NYC 3 Private Rail Car Trip on Amtrak Southwest Chief

This video is about our wonderful travel experience aboard private rail car NYC-3 to celebrate with family and friends our 60th wedding anniversary. We were totally spoiled the moment we bordered the car with professional cooks and hosts. They set the standard for luxourious rail travel.

[@robertbrand5408]

This is on my bucket list.

[@americanazheck]

Been a railroader for over 35 years. Currently working as a welder at the Amtrak auto train. Prior to that I was stationed at the Miami yard where there were always private cars. We'd do maintenance for them. They were always very kind to us. I would love to hitch a ride for sure.

[@lauranortoncpa]

Wow, what a great trip Bob, and great job with the video. You're a pro at it.

[@johnalder6028]

Well done ! Greetings from Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

[@larryclark6212]

Thank You 😊 for sharing.

[@steelman86]

Private conveyance is the only way to go when it can be had! The back platform is the only way to see the countryside. I was extremely fortunate to ride on several elegant historic private varnish many years ago replete with crystal chandeliers, fireplaces, walnut paneling with custom railroad designed lights, oriental carpets and much more. Those were the good ol days for sure! i.e. VIRGINIA CITY, HENRY HUNTINGTON, SOLANO and several others.

[@robertleilich4601]

Unfortunately, Amtrak now forbids standing or sitting on the back platform while the train is in motion. The best we could do was open the door and look out from the inside. A bit of a bummer. As a teenager, I used to spend many an hour on the back platform of my father's business car (he was the last Vice President of Operations for the former Western Maryland Railway) listening to the clickety-clack echoing of the mountain sides at a steady 35-40 mph as our freight train followed the Youghiogehny River.

[@thomasstambaugh5181]

Funny enough, I just rode the Southwest Chief from Chicago to LA and back earlier this month -- I take an "Amtrak Vacation" every year. If you're able, I would love to know if it's possible to book a trip like this. I have two professional chefs in the family who could help out in the kitchen. :) If you have a link or something, I'd love to plan a trip like this.
Thanks again for this great video celebrating your happiness.

[@CruisingtheworldwithJackie]

Thanks for sharing. What are the sleeping accommodations like?

[@robertleilich4601]

There are four bedrooms on the car, sleeping 8 people. Two have upper and lower bunks, the other two standard double beds. They are quite adequate, but not equal to the Marriott!