that leg of the journey was the people that I met. The last leg on the Capitol Limited was somewhat uneventful. It was turning into evening by the time we got on. We were actually running almost 3 hours late on the Zephyr so we only had 30 minutes to jump off of the Zephyr and hurry up and get on the Capitol Limited so I didn't get a chance to even see the inside of the Chicago station. But honestly, if you're gonna be delayed on any train. you'd want it to be the Zephyr!! Because it was dark and because there was no traditional dining only heated up microwave type food in the dining area. I mainly stayed in my roomette and read and slept. Had a great car attendant named Carlos who tried to make everybody's trip on the train as pleasant as he possibly could. Always checking to see if anyone needed anything. The ride seemed to be faster. Because it was dark it was hard to tell what was going on outside. All in all I'm glad I took the trip across the country. I would go back on the Zephyr and probably take a trip from Denver to San Francisco this time. I think my next trip would be on the Rocky Mountaineer. I wish the rooms were not so expensive on Amtrak and I hope they upgrade the trains cross country. Thanks to you Ali and Rob this trip was free using points from the Amtrak credit card and may not have been able to afford it otherwise. The trip was really an amazing experience. So thank you!
wow. so sorry you had such a bad time. we just came down to San Antonio from Chicago on the Texas Eagle and our Steward Marcello was AMAZING!!! he explained everything about the roomette to each and every roomette so we heard it 6 times by the time he finished the top level. i agree the food is was meh. after the TE connects with the Southern Limited, they get the traditional menu and so that was disappointing but we had such a great trip! met some people that know a guy i know even though we live about 500 miles away from each other! we and them and another couple all had lunch/breakfast/dinner together and sat around afterwards and chatted... i hope you have a better trip next time!
@@truthsayers8725 I loved the trip on the Zephyr and would take it again if I could afford the sleeping accommodations. I heard the train that you rode is a really great train ride to take so that may be on my next wish list! Thanks... Glad you had a great time on your trip
Brenda, thank you for such an informative comment. It's clear that the service is not consistently of high standard. Sounds like you had a blast on the Zephyr. I hope to meet you on the rails.
Just took the Coast starlight from la to Seattle. Your good advice had me well prepared. And people remember to tip…..I was in a sleeper……..lots of people did not tip in the dining car……..glad you told me to bring ones! The staff did appreciate tips!
Hi Rob and Allie, thanks for all your advice. I'm in the US next week and will be traveling around on Amtrak mainly in the North East (Chicago (not in the north east), New York, Boston etc.) and have found your videos very helpful, and entertaining, in planning my trip.
PS: I've watched all of your "suggestion" vids and found them very helpful. Have you ever considering doing one about transportation after you get off the train? ie getting to an airport to get home after getting off one of the Amtrak "major" routes.
@@jackhays1194 Ahead of trips, I look up local transportation run by the city or hotels near mine which have also free shuttles into the city. There are local government and some mobile apps that partner with local transit in many cities. Always plan ahead, download is good but also good oldfashioned printed or notebook.
Wow! Even though I've ridden Amtrak like 15 times in the last few years, I always learn something new from you guys. Today, it was the "secret" bathroom. Definitely gonna check that out. Thanks, as always for an awesome video!
Passenger trains generally travel on rail lines that are owned by commercial companies - their primary purpose is cartage of goods, not passengers, so passenger trains get shunted/held back to keep commerce running smoothly. Essentially, Amtrak owns the rolling stock but rents the rails it runs on.
Pretty much everything you both say is valuable information, eye openers! And as I learn all these tips and advice makes me wanna get on an Amtrak yesterday, I’m ready! But not yet, my dear husband is still working and hopefully God willing, when he finally retires shortly we will be to plan an amazing trip. Oh and becoming members of those wonderful benefits will be a blessing! 🙌 God bless and continue enjoying your journeys!👋
In Switzerland the trains run on time to 100th of a second, and in Italy legend had it that Mussolini got their trains running on time! And Toronto is supposed to be like New York run by the Swiss. Doesn't apply to VIA rail! Your advice is spot on!
funny you mentioned being left behind... I was on a train to NYC and we stopped in WAS. I asked the person at the door how long we will be and was told "30 minutes". I got off the train to call someone and get some food and was back in 15 minutes... train was gone. I eventually got to NYC, but not on the train I should have been on.
There always seem to be an exception; Two hours (or more) ahead of departure for the Auto Train is required if you are taking your car with you. Again, minimal security to deal with. ❤️ you two for making train travel more accessible. ❤️
Your blog is spot on. Im taking an Amtrral trip after the holidyas, and I found out that I can bring my power w/c sigh me,, I didnt realize that. Cant wait!!!! always love your blogs!!!!
If you’re in the Rewards Program you can also earn points in between trips through Amtrak Survey Rewards. They will email you surveys than can earn 50 points after doing a 10 or 20 minute survey. I’ve added hundreds of points by doing a few surveys each week.
The Cafe sells big, delicious cheeseburgers. And I mean really big and really delicious. Buy soon and buy often because they usually run out a day before you reach your destination.
Loved doing LA to San Diego hopping on and off over 3 weeks in the autumn of 2019 . Coming back to the USA this autumn and after a Yellowstone road trip, will Amtrak from Denver, to Portland and Seattle. Exciting. Quite different from rail travel in Europe, less choice in USA but both are fantastic ways to travel
We grew up in the pre-Amtrak days of elegant Pullman porters and First-Class sleeper cars on the legendary fallen flags. A lot of time was spent on them. Never had any problems with the cushy trains and fares were reasonable. It's extortionate modern air travel that tends to be miserable.
My son and I took the Lakeshore Limited eastbound at the end of July. Everyone had to disembark at Schenectady, NY and be bussed to Albany. The NYC-bound passengers were able to board another train at Albany. The rest of us who went to Boston and intermediate stops were bussed to their destination. Apparently there was a building next to the tracks somewhere between Schenectady and Albany that was destroyed by fire and the building was in danger of collapsing on to the tracks.
I am leaving in a couple hours for my first Amtrak trip, and first ever solo trip, across the country from North Idaho to Boston and these videos have helped me feel more prepared and a little less anxious!! Thank you for your videos!
Thanks a lot. I'm leaving soon for my trip and some of your tips have been so helpful! The only downside is I've spent more money on things I want to bring on my trip! 😆 🤣 😂
I just used the first class lounge at New Orleans Union Station and it was OK. Separate from the main lobby with free snacks and soft drinks. Not the Copa but not bad either.
Next May, we are planning to take the Auto Train from Sanford, FL to Lorton, VA, and then the reverse trip three weeks later. We are going to get bedroom. When should we book our room and auto for the train? Your videos have been very valuable to us for understanding how thing work with Amtrak. You do a fantastic job of informing and giving great tips.
In September 2021, I was traveling from Philadelphia to San Antonio on Amtrak's Cardinal to Chicago. Then a couple hours later I rode the Texas Eagle. About a month prior to my trip, I got a notification from Amtrak letting me know that the Texas Eagle, to San Antonio, was only going as far as Fort Worth and transportation was going to be provided. When I started the trip, the Cardinal was on time leaving Philadelphia and arriving in Chicago. Never happened before. As for the Texas Eagle, it went according to plan. I waited at Fort Worth for about 20 minutes to a half hour for a bus. 2 buses showed up. One of the buses went straight to San Antonio as an express. It arrived 3 hours ahead of the train schedule. So as yall stated, if any issues arise, Amtrak will do their best to accommodate you.
I do want to say how early you should arrive at a train station is completely dependent on the specific train station because I know going into DC especially if you have to travel for more than 30 minutes you’re gonna hit traffic you’re gonna have the same issue in New York especially if you’re driving or taking an Uber to the train station. I definitely try to get there an hour and a half early just in case we got stuck in really bad traffic so I wouldn’t miss the train. One of the lessons that I learned is sometimes it’s easier to go to a much smaller train station even though it’s a little further away like DC union station as my primary station but I prefer to either go to Alexandria or Rockville depending on which direction I’m going.
Agreed. ESPECIALLY if you are using the AutoTrain (Sanford, FL / Lorton, VA). For that set of itineraries you have to be there no later than 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time (4 PM in either direction) to allow time to load the vehicles. We got burned once (and ONLY once) trying to depart Lorton-DC traffic was nasty that day.
@@eemcm6512 DC rush hour starts at 3 pm almost like clockwork. Arriving home in Lorton any M-F will result in a hellacious traffic experience if you are unfamiliar with DC rush hour rivaled only by the city of LA.
One thing a rail fan taught me was about the shortwave radio channels. Find out what channels your train uses and you can hear the train check system and also the chatter between the rail personnel. One time, our train hit a truck that was parked across the tracks. With the radio, we heard that they were drunk and the rail people were angry at the mess they would have to deal with. Luckily, no one was killed, they did get out of the truck in time. There was a lot of beer in truck. Still we knew that was happening without bugging anyone. And have a good laugh at the truck owner's expense.
were on our 2nd amtrak as i watch this (actually at our destination) but your crescent trip from a few years back, prompted us to take the bottom half last october. we had a roomette so we got a roomette for the Texas Eagle (1st half) and while we never used the in-room toilet, there was what seemed to be much more room in the viewliner v superliner. also the biggest, hugest, more horrible thing about the 1st half of Texas Eagle (before it connects with the Southwest Limited) is the standard, meh, flexible menu. the nice thing about Atlanta though is that its the old Southern Railway depot from the 20s or 30s! and yes Nola's lounge is a bit of a let down but at least its got better seating, coffee/tea and snacks and is out of the hub-bub ive got a friend who has been taking trains for a long time and has the credit card. he uses it for his car-note, mortgage, utility bills and has well over a million miles credited
Thanks for your videos! I love going by train but it’s very different than flying. If you believe “the journey is the destination,” you’ll probably have a great time. I have found people to be very friendly on trains and the camaraderie is a lot of fun. I have probably had delays a third of the time. In the summer, it’s useful to know that there may be speed restrictions due to the temperature of the rails. Once, there is a delay because somebody hauled a washing machine onto the tracks-thankfully we didn’t hit it. Another time, traveling through northern Indiana at night, the train unfortunately struck a pedestrian. In a situation like that, they have to pull the crew for the ensuing investigation, and bring a whole new crew in, so we were sitting there for 12+ hours. I was in coach and people did not settle down all night, which wasn’t fun. The attendant in the cafe the next morning told me the passengers bought out all the alcohol on board in record time. They started to run out of food so we each got a bowl of Dinty Moore stew. After that experience, I am getting a roommette for my next overnight trip later this week and I’m really looking forward to it.
Next time we ride overnight on Amtrak, we may do either a bedroom or two roomettes. The problem on the eastbound Lakeshore limited was that my pancakes were served cold so the syrup solidified during breakfast also, they may be privacy curtains, but the light still comes through the door window underneath the short door curtain from the hallway during the night. Checked 2 overnight size suitcases starting in Chicago. The return trip we were not allowed to check our luggage from Albany to Chicago, probably because there is no checked baggage service at LaPlata, MO SW Chief part of the return trip where our trip began. We would have had plenty of time to pick up our luggage at Chicago and put it on the Chief ourselves. We had only two backpacks, snack bag, ByPap machine, and 2 overnight size suitcases for the 10 day trip.
Love your channel! We are doing our first Amtrak tomorrow! Viewliner II Train 92 between Ft Lauderdale and Washington DC in a Roomette. We have watched so many of your videos and it has been so helpful! - we obviously subscribed! We have our food, our water bottles, and know exactly what to expect from the bottom bunk and the top bunk! I am a cruise vlogger with a growing channel and love to see good content creators that are successful. Thanks so much for all of your suggestions and videos! I can only hope that my channel can grow and be as amazing as you two! Big Thumbs Up!
My wife & I took a train from Ventura, CA to Houston, TX. Talk about delays... our train was 8 + hours late getting into Houston, TX. They even ran out of food and we had canned chili for dinner the last night. WECOME TO AMTRAK!!!
0:39 Just an F.Y.I. here. You can also bring your own food and liquor on a plane. Riding a train or a plane, I would usually stop at a K.F.C. and pick up a three piece chicken dinner to go. It comes in a nice rectangular box.
: I have been following you guys (Grounded Life Travel) for about a year now. My wife and I are planning a trip up the California coast for next year. I'm sure we will be taking the surfliner up to Washington State. We are going to book the hotel on wheels. Amtrak mini hotel room. LOL. We will be following all or most of your recommendations. Great web site. All Aboard. Anthony, Inglewood, California 🐢 🚂 🐢 🚂 🐢 🚂
Just a quick tip. The Surfliner only goes as far north as San Luis Obispo. To get up to Washington State you'll want to catch the Coast Starlight. I ride it a lot and it is an awesomely gorgeous trip. Enjoy your journey!
@@jamesthompson3099: Thank U JT. That information is great, I think we will just transfer from one train to the next to complete the run and do the opposite on the way back. 🐢 👍 🐢 😀
I signed up for the guest rewards before my first big trip, and then they did a promo while I had my tickets scheduled for double points so I have enough for a short ride already. The thing I didn't realize that the points don't expire if you just take another ride within a 2 year period, so you can use them or save them for later. So even without traveling enough to go up a reward level you can still benefit and it costs nothing to sign up.
You guys are great . You do not over hype the experience. What about WiFi . Understand not available on board -- what about at stops? What is your experience with cell service?
The “almost” rail strike impacted us 3 weeks ago…….we had taken the California Zephyr from Denver to Salt Lake City. Our return trip was canceled. We received NO notification from Amtrak that it was canceled. Luckily, I was checking the train’s schedule about 12 hours before planned departure when I saw it was canceled. No problem getting a refund. We just used airline miles to book airplane tickets to get home that night. By the way, this was our very first train ride!😢
Thanks for posting this video, all great information. I thought I had done my research before my first Amtrak adventure, but you've brought up things I didn't know and had to discover on my own (I didn't know about your site at the time, obviously). I always find something interesting and helpful in your videos that will be beneficial before the next trip.
When planning for departures try to learn the station layout (is this a job for Google Earth?). In Sacramento a few years ago they relocated the tracks and platform from immediately behind the station to a new area a distance from the station. It is not a long walk from the station wsiting room to the platform, but it is going to take more than 5 minites if it is crowded with arriving passengers and you are moving in the opposite direction. If you need mobility assistance, it is available and in my experience the system worked well for my guests,, but you will need to allow time for it.
Can you do a little video on layovers? I've never been on a train ride but see some trips I want to take. Some of them says like 5 hour layover. I know it's like a transfer but what do you do during a layover? Do you have to collect your bags off the train? Like what all do you have to do?
Sure enjoy your comments and info on Amtrak took my first trip a couple of weeks ago Chicago to Seattle and on to LA it was a good trip and the food was great and plentiful. Don’t plan on losing and weight on a train trip. ❤
I feel like I’m way behind to this game. We have a trip booked for November and did it through Amtrak vacations to help with some of the transfers between locations. We are traveling the sunset limited from Houston to LA, then the Chief to Flagstaff bus to Williams, then the fancy train to the Grand Canyon and back. Then flagstaff to Chicago and Chicago to New Orleans and then NO back to Houston. We only have stays in GC, Williams, and New Orleans with a “short” layover in Chicago - 6 hours which now I’m a little worried about.
Hi! Love your videos! They are very informative and well put together. If you haven't done one on this topic, can you go over bringing food and drink in more detail? I'm talking about more than snacks like little bags of chips; I'm talking about fancy stuff like cheese, wine, spirits, mixers, etc and how you'd go about it? If you have done a video on this, can you please point it out in your response? Thanks!
Love your channel! Been watching for a quite a while. One of these days I would love to tour historic sites from maybe Virginia to New York or Massachusetts. Any tips regarding doing this by train? Do you know of a group that does a set tour? I live in Louisiana. Or is it best to do the hotel/car thing or bus group with this kind of trip?
I just came across your postings and am wondering if you can tell me an easy way to sort them from 2018 (the year I THINK you guys started) to the current year and specifically having to do with Amtrak. I appreciate any hints you can share and look forward to watching your posts. Thank you.
Great advise. On superliner rooms 1 through 10 are on the upper level, with 1 reserved for the attendant storage, 11 to 14 are lower level. Bedrooms are lettered A through E don't ever accept bedroom A, it is very cramped, and the bathroom door doesn't open fully, had that one several years back and it was miserable. Bedroom E is over the boarding door on the lower level and it gets slammed at some station stops if you are a light sleeper. This fall I was going to LA and canceled because of the impending strike and when booking hit the jackpot in both ways turned out to be A. Asked nicely if I could have different ones and it was done, always book early or you'll have potluck.
Just found out that...Be considerate by avoiding food with pungent odors when you eat it onboard. Also...Due to FDA regulations, you cannot bring food or drinks into Amtrak food service cars you didn’t purchase onboard. Food for babies and toddlers is the exception. Do you know that this is correct? Thanks for great videos.
Have ridden Amtrak numerous times and almost all have been late (although not excessive except 1x) but my southbound Cresent seems to never be late especially when I want it to be. My station stop is very early and I never get breakfast. Lol
Question: My husband is 6'8. I know he will not be as comfortable as me, im 5 feet, but my question is : does the viewing cart have high ceiling? and what other areas have higher than normal ceiling, if any? we are traveling from Sanford to Lorton
I've watched several videos so far and I am so glad I found the two of you. I'm still lost in the regards of planning, but I'm hoping if I call Amtrak they might be able to help me, or at least send me to the right site, or send some literature to me. Thank you thank you thank you for all of your advice
If an Amtrak train is late at a connection point & the connecting train is missed, will Amtrak have sleeper car accommodations for their passengers on the next outgoing train the following day? This happened to me in the '90's when Amtrak put its passengers up in a hotel overnight in Chicago, but only offered coach seats on the Lakeshore Ltd. the following day or a ticket in coach with an airline. I've learned my lesson after that experience & have always given myself an extra day at connecting points. Great advice for new Amtrak travelers.
You guys are soooo helpful in letting us know SOME REALLY good tips and advice. Hubby and I want to take a train up to Ohio, we live in Southern NM and I’m trying to find the best route to take. Is it best to have a travel agency help us or do we just try to book ourselves? We’ve never been on a train, so all this will be new for us, and we’d like to have the best and most affordable trip we can find. Thanks soooo much for all your wonderful help and information. Stay safe and may God Bless y’all. ❤️🙏🏻
If this is still relevant, or for anyone that comes across this question, it’s easy enough to book it yourself. Just enter the stations you want to begin and end the trip and the Amtrak website will give you the available options. For southern New Mexico, you’d probably want to board in Lordsburg, Deming, or El Paso. Las Cruces also had Thruway connecting bus service. Please note that the train that serves those stations is triweekly, not daily, so be flexible with your dates. You’d likely take the Texas Eagle to Chicago, then either the Lake Shore Limited to northern OH or the Cardinal, another triweekly train, to southern Ohio. If in doubt, find a travel agent. To my knowledge, it doesn’t cost any more to use a TA.
Please. Forget the question on large wheelchairs. They make smaller electrics now. What are the dimensions of largest bag storage per room/train? Thank you.
Hi Rob and Allie! It's Rockie. Rob, your fellow Braves fan. I'm planning on booking a trip on the Zephyr in July for 2024. I'm turning 65 in a couple of weeks. Scratching #2 off on my bucket list going WB. I live in the MSP area so I'll be flying back to MSP the day after I get to Emeryville. Here's my question: do I stay in Emeryville and take the BART to SFO or go into SanFran and stay down by the airport using the bus provided?
Love your great videos. I watched a youtube video where a lady said she wished she had taken a padlock along so she could lock her roomette while she was out of the room. Is this possible. Thank you and keep the videos coming.
Because rooms might not be available or not the choice, I would like a video about the Amtrak passes that only allow you on coach. What’s the strategy? When to reserve? How to know which stations do not have 24/7 access or no inside waiting room?
Thanks for sharing your knowledge! I can't wait to start! I have bean watching you for a long time and have seen all the videos. Allie, I love all the wraps you have, especially the one you are wearing now. Where did you get it?
Amtrak is always late is an understatement. A couple of days ago, their service from Detroit area to Chicago Union Station was delayed 19 HOURS, people actually got off when it was stopped, outside of Gary, IN (about 20-25 miles outside of chicago) went on to the side of the tollway and booked Ubers to complete the trip to Chicago. They need to be punished by people not riding it anymore. I would take the greyhound before I took Amtrak. They pretty much had an “oh well!” Attitude about it so you know they’re never going to get better ‘cause they dont care!
I didn't know where to ask this so asking here am traveling through the following stations and trying to figure out which metropolitan lounge are worth using points for a pss as I'm traveling coach . CHICAGO,LA,PORTLAND I would Raye them in that order. Any advice?
Thanks for the heads up‼️Been waiting on this one👍🏾Back in 1973 when we took our 1 st cross country Amtrak ride, our mama and daddy packed us corned beef sandwiches with butter instead of mayo. They were the best sandwiches ever‼️Pop, fruit, candy bars and potato chips too‼️Daddy did take us to the cafe car for cheese sandwiches which were the best cheese sandwiches ever🥰 Precious memories, how they linger, how they ever flood my soul❣️❣️❣️
Yes, this, this right here, the comment above is the best ever.
Was your mama from New York or the New England area? I'm only asking because my mother and my grandmother always put butter on almost every sandwich even if they add mustard afterwards
I always make a point of asking hotels to make a note that I'm traveling on AMTRAK, and will very likely be late. My favorite hotel in Seattle holds rooms until 3 AM. The Coast Starlight is scheduled to get in to Seattle around 7 PM. I emphasize to them that I don't want to risk losing my room ... they're always willing to make a special note.
If you give the hotel a credit card number, they'll hold the room for days if you want them to.
Long time Amtrak traveler here and the #1 rule is don’t expect to get to your destination on time. If my train comes in within 2 hours of ETA, I consider that a good trip.
On Amtrak. You get there when you get there.
Here's one thing I learned the hard way on my first train trip: take note of your train car number (and room number!) If you wander around you might lose track lol. I love Amtrak and your content is excellent 🙂
I am riding for the first time and I am glad to know that I can plan on the trains being late. I am going from Jacksonville FL to Seattle WA to catch a cruise to Alaska. This is also my first ever cruise. I booked the train to get in 2 days before the cruise and so hopefully I don't miss the ship.. Thanks for your info. I have watched several of your videos and am planning on watching more. I don't leave until Sept.
You should be fine with the time you've built in.
I really love these two, they seem like such good folks, and they hardly ever really complain, which is a breath of fresh air, and as I always say Allie is really nice to look at.
I am an old railbird from infancy in the pullman days and have never tired of just looking at the passing views. Yay for the observation cars! Have you ever mentioned that the observation cars sometimes feature Rangers? Not to be missed these well informed volunteers give talks relevant to the area you are passing through.
Special meals must be ordered in advance. Check for what is currently available and how far in advance to order and bring emergency rations because they are not always loaded on the train.
I loved the ranger talks when going through Puget sound in Washington, great start on trips our of Seattle
I just finished my cross country trip on Amtrak. After watching your videos I was so excited to take this cross country trip.. I had very mixed reviews and totally different experiences on the different legs of the trip. Started in LA on the Coast Starlight. Was so terribly disappointed. My roomette was on the east side of the train so no view of the ocean. I and another passenger tried to get into the observation car but people were laying across the seats and it looked like a homeless area. Not only were people laying across the seats sleeping but people were also taking up 3 seats to themselves by stacking up all their luggage next to them. When we said something to the car attendant she said that somebody should probably tell the conductor but didn't move from her position sitting in the dining car with her friend who was working there. We were happy to finally get into the dining car and had a great view but the food was terrible and disappointing. The guy at the table with me said that his salmon was just warm and didn't seem to be done so he didn't eat it and my chicken was so full of grease and laying in oil that he laughed and said he could save it and lubricate his car. I only saw the car attendant near our rooms twice, once when we got on and she introduced herself and pointed us to our room not explaining anything about the room and when it was time to get off the train and she was there to collect tips. When I got off in Emeryville and went to the hotel. I was so disappointed and was hoping that the rest of the trip wouldn't be like that. When I got on the California Zephyr, the attendant not only introduced herself to everyone individually but did an explanation of everything in the room and what to expect on the journey. Her name is Janell and if you ride the Zephyr and get her as your attendant. you're in for a treat. I had a family room on this leg of the journey so I had a view on both sides and more room than one person needed. I made friends with some people in the roomettes in my car and had a great time sharing the room for views and sharing space under my seats for some of their small luggage as the luggage racks got full at some point. Janell called it the party room because she would find 3 or four of us sitting in my room laughing and talking. If she'd go to a roomette on our end and it was empty, she would come laughing to my room to see if they were there. Everyone loved her in our car. I'm 73 so the "party" room was pretty mild 🙂The interaction and sharing of experiences with people on the journey was one of the best parts.. Being able to be seated with different people and hearing where they were coming from and where they were going was a treat. The food was great on the train. The staff in the dining car were perfect. Victor's humor took minute to get but once you did, he was delightful. The view was fantastic between San Francisco and Denver. Between Denver and Chicago just restful. My best memory from that leg of the journey was the people that I met. The last leg on the Capitol Limited was somewhat uneventful. It was turning into evening by the time we got on. We were actually running almost 3 hours late on the Zephyr so we only had 30 minutes to jump off of the Zephyr and hurry up and get on the Capitol Limited so I didn't get a chance to even see the inside of the Chicago station. But honestly, if you're gonna be delayed on any train. you'd want it to be the Zephyr!! Because it was dark and because there was no traditional dining only heated up microwave type food in the dining area. I mainly stayed in my roomette and read and slept. Had a great car attendant named Carlos who tried to make everybody's trip on the train as pleasant as he possibly could. Always checking to see if anyone needed anything. The ride seemed to be faster. Because it was dark it was hard to tell what was going on outside. All in all I'm glad I took the trip across the country. I would go back on the Zephyr and probably take a trip from Denver to San Francisco this time. I think my next trip would be on the Rocky Mountaineer. I wish the rooms were not so expensive on Amtrak and I hope they upgrade the trains cross country. Thanks to you Ali and Rob this trip was free using points from the Amtrak credit card and may not have been able to afford it otherwise. The trip was really an amazing experience. So thank you!
@@BrooklynNY1979 and you felt a need to make a negative comment.... Sorry for you to have such a dark heart
wow. so sorry you had such a bad time. we just came down to San Antonio from Chicago on the Texas Eagle and our Steward Marcello was AMAZING!!! he explained everything about the roomette to each and every roomette so we heard it 6 times by the time he finished the top level. i agree the food is was meh. after the TE connects with the Southern Limited, they get the traditional menu and so that was disappointing but we had such a great trip! met some people that know a guy i know even though we live about 500 miles away from each other! we and them and another couple all had lunch/breakfast/dinner together and sat around afterwards and chatted...
i hope you have a better trip next time!
I read all of it and enjoyed it, too.
@@truthsayers8725 I loved the trip on the Zephyr and would take it again if I could afford the sleeping accommodations. I heard the train that you rode is a really great train ride to take so that may be on my next wish list! Thanks... Glad you had a great time on your trip
Brenda, thank you for such an informative comment. It's clear that the service is not consistently of high standard. Sounds like you had a blast on the Zephyr. I hope to meet you on the rails.
I thought the purpose of train riding was to sit back & relax, no hurrying, it never bothers me since I love riding the rails.❤️
Just took the Coast starlight from la to Seattle. Your good advice had me well prepared. And people remember to tip…..I was in a sleeper……..lots of people did not tip in the dining car……..glad you told me to bring ones! The staff did appreciate tips!
Hi Rob and Allie, thanks for all your advice. I'm in the US next week and will be traveling around on Amtrak mainly in the North East (Chicago (not in the north east), New York, Boston etc.) and have found your videos very helpful, and entertaining, in planning my trip.
PS: I've watched all of your "suggestion" vids and found them very helpful. Have you ever considering doing one about transportation after you get off the train? ie getting to an airport to get home after getting off one of the Amtrak "major" routes.
Yes! As in reliability of wheelchair accessible transportation -van rentals, buses, subways etc.
@@jackhays1194 Ahead of trips, I look up local transportation run by the city or hotels near mine which have also free shuttles into the city. There are local government and some mobile apps that partner with local transit in many cities. Always plan ahead, download is good but also good oldfashioned printed or notebook.
Wow! Even though I've ridden Amtrak like 15 times in the last few years, I always learn something new from you guys. Today, it was the "secret" bathroom. Definitely gonna check that out. Thanks, as always for an awesome video!
Passenger trains generally travel on rail lines that are owned by commercial companies - their primary purpose is cartage of goods, not passengers, so passenger trains get shunted/held back to keep commerce running smoothly. Essentially, Amtrak owns the rolling stock but rents the rails it runs on.
Pretty much everything you both say is valuable information, eye openers! And as I learn all these tips and advice makes me wanna get on an Amtrak yesterday, I’m ready! But not yet, my dear husband is still working and hopefully God willing, when he finally retires shortly we will be to plan an amazing trip. Oh and becoming members of those wonderful benefits will be a blessing! 🙌 God bless and continue enjoying your journeys!👋
For your first Amtrak adventure ride the California Zephyr.
In Switzerland the trains run on time to 100th of a second, and in Italy legend had it that Mussolini got their trains running on time!
And Toronto is supposed to be like New York run by the Swiss.
Doesn't apply to VIA rail!
Your advice is spot on!
funny you mentioned being left behind... I was on a train to NYC and we stopped in WAS. I asked the person at the door how long we will be and was told "30 minutes". I got off the train to call someone and get some food and was back in 15 minutes... train was gone. I eventually got to NYC, but not on the train I should have been on.
There always seem to be an exception; Two hours (or more) ahead of departure for the Auto Train is required if you are taking your car with you. Again, minimal security to deal with. ❤️ you two for making train travel more accessible. ❤️
Your blog is spot on. Im taking an Amtrral trip after the holidyas, and I found out that I can bring my power w/c sigh me,, I didnt realize that. Cant wait!!!! always love your blogs!!!!
If you’re in the Rewards Program you can also earn points in between trips through Amtrak Survey Rewards. They will email you surveys than can earn 50 points after doing a 10 or 20 minute survey. I’ve added hundreds of points by doing a few surveys each week.
The Cafe sells big, delicious cheeseburgers. And I mean really big and really delicious. Buy soon and buy often because they usually run out a day before you reach your destination.
I was glad to hear about the possibility of a credit card, as I am an avid train rider and appreciate any savings I can realize.
Loved doing LA to San Diego hopping on and off over 3 weeks in the autumn of 2019 . Coming back to the USA this autumn and after a Yellowstone road trip, will Amtrak from Denver, to Portland and Seattle. Exciting. Quite different from rail travel in Europe, less choice in USA but both are fantastic ways to travel
Thanks for the update and comments..
My first ride was also on the Crescent, from Birmingham to Washington DC in a roomette. Thanks to your videos I was prepared!
We grew up in the pre-Amtrak days of elegant Pullman porters and First-Class sleeper cars on the legendary fallen flags. A lot of time was spent on them. Never had any problems with the cushy trains and fares were reasonable. It's extortionate modern air travel that tends to be miserable.
My son and I took the Lakeshore Limited eastbound at the end of July. Everyone had to disembark at Schenectady, NY and be bussed to Albany. The NYC-bound passengers were able to board another train at Albany. The rest of us who went to Boston and intermediate stops were bussed to their destination. Apparently there was a building next to the tracks somewhere between Schenectady and Albany that was destroyed by fire and the building was in danger of collapsing on to the tracks.
So glad I watched this! I was about to make a reservation for an hour after I arrive😂
I am leaving in a couple hours for my first Amtrak trip, and first ever solo trip, across the country from North Idaho to Boston and these videos have helped me feel more prepared and a little less anxious!! Thank you for your videos!
How is your trip going?
Thanks a lot. I'm leaving soon for my trip and some of your tips have been so helpful! The only downside is I've spent more money on things I want to bring on my trip! 😆 🤣 😂
I just used the first class lounge at New Orleans Union Station and it was OK. Separate from the main lobby with free snacks and soft drinks. Not the Copa but not bad either.
Thanks for the tips. I'm about to take my first ever train trip, and I'm doing it big the first time, California Zephyr full round trip.
Next May, we are planning to take the Auto Train from Sanford, FL to Lorton, VA, and then the reverse trip three weeks later. We are going to get bedroom. When should we book our room and auto for the train? Your videos have been very valuable to us for understanding how thing work with Amtrak. You do a fantastic job of informing and giving great tips.
It was nice to see the Fullerton station on this blog that's my home station Fullerton to San Diego
Very informative! Thank you so much for your time and this video.
My first Amtrak train ride is coming up in November and oddly enough it's also Atlanta to New Orleans round trip..I can't wait. Love your videos
In September 2021, I was traveling from Philadelphia to San Antonio on Amtrak's Cardinal to Chicago. Then a couple hours later I rode the Texas Eagle. About a month prior to my trip, I got a notification from Amtrak letting me know that the Texas Eagle, to San Antonio, was only going as far as Fort Worth and transportation was going to be provided. When I started the trip, the Cardinal was on time leaving Philadelphia and arriving in Chicago. Never happened before. As for the Texas Eagle, it went according to plan. I waited at Fort Worth for about 20 minutes to a half hour for a bus. 2 buses showed up. One of the buses went straight to San Antonio as an express. It arrived 3 hours ahead of the train schedule. So as yall stated, if any issues arise, Amtrak will do their best to accommodate you.
Thanks Bill and Nia!
You are welcome
I always love listening to you guys. It doesn't matter what you are sharing with us 🥰
I do want to say how early you should arrive at a train station is completely dependent on the specific train station because I know going into DC especially if you have to travel for more than 30 minutes you’re gonna hit traffic you’re gonna have the same issue in New York especially if you’re driving or taking an Uber to the train station. I definitely try to get there an hour and a half early just in case we got stuck in really bad traffic so I wouldn’t miss the train.
One of the lessons that I learned is sometimes it’s easier to go to a much smaller train station even though it’s a little further away like DC union station as my primary station but I prefer to either go to Alexandria or Rockville depending on which direction I’m going.
Agreed. ESPECIALLY if you are using the AutoTrain (Sanford, FL / Lorton, VA). For that set of itineraries you have to be there no later than 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time (4 PM in either direction) to allow time to load the vehicles. We got burned once (and ONLY once) trying to depart Lorton-DC traffic was nasty that day.
@@eemcm6512 DC rush hour starts at 3 pm almost like clockwork. Arriving home in Lorton any M-F will result in a hellacious traffic experience if you are unfamiliar with DC rush hour rivaled only by the city of LA.
One thing a rail fan taught me was about the shortwave radio channels. Find out what channels your train uses and you can hear the train check system and also the chatter between the rail personnel.
One time, our train hit a truck that was parked across the tracks. With the radio, we heard that they were drunk and the rail people were angry at the mess they would have to deal with. Luckily, no one was killed, they did get out of the truck in time. There was a lot of beer in truck. Still we knew that was happening without bugging anyone. And have a good laugh at the truck owner's expense.
My first trip will be on the Crescent from Charlotte NC to Manassas VA , Great information
Have fun!
were on our 2nd amtrak as i watch this (actually at our destination) but your crescent trip from a few years back, prompted us to take the bottom half last october. we had a roomette so we got a roomette for the Texas Eagle (1st half) and while we never used the in-room toilet, there was what seemed to be much more room in the viewliner v superliner.
also the biggest, hugest, more horrible thing about the 1st half of Texas Eagle (before it connects with the Southwest Limited) is the standard, meh, flexible menu.
the nice thing about Atlanta though is that its the old Southern Railway depot from the 20s or 30s! and yes Nola's lounge is a bit of a let down but at least its got better seating, coffee/tea and snacks and is out of the hub-bub
ive got a friend who has been taking trains for a long time and has the credit card. he uses it for his car-note, mortgage, utility bills and has well over a million miles credited
Thanks for the tips. Next train trip - in November - I'll check out all the bathrooms and see the differences.
Thanks for your videos! I love going by train but it’s very different than flying. If you believe “the journey is the destination,” you’ll probably have a great time. I have found people to be very friendly on trains and the camaraderie is a lot of fun. I have probably had delays a third of the time. In the summer, it’s useful to know that there may be speed restrictions due to the temperature of the rails. Once, there is a delay because somebody hauled a washing machine onto the tracks-thankfully we didn’t hit it. Another time, traveling through northern Indiana at night, the train unfortunately struck a pedestrian. In a situation like that, they have to pull the crew for the ensuing investigation, and bring a whole new crew in, so we were sitting there for 12+ hours. I was in coach and people did not settle down all night, which wasn’t fun. The attendant in the cafe the next morning told me the passengers bought out all the alcohol on board in record time. They started to run out of food so we each got a bowl of Dinty Moore stew. After that experience, I am getting a roommette for my next overnight trip later this week and I’m really looking forward to it.
Thanks for the information. I'm going on my first Amtrak ride next week. You've help me reset my expectations.
Thanks guys this was very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
How fun I wish the station by me had a lounge. It’s so small there’s barely nothing there. I’m by the one in maricopa az
We wish ours had a big lounge too!
Every time I view your vlogs, I learn something valuable or new. Really appreciate you guys and the fine, reliable information you provide❣️💯
Super helpful. Thank you! 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Next time we ride overnight on Amtrak, we may do either a bedroom or two roomettes. The problem on the eastbound Lakeshore limited was that my pancakes were served cold so the syrup solidified during breakfast also, they may be privacy curtains, but the light still comes through the door window underneath the short door curtain from the hallway during the night. Checked 2 overnight size suitcases starting in Chicago.
The return trip we were not allowed to check our luggage from Albany to Chicago, probably because there is no checked baggage service at LaPlata, MO SW Chief part of the return trip where our trip began. We would have had plenty of time to pick up our luggage at Chicago and put it on the Chief ourselves. We had only two backpacks, snack bag, ByPap machine, and 2 overnight size suitcases for the 10 day trip.
Love your channel! We are doing our first Amtrak tomorrow! Viewliner II Train 92 between Ft Lauderdale and Washington DC in a Roomette. We have watched so many of your videos and it has been so helpful! - we obviously subscribed! We have our food, our water bottles, and know exactly what to expect from the bottom bunk and the top bunk! I am a cruise vlogger with a growing channel and love to see good content creators that are successful. Thanks so much for all of your suggestions and videos! I can only hope that my channel can grow and be as amazing as you two! Big Thumbs Up!
My husband is a long time flight attendant. I’m looking forward to planning a trip out of California. I have not traveled by plane since Covid🥺
Thanks for sharing this with us.
I hope to travel by train in the near future.
I really appreciate the tips!
My wife & I took a train from Ventura, CA to Houston, TX. Talk about delays... our train was 8 + hours late getting into Houston, TX. They even ran out of food and we had canned chili for dinner the last night. WECOME TO AMTRAK!!!
2 days away 🎊 RT Houston to LA! Thank you so much for all of your information. I’m so excited!
How is your trip going?
,love this videos,my first solo Amtrak trip is coming soon
Thank you so much for your advice! We are traveling home from DC on Amtrak and your advice on everything Amtrak is much appreciated!
Great info!!! Thanks very much!!🙂🙂
0:39 Just an F.Y.I. here.
You can also bring your own food and liquor on a plane.
Riding a train or a plane, I would usually stop at a K.F.C. and pick up a three piece chicken dinner to go.
It comes in a nice rectangular box.
: I have been following you guys (Grounded Life Travel) for about a year now. My wife and I are planning a trip up the California coast for next year. I'm sure we will be taking the surfliner up to Washington State. We are going to book the hotel on wheels. Amtrak mini hotel room. LOL. We will be following all or most of your recommendations. Great web site. All Aboard.
Anthony, Inglewood, California
🐢 🚂 🐢 🚂 🐢 🚂
Just a quick tip. The Surfliner only goes as far north as San Luis Obispo. To get up to Washington State you'll want to catch the Coast Starlight. I ride it a lot and it is an awesomely gorgeous trip. Enjoy your journey!
@@jamesthompson3099: Thank U JT. That information is great, I think we will just transfer from one train to the next to complete the run and do the opposite on the way back. 🐢 👍 🐢 😀
I signed up for the guest rewards before my first big trip, and then they did a promo while I had my tickets scheduled for double points so I have enough for a short ride already. The thing I didn't realize that the points don't expire if you just take another ride within a 2 year period, so you can use them or save them for later. So even without traveling enough to go up a reward level you can still benefit and it costs nothing to sign up.
You guys are great . You do not over hype the experience. What about WiFi . Understand not available on board -- what about at stops? What is your experience with cell service?
The “almost” rail strike impacted us 3 weeks ago…….we had taken the California Zephyr from Denver to Salt Lake City. Our return trip was canceled. We received NO notification from Amtrak that it was canceled. Luckily, I was checking the train’s schedule about 12 hours before planned departure when I saw it was canceled. No problem getting a refund. We just used airline miles to book airplane tickets to get home that night. By the way, this was our very first train ride!😢
Simpatia e competência
Prossigam na Amtrac
Saúde felicidades
Sucesso
these two are adorable
❤❤❤ ! Thank you for the valuable info...
Thanks for posting this video, all great information. I thought I had done my research before my first Amtrak adventure, but you've brought up things I didn't know and had to discover on my own (I didn't know about your site at the time, obviously). I always find something interesting and helpful in your videos that will be beneficial before the next trip.
תודה רבה
Good information! Outstanding content!👍🏾
When planning for departures try to learn the station layout (is this a job for Google Earth?). In Sacramento a few years ago they relocated the tracks and platform from immediately behind the station to a new area a distance from the station. It is not a long walk from the station wsiting room to the platform, but it is going to take more than 5 minites if it is crowded with arriving passengers and you are moving in the opposite direction. If you need mobility assistance, it is available and in my experience the system worked well for my guests,, but you will need to allow time for it.
Can you do a little video on layovers? I've never been on a train ride but see some trips I want to take. Some of them says like 5 hour layover. I know it's like a transfer but what do you do during a layover? Do you have to collect your bags off the train? Like what all do you have to do?
Sure enjoy your comments and info on Amtrak took my first trip a couple of weeks ago Chicago to Seattle and on to LA it was a good trip and the food was great and plentiful. Don’t plan on losing and weight on a train trip. ❤
I feel like I’m way behind to this game. We have a trip booked for November and did it through Amtrak vacations to help with some of the transfers between locations. We are traveling the sunset limited from Houston to LA, then the Chief to Flagstaff bus to Williams, then the fancy train to the Grand Canyon and back. Then flagstaff to Chicago and Chicago to New Orleans and then NO back to Houston.
We only have stays in GC, Williams, and New Orleans with a “short” layover in Chicago - 6 hours which now I’m a little worried about.
Hi! Love your videos! They are very informative and well put together. If you haven't done one on this topic, can you go over bringing food and drink in more detail? I'm talking about more than snacks like little bags of chips; I'm talking about fancy stuff like cheese, wine, spirits, mixers, etc and how you'd go about it? If you have done a video on this, can you please point it out in your response? Thanks!
I bought my ticket a few weeks ago for my Januray trip from San Jose CA to Lamy for $243 r/t in coach and will Bid for an upgrade.
Yikes! I didn’t know that they can run up to 4 hours late!! Headed from Ashland VA to Whitefish MT tomorrow.
Love your channel! Been watching for a quite a while. One of these days I would love to tour historic sites from maybe Virginia to New York or Massachusetts. Any tips regarding doing this by train? Do you know of a group that does a set tour? I live in Louisiana. Or is it best to do the hotel/car thing or bus group with this kind of trip?
I just came across your postings and am wondering if you can tell me an easy way to sort them from 2018 (the year I THINK you guys started) to the current year and specifically having to do with Amtrak.
I appreciate any hints you can share and look forward to watching your posts.
Thank you.
It looks like the Amtrak credit card is available now. 12k mile sign up bonus for the free card and 30k for the $99 annual fee card.
i love you guys
Thanks!
Great advise. On superliner rooms 1 through 10 are on the upper level, with 1 reserved for the attendant storage, 11 to 14 are lower level. Bedrooms are lettered A through E don't ever accept bedroom A, it is very cramped, and the bathroom door doesn't open fully, had that one several years back and it was miserable. Bedroom E is over the boarding door on the lower level and it gets slammed at some station stops if you are a light sleeper. This fall I was going to LA and canceled because of the impending strike and when booking hit the jackpot in both ways turned out to be A. Asked nicely if I could have different ones and it was done, always book early or you'll have potluck.
Just found out that...Be considerate by avoiding food with pungent odors when you eat it onboard. Also...Due to FDA regulations, you cannot bring food or drinks into Amtrak food service cars you didn’t purchase onboard. Food for babies and toddlers is the exception. Do you know that this is correct? Thanks for great videos.
Have ridden Amtrak numerous times and almost all have been late (although not excessive except 1x) but my southbound Cresent seems to never be late especially when I want it to be. My station stop is very early and I never get breakfast. Lol
Question:
My husband is 6'8. I know he will not be as comfortable as me, im 5 feet, but my question is : does the viewing cart have high ceiling? and what other areas have higher than normal ceiling, if any? we are traveling from Sanford to Lorton
You'll be on a Superliner, which unfortunately has slightly lower ceilings due to it being a double level train. It shouldn't be too bad though.
I've watched several videos so far and I am so glad I found the two of you. I'm still lost in the regards of planning, but I'm hoping if I call Amtrak they might be able to help me, or at least send me to the right site, or send some literature to me. Thank you thank you thank you for all of your advice
If an Amtrak train is late at a connection point & the connecting train is missed, will Amtrak have sleeper car accommodations for their passengers on the next outgoing train the following day? This happened to me in the '90's when Amtrak put its passengers up in a hotel overnight in Chicago, but only offered coach seats on the Lakeshore Ltd. the following day or a ticket in coach with an airline. I've learned my lesson after that experience & have always given myself an extra day at connecting points. Great advice for new Amtrak travelers.
Is there a food court at the major stations
You guys are soooo helpful in letting us know SOME REALLY good tips and advice. Hubby and I want to take a train up to Ohio, we live in Southern NM and I’m trying to find the best route to take. Is it best to have a travel agency help us or do we just try to book ourselves? We’ve never been on a train, so all this will be new for us, and we’d like to have the best and most affordable trip we can find. Thanks soooo much for all your wonderful help and information. Stay safe and may God Bless y’all. ❤️🙏🏻
If this is still relevant, or for anyone that comes across this question, it’s easy enough to book it yourself. Just enter the stations you want to begin and end the trip and the Amtrak website will give you the available options. For southern New Mexico, you’d probably want to board in Lordsburg, Deming, or El Paso. Las Cruces also had Thruway connecting bus service. Please note that the train that serves those stations is triweekly, not daily, so be flexible with your dates. You’d likely take the Texas Eagle to Chicago, then either the Lake Shore Limited to northern OH or the Cardinal, another triweekly train, to southern Ohio.
If in doubt, find a travel agent. To my knowledge, it doesn’t cost any more to use a TA.
Please. Forget the question on large wheelchairs. They make smaller electrics now. What are the dimensions of largest bag storage per room/train? Thank you.
Hi Rob and Allie! It's Rockie. Rob, your fellow Braves fan. I'm planning on booking a trip on the Zephyr in July for 2024. I'm turning 65 in a couple of weeks. Scratching #2 off on my bucket list going WB. I live in the MSP area so I'll be flying back to MSP the day after I get to Emeryville. Here's my question: do I stay in Emeryville and take the BART to SFO or go into SanFran and stay down by the airport using the bus provided?
Love your great videos. I watched a youtube video where a lady said she wished she had taken a padlock along so she could lock her roomette while she was out of the room. Is this possible. Thank you and keep the videos coming.
Thanks
Question: we use CPAP machines for sleeping. Would those be counted as one carry on? Or since they are medical devices are used they not counted?
I have one of the blankets from Albuquerque train stop
Because rooms might not be available or not the choice, I would like a video about the Amtrak passes that only allow you on coach. What’s the strategy? When to reserve? How to know which stations do not have 24/7 access or no inside waiting room?
Thanks for sharing your knowledge! I can't wait to start! I have bean watching you for a long time and have seen all the videos. Allie, I love all the wraps you have, especially the one you are wearing now. Where did you get it?
Amtrak is always late is an understatement. A couple of days ago, their service from Detroit area to Chicago Union Station was delayed 19 HOURS, people actually got off when it was stopped, outside of Gary, IN (about 20-25 miles outside of chicago) went on to the side of the tollway and booked Ubers to complete the trip to Chicago. They need to be punished by people not riding it anymore. I would take the greyhound before I took Amtrak. They pretty much had an “oh well!” Attitude about it so you know they’re never going to get better ‘cause they dont care!
Something most don't realize is that Amtrak doesn't own the tracks they use. They rent the tracks from the freightliners.
Yes I totally get that. But something needs to be done. I stopped taking trains because of this. 19 hour delay is trash.
I didn't know where to ask this so asking here am traveling through the following stations and trying to figure out which metropolitan lounge are worth using points for a pss as I'm traveling coach . CHICAGO,LA,PORTLAND
I would Raye them in that order. Any advice?
thanks for posting this ... very informative